This Saturday, September 22 is Smithsonian’s Museum Day when select museums and cultural institutions across the country open their doors and offer free admission. This is a great opportunity to explore new places and learn something new. You just need to register online and get a Museum Day ticket (good for admission for two people, per email address) at the museum of your choice. Here is where you can visit in Philly.

Academy of Natural Sciences

1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

10 am—5 pm

 

This science museum is a local kids’ favorite. We especially love the third floor’s “Outside In” exhibit, which is tailored specially for little ones, and of course Dinosaur Hall. For an extra fee, catch the larger-than-life Xtreme Bugs exhibit! Get your free ticket here.

Penn Museum

3260 South St.

10 am–5 pm

 

Kids can learn about cultures around the world at this museum of archaeology and anthropology, and check out the new Middle East Galleries (opening at 11 am), complete with a special Kid’s Guide. Get your free ticket here.

Independence Seaport Museum

211 S. Columbus Blvd.

10 am–5 pm

 

Learn about maritime history, climb aboard historic warships, learn something new at the Citizen Science Lab, and more! If you come between 11 am—1 pm, your kids can create their own ocean in a bottle at Seafarin’ Saturday. Get your free ticket here.

African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP)

701 Arch St

10 am–5 pm

 

Experience the richness and vibrancy of African American culture through the museum’s art and exhibits. Get your free ticket here.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)

118-128 N. Broad St.

11 am–5 pm

 

 

You can’t help but notice the crashed airplane full of plants in the courtyard, but come inside for a tour of the art galleries! Get your free ticket here.

Woodmere Art Museum

9201 Germantown Ave.

10 am–6 pm

 

This Chestnut Hill museum celebrates Philadelphia’s art and artists. And you’ll be just in time to enjoy their annual straw maze outside! Get your free ticket here.

American Swedish Historical Museum

1900 Pattison Ave.

Noon-4 pm

 

Learn about Swedish culture and the Swedish immigrant experience through interactive exhibits. Get your free ticket here.

Fort Mifflin

6400 Hog Island Rd.

10 am–4 pm

 

This historic battlefield and fort from the Revolutionary War hosts events throughout the year that honor and teach about our country’s military history. At 11 am and 1 pm, there will be historical reenactment where you can meet Mary Walker, a female doctor who served during the Civil War, and learn about medical techniques back then. Get your free ticket here.

 

Photograph by Laura Swartz.