Inspired by our recent field trip to the Wagner Museum, we looked into other gems in the Philly area that we’ve been missing out on. Here are our favorite spots left out of the main tourist guides, but well worth a visit!
Photos 1 & 2 @wagnerfreeinstituteofscience | photos 3 & 4 stoogeum.com
Wagner Free Institute of Science | Cecil B. Moore, Philadelphia
Many of us passed the Wagner Museum before, but never stopped inside to take in all the treasures. On a recent field trip, the PHG team was treated to a brief lecture on the history of Wagner and the incredible free museum he created (worth asking the staff about when visiting). One wouldn’t think browsing cases of rocks, shells, and taxidermy would be so fascinating, but we had to drag ourselves away and are dreaming of our next visit! Check their website and social media for events and lectures.
Stoogeum | Ambler, PA
As you may have guessed from the name, this museum is wall-to-wall Stooges. There are cases upon cases of memorabilia, movie posters, history facts, and even a Three Stooges pinball. They release limited appointments monthly that you can reserve online. While you’re there, sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date on the happenings and hours.
Photos 1&2 @therosenbach | Photos 2&3 @simeonemuseum
The Rosenbach Museum and Library | Fitler Square, Philadelphia
Have a rare book lover in your life? Head to The Rosenbach Museum. It was founded by two brothers who were renowned dealers in books, manuscripts, and fine arts. Among other good reads, the only surviving copy of Benjamin Franklin’s first Poor Richard Almanac resides here. Tours are the only way to see the home and the collection up close. The gardens have been reopened after 20 years, so be sure to take a stroll through as well.
Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum | Elmwood Park, Philadelphia
If watching vintage race cars take a spin in a parking lot is up your alley, then head on down to this museum that's located right near the Philadelphia Airport. You can’t get into or ride the vehicles on display, but you can take as many pictures of the shiny, candy-colored autos as you’d like! Take a peek at their Demo Day schedule where they roll out the race cars and zip them around (by professional drivers) so you can “see, hear and smell them” in action.
Photos 1 & 2 americantreasuretour.com | 3 & 4 The Shoe Museum at the Temple university of Podiatric Medicine Facebook
American Treasure Museum | Oaks, PA
Also featured in our Beat the Boredom Blues blog, this odd collection is worth the drive. Located near the Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, it’s only open on the weekends. Don your Members Only jacket, hop on the miniature train that tours the facility, and get snapping all things Americana. You’ll see old cars, toys, neon signs, and an entire Christmas room. Play the game of “I used to have one of those” while driving by.
The Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine | Center City, Philadelphia
Next time you're heading to Chinatown for lunch, make a reservation to hit up the Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. It's super low-key and only takes about 30 mins to cruise the collection which lives mostly in the hallway of the 6th floor. You can spot celebrity sneaks, delicate wedding shoes from the late 1800s, and colorful mummers kicks. Free, open M-F and you must register for the self-guided tour online.
Photos 1 & 2 @wesherickmuseum | Photos 3 & 4 penntreatymuseum.org | Photos 5 & 6 @rittenhousetown.org
The Warton Esherick Museum | Malvern, PA
American artist Wharton Eshericks's home and studio make up the campus of this museum. A master of wood (there is so much pretty, twisted, polished wood), books, art, and furniture are all on display. This quote from their website gives you a taste of what to expect “He created furniture that would pass as sculpture, and sculpture that functioned as furniture, bridging the gap between art and craft.” You must book a tour in advance as the buildings are quite small. Time your visit with one of the many events and lectures they host.
The Penn Treaty Museum | Fishtown, Philadelphia
This is a merger of two museums in one space. One dedicated to telling the stories of Penn Treaty Park and the Friendship Treaty, all steeped in Native American history, and the other showcases artifacts that have been found during the endless digging under I-95. Doll heads, glass, and other treasures, often found in “retired privies”, are on display. The hours are very limited. On their website it’s recorded as “Most Wednesdays, 12-4 pm” so call ahead to confirm.
Historic Rittenhouse Town | Wissahickon Valley Park, Philadelphia
Take a trip back in time to America’s First paper mill founded in 1690. Visit several buildings still standing and walk around the arboretum, home to over 80 species of trees and shrubs. Schedule a tour of the 1707 Homestead, participate in a historic paper-making workshop, or simply enjoy the grounds on a one-hour tour-led hike.
If you check the above off your list and are still looking for something to shake up your routine, check our our Self Guided and Group Tours blog. We always recommend keeping an eye on the Preservation Alliance of Philadelphia as they have brilliant lectures and events throughout the area. See you out there!
