Philadelphia History Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, the Philadelphia History Museum—originally established as the Atwater Kent Museum in 1941—was a vital cultural institution dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the city’s diverse and dynamic history. Founded through the generosity of inventor A. Atwater Kent, who donated the former Franklin Institute building, the museum connected visitors to Philadelphia’s evolving narrative through a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits. Although the museum closed in 2018, its legacy continues through Drexel University’s stewardship of the Atwater Kent Collection, with innovative public programming and exhibitions such as “Philadelphia Revealed: Unpacking the Attic” (Philadelphia Encyclopedia; Uncovering PA; Drexel University; PAFA).

This guide provides a detailed overview of the museum’s history, its enduring significance, practical information for visitors, key exhibition highlights, accessibility details, travel tips, and recommendations for nearby attractions.

Table of Contents

Founding and Institutional Development

The Philadelphia History Museum began as the Atwater Kent Museum in 1941, following A. Atwater Kent’s purchase and donation of the former Franklin Institute building. The city’s commitment—formalized through a charter amendment in 1938—ensured a public institution focused exclusively on Philadelphia’s history (Philadelphia Encyclopedia). The Greek Revival building, a historic landmark itself, became a center for civic memory and engagement, set just blocks from Independence Hall.


Collection Growth and Educational Mission

Throughout its history, the museum amassed over 130,000 artifacts, ranging from William Penn’s shaving bowl to everyday objects and significant civic memorabilia. Its education programs fostered civic pride, particularly among students, and highlighted the connections between Philadelphians’ lives and the city’s changing identity (Philadelphia Encyclopedia). By the 1970s, the museum’s exhibits addressed urban development, neighborhood histories, and the lives of underrepresented communities, reflecting a broad and inclusive approach to the city’s past.


Modernization and Rebranding

In 2010, the institution was rebranded as the Philadelphia History Museum at the Atwater Kent, accompanied by major renovations and modernization efforts. These included climate control upgrades and the integration of digital technologies for interactive and accessible exhibits (Uncovering PA). The newly designed galleries incorporated contemporary perspectives, enabling visitors to engage with Philadelphia’s history through a diverse lens and innovative displays (Philadelphia Encyclopedia).


Closure and Legacy

Despite its proximity to major historic sites, the museum struggled to match their attendance and funding. Financial and operational challenges led to its closure in 2018 (Philadelphia Encyclopedia). However, the museum’s collection remains a vital public asset, now cared for by Drexel University. Drexel’s stewardship has transformed the Atwater Kent Collection into a “museum without walls,” ensuring that Philadelphia’s stories remain accessible, both digitally and through collaborative exhibitions (Drexel University).


Visiting Today: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Museum Building Status

As of 2025, the Philadelphia History Museum’s original building remains closed to the public. However, the Atwater Kent Collection continues to be accessible through special exhibitions, digital platforms, and partner institutions.

”Philadelphia Revealed: Unpacking the Attic” Exhibition

  • Location: Samuel M. V. Hamilton Building, 128 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia (PAFA)
  • Dates: July 18 – December 1, 2024
  • Visiting Hours: Thursday & Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Admission: Free for Drexel ID holders; free public admission on select dates (The Philadelphia Citizen; Drexel News)
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible. Visit the PAFA website for current guidelines.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Admission is free on select public days and for Drexel affiliates. Reserve tickets in advance if possible, especially for guided tours and public programs, which enhance the visitor experience.


The Atwater Kent Collection and “Philadelphia Revealed” Exhibition

The Collection

The Atwater Kent Collection—now one of the country’s most significant city history collections—comprises over 130,000 artifacts, artworks, documents, and ephemera (Drexel University). Highlights include:

  • Native American and colonial artifacts, including a Lenni Lenape wampum belt
  • Revolutionary War relics, industrial era memorabilia, and city infrastructure artifacts
  • Civic, sports, and pop culture items, such as Joe Frazier’s boxing gloves
  • Photographs, rare documents, and items representing Philadelphia’s diverse communities

Explore thousands of digitized objects via the online collection portal.

”Philadelphia Revealed: Unpacking the Attic”

This major exhibition at PAFA features over 650 artifacts spanning 350 years, with immersive digital interactives and opportunities for visitors to share their own stories (WHYY; The Philadelphia Citizen). Notable highlights include:

  • Original street pavers and police mugshot books
  • Abraham Lincoln’s hat, George Washington’s writing desk, and Benjamin Franklin’s glass
  • Interactive 3D displays and digital diaries from the 1876 Centennial Exposition

The exhibition’s curatorial approach treats the collection as a community attic, inviting visitors to consider whose stories are represented and to contribute to a living archive (The Philadelphia Inquirer).


Visitor Experience and Travel Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Check Drexel University and PAFA websites for the latest updates on hours, tickets, and special events.
  • Accessibility: Exhibition venues are fully ADA accessible, with accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
  • Public Transportation: Use SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line (5th Street or Broad Street stations) and nearby bus routes for convenient access.
  • Parking: Paid parking garages are available near PAFA and other exhibition sites; public transit or rideshare is recommended.
  • Photography: Photography is generally permitted (without flash or tripods). The neoclassical facade and select artifacts make excellent photo spots.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with these nearby Philadelphia historical sites:

  • Independence Hall: A UNESCO World Heritage site where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted.
  • Liberty Bell Center: Home to the iconic symbol of American freedom.
  • Museum of the American Revolution: Immersive exhibits on the nation’s founding.
  • African American Museum in Philadelphia: Chronicling Black heritage and contributions.
  • Elfreth’s Alley: The oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Philadelphia History Museum currently open?
A: The original museum building is closed as of 2018. The Atwater Kent Collection is accessible through special exhibitions such as “Philadelphia Revealed” and online.

Q: How do I visit the Atwater Kent Collection?
A: Attend exhibitions like “Philadelphia Revealed” at PAFA, or explore the collection online (Drexel University).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours and public programs are offered during exhibitions. Check host institution websites for schedules.

Q: Is the exhibition venue accessible?
A: Yes, all exhibition venues are ADA accessible.

Q: What other historical sites can I visit nearby?
A: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, Museum of the American Revolution, and more are all within walking distance.


Conclusion

Although the Philadelphia History Museum’s original galleries remain closed, its legacy and collections continue to inspire appreciation for the city’s rich heritage. Through Drexel University’s stewardship, the Atwater Kent Collection is accessible via digital resources and collaborative exhibitions like “Philadelphia Revealed: Unpacking the Attic.” For the latest updates, ticketing information, and special events, consult official websites and social media. Enhance your historical journey with the Audiala app, and immerse yourself in Philadelphia’s ongoing story by exploring its remarkable past and vibrant present.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Philadelphia

