Such a beautiful spot, right in the middle of the city..!! Staff are very friendly and helpful. I…read morehad to reschedule my ticket and was able to do so without any hassle. I did visit during a weekday, so the place wasn't too crowded and I was able to get some really good photos. I guess it might be more tricky during weekends. Definitely worth a visit..!

We love quirky places like this. There are a number of these "weird" art installations in our home…read morestate of Wisconsin so we knew we had to visit this when in Philadelphia. We bought timed ticks online a couple of weeks in advance - with our reciprocal museum membership we got free admission. The history of this place and the artist who created it is fascinating. There is so much to see in each area and around each corner. It's easy to miss stuff. Don't forget to walk around the block to see the exteriors of nearby buildings. They have all been given the "mosaic" treatment! We were here a bit under one hour. Definitely worth a stop!

Honestly, I had no idea this place existed until I saw it advertised and decided to check it out…read more I'm glad I did because it ended up being one of the more unique museums I've visited in Philadelphia. It's a relatively small and intimate space. The first floor has a gift shop and an area for workshops and activities, while the galleries are spread throughout the building. When I visited, the first-floor exhibition featured quilts, while the upstairs gallery focused more on themes of American culture. Both were fantastic. The quilt exhibition was probably a traveling show, and I absolutely loved it. I know several quilting enthusiasts, so I have at least some appreciation for how much time, patience, and technical skill goes into creating these pieces. Some of them felt less like blankets and more like full-scale tapestries. The level of detail, color work, and craftsmanship was incredible. The upstairs exhibition had a much stronger political and social commentary element, which I personally enjoyed. Art doesn't have to exist solely to be beautiful or entertaining. It can challenge ideas, express opinions, document experiences, and start conversations. I appreciated that the museum embraced that side of art rather than shying away from it. One of the coolest parts was the workshop area downstairs. There was a small market set up and plenty of people actively crafting and creating things. For a moment I wanted to join in, but the space was packed. Then I watched what everyone was making and quickly realized these people were good. Very good. At that point I remembered I was in a fabric museum and workshop and that my own sewing abilities are... let's politely call them limited. The only thing that felt a little awkward was how often the museum reminded visitors about the recommended donation. I completely understand why. Free museums need support, and I have no issue contributing. It just came up enough times that I started feeling a little self-conscious about it. I was already planning to donate on my way out, but repeated reminders always make me feel slightly uncomfortable even when I understand the reason behind them. Overall, this was a wonderful surprise. Thought-provoking exhibitions, beautiful craftsmanship, active creative spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. If you're interested in textiles, contemporary art, or just want to discover a museum that's a little different from the usual Philadelphia lineup, it's definitely worth a visit.

Popped in to thaw my dawgs and was greeted by a lovely giftshop. Lots of gorgeous prints and…read morejewlerly made by local artists and my favorite-- free postcards!! I was hoping to see the workshop, but the day I went only the 1st floor exhibits and the 8th floors were open to the public. I recently got back into sewing, so this was a great opportunity to explore new ways fabric has been used for expression.

Amazing artwork you can visit for free. It's in the Curtis Building and is a stunning mosaic of…read moreTiffany glass. The shading and lighting are stunning.

It's a Maxfield Parrish mural made of Tiffany glass, commissioned by the Curtis Publishing Co for…read moreits then-new building. It's an impressive piece of public art and is over 100 years old. It's worth stopping to admire it if you are in the area. The staff understands why you're here; as we peeked through the windows one evening, security waved us in to get a closer look. Years ago, when I worked nearby, I'd stop in for a moment of calm on my lunch hour. It's a soothing, romantic image and truly an historic art treasure in the city.

What a fun thing to do! We didn't know what to expect and want to say we all really enjoyed the…read moreexperience! Admission was reasonable and enjoyed the self-guided part while waiting for the next tram departure time. There was everything you could imagine - except one thing! A TELEX MACHINE (which I used to operate). When I asked the staff if they had one none of them even knew what I was talking about (early 20's)! We took the tram tour and really enjoyed it. The tram moved at a nice pace so you could really take in everything. So much to see - everywhere. It was a really fun way to spend a few hours on a rainy day! But I urge you to visit rain or shine!

It's like an I-Spy book came to life! This collection is massive but I really appreciate how well…read moreorganized and categorized it is. It makes it easier for the eye to take in. The tram car goes at a super slow speed so you have time to take everything in. The tour is guided by a pre-recorded audio track but sometimes the driver will provide information as well. The museum also has a small walkable area to explore. There's also popcorn, candy, and drinks to purchase. Some of the items are truly impressive and there's definitely plenty for everyone to point out and find and enjoy. Highly recommend this fun attraction.

