Discover dinosaur skeletons and dig for fossils at this interactive museum dedicated to all things nature. You'll be transported to the great outdoors as you explore ecosystems across the globe and interact with the hands-on exhibits. There's a tropical butterfly garden, a dinosaur hall with over 30 species, and wilderness dioramas that fuse art and science. Little ones will love Outside In where they can interact with live animals, and Indiana Jones fans will dig the chance to grab a fossil brush and identify bones and fossils.
Naturalist shows and interactive presentations from the museum staff take place every day. And, there are temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so pick up a schedule to get the lