Introduction: Philadelphia’s Oldest Natural History Museum

Nestled on Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University stands as America’s oldest natural history museum and a vibrant center for scientific discovery, education, and community engagement. Since its founding in 1812, the Academy has amassed over 18 million specimens and evolved into a world-class institution, renowned for its pioneering research, innovative exhibits, and commitment to public outreach (ansp.org, bioone.org). This guide provides an in-depth look at the Academy’s history, visitor information, must-see exhibits, educational impact, and nearby attractions—equipping you to plan your visit to this Philadelphia treasure.

Founding and Early Years (1812–1850)

Established in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences is America’s oldest natural history museum (ansp.org). Visionaries like Thomas Say and John James Audubon shaped its early years, creating a space for advancing knowledge of the natural world as Philadelphia blossomed into a scientific and cultural hub (citypass.com, bioone.org).

Growth and Scientific Expeditions (1850–1900)

The 19th century brought rapid expansion. The Academy’s collections grew through expeditions such as those led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, and now house over 18 million specimens, making it a cornerstone of global natural history research (bioone.org).

Dioramas and Public Engagement (1900–1980)

The Academy became a leader in immersive learning with the creation of realistic dioramas in the 1920s and 1930s, providing unique windows into ecosystems worldwide. By 1932, educational programs for local students cemented its community role (ansp.org).

Dinosaur Museum Era (1980–2010)

The 1986 opening of “Discovering Dinosaurs” transformed the Academy into a top destination for paleontology lovers. Ongoing renovations and interactive exhibits—including live animal and butterfly displays—attracted over 200,000 visitors annually (ansp.org).

Drexel Affiliation and Modernization (2011–Present)

Since joining Drexel University in 2011, the Academy has expanded interdisciplinary research and educational initiatives, amplifying its impact on environmental science and public engagement (bioone.org, worldcitytrail.com).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and major holidays.
Hours may change for special events and holidays—confirm on the official website.

Ticket Prices

Adults: $24
Seniors (65+): $21
Students (with ID): $19
Children (3–12): $16–$19
Children under 3: Free
Discounts available for groups, military, and CityPASS holders. Purchase online for reduced prices and to skip the line (ansp.org/visit/tickets/).

Directions and Accessibility

Address: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Transit: Accessible via SEPTA bus routes 7, 32, 33, and the Phlash trolley
Parking: Nearby garages with validated rates (ansp.org/visit/directions-and-parking)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, service animals welcome, assistive listening devices available, and sensory-friendly events scheduled.

Special Events and Tours

Guided Tours: Available for dioramas, dinosaur hall, and special exhibits.
Special Events: Sensory-Friendly Mornings, Science Story Time, and rotating educational workshops (ansp.org/programs-and-events/events/).

Photographic Highlights

Dinosaur Hall: Iconic skeletons
Butterfly Pavilion: Vibrant butterflies
Dioramas: Lifelike global habitats

Academy Highlights: Exhibits and Attractions

Dinosaur Hall

Marvel at a 42-foot Tyrannosaurus rex, the historic Hadrosaurus foulkii, and numerous prehistoric giants. Interactive displays and the Fossil Prep Lab provide hands-on paleontology experiences (ansp.org/exhibits/exhibits/).

The Big Dig

Children excavate replica fossils, fostering curiosity and learning through play (citypass.com).

Dioramas

Explore historic dioramas depicting African savannas, North American forests, and more—crafted with meticulous realism to illustrate biodiversity and conservation (ansp.org/exhibits/exhibits/).

Marveling at Mollusks

Discover one of the world’s largest mollusk collections, from tiny snails to giant clams, and learn about their ecological significance (ansp.org/exhibits/exhibits/).

Outside In: Discovery Center for Children

A hands-on space for ages 3–8, featuring live animal encounters and fossil digs (phlvisitorcenter.com).

Butterflies! Tropical Butterfly Garden

Walk among dozens of exotic butterflies in a lush, climate-controlled environment—perfect for photography and learning (phlvisitorcenter.com).

Science Live and Fossil Prep Lab

Watch scientists prepare fossils and catalog specimens in real time, offering a rare glimpse into ongoing research (ansp.org/exhibits/exhibits/).

Rotating and Special Exhibitions

Ice Dinosaurs: Animatronic Arctic dinosaurs and interactive displays (Sep 2024–May 2025).
The Ecology of Fashion: Explore sustainable fashion, historic costumes, and the intersection of clothing and ecology (Nov 2024–Aug 2025).
Botany of Nations (March 2026): Features Lewis and Clark’s pressed plants with Indigenous perspectives (phillyvoice.com).

Check the latest exhibits for current offerings.

Educational Impact and Research

Environmental Research

The Patrick Center for Environmental Research leads watershed initiatives and projects like Plastic-free Philly, influencing policy and stewarding regional water quality (ansp.org/research).

Science Education

Over 80,000 schoolchildren visit annually; programs like Dinosaur Hall and the Live Animal Center inspire lifelong learning (worldcitytrail.com). Outreach, workshops, and educator resources ensure broad educational impact (ansp.org/get-involved/support/annual-fund).

Global Collections and Research

World-class collections in botany, paleontology, and entomology support global research and inclusive initiatives, such as opening the Philadelphia Herbarium to Indigenous scientists (ans-collections.ansp.org).

Diversity, Inclusion, and Community

The Academy actively celebrates diversity in STEM, partnering with underrepresented groups and hosting outreach programs for women, Latin, and Hispanic scientists (ansp.org/get-involved/science-at-the-academy/). Community initiatives like the Science Shop foster climate resilience and local engagement.

Nearby Attractions

Within walking distance on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway are the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, and the Rodin Museum—making the Academy an ideal starting point for exploring Philadelphia’s cultural landscape (phlvisitorcenter.com).