Woodmere Art Museum

Introduction: Discover Woodmere Art Museum’s Artistic Legacy

Nestled in Philadelphia’s scenic Chestnut Hill neighborhood, the Woodmere Art Museum is a vibrant cultural institution dedicated to celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Delaware Valley. Established in the late 19th century by Charles Knox Smith, Woodmere houses over 8,000 works of art, featuring prominent Philadelphia artists such as Violet Oakley, N.C. Wyeth, and Edward Willis Redfield. Blending historical significance with contemporary innovation, the museum invites visitors to explore its galleries, expansive six-acre sculpture gardens, and dynamic public programs.

Woodmere is more than a museum—it’s a community hub offering educational initiatives, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its proximity to other historical sites like Cliveden and Morris Arboretum makes it an ideal destination for both art lovers and history enthusiasts. This guide provides comprehensive information about visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, exhibitions, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit. For the latest details, visit the official Woodmere Art Museum website (Woodmere Art Museum About; Chestnut Hill PA).

About Woodmere Art Museum

Founded by Charles Knox Smith, Woodmere Art Museum was created to showcase the art and artists of the Philadelphia region. Its collection spans paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, with a particular focus on Philadelphia’s artistic legacy. The museum’s mission is to tell the story of the city’s art scene while fostering inclusivity, education, and community engagement (Woodmere Art Museum About).

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Standard Hours:

• Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Closed Monday & major holidays

Ticket Pricing:

• Adults: $10–$12
• Seniors (65+): $7–$10
• Students (with ID): $5–$10
• Children under 12 or 18: Free
• Members: Free

Note: Free admission is often available every Sunday and for special groups (check the official website for current offers). Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum entrance. Advance purchase is recommended during special events.

Getting There & Accessibility

Location: 9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118

Directions:

• By Car: Free on-site parking and accessible parking spaces.
• By Public Transit: SEPTA Regional Rail (Chestnut Hill East/West lines) and bus routes 23 & 77 bring visitors close to the museum.

Accessibility:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances, galleries, and restrooms
• Elevators and ramps throughout
• Service animals permitted
• Assistive listening devices and large-print materials available upon request
• Programs for visitors with dementia and their care partners

Highlights & Exhibitions

Permanent Collection

Woodmere’s holdings exceed 8,000 works, with strengths in 19th- and 20th-century American art and a focus on Philadelphia artists. Highlights include:

• Hudson River School paintings
• Works by Violet Oakley, the Peale family, Thomas Sully, Jessie Willcox Smith, and contemporary Philadelphia artists (Woodmere Art Museum About)
• Emphasis on women and underrepresented artists, a legacy continued by former director Edith Emerson (July 4th Philly)

Special Exhibitions

Woodmere hosts a dynamic schedule of rotating exhibitions that explore the achievements and social ideas of Philadelphia artists within the broader context of American art. Recent and upcoming exhibitions include:

• The Photo Review: Best of Show 2024 and Harvey Finkle Retrospective (August–September 2024) (Chestnut Hill PA)
• Through Her Eyes: Women Artists from Woodmere’s Collection (Chestnut Hill PA)
• Strange Narratives | Resilient Bodies (September 25, 2024) (Woodmere Art Museum Exhibitions)

Outdoor Sculpture & Grounds

The six-acre estate features a growing sculpture park with works by Harry Bertoia, Dina Wind, and Robinson Fredenthal. The “WOW, Woodmere’s Outdoor Wonder” program integrates monumental sculptures, environmental conservation, and educational programming (July 4th Philly).

Educational Programs & Events

Woodmere offers a robust calendar for all ages, including:

• Family events and tours: Interactive gallery talks, Sunday Family Art and Storytelling, and seasonal activities like the straw maze (July 4th Philly)
• Lectures, panel discussions, and workshops: Featuring artists, curators, and scholars (Woodmere Art Museum About)
• Art classes: For children, teens, and adults, with special programs like “Create a Rainforest” (Chestnut Hill PA)
• Music & film: Saturday Night Jazz series in partnership with LifeLine Music Coalition and WRTI (Chestnut Hill PA)
• Podcasts & digital content: “Diving Board” podcast with cultural leaders (Woodmere Art Museum Exhibitions)

Facilities & Amenities

• Restrooms: Accessible, main floor
• Gift Shop: Local artisan items and art books
• Wi-Fi: Free throughout museum
• Coat Check: Self-service racks and bag check
• No on-site café: Dining options available nearby in Chestnut Hill

Visitor Experience & Tips

• Woodmere is typically uncrowded, especially on weekdays and early mornings.
• Outdoor sculpture gardens and special events may attract more visitors on weekends or during seasonal programs.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds.
• Check the museum calendar for current exhibitions and events.

Family-Friendly Features

• Children admitted free (varies by age policy)
• Family art workshops, Sunday storytelling, and seasonal events
• Stroller-friendly galleries and family restrooms

Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

Enhance your visit by exploring nearby Philadelphia historical sites:

• Cliveden: Revolutionary War mansion and gardens
• Morris Arboretum: Philadelphia’s official arboretum
• Germantown Historic District: Colonial and Revolutionary history

Travel tips:

• Visit in spring or summer for the full outdoor art and music experience.
• Use public transit to avoid busy parking during events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults $10–$12; seniors and students discounted; children (typically under 12 or 18) free; members free.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and assistive devices.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, free on-site parking for visitors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment or scheduled events.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas; check exhibition guidelines.

Plan Your Visit

To maximize your experience:

• Visit the official website for updated hours, ticketing, and events.
• Download the Audiala app for digital guides and virtual tours.
• Follow Woodmere on social media for news and program updates.

Contact Information

• Address: 9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118
• Phone: 215-247-0476
• Email: Contact Form
• Website: woodmereartmuseum.org