Philly Museums That Are Always Free

Philadelphia is a museum city — that’s no secret. But if you’re really dedicated to getting to know all the city’s galleries and exhibitions, it can get kind of pricey.

The good news: Philly has a number of spots where you can browse and discover new things, while also giving your wallet a break. Here’s a sampling of places you can go to learn and explore art, history, science, and more — all with free admission every day.

Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center

Did you know you can learn lots about water on the banks of the Schuylkill? This historic site right behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art features exhibits on water wheels, aquatic wildlife, water-related technology, and even art.

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Grant funding allows for free admission at this large collection. Visit to learn about American Jewish history and the experiences of Jews living in the United States from the 17th century to the present day.

Fireman’s Hall Museum

Step into this renovated, late-19th-century firehouse to learn about Philly’s firefighting history and fire safety. You’ll find the fire marks that adorned houses and old fire engines.

Wagner Free Institute of Science

This National Historic Landmark has offered free science and natural history education since the 1850s. There are free evening science courses for adults, and you can also take a self-guided tour of the museum’s minerals, taxidermied animals, and fossils during its regular daytime hours.

Museum for Art in Wood

This bilevel gallery drills down on wood as an artistic medium, boasting over 1,200 artifacts in its collection.

Institute of Contemporary Art

See what’s on view at this University of Pennsylvania-run art museum, from paintings and prints to sculpture and video.

Science History Institute

Explore 500 years of scientific history through the museum’s permanent exhibition, or dive into specific topics through the museum’s temporary exhibits.