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Museum Hours:Wednesday–Saturday, 10AM–5PM

Hours & Admission

The Science History Institute Museum is free and open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Please contact us in advance for groups larger than 12. See our Group & School Tours page for more information.

All visitors under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a chaperone or guardian; unaccompanied minors are not permitted.

During your visit, you can view our permanent exhibition, which traces the history of science—from medieval alchemy to modern plastics, and everything in between—or play with our interactive touch table to learn about the fascinating science behind everyday objects. You can also view our rotating exhibitions including Lunchtime, The Story of Ramie, and our ExhibitLab display; explore special topics and themes with our staff; enjoy a guided family activity; or try a self-guided scavenger hunt, puzzle, or activity sheet. On average, visitors spend about an hour in our museum.

Address

315 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Email: museum@sciencehistory.org
Directions >>

Museum Hours

Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm

Holidays

Our museum team works hard to bring you engaging exhibitions and programs. And sometimes we need a break to recharge! On days that we are closed, we invite you to enjoy a digital exhibition, take a peek at our outdoor exhibition on the façade of our building, or enjoy one of our articles, podcasts, videos, or blog posts.

The Science History Institute Museum is closed on the following holidays:

  • New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Presidents’ Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Juneteenth
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving weekend (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday)
  • Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

On view

colorized image of students eating lunch

Lunchtime: The History of Science on the School Food Tray

Our new exhibition offers a novel historical perspective on efforts to feed children in U.S. schools.

The Story of Ramie: From Seed to Finished Garment

Explore the fascinating history of this natural textile through stunningly detailed watercolors illustrating each step in the ramie process.
page from an old book

A Remote Idea

Healing at a distance: Our latest rare book exhibition explores the debate over the effectiveness of the weapon salve.

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