The Franklin Institute is one of the premier attractions in Philadelphia, PA, offering a multitude of interactive, science- and history-related exhibits. Named after Philadelphia's famed son, Benjamin Franklin, the institute is primarily an educational facility, catering to families and school groups. The rotating visiting attractions, like The Art of the Brick, Genghis Khan, and King Tut, as well as the domed IMAX theatre, provide great reasons to return again and again.
Parking and Public Transportation at the Franklin Institute
In the heart of Philadelphia's museum district, the Franklin is easily accessible by public transportation and hop-on/-off tour buses. SEPTA bus routes 32, 33 and 38 all service the institute, as well as the PHLASH attraction-centric trolleys and buses--get off at stop #18 for the Franklin.
Amtrak and New Jersey's PATCO rail lines also run nearby, though it's a 20-minute walk at a minimum from where those drop off, so consider a cab.
Limited street parking is available nearby for a nominal fee, though on busy summer weekends you're not likely to find an ideal spot. Consider the Franklin's own parking garage, with rates from $15 for five hours to $25 for the whole day.
Admission to Franklin Institute
General museum admission, which does not include special visiting exhibits, is $19.95 for adults and $15.95 for children. Tickets can be purchased online, and during busy times it is worthwhile to reserve in advance.
Tickets for the special exhibits including access to the science museum are typically $29.95-$34.95 for adults and $24.95-$28.95 for children.
Evening access to just the special visiting exhibits is also available, $19.95 for adults and $14.95 for children, and are available after 5:00 PM.
To experience the IMAX theatre on site, expect to pay an additional $5 to the prices listed above.
Must See/Do at Franklin Institute
One of the most popular activities at the Franklin Institute is walking through the chambers of an enormous heart. For a science museum named after Benjamin Franklin, it would be silly to miss the Electricity exhibit, chronicling how the statesmen and inventor's experiments with electricity. There are also exhibits about geological and meteorological forces, aviation and astronomy.
Other Places to Visit Near Franklin Institute
If you're in the mood for more museums, head to the world-class Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Barnes Foundation, just up the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. For the history buff, take the PHLASH to Independence Hall, or if you like to be grossed out, head south to the Mutter Museum.
Insider tip for visitors to Franklin Institute
For adults only: Science After Hours is a monthly event geared toward the young and curious at heart, but those old enough to drink. Typically, the Science After Hours events are themed after the latest exhibit, with plenty of hands-on activities. Tickets are $15 for non-members of the Franklin Institute, $10 for members.
Author's bio: Jeff Birou is an education administrator by day, travel and freelance writer by night. You can find him at his blog, Lance+Jeff, or on Twitter at @Jetsetter_Jeff.