13Th Street
13Th Street
15Th Street
15Th Street
22Nd Street
22Nd Street
2300 Arena
2300 Arena
30Th Street
30Th Street
30Th Street Station
30Th Street Station
49Th Street
49Th Street
8Th Street Station
8Th Street Station
Abigail Vare School
Abigail Vare School
Academy At Palumbo
Academy At Palumbo
Academy Of Music
Academy Of Music
Academy Of Natural Sciences Of Drexel University
Academy Of Natural Sciences Of Drexel University
African American Museum In Philadelphia
African American Museum In Philadelphia
Alexander Dallas Bache School
Alexander Dallas Bache School
Alexander K. Mcclure School
Alexander K. Mcclure School
Alternative Middle Years At James Martin School
Alternative Middle Years At James Martin School
American Board Of Internal Medicine
American Board Of Internal Medicine
American Philosophical Society
American Philosophical Society
American Swedish Historical Museum
American Swedish Historical Museum
Amy Northwest Middle School
Amy Northwest Middle School
Andrew J. Morrison School
Andrew J. Morrison School
Angora
Angora
Arden Theatre Company
Arden Theatre Company
Athenaeum Of Philadelphia
Athenaeum Of Philadelphia
Baker Bowl
Baker Bowl
Baptist Temple
Baptist Temple
Barnes Foundation
Barnes Foundation
Bartholdi Fountain
Bartholdi Fountain
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  Bartram'S Garden
| Bartram'S Garden
Basilica Shrine Of Our Lady Of The Miraculous Medal
Basilica Shrine Of Our Lady Of The Miraculous Medal
Belmont Charter School
Belmont Charter School
Belmont Mansion
Belmont Mansion
Benjamin Franklin Academics Plus School
Benjamin Franklin Academics Plus School
Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Benjamin Franklin Bridge
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Benjamin Franklin National Memorial
Betsy Ross Bridge
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Betsy Ross House
Betsy Ross House
Bny Mellon Center
Bny Mellon Center
Boathouse Row
Boathouse Row
Bodine High School For International Affairs
Bodine High School For International Affairs
Bridesburg
Bridesburg
Carpenter
Carpenter
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  Carpenters' Hall
| Carpenters' Hall
Cedar Grove Christian Academy
Cedar Grove Christian Academy
Centennial National Bank
Centennial National Bank
Center City Commuter Connection
Center City Commuter Connection
Charles W. Henry School
Charles W. Henry School
Chelten Avenue
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Chestnut Hill East
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Chestnut Hill West
Chestnut Street Opera House
Chestnut Street Opera House
Chestnut Street Theatre
Chestnut Street Theatre
Chief Justice John Marshall
Chief Justice John Marshall
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  Children'S Hospital Of Philadelphia
| Children'S Hospital Of Philadelphia
Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church, Philadelphia
Christ Church, Philadelphia
Church Of St. James The Less
Church Of St. James The Less
Church Of The Gesú
Church Of The Gesú
Citizens Bank Park
Citizens Bank Park
Civil War Museum Of Philadelphia
Civil War Museum Of Philadelphia
College Boat Club
College Boat Club
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Comcast Center
Comcast Center
Comcast Technology Center
Comcast Technology Center
Communications Technology High School
Communications Technology High School
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  Congregation B'Nai Abraham
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Congress Hall
Congress Hall
Conwell Middle Magnet School
Conwell Middle Magnet School
David Landreth School
David Landreth School
Delair Bridge
Delair Bridge
Delaware Generating Station
Delaware Generating Station
Dickens And Little Nell
Dickens And Little Nell
Dimner Beeber Middle School
Dimner Beeber Middle School
Drexel University
Drexel University
East Falls
East Falls
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Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastwick
Eastwick
Ebenezer Maxwell House
Ebenezer Maxwell House
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
Edward W. Bok Technical High School
Edward W. Bok Technical High School
Edwin Fitler Academics Plus School
Edwin Fitler Academics Plus School
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  Elfreth'S Alley
| Elfreth'S Alley
Emlen Elementary School
Emlen Elementary School
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Water Works
Fairmount Water Works
Falls Bridge
Falls Bridge
Federal Reserve Bank Of Philadelphia
Federal Reserve Bank Of Philadelphia
Fern Rock Transportation Center
Fern Rock Transportation Center
First Bank Of The United States
First Bank Of The United States
First Presbyterian Church Of Germantown
First Presbyterian Church Of Germantown
First Unitarian Church Of Philadelphia
First Unitarian Church Of Philadelphia
Fisher Fine Arts Library
Fisher Fine Arts Library
Fishers
Fishers
Forest Hills
Forest Hills
Forrest Theatre
Forrest Theatre
Fort Mifflin
Fort Mifflin
Fox Chase
Fox Chase
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Frances E. Willard School
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Frankford Arsenal
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Frankford Junction
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Frankford Transportation Center
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Franklin Institute
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George W. Childs School
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Germantown
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Germantown Church Of The Brethren
Germantown Cricket Club
Germantown Cricket Club
Germantown White House
Germantown White House
Girard Point Bridge
Girard Point Bridge
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| Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church
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Gravers
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Grumblethorpe
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G.W. Childs Elementary School
Hahnemann University Hospital
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Hill-Physick-Keith House
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Historic Rittenhousetown
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Holy Trinity Church
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Independence Hall
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Institute Of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia
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Irish Memorial
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Irvine Auditorium
Ivy Ridge Station
Ivy Ridge Station
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James Dobson Elementary School
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Japanese House And Garden
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Jefferson Station
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  Jewelers' Row
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John F. Kennedy Stadium
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Love Park
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Mechanicsville School
