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State Museum of Pennsylvania

4.7
·376 reviews·Harrisburg, United States

Discover Pennsylvania's rich history, natural wonders, and artistic talent across four floors of engaging exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Bones!

State Museum of Pennsylvania

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Pennsylvania's rich history, natural wonders, and artistic talent across four floors of engaging exhibits.

4.7
(376 reviews)

"Excellent history museum that has something for everyone in the family."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's four floors. :clock1:

Engage with Interactive Exhibits

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on activities throughout the museum. :handpointingup:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pennsylvania Wildlife Dioramas

Pennsylvania Wildlife Dioramas

Natural History Wing

Immerse yourself in lifelike dioramas showcasing iconic Pennsylvania wildlife and natural landscapes.

Interstate History Exhibit

Interstate History Exhibit

Industry & Technology Wing

Explore the evolution of transportation, including the development of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and classic vehicles.

Civil Rights & Community Exhibits

Civil Rights & Community Exhibits

Pennsylvania History Wing

Gain insight into the state's civil rights struggles and community experiences through compelling videos and artifacts.

Art of the State Exhibition

Art of the State Exhibition

Special Exhibition Galleries

Discover juried works by talented Pennsylvania artists, showcasing diverse mediums and contemporary themes.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the State Museum

Discover Pennsylvania's rich history at the State Museum of Pennsylvania. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore its diverse exhibits, from natural wonders to industrial heritage. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if traveling with children who will enjoy the interactive sections. Reddit

Parking and Admission

Parking is available for a fee, often around $30 for 3 hours for two adults, making it an affordable outing. Reddit Admission is reasonably priced at $7, offering excellent value for the extensive exhibits spanning four floors. Reddit Check for any special exhibitions or events that might affect your visit duration or ticket needs.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (post-lunch)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family-friendly activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Harrisburg PA hidden gem. I'm definitely gatekeeping this one 🤫🤭 #PA #visitpa #pennsylvania #harrisburgpa
@rlbtravels
44.6K likes • 614.6K views

Allocate Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's four floors. Reddit :clock1:

Engage with Interactive Exhibits

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on activities throughout the museum. Reddit :handpointingup:

Shinjuku Station coming soon to #717 #aycesushi #revolvingsushi #harrisburgpa #k4ngnamstyle
@k4ngnamstyle
28K likes • 260.3K views
“Exploring the heart of Pennsylvania – from the State Capitol to the State Museum!” . . . .#reels #instagram #makereels #feelreels♥️ #pennsylvania #pennsylvaniastatecapitol #pennsylvaniastatemusium#support #creativity
sahoo_tanushree
46 likes • 524 views

Check Special Exhibitions

Don't miss temporary exhibits like 'Art of the State' for unique artistic perspectives. Instagram+2

Affordable Family Outing

With reasonable admission and parking, it's a great value for families. Reddit :moneybag:

State Museum of Pennsylvania! Love this place so much! . . #pennsylvania #statemuseumofpennsylvania #museumlife #museumdiorama #museum #consultant #museumexhibit #ilovemyjob #bestlife
georgedante
132 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's four floors. Reddit :clock1:

Engage with Interactive Exhibits

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on activities throughout the museum. Reddit :handpointingup:

Check Special Exhibitions

Don't miss temporary exhibits like 'Art of the State' for unique artistic perspectives. Instagram+2

Affordable Family Outing

With reasonable admission and parking, it's a great value for families. Reddit :moneybag:

Explore Beyond the Museum

Combine your visit with nearby Harrisburg attractions like the Capitol building. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(376 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the State Museum of Pennsylvania for its comprehensive and engaging exhibits that cater to all ages. The affordable admission and parking make it an excellent value, with many highlighting the detailed wildlife dioramas and insightful historical displays. While generally well-received, some may find certain sections more engaging than others depending on their interests.

"Not a sprawling museum as described,more of a mid-sized museum with a large amount of closed displays. I would describe it as ok. Some very interesting items but very disorganized. The middle aged gift shop attendant sprawled out ,feet up playing on her cell phone never acknowledged that we were even there. It left me feeling like she was bored to tears. Very strange vibe. There is enough space in this museum for many many more displays and it truly felt lackluster."

jon D

"Excellent history museum that has something for everyone in the family. The rich history, cultural and natural wonders of the state are on display here. One of my favorite galleries was the wildlife gallery with the natural dioramas of some of the iconic PA wildlife."

JD

"Admission is $7, and the museum spans four floors of diverse history. From Native American exhibits to classic vehicles, and from animals to wildlife displays, there’s something here to capture everyone’s interest"

Amanda Champlin

What People Like

Engaging exhibits for all ages
Affordable admission and parking
Detailed wildlife dioramas

What People Dislike

Crowds on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The State Museum of Pennsylvania is located at 300 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120, adjacent to the State Capitol building. Instagram It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Reddit Public transportation options may also be available within Harrisburg.

Yes, parking is available at the museum. While there is a fee, it's considered affordable, with one reviewer mentioning around $30 for 3 hours for two adults. Reddit

While a car offers flexibility, the museum is located in downtown Harrisburg, so it may be accessible via local public transport or ride-sharing services depending on your starting point. Instagram+1

The museum is right next to the Pennsylvania State Capitol building, offering a great opportunity to explore both. Instagram+1 Other downtown Harrisburg attractions and dining options are also within proximity. TikTok

Yes, its prominent location next to the State Capitol in Harrisburg makes it easy to find. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is very affordable at $7 per person, making it a great value for the extensive exhibits. Reddit

While specific discount programs aren't detailed, the general admission price is already very low, making it an accessible option for most visitors. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, it's open on weekdays and weekends, but specific times should be confirmed.

