Franklin Institute Science Museum, Philadelphia

...a whole day at the Franklin Institute on my own after my wife recommended it, having told me her fond memories of visiting it herself on school class trips.

It is a beautifully designed centre commited to the demonstration of science in a fairly fun and very informative way; there are activities and demonstrations for people of all ages. (however some of it is a little difficult to understand for young kids; but thats OK because ' ...
.../>
The Franklin Institute is a must-go-see museum for anyone of any age who visits Philadelphia (sad for me to say it is miles better than the london science museum). It is a nice long walk to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, fairmount park and the Academy of Natural Sciences. But if you don't fancy the 15 minute or so walk then the Philadelphia public transportation system is very good.

On the down-side I found it to be pretty ... more

I spent almost a whole day at the Franklin Institute on my own after my wife recommended it, having told me her fond memories of visiting it herself on school class trips.

It is a beautifully designed centre commited to the demonstration of science in a fairly fun and very informative way; there are activities and demonstrations for people of all ages. (however some of it is a little difficult to understand for young kids; but thats OK because ' the touch museum', specifically designed for young children isnt far away; my 4 year old loves it)

Throughout the day there are comprehensive demonstrations on many of the museums subject matter and plenty of permanent exhibits as well as various guest exhibits throughout the year (there was a rescent Titanic exhibit that was so darn cool)
There is a great IMAX theater and planetarium; in addition to meterological, aeronautical and biomedical presentations.
I skipped the maths and electrical exhibits because they aern't really my thing, but they are there and if those particular subjects fascinate you then I am sure they will be of the same excellent standard as the rest of the museum.
On weekends there is a really cool laser show set to rock and roll music

The Franklin Institute is a must-go-see museum for anyone of any age who visits Philadelphia (sad for me to say it is miles better than the london science museum). It is a nice long walk to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, fairmount park and the Academy of Natural Sciences. But if you don't fancy the 15 minute or so walk then the Philadelphia public transportation system is very good.

On the down-side I found it to be pretty expensive at around $30 for an adult and $20 for a child. But that does give you access to the whole museum and all the exhibits and shows.
A reduced fee of about $15 gives you access to one specific show, like the IMAX or the Planetarium but not to the rest of the museum.

 

...less