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Meiklejohn Stadium
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Memphis Street Academy
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Merion Botanical Park
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Merriam Theater
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Meyerson Hall
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Morris Arboretum
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Moshulu
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Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
Mount Airy
Mount Airy
Mount Moriah Cemetery
Mount Moriah Cemetery
Mount Vernon Cemetery
Mount Vernon Cemetery
Mummers Museum
Mummers Museum
Museum Of The American Revolution
Museum Of The American Revolution
Mütter Museum
Mütter Museum
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National Constitution Center
National Liberty Museum
National Liberty Museum
Ned Wolf Park
Ned Wolf Park
North Broad
North Broad
North Philadelphia Station
North Philadelphia Station
Old City
Old City
Old City Hall
Old City Hall
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  Old St. Joseph'S Church
| Old St. Joseph'S Church
Olney
Olney
Olney Transportation Center
Olney Transportation Center
Overbrook
Overbrook
Overbrook Elementary School
Overbrook Elementary School
Painted Bride Art Center
Painted Bride Art Center
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Parkway Center City High School
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Parkway West High School
Penn Medicine Station
Penn Medicine Station
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Pennsylvania Academy Of The Fine Arts
Pennsylvania Academy Of The Fine Arts
Pennsylvania Hospital
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Philadelphia Charter School For Arts And Sciences
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall
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Philadelphia Cricket Club
Philadelphia Cricket Club
Philadelphia History Museum
Philadelphia History Museum
Philadelphia International Airport
Philadelphia International Airport
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Philadelphia Mint
Philadelphia Mint
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
Philadelphia University
Philadelphia University
Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo
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  Philadelphia'S Magic Gardens
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Philip H. Sheridan School
Philip H. Sheridan School
Please Touch Museum
Please Touch Museum
Powel House
Powel House
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  President'S House
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Prince Music Theater
Prince Music Theater
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Queen Lane
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Ralph Brooks Park
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Ramp Playground
Reading Terminal
Reading Terminal
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Reyburn Park
Richards Medical Research Laboratories
Richards Medical Research Laboratories
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Richardson L. Wright School
Richmond Playground
Richmond Playground
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Rocky Statue
Rodin Museum
Rodin Museum
Romanian Folk Art Museum
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Roosevelt Playground
Roosevelt Playground
Rose Playground
Rose Playground
Rosenbach Museum & Library
Rosenbach Museum & Library
Russo Park Playground
Russo Park Playground
Ryerss Mansion
Ryerss Mansion
Sacks Playground
Sacks Playground
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  Saint Joseph'S University
| Saint Joseph'S University
Science History Institute
Science History Institute
Scotts Playground
Scotts Playground
Second Bank Of The United States
Second Bank Of The United States
Sedgwick
Sedgwick
Seger Park Playground
Seger Park Playground
Shevchenko Park
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Sigma Sound Studios
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Smedley Elementary School
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Smith Playground
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Ss United States
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St. Agatha – St. James Church
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St. Anthony De Padua Parish School
St. Augustine Church, Philadelphia
St. Augustine Church, Philadelphia
St. Joachim Church, Philadelphia
St. Joachim Church, Philadelphia
St. Martins
St. Martins
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  St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
| St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
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  St. Peter'S Episcopal Church
| St. Peter'S Episcopal Church
Starr Garden Playground
Starr Garden Playground
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of George Whitefield
Statue Of George Whitefield
Stenton
Stenton
Stenton Park
Stenton Park
Stinger Square
Stinger Square
Stokley Playground
Stokley Playground
Strawberry Mansion
Strawberry Mansion
Sturgis Playground
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Suburban Station
Suburban Station
Swann Memorial Fountain
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Tacony
Tacony
Tacony Creek Park
Tacony Creek Park
Temple University
Temple University
Temple University Hospital
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The Tla
The Tla
The University Of The Arts
The University Of The Arts
The Wharton School
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The Woodlands
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Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Thomas Mill Covered Bridge
Thomas Mill Covered Bridge
Tiptop Playground
Tiptop Playground
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Universal Alcorn Charter Elementary School
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Universal Creighton Charter School
Universal Vare Charter School
Universal Vare Charter School
University Of Pennsylvania
University Of Pennsylvania
University Of Pennsylvania Museum Of Archaeology And Anthropology
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University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
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Upsal
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Weitzman National Museum Of American Jewish History
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Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Station
Wissinoming Station
Wister
Wister
Wister Woods Park
Wister Woods Park
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  Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
| Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
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Womrath Park
Woodland Terrace
Woodland Terrace
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
Wyck House
Wyck House
Wyndmoor
Wyndmoor
Zahav
Zahav
Ziehler Playground
Ziehler Playground