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Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

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Museums

Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

A natural science research institution founded in 1812 that holds about 19 million scientific specimens.

1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103 · Philadelphia, PA

About Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Founded in 1812, this Philadelphia institution is described as the oldest natural science research institution in the Americas. It was formerly known as the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. Its collections of roughly 19 million specimens support research on biodiversity, evolution, climate, and conservation, and its scientists study freshwater ecosystems and water quality. The organization has announced that its museum will close at the end of September while its research and collections work continues.

  • #natural history
  • #science research
  • #biodiversity
  • #specimens
  • #Philadelphia

What's around here?

The closest stops to Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Logan Circle

    Check prices

    Sit by the Swann Memorial Fountain in one of William Penn's five original squares, with the Franklin Institute and the Free Library on its edges.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Museums
    Family Favorite

    The Franklin Institute

    $25–$50

    Walk through a giant beating heart at Philly's hands-on science playground, a guaranteed hit with kids of every age.

    Transit: reachable by public transit

    Steps awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing

    Benjamin Franklin National Memorial

    No admission fee

    A large seated statue of Benjamin Franklin inside the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.

    Transit: reachable by public transit

    Steps awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Parkway Central Library

    No admission fee

    The Free Library of Philadelphia's central library on Logan Square, with free tours of its Rare Book Department.

    Transit: reachable by public transit

    Steps awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Museums
    Local Gem

    Barnes Foundation

    $25–$50

    Renoirs and Matisses hung floor-to-ceiling exactly as Dr. Barnes arranged them, an art experience unlike any other.

    Transit: reachable by public transit

    0.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Date Night

    Rodin Museum

    Under $25

    View Rodin bronzes, marbles and plasters, with The Thinker and The Gates of Hell, in a small museum and garden.

    Transit: reachable by public transit

    0.4 mi awayMore like this

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