I'm from NYC. Many months ago I had planned on visiting Spruce Street Harbor Park on Memorial Day…read moreSaturday. I bought a non refundable round trip ticket on Greyhound. And then a week before my trip, I found out that it would be 55 degrees and raining on Memorial Day Saturday. I wasn't going to flush $60 down the toilet. I thought about indoor activities that I could do in Philadelphia. And then I remembered that one of the episodes of Abbott Elementary took place at the Franklin Institute. I decided to check it out. Overall, I was impressed. The museum is divided into sections based on a specific theme. My favorite section was the space exploration section. There were many exhibits about the universe and advances in space exploration technology. Even if you're not into science those exhibits will pique your interest. Another section of the museum is about human anatomy. Since I get disgusted easily I passed. There was also a section of the museum about mechanical engineering. That wasn't really interesting. My favorite part of the museum is a giant steam engine at the basement. It is so freaking huge. It's bigger than an Amtrak locomotive. In addition to exhibits, the museum has various 20 minute science demonstrations. I watched a demonstration in which a very funny female scientist used a bunch of chemicals to create fire. There's also a liquid air show and an electricity show (I didn't have time to watch those. I will return to the Franklin Institute the next time I visit Philadelphia). In addition, there's a show about dissecting animals (I don't recommend that). $29 is a bit steep, but that's to be expected at a major museum in a big city,

I think this place is a great place for kids, but I think most of the exhibits are geared towards…read morekids who can read. I thought my child would be able to partake in the exhibits either way, but she was not a reading age yet. So many of the exhibits were above her head. The best thing about the institute were the live classes and demonstrations. The live dissection of a cow eye was amazing. They also had a combustion show (think cool fire colors) and that was excellent. I did one of the planetarium shows and it was a little bit dry, even for an adult. Personally if the child can't read yet, I would say you may not get much out of it, but still a great place.

The center city tour was great! Sandi was great!! We've been center city locals for five years and…read morewe wanted to learn about the murals around us. We hit a bunch of murals in 1.5 hours, and some of them I'd never seen! 10/10 tour service. 10/10 selection of tours. Reasonable cost for the tour. We'll be doing more!

Among other things, Philadelphia is a city of public art. I could not help but spot sculptures and…read morestatues here and there, but it was this particular mural - six stories tall - that really drove it home. There have been plans for an office/mixed use tower in the parking lot that faces this mural but for now, we have the opportunity to take it in entirely. Wow, there's some detail here and a story. If you're passing near, I suggest you stop and check this one out near 150 North Broad Street. [Review 18311 overall - 603 in Pennsylvania - 1833 of 2022.]

I visit museums without pre-conceived notions, reading reviews generally after the fact. PAFA --…read moreas it's known -- is a good one. Founded in 1805 the academy is the first school and museum of fine arts in the United States. The historic landmark building is closed for renovations with three stories of exhibits now housed in their Hamilton Building (which is NOT named for Alexander!) Several things impacted me: the galleries are wide open, light and airy. A pleasure to walk through. A number of items from the Atwater Kent collection -- formerly the Philadelphia History Museum -- are on display. The diverse collection ranges from baseball, department stores (Wanamakers, anyone?), civil rights ... the list goes on. There is student and alumni art for sale and casts of Greek and Roman antiquity located in an active student workspace. As with most museums, exhibits change. The gift store with its friendly proprietor, is as good as any I've been to. A beautifully curated collection, and after Thanksgiving, I believe everything is discounted 30% for the holidays.

Great local arts (and oldest fine art)…read more Enjoy their occasional events. V inclusive and alternative. Friendly and clean

Board Game Art Park is paved space along Broad Street between Arch St and JFK Blvd, ornamented with…read morea permanent public art installation called "Your Move," by artists Daniel Martinez, Renee Petropoulis and Roger White. Fun public art space, not too far from Love Park around the corner, as well as of course, City Hall, PA Convention Center, Jefferson Station, PAFA, and a million other c-city attractions. Art is a smattering of way-oversized scattered board games pieces, from various popular kid games. The space is used as a pass-through or open air hangout area. Some kids there with skateboards. Not sure if it's allowed but saw no signs nor police. Fun and quirky art that may or may not be a comment on local government?

Fun place to skate! Great for pictures and videos. If you're ever in the area definitely stop by…read morefor a visit!

Visiting the Rocky statue is a must if you're in Philly! The iconic statue captures the spirit of…read morethe legendary boxer & makes for a perfect photo op. Climbing the steps of the nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art & striking the classic Rocky pose is just as fun as it sounds(you can't help but feel a little triumphant). The area is well-maintained & there's a great view of the city from the top of the steps. Whether you're a Rocky fan or just looking for a fun landmark, the statue is a quirky, memorable stop that's worth checking out.

Visiting the Rocky Statue is 100% something you need to do when visiting Philly. The Statue is a…read moregreat, iconic photo-op. There was hardly a line and it moved pretty fast. You also have to run up the 72 museum steps. Wanna feel like Rocky then definitely do this. Once you hit the top, you get one of the best views of the Philly skyline. It's inspiring and fun. Yo, Adrian, I did it!

Cute library with several different spaces. I enjoyed the civic center and relaxed there for an…read morehour just reading.

Y'all, this place has Charles Dickens' actual writing desk…read more We entered this beautiful building, mouths agape in wonder. One of the security guards told us to head straight up to the 3rd floor -- he compared it to a small museum full of rare things. Intrigued, we took his advice. So glad we did! We happened upon the free guided tour of the Rare Book Department, and spent the next hour happily being shown treasures such as books with special bindings, books with gold leaf, the taxidermied raven named Grip which inspired Edgar Allan Poe's famous work, and yes, Charles Dickens' desk, complete with his scratched-on initials. Later, we came across a giant shoe in one of the reading rooms. This place is fantastically magical. Love the Free Library of Philadelphia.