
Benjamin Franklin Museum Philadelphia
Discover the life, inventions, and legacy of Benjamin Franklin through interactive exhibits and a unique 'ghost house'.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more engaging

Benjamin Franklin Museum Philadelphia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more engaging

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the life, inventions, and legacy of Benjamin Franklin through interactive exhibits and a unique 'ghost house'.
"A hidden gem—educational, interactive, and inspiring, bringing Franklin's genius to life!"

🎯 Interactive Fun for Kids
Engaging exhibits and a squirrel mascot make it great for children! :child:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Visit Franklin's grave just a few blocks away for a complete historical experience. :gravestone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Franklin's Life Journey
Explore the interactive exhibits detailing the life, inventions, and legacy of Benjamin Franklin.

The "Ghost House"
Experience a unique steel structure that visually represents Franklin's home and life.

Franklin's Inventions
Discover the ingenuity behind Franklin's famous inventions, from the lightning rod to bifocals.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Tickets & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Interactive Fun for Kids
Engaging exhibits and a squirrel mascot make it great for children! :child:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Visit Franklin's grave just a few blocks away for a complete historical experience. :gravestone:
💡 Educational & Inspiring
A fascinating look into the life and legacy of a true American innovator. :light_bulb:
💨 Beat the Heat
Enjoy the good air conditioning, perfect for a summer day in Philly. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Interactive Fun for Kids
Engaging exhibits and a squirrel mascot make it great for children! :child:
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Visit Franklin's grave just a few blocks away for a complete historical experience. :gravestone:
💡 Educational & Inspiring
A fascinating look into the life and legacy of a true American innovator. :light_bulb:
💨 Beat the Heat
Enjoy the good air conditioning, perfect for a summer day in Philly. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Benjamin Franklin Museum as an educational, interactive, and inspiring hidden gem. It's lauded for its engaging exhibits that bring Franklin's life and inventions to life, making it great for both adults and children. Some note the museum's affordability and comfortable air conditioning. A minor point of reflection for some is learning about Franklin's past ownership of slaves.
"Really cool experience getting to see where his house was and the museum on the grounds that takes you through his life. You can get through pretty quick, and there's interactive stuff for kids. I'd definitely recommend coming to see the museum, and make sure you visit his grave not too far a few blocks."
Andrew Carlisle
"13 Sep 25- Depicts the life journey of this innovator, scientist, philosopher , politician and diplomat. The museum starts with demonstration of printing . Excellent audio visual aids have been used to illustrate his work, family and socio political connects in his life. What a personality !!! Highly recommended for a visit while in Philadelphia."
anand sonsale
"The Benjamin Franklin Museum is a hidden gem in Philadelphia—educational, interactive, and inspiring. It offers a fascinating look into the life, inventions, and legacy of one of America's greatest minds. The exhibits are well-organized and engaging for both adults and kids, with hands-on activities that bring Franklin’s genius to life. The museum does a great job of highlighting his wit, curiosity, and contributions to science, politics, and daily life. A must-visit for history lovers—five stars without a doubt!"
kourosh Eshman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 317 Chestnut Street in the historic Old City. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including SEPTA buses and the Market-Frankford Line. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from other historic sites in the area.
Parking can be challenging and expensive in Old City. While there are garages nearby, consider using public transport or ride-sharing services. Some Reddit users suggest looking for alternatives if you're visiting a nearby attraction like the Franklin Institute, though direct advice for the Benjamin Franklin Museum's parking is scarce.
Yes, the museum is centrally located in the historic district. It's a pleasant walk from sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
From Center City, you can take a bus or the subway. Walking is also an option if you enjoy urban exploration, as some have walked from Rittenhouse Square.
No, the Benjamin Franklin Museum is located in Old City at 317 Chestnut Street, not on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which is home to other museums like the Rodin Museum and the Franklin Institute.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally inexpensive, making it a great value. The museum does not accept the Art Reach program discount but remains affordable.
It's usually not necessary to book tickets in advance, especially for general admission. However, for special exhibits or peak times, checking their website is always a good idea.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Benjamin Franklin Museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the museum is already quite affordable, it's worth checking their website for any seasonal promotions or group rates.
Yes, the museum is designed to be accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find exhibits detailing Franklin's life, inventions, and contributions to society. Highlights include interactive displays and a unique steel 'ghost house' representing his home.
Absolutely! The museum features interactive exhibits and a squirrel mascot that children find engaging.
Most visitors can get through the museum relatively quickly, often within an hour or two, depending on how much time you spend with each exhibit.
The museum utilizes excellent audio-visual aids to illustrate Franklin's work and life, enhancing the visitor experience.
The museum focuses on Benjamin Franklin himself, exploring his roles as an innovator, scientist, philosopher, politician, and diplomat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum is conveniently located near many lunch spots and ice cream shops in Old City, perfect for a post-visit treat.
The museum itself does not appear to have an on-site cafe or restaurant, but there are numerous dining options in the surrounding historic district.
Old City offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask museum staff. Some exhibits may have restrictions.
The 'ghost house' structure and displays of Franklin's inventions offer unique visual opportunities. The exterior of the museum and its location in historic Old City also provide great photo backdrops.
Beyond the museum, Benjamin Franklin's grave is a significant historical site for photos. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway itself, though not where the museum is located, is famous for its statues and museums.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk to Benjamin Franklin's grave nearby, which can be an educational and memorable experience for children. The museum's manageable size means you can explore it without overwhelming younger attention spans, and its location in Old City offers plenty of nearby spots for a kid-friendly meal or treat.
📚 History Buffs & Lifelong Learners
Beyond the museum, exploring historic Old City and visiting Franklin's grave offers a richer understanding of his impact. The museum's location makes it easy to integrate into a broader historical tour of Philadelphia, allowing for a full day of discovery.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider combining your visit with free historical sites in Old City, like walking by Independence Hall or seeing the Liberty Bell (exterior views are free). The museum's location also means you can easily find affordable dining options nearby, further stretching your travel budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Benjamin Franklin: A Multifaceted Genius
Visitors can learn about his experiments with electricity, his contributions to civic life in Philadelphia, and his diplomatic missions abroad. The museum also touches upon the more complex aspects of his life, such as his ownership of enslaved people, providing a more nuanced understanding of the historical figure.
This educational and inspiring experience is highly recommended for anyone interested in American history or the Enlightenment period. It's a chance to connect with the mind and spirit of a true polymath.
Exploring the "Ghost House" and Interactive Exhibits
The museum excels in its interactive elements, making history engaging for all ages. From demonstrations of printing techniques to hands-on displays of his inventions, these features allow visitors to actively participate in learning about Franklin's genius. The squirrel mascot is particularly popular with younger visitors, adding a fun, approachable element to the educational content.
These engaging exhibits ensure that the museum is not just a passive viewing experience but a dynamic journey through Franklin's life and times. The blend of historical information with modern interactive technology makes it a memorable visit.
Beyond the Museum: Historic Old City
Just a few blocks away, you can visit Benjamin Franklin's grave at Christ Church Burial Ground, a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy. The surrounding streets are filled with colonial-era architecture, charming shops, and diverse dining options, making it a perfect area for a day of historical discovery and leisurely strolls.
While the museum itself is a compact and insightful experience, its location allows for a broader immersion into the foundational period of American history. It's an ideal starting point for understanding the life and times of Benjamin Franklin within the context of the city he helped shape.





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