Wagner’s Free Institute of Science Landmark Site and Exhibit Hall Tour

Explore the Wagner Free Institute of Science on April 18th as part of a citywide celebration of the International Day for Monuments and Sites!

Did you know Philadelphia is home to 67 of the country's 2,618 National Historic Landmarks (NHLs)? They represent some of Philadelphia’s most important historical places, events and people that are found in neighborhoods throughout the city.

Founded in 1855, the Wagner Free Institute of Science is a natural history museum and educational institution dedicated to free science education. A National Historic Landmark, the building was designed by Philadelphia City Hall architect John McArthur, Jr. and offers an exceptional experience of a Victorian science museum filled with thousands of specimens. The Wagner also hosts the oldest free science education program in the country!

Join us on Friday, April 18 from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm to explore the Wagner’s landmark site and its Exhibit Hall, where you can view 100,000+ specimens, including ancient fossils, sparkling minerals, colorful shells, tiny insects, and taxidermy birds and mammals. You can explore on your own or use one of our themed scavenger hunts, drawing or coloring activities to guide you. Our staff are available to answer questions about the building and its history. There is even an architecture scavenger hunt—designed for history buffs.

Afterwards, stop by our gift shop and pick up a geode to crack open, polished crystals for your collection, a vintage tea towel or your own copy of Historic Landmarks of Philadelphia!

Tickets are not required to visit the museum. Admission is free.

For more information, check the Visit the Museum page on our website
(www.wagnerfreeinstitute.org), where you can sign up for tickets in advance and find out about other upcoming programs at the Wagner.