Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Basics

Standard admission to the museum includes entry to the main building plus the separate Rodin Museum, Perelman Building, and the Mount Pleasant and Cedar Grove historic houses. Visit via a hop-on hop-off tour (buses stop outside) to combine the museum with Philadelphia’s other key sights.

The Museum of Art also features on most Philadelphia tours, usually in the form of a stop outside to admire its Rocky Steps and grand portico. See it on a Segway, trolley, or bike tour or on a private panoramic city drive. If you’re visiting from out of town, the museum is typically included on single- or multi-day trips from New York that team Philadelphia with destinations such as Washington DC.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Admission is valid for two consecutive days.

• If visiting independently, save time by prebooking skip-the-line tickets.

• Alternatively, the museum is included on Go Philadelphia and other sightseeing passes.

• Guided tours run daily; audio tours are also available for an extra fee.

• The museum is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible.

• The main building has restrooms, eateries, free Wi-Fi, and three gift shops.

How to Get There

The museum stands at the western end of Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway, just outside the city center. The nearest bus stop is the Art Museum Drive and Back Entrance, while the closest train station is 30th Street. If driving, the museum lies just off the I-76 Schuylkill Expressway and has a parking garage near the main building.

When to Get There

The Museum of Art is open Tuesday–Sunday year-round, excluding Christmas Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving. For fewer crowds, visit on a weekday or aim to arrive close to opening or closing times. Admission is pay-what-you-wish the first Sunday of the month and all Wednesday evenings.

Best of the Collection

Museum highlights include works by Impressionists such as Monet and Renoir in the European galleries, the Diana statue in the Great Stair Hall, and paintings by Thomas Eakins in the American collection. Other lures include the armory halls and, for film buffs, the 99 Rocky Steps and bronze Rocky statue that stands in the gardens below.

Can you buy tickets at the door at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?

Yes, you can buy tickets at the door of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. That said, the museum recommends purchasing advance tickets online if possible to help avoid long lines and crowding and ensure your timely entry. It can be hectic on weekends, holidays, and in the summer.

Is the Philadelphia Museum of Art accessible?

Yes, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is accessible. Wheelchairs are welcome in all gallery spaces, and both wheelchairs and canes are free to rent on a first-come, first-served basis. All floors can be reached by elevator, and all bathrooms are accessible. The museum's West and North Entrances offer barrier-free entry.

How long should I spend at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is such a large museum—and its collection so wide-ranging and varied—that it would take days (or weeks) to fully immerse yourself in its offerings. Instead, set aside half a day to see the galleries that interest you most—and plan on a follow-up visit later.

Is there parking at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?

Yes, parking is available at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum operates a dedicated parking garage near its main building (parking is paid, except for members, who can park for free). Otherwise, metered parking spaces are available along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, though they may be in high demand.

What is the best time of day to visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art?

If you want to make the most of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (and avoid as many crowds as possible), time your visit for the morning, right when the museum opens. It's typically busiest during the summer, on weekends, and holidays; aim to visit at alternative times instead.

Are backpacks allowed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?

No, backpacks are prohibited in the Philadelphia Museum of Art's galleries. Instead, backpacks—and other large and bulky items, including umbrellas and selfie sticks—should be secured in the museum's coat check upon arrival and may be searched. Only small shoulder and handheld bags are permitted in the gallery spaces.

Ways to explore

Standard admission to the museum includes entry to the main building, plus the separate Rodin Museum on select days. The museum’s wide-ranging permanent collection is a must-see, spanning hundreds of galleries. It also hosts major temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

The Philadelphia Art Museum is also featured on many city tours, usually in the form of a stop outside to admire its Rocky Steps. See it on a Segway, trolley, or bike tour, or on a private panoramic city drive. If you’re visiting from out of town, the museum is typically included on single- or multi-day trips from New York.

Accessibility

The museum is generally accessible, with step-free entry and a range of accessibility accommodations.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sketchbook and pencil, reusable water bottle, small handheld bag

What to wear

Wear comfortable layers and good walking shoes—you’re likely to be on your feet for several hours.

Not allowed

Food and drinks in galleries, backpacks and large bags, selfie sticks, pets

Amenities

Café, gift shop, audio guides, free Wi-Fi

Address 

The Philadelphia Art Museum is located in the city’s Fairmount neighborhood. The museum is easy to reach via public transportation, taxi and rideshare services, or on foot or by bike. Alternatively, look for tours that include transport.

Driving

The museum is accessible via major thoroughfares, including I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway) and I-676 (Vine Street Expressway). It has a paid parking garage on-site; get your parking validated at a Visitor Services desk to receive a discounted rate.

Public transportation

The Philadelphia Art Museum is a roughly 30-minute walk or 10-minute taxi trip from 30th Street Station, Philadelphia’s main transit hub. You can also take the bus, Septa’s Route 38, directly to the museum.

Best times to visit

The museum is open from mid-morning until early evening (except on Fridays, when it’s open later into the evening). Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and maximize your time.

Best days to visit

Avoid Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when the museum is closed. Expect weekends to otherwise be busier and more in demand than weekdays.

Best months to visit

There’s rarely a bad time to visit the Philadelphia Art Museum, though you may want to avoid the bustle of the summer high season.

Special events

In addition to its temporary exhibitions, the museum also hosts tours and other events throughout the year—consult its calendar for more.