The Franklin Institute
A vibrant, interactive science museum in Philadelphia, offering hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and iconic displays like the Giant Heart.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
The Franklin Institute
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, interactive science museum in Philadelphia, offering hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and iconic displays like the Giant Heart.
"It's a place where you almost forget you're there to look at exhibits because the walls themselves are art."
🎯 Go Beyond the Giant Heart
While the Giant Heart is a must-see, don't miss other amazing exhibits like 'Your Brain'!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfy footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Heart
Human Body Exhibit
Step inside a colossal heart and learn about its functions. A truly iconic and memorable experience for all ages.
SportsZone
Sports Exhibit
Test your athletic skills and learn about the science behind sports in this engaging, interactive zone.
Your Brain Exhibit
Neuroscience Section
Explore the complexities of the human brain with mesmerizing displays and interactive elements.
Fels Planetarium
Planetarium
Experience the cosmos with stunning shows that explore stars, planets, and the universe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Beyond the Giant Heart
While the Giant Heart is a must-see, don't miss other amazing exhibits like 'Your Brain'!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfy footwear is essential.
📱 Download the App
Check if an official app is available for maps and exhibit info to enhance your visit.
🎟️ Consider a CityPASS
If visiting multiple Philly attractions, a CityPASS can offer great savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Beyond the Giant Heart
While the Giant Heart is a must-see, don't miss other amazing exhibits like 'Your Brain'!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfy footwear is essential.
📱 Download the App
Check if an official app is available for maps and exhibit info to enhance your visit.
🎟️ Consider a CityPASS
If visiting multiple Philly attractions, a CityPASS can offer great savings.
🍽️ Plan for Lunch
The museum has a cafe, but nearby options offer variety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Franklin Institute for its highly interactive exhibits and engaging approach to science education, making it a hit for families and adults alike. While the architecture is stunning and many exhibits are captivating, some reviewers note that certain interactive elements could benefit from maintenance and updates. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a beloved Philadelphia institution for its blend of fun and learning.
"The best museums are the ones like Franklin! It is structurally appealing to look at from the outside, and it looks great. The tickets are the usual price for an attraction like this and are discounted for kids. It's one of the most interactive museums I've ever been to. There were so many different exhibits to see and things to do, so I couldn't do it all in a few hours. Would 100% recommend for a rainy day or overall activity to spend with or without kids. I believe the sports section is temporary, but that was my personal favorite!"
lyla faria
"I grew up with the Franklin Institute—memberships, school field trips, invention camp, even a 50th birthday party. Now, I bring my own kids and share in the same joy of hands-on, engaged learning.
We love the iconic walk-through heart and the massive train you can actually board and explore. The museum is packed with interactive exhibits that invite kids (and adults) to hands on tinker, and discover. The rotating special exhibits are always top-notch, and the permanent ones continue to hold their value over time.
On our most recent visit, we stumbled into the planetarium—what a treat. The 15–20 minute constellation show was a great new experience, and my kids gave it a big thumbs up.
Highly recommend this best in class museum. We’ll keep coming back—forever and ever."
Joe Bernstein
"The Franklin Institute was very fun and engaging. We didn’t have as much time as we would have liked and didn’t get to see anything in the planetarium but the rest of the place was great. The sports area was fun, a few things were broken unfortunately. But overall we had a great time would be awesome for kids from like 5+ I’d guess. Our baby seemed to enjoy tho as well. We used a go city pass for entry that went really smooth."
Connor L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Franklin Institute is located at 222 N 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA. It's accessible via public transportation, including SEPTA buses and the Broad Street Line subway. Driving is also an option, with a parking garage on-site.
Yes, there is a parking garage attached to the museum. However, it can get crowded and expensive, especially on weekends. Consider alternative parking options in the area if possible.
For families, public transport can be an adventure! The subway or bus can be fun for kids. If driving, arrive early to secure parking.
Absolutely! Several SEPTA bus routes stop nearby, and the Spring Garden station on the Broad Street Line is a short walk away.
From I-676 E, take the 23rd Street exit and turn right onto 23rd Street. Turn left onto Benjamin Franklin Parkway, then right onto 20th Street. The museum will be on your left.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but general admission for adults is typically around $25-$30, with discounts for children and seniors. Special exhibits may require an additional fee. Check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door, but booking online in advance is highly recommended to save time and ensure entry, especially for popular exhibits.
Yes, discounts are often available for children, seniors, students, and military personnel. Look into options like the Philadelphia CityPASS or Go City Pass for potential savings if visiting multiple attractions.
The Franklin Institute is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on some days. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking a timed entry ticket online is strongly advised to manage crowds and guarantee your admission, especially during peak seasons or for special exhibitions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Giant Heart, the interactive SportsZone, the fascinating 'Your Brain' exhibit, and the immersive shows at the Fels Planetarium. +1
Absolutely! It's incredibly family-friendly with numerous hands-on exhibits designed to engage children of all ages.
Most visitors spend at least 3-4 hours to see the main exhibits. To fully experience everything, including special exhibits and the planetarium, plan for a full day.
Some reviews mention that a few interactive exhibits may be temporarily out of order or in need of repair. It's a good idea to be prepared for this possibility.
This special exhibit features real human bodies preserved through plastination, offering a detailed look at the human anatomy and the impact of lifestyle choices. It has a separate admission fee and is a limited-time engagement.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Franklin Institute has a cafe called The Eatery, offering a variety of options. Some reviews mention it's a decent place to break up the day.
The Eatery offers snacks, light meals, and beverages. They aim to provide healthier options like fruit and whole-grain snacks.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to check their specific policy, but the on-site cafe is usually the intended dining option.
Yes, the museum is located in a vibrant area of Philadelphia with many restaurants and cafes nearby, offering diverse culinary choices.
Reviews suggest the cafe is reasonably priced for a museum and offers acceptable options for a quick bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits. Always look for signage.
The Giant Heart, the architecture of the building itself, and the visually striking 'Your Brain' exhibit are popular spots for photos.
Similar to photography, personal videography is usually permitted, but check for any restrictions on professional filming or extensive use of tripods.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons often have fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. The natural light can be beautiful, especially in the grand halls.
Special exhibits, particularly those with sensitive artifacts or copyrighted material, may have photography restrictions. Always adhere to posted rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Arrive early to beat the crowds and maximize your time. Consider packing snacks or planning for a meal at the museum's cafe to keep energy levels up.
🧑🤝🧑 Couples & Date Nights
Beyond the exhibits, the impressive architecture of the building itself provides a beautiful backdrop for a date.
🤓 Science Enthusiasts & Lifelong Learners
The museum's commitment to hands-on learning means you won't just be reading about science; you'll be doing it. This active engagement can lead to deeper understanding and a renewed appreciation for scientific principles. The Fels Planetarium provides a stellar experience for astronomy buffs, offering immersive shows that explore the cosmos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Human Body Exhibits
This exhibit is a perennial favorite, offering a unique perspective on a vital organ. Beyond the heart, the 'Your Brain' exhibit delves into the complexities of neuroscience with engaging displays and interactive elements that make learning about our most complex organ accessible and fascinating. Beyond these major attractions, the museum often features special exhibitions that delve deeper into specific aspects of biology and health. For instance, the BODY WORLDS: Vital exhibit, though requiring an additional ticket, showcases real human specimens preserved through plastination, offering an unparalleled, detailed view of anatomy, disease, and the effects of lifestyle choices.
+1 While this exhibit is powerful, it's important to note it may not be suitable for all visitors due to its graphic nature. The overall approach to human body exhibits at The Franklin Institute is to make complex scientific concepts understandable and memorable through hands-on engagement. Interactive Science and Fun
Many visitors highlight the sheer number of things to do, often finding it difficult to see everything in a single visit.
Architectural Marvel and Ambiance
The ambiance contributes to the overall feeling of awe and discovery. Even the cafeteria has been noted for its pleasant environment, offering a nice break during a day of exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit