The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Museum (PAFA) has a collection of works by American artists from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. The museum, housed in a remarkable piece of architecture in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers a gallery for temporary exhibits and an exceptional permanent collection. The Academy’s archives are also kept in the museum, which also displays student art. It is one of the country’s oldest art schools. Women in Motion, an exhibition that examines the networks of female artists throughout the past 150 years, had its world premiere at the museum.
The Children’s Museum of Philadelphia
The Children’s Museum of Philadelphia will appeal to you if you love children. This museum, which is just off the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, has a well-known African collection and an interactive exhibit. A monthly lecture series and free admission are available to first-time guests.
Rare Books & The Hidden Book Museum
Another interesting museum in Philadelphia is the Rosenbach. It houses the rare book and manuscript collections of A. S. W. and Philip Rosenbach, who were prominent merchants in the early 20th century. More than 130,000 manuscripts and rare books are part of the outstanding Rosenbach collection. The works of Miguel de Cervantes, Charles Dickens, Mercedes de Acosta, Bram Stoker, Phillis Wheatley, and many others are among the highlights of the museum’s past.
The Hidden Book Museum, which houses a sizable collection of antiquated books, is a hidden gem. The museum’s oldest book is from 1482. Visitors can view a variety of historical works and artwork, but they are not allowed to touch the books.
Victorian Style
The Victorian Gothic Landmark Building at the PAFA is regarded as the country’s best remaining specimen of the style. Frank Furness and George Hewitt, two Philadelphia architects, created the design. The building has a serpentine seat, mosaic tiles, and vegetation, and it rises 70 feet above the ground. Inside the structure is also where you’ll find the old cast hall. Numerous both ongoing and passing exhibits are housed in the structure.
Other Attractions
With Robert Indiana’s famous LOVE sculpture, PAFA also offers one of the best photo opportunities in the city. Because of the LOVE sculpture’s iconic status, it was built at John F. Kennedy Plaza in 1976 during the country’s bicentennial celebrations. Additionally, on 19th Street, The Academy of Music is conveniently close to Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Plan Your Visit
Recently, the museum underwent renovations to boost its health and security. Due to COVID, some areas are closed. Additionally, the Maurice Sendak collection is no longer on view. The museum has revised hours and procedures and is now open seven days a week. Because the museum only has a certain number of seats available, purchasing tickets in advance is advised. Visitors are advised to buy timed tickets online ahead of time to prevent long lineups.
If you’re nearby, you can do a few activities in Philadelphia. The PAFA Museum in Philadelphia is amazing – so you shouldn’t skip it if you’re visiting the area. You’ll be taken aback by the stunning interior design and outstanding permanent collection. The PAFA offers both traditional and contemporary art, so there is something for everyone.
How to get there from the fun dept:
It Starts with The Museum of the American Revolution: