The American Philosophical Society is the first "learned society" in the United States and has been in existence for over 250 years. It is located on the historic Independence Mall . It was founded by Ben Franklin in 1743 and has an international reputation for all the scholarly work it has done and continues to do. Lewis and Clark studied at the American Philosophical Society for their famous expedition. As the society focuses on Science and the Humanities, visitors with a curious desire to learn more about the history of scientific inquiry and philosophical explanation would have a wonderful time exploring the rooms and shelves.
Best and worst times to go to the American Philosophical Society
If you want to spend quiet, leisure time at the American Philosophical Society, the worst time to go is July 4th weekend. Philadelphia, being the nation's cradle of liberty, hosts a week-long celebration for the fourth of July. Given the society is located along Independence Mall, there will be thousands of tourists milling about and many themed events to attend.
The best time to go to the American Philosophical Society is in October or May. Philadelphia's weather is beautiful in those months and the society will be busy hosting scholarly lectures for the public. There will also be a variety exhibits to choose from.
Must see/do at the American Philosophical Society
Guided tours are quite spectacular. The visitor must make a reservation two weeks in advance, so they need to call (215) 701-4423. Visitors are invited to check out all collections online so they can help plan their guided tour.
To feel the rich history of the United States, visitors must see the Lewis and Clark collection of items like the preserved herbs that were brought back to the American Philosophical Society after the completion of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
When visitors are preparing to leave, they must grab a free copy of Thomas Jefferson's walking tour of Philadelphia. Jefferson's path is a wonderful way to see even more of Philadelphia's rich history while getting some exercise.
Admission to the American Philosophical Society
Admission to the American Philosophical Society is free. They do ask for a $2 donation. Specially arranged guided tours cost $2 for students and $5 for adults. The museum is open Thursday – Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and from Memorial Day through Labor Day hours are extended until 5 p.m.
Parking /public transit for the American Philosophical Society
The American Philosophical Society is located in Philadelphia's historic district at 104 South 5th Street. Visitors can pay for metered street parking or park at the Bourse Garage which is located on 4th Street between Market and Chestnut. The Market-Frankford Blue Line subway is the most convenient form of public transit. It stops at 5th and Markets streets and is a one block walk to the American Philosophical Society.
Food at the American Philosophical Society
The American Philosophical Society does not offer any food options. But directly across from the museum is Chestnut Street, the amazing variety of cafes and restaurants range from coffee bars to takeout salads to Lebanese to American fare and the prices range from really affordable to fine-dining like the famous restaurant Buddakan.
Insider tip to visitors to the American Philosophical Society
Many people don't realize the American Philosophical Society is also campus of four buildings and one garden. The American Philosophical Society Library is a hidden gem with public space and guided tours. To find out all about the enormous collection and to request a tour, go to their website.
Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist for 20 years.
