The Franklin Institute
About
The Franklin Institute is a hands-on science wonderland where kids can walk through a giant human heart, explore a real locomotive, and discover the mysteries of space in the planetarium. With interactive STEM exhibits spanning multiple floors, this iconic Philadelphia museum transforms complex scientific concepts into exciting adventures that captivate children and parents alike.
Highlights
- ✓Walk through the Giant Heart exhibit to see a two-story replica of a human heart from the inside
- ✓Experience the Fels Planetarium with immersive space shows perfect for young astronomers
- ✓Climb aboard the actual Baldwin 60000 steam locomotive
- ✓Test your balance on the SkyBike suspended high above the floor
- ✓Explore hands-on physics experiments in the Sports Zone and Innovation Lab
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at 9:30 AM opening to beat school groups and enjoy popular exhibits like the Giant Heart with shorter waits
- 2.Book planetarium show tickets in advance as they sell out quickly, and plan your visit around the show times
- 3.Head to the SkyBike and high-wire exhibits early as lines grow throughout the day
- 4.Download the Franklin Institute app before visiting to create a personalized tour and see real-time wait times
- 5.Pack snacks but plan to eat lunch at their café or leave for nearby restaurants, as outside food isn't permitted in exhibit areas
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) during school year to avoid field trip crowds, or arrive right at opening on weekends. Summer weekdays can be busy but manageable. The first Saturday of each month tends to be most crowded.
What to Know
General admission starts around $25-30 per person (check for combo packages with planetarium shows). Parking is available in the museum garage for around $18-20. The on-site food court offers kid-friendly options including pizza and sandwiches, and the museum is fully accessible with stroller rentals available.
Seasonal Notes
The museum hosts special holiday-themed science shows during winter break and offers summer camps and extended hours in July-August. Some traveling exhibitions rotate seasonally, so check the website for current features. Air conditioning makes this an excellent rainy day or hot summer destination.
Nearby Eats
Walk 2 blocks to Whole Foods Market (2101 Pennsylvania Ave) for quick, healthy kid-friendly meals with seating, or head to Reading Terminal Market (10-minute walk) for endless food vendor options including Beiler's Donuts and Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food that kids love.
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