City Cast Philly logo

Best Art Museums in Philadelphia

Posted on August 7, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Philadelphia museum of art entrance

The Philadelphia Museum of Art has over 200 galleries. (fotog/Getty Images)

If you love art, you’re definitely in the right city. Philly has more than 1,000 works of public art as well as world-class private collections you can pay to visit. Here are some of the best museums to get your fix of beauty.

This museum is a serene art oasis. It features the largest collection of works by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, the “father of modern sculpture,” outside of Paris. Browse through more than 120 pieces, including sculptures, drawings, and paintings 🖼️

2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

You may walk into this museum thinking you’ll see a bunch of clothes, but the reality is so much more. You can explore fabric-related sculptures, videos, paintings, photography, ceramics, and architecture. Check out exhibitions throughout the year and participate in DIY workshops.

1214 Arch Street

Art enthusiasts of all types will find something to revel in here, from classic paintings by Picasso and Van Gogh, to a 14th-century Buddhist temple. The museum hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year and it has a gorgeous outdoor sculpture garden 🗿

2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Modern art fans will love the ICA’s innovative multimedia exhibitions, including sculptures, performances, films, and paintings. It also offers educational programs, artist talks, lectures, films and tours. Note: the museum is closed for installation through Aug. 17, 2023 🎭

118 S. 36th Street

barnes foundation nature-themed mural

The Barnes Foundation challenges you to see art differently. (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly)

Head to the Barnes to explore a magnificent collection of over 9,000 pieces of art, including modern European paintings, Native American ceramics, Pennsylvania German furniture, and Greek antiques. Be ready to be dazzled by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Matisse. It also has an arboretum, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the grounds 🌳

2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Share article

Hey Philly

Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

The latest in Philly

Sponsored

Moving to Philadelphia? What to Check Before You Pick a Neighborhood, Book a Truck, and Sign a Lease

With this guide, you can move to Philadelphia, move from another place to Philadelphia, or just see if living in Philadelphia fits your d...

Wellknown Moving Company Logo
Philly HistoryJune 8

How the Phillies Helped Found the Nation’s First Professional Soccer League

The short-lived team was an effort to fill baseball stadiums during the offseason.

A newspaper clip centered on an orange background
Philly, ExplainedJune 5

Prove Your Weekly Philly Knowledge

Pop quiz, Philly! It’s that time again to test your knowledge on local trivia.

(Rob Maxwell / Unsplash)
Food & DrinkJune 4

Grab Summer Produce at These Farmers Markets

It’s the time of year to start stocking up on summer favorites like berries. Find the freshest crops at your local market.

Boxes of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries
Philly Life HacksJune 2

Where To Take Swimming Lessons in Philly

Don’t just sit poolside all summer. Learn to splash in the water safely by taking these foundational swim classes.

Swimmer does a lap in a pool
Philly HistoryJune 1

The First Successful Sit-In for LGBTQ+ Rights Was in Philadelphia

The act of civil disobedience against discrimination occurred before the more widely known Stonewall Riots, which are considered the cata...

A marker at the former 17th Street location of Dewey’s stands at 219 S. 17th St. (Siani Colón / City Cast Philly)
Philly, ExplainedMay 29

Play Our Philly Crossword Puzzle

This mini-crossword is filled with clues on Philly history and headlines.

City Cast Philly Crossword
Food & DrinkMay 28

Your Guide to New Restaurants, Bars and Cafés in Philly

Philly’s local culinary scene is constantly growing and changing. Here’s a recap of some of the restaurants, bars, cafés, and other delic...

Bowls of loaded jacket potatoes