Ten budget-friendly activities for Philadelphia families beyond the Academy of Natural Sciences.
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, a cornerstone of educational growth and entertainment for nearly two centuries, is set to close its doors to the public at the end of this month. This decision leaves a significant void in Philadelphia for families seeking affordable indoor attractions. The museum has been a popular destination for parents with young children, offering a variety of engaging exhibits related to natural history, including full-scale dinosaur replicas, taxidermy displays, and live animals.
Adult admission to the Academy has been priced at , while children’s tickets for those older than two years cost . Children under two are granted free entry. These prices have traditionally positioned the museum as a more economical option compared to similar attractions like the Franklin Institute or the Please Touch Museum. As the museum prepares for its final day of operation on September 27, families are encouraged to visit and create lasting memories before its closing.
With the Academy’s closure, families in the Philadelphia area may need alternative indoor venues to fill the gap left by this beloved institution. Fortunately, several attractions in the city continue to offer similar experiences at comparable price points:
1. Independence Seaport Museum: Located along the Delaware River, this museum features a wealth of maritime artifacts and documents, including a remarkable collection of historical ships. Admission is for adults and for children aged 3 to 17.
2. Fireman’s Hall Museum: This engaging museum is situated in a historic firehouse and presents an opportunity to explore the history of firefighting in America. Admission is free, making it an especially attractive option for families.
3. Penn Museum: Renowned for its archaeological and anthropological collections, the Penn Museum allows visitors to explore diverse cultures from around the globe. Entrance fees are for adults and for children aged 6-17.
4. Wagner Free Institute of Science: A hidden gem featuring a wealth of natural history artifacts, including dinosaur bones, this museum operates for free and caters to families.
5. Science History Institute: This institution chronicles the story of scientific discovery and innovation. General admission is free, offering various educational programs throughout the week.
6. Betsy Ross House: Fabled as the home of the seamstress who crafted the first American flag, this site provides interactive experiences centered around American history. Admission fees range from for adults to for children aged 6-12.
7. Museum of the American Revolution: This museum features interactive exhibits and educational programming focused on American history. Tickets cost for adults and for those aged 6-17.
8. African American Museum in Philadelphia: Documenting the Black experience in America, this museum has admission prices of for adults and for children aged 4-12. The museum operates on varied hours throughout the week.
9. Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History: This museum combines history with engaging exhibitions. General admission remains free, but ticketed special exhibits such as “Colors of Creation” are available for a limited time.
10. American Swedish Historical Museum: Celebrating the history and influence of Swedish culture in the United States, this museum conducts monthly toddler programming. Admission is for adults and for children aged 5-11.
As families prepare for the Academy’s closure, these alternative destinations offer continued opportunities for exploration and learning in Philadelphia. The loss of the Academy of Natural Sciences may be deeply felt but will certainly be mitigated by the rich array of educational attractions that remain available in the city.
Media News Source.