While advance ticket purchase might be an option, the affordable admission price and generally manageable crowds (especially on weekdays) mean you can often purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

No, there is a small admission fee of $7 per person. Reddit However, it's considered a very affordable option for a museum experience.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include the lifelike wildlife dioramas, the fascinating Interstate History exhibit with classic cars, and exhibits on Pennsylvania's civil rights history. Reddit The 'Art of the State' exhibition is also a popular draw. Instagram+2

Absolutely! The museum features many hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that children find entertaining. InstagramReddit+1 It's a great place for families to spend a significant amount of time. Reddit

Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum thoroughly, as there are four floors of exhibits. Reddit

The museum houses a diverse collection, including Native American artifacts, industrial machinery, classic vehicles, natural history specimens, and fine art. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with multiple floors and exhibits designed to be explored by all visitors. It's recommended to check their official website for specific accessibility details.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the museum. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain galleries to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if unsure.

The wildlife dioramas offer stunning, naturalistic backdrops. The 'Art of the State' exhibition provides opportunities to photograph unique artworks. Instagram+2 The historical exhibits, especially those with vintage vehicles, are also visually appealing.

While personal photography is usually allowed, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Flash photography is often prohibited to preserve delicate exhibits. Instagram

The 'Art of the State' exhibition includes photography and digital media, featuring traditional and digital photographs, as well as works printed on metal. Instagram

Yes, using your phone camera for personal photos is perfectly fine in most areas of the museum. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The State Museum of Pennsylvania is a fantastic destination for families. Reviewers consistently highlight the hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that keep children engaged for hours. InstagramReddit+1 The museum's layout across four floors offers plenty to explore, ensuring a full day of discovery. From natural history dioramas that spark imagination to historical displays that offer engaging narratives, there's something to capture the interest of children of various ages. Reddit

Consider focusing on the wildlife exhibits and any dedicated children's areas, which are often designed for younger visitors to learn through play. The affordable admission and parking make it a budget-friendly option for a family outing. Reddit Don't forget to check for any special programming or events that might be tailored for younger audiences during your visit.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the 'Art of the State' exhibition is a major highlight. This juried show features a curated selection of works by talented Pennsylvania artists, spanning various mediums including painting, sculpture, and digital art. Instagram+2 It's an excellent opportunity to discover contemporary regional art and appreciate the creative pulse of the state. Instagram

Beyond the special exhibition, the museum's permanent collections may also feature artistic elements within historical and cultural displays. While not a dedicated art museum like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the State Museum offers a unique perspective on art as it relates to Pennsylvania's history and identity. Instagram+1

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find a wealth of information at the State Museum of Pennsylvania. The museum meticulously covers the broad sweep of Pennsylvania's history, from its earliest inhabitants to its industrial might and social movements. InstagramReddit Key areas include exhibits on Native American history, the development of industries like railroads and automobiles, and significant social events such as the Civil Rights movement. Reddit

The Interstate History exhibit is particularly engaging, detailing the evolution of transportation and its impact on the state. Reddit The museum's commitment to presenting a comprehensive narrative makes it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the complex and rich history of Pennsylvania. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Pennsylvania's Natural Heritage

The State Museum of Pennsylvania excels in showcasing the natural wonders of the Commonwealth. Its natural history wing features incredibly detailed wildlife dioramas, bringing to life the diverse ecosystems and iconic animals of Pennsylvania. From dense forests to rolling hills, these displays offer a vivid glimpse into the state's natural beauty. Visitors often rave about the realism and educational value of these exhibits, making it a standout feature for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Reddit

Beyond the dioramas, the museum delves into paleontology, with fascinating fossil displays that highlight Pennsylvania's ancient past. You can encounter impressive specimens that tell the story of life millions of years ago. This section provides a captivating look at the deep history of the land, complementing the more recent natural history exhibits and offering a comprehensive understanding of the state's environmental evolution. Instagram

A Journey Through Pennsylvania's Industrial and Social History

The museum offers a comprehensive look at Pennsylvania's pivotal role in American industry and society. The Industry and Technology Wing is a highlight, featuring exhibits on the development of transportation, including the iconic Pennsylvania Turnpike and a collection of vintage automobiles. This section provides a tangible connection to the state's manufacturing prowess and its impact on modern life. Reddit

Furthermore, the museum doesn't shy away from addressing significant social and cultural shifts. Exhibits on civil rights and community experiences offer poignant insights into the struggles and triumphs of various groups throughout Pennsylvania's history. Reddit These displays are often described as powerful and thought-provoking, providing a deeper understanding of the social fabric of the state. The combination of industrial innovation and social narrative creates a rich and layered historical experience for visitors. Instagram

The 'Art of the State' Exhibition

A significant draw for art lovers is the annual 'Art of the State' exhibition, a juried showcase of works by Pennsylvania artists. This exhibition features a wide array of talent, with hundreds of applications reviewed to select a limited number of pieces for display. Instagram It's a fantastic opportunity to see contemporary art from across the Commonwealth, highlighting diverse styles and mediums. Instagram+1

The exhibition typically includes categories such as painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media, offering a broad spectrum of artistic expression. Instagram Visitors can expect to see innovative and compelling works that reflect the current artistic landscape of Pennsylvania. The 'Art of the State' exhibition is a testament to the vibrant arts community within the state and is a must-see for anyone interested in regional art. Instagram+1

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