A Travel Guide to The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute, located in the heart of Philadelphia, is one of the oldest and most renowned science museums in the United States. Named after Benjamin Franklin, America’s first scientist, this iconic institution inspires curiosity through hands-on exhibits, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge science demonstrations. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking an educational adventure, or exploring Philadelphia’s cultural landmarks, this guide will help you plan a memorable visit to The Franklin Institute.
Why Visit The Franklin Institute?
Founded in 1824, The Franklin Institute is a premier center for science education, offering interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages. From walking through a giant heart to stargazing in the Fels Planetarium, the museum blends fun with learning. It’s home to iconic attractions like the Giant Heart, the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial, and world-class traveling exhibits. With its central location along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant museum scene.
How to Get There
The Franklin Institute is located at 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, in Center City, near the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
By Public Transit: Subway: Take the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line to 15th Street or the Broad Street Line to City Hall, then walk about 15 minutes. Bus: SEPTA bus routes 7, 33, 38, or 48 stop near the museum. The PHLASH Downtown Loop is a convenient seasonal option (May–October, $2/ride). Train: From 30th Street Station (Amtrak/SEPTA), it’s a 10-minute walk or a short taxi ride.
By Car: The museum offers onsite parking at 271 North 21st Street for $25/vehicle ($15 for members). Spaces are limited, so arrive early. Metered street parking and nearby lots are also available but fill quickly.
By Foot or Bike: From Center City attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art or City Hall, it’s a 10–15-minute walk along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Bike racks are available, and Philly’s Indego bike-share program has stations nearby.
Travel Tip: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft for convenience, especially if combining with other nearby attractions. Expect a $10–15 fare from downtown.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: The Franklin Institute is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, except on major holidays (New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, December 24–25).
Optimal Timing: Visit on weekdays after 2:00 PM to avoid school group crowds, which are common before midday. Weekends are busier but great for families.
Seasonal Considerations: Spring/Fall: Mild weather makes it ideal for combining with outdoor attractions like the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Summer: Popular for families, but expect larger crowds. Special exhibits often debut during this season. Winter: Quieter, with indoor exhibits like the greenhouse-like Your Brain exhibit perfect for cold days.
Special Events: Check for Science After Hours (21+ evening events with cocktails and experiments) or family-friendly FunFest nights for unique after-hours experiences.
Note: The brightness of traveling exhibits (e.g., BODY WORLDS) may vary, so check the schedule for current or upcoming shows.
Tickets and Costs
General Admission: $29 for adults, $23 for children (ages 3–11). Includes access to three floors of permanent exhibits, Fels Planetarium shows, and daily live science demonstrations.
Special Exhibits: Exhibits like BODY WORLDS or past shows like Harry Potter require separate tickets ($10–20 extra) and timed reservations.
IMAX and Planetarium: Additional fees may apply for Tuttleman IMAX Theater screenings ($10–15). Planetarium shows are included in general admission.
Membership: Starts at $99/year, offering free admission, parking discounts, and priority access to special exhibits.
Discounts: Check for reciprocal museum memberships (e.g., ASTC) or CityPASS, which bundles The Franklin Institute with other Philly attractions for up to 50% savings.
Booking Tip: Purchase tickets online via the official website (fi.edu) or call 215-448-1200 to avoid lines and secure timed entries for special exhibits.
What to See and Do
The Franklin Institute spans over 400,000 square feet, with 12 permanent exhibits, traveling displays, and historic landmarks. Here are the highlights:
Permanent Exhibits: Giant Heart: A Philadelphia icon since 1954, this walk-through model of a human heart lets visitors explore its chambers while hearing a heartbeat (note: may feel claustrophobic for some). Your Brain: An interactive neuroscience exhibit where you can climb a web-like structure mimicking brain pathways or test your senses.
SportsZone: Discover the science behind surfing, rock climbing, and more through simulators and interactive displays. Franklin Air Show: Features the Wright Brothers’ restored Model B airplane and a T-33 jet trainer, showcasing the science of flight.
Train Factory: Home to the massive Baldwin 60000 steam locomotive, with exhibits on engineering and mechanics. Wondrous Space: Explore astronomy and space exploration with hands-on activities.
Fels Planetarium: The second-oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, offering immersive shows about the cosmos under a 60-foot dome. Included in general admission.
Tuttleman IMAX Theater: Catch science-themed films or documentaries on a five-story screen for a multi-sensory experience. Check the schedule for showtimes.
Benjamin Franklin National Memorial: A free-to-visit 20-foot marble statue of Benjamin Franklin in the rotunda, featuring a multimedia presentation, Benjamin Franklin Forever. Open to the public without admission.
Traveling Exhibits: The museum hosts world-class temporary exhibits, such as BODY WORLDS (showcasing real human body plastinates, closing September 1, 2025) or past displays like Harry Potter and King Tut. These often require separate tickets and reservations.
Live Science Demonstrations: Daily shows bring science to life with explosive experiments and interactive presentations. Check the schedule upon arrival.
Activity Tip: Families should prioritize the Amazing Machine exhibit for hands-on fun, like operating a crane or exploring Maillardet’s Automaton, a pre-electric robot from the 1800s.
Where to Eat
Franklin Institute Café: Located onsite, offering indoor and outdoor seating with kid-friendly options (chicken nuggets, Philly pretzels) and adult choices (salads, bowls). Prices range from $8–15.
Nearby Dining: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway area has many options: Urban Farmer (0.3 miles, upscale American, $20–40): Farm-to-table cuisine. Reading Terminal Market (1.5 miles, $5–15): A foodie haven with diverse stalls. Love Park Food Trucks (0.8 miles, $5–10): Affordable street food like tacos and falafel.
Picnic Option: Bring snacks to enjoy in nearby Logan Square, but note that outside food is not allowed inside the museum.
Where to Stay
The Franklin Institute is in Center City, with plenty of lodging options nearby:
Luxury: The Logan Philadelphia (0.3 miles, $150–300/night): A stylish hotel with modern amenities and proximity to the museum. Mid-Range: Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square (1 mile, $100–200/night): Comfortable and central, with easy access to transit. Budget: Apple Hostels of Philadelphia (2 miles, $30–80/night): Affordable dorms and private rooms in Old City.
Tip: Book via Booking.com or Expedia for deals, especially during off-peak seasons (winter). The Visit Philly Overnight Package includes free parking and attraction perks.
Tips for a Great Visit
Plan for 3–4 Hours: To fully explore, allocate at least 3 hours, though you can see key exhibits in 1–2 hours if time is tight. Avoid Crowds: Visit after 2:00 PM on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with wheelchair rentals, sensory-friendly resources, and stroller-friendly paths (avoid large strollers in special exhibits). Photography: Personal photos are allowed, but the bioluminescent-like effects in some exhibits (e.g., BODY WORLDS) may not photograph well with standard cameras.
Combine Your Trip: Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art (0.5 miles), Rodin Museum (0.3 miles), or Barnes Foundation (0.4 miles) for a full day of exploration.
Download the App: The Franklin Institute’s mobile app offers interactive maps and exhibit guides to enhance your visit.
Final Thoughts
The Franklin Institute is a dynamic destination that brings science to life through interactive exhibits, awe-inspiring displays, and a nod to Philadelphia’s historical roots. From climbing through the Giant Heart to marveling at the stars in the Fels Planetarium, it’s a place where curiosity thrives. Plan ahead for special exhibits, arrive early to secure parking, and immerse yourself in a day of discovery that celebrates the spirit of Benjamin Franklin.
Happy travels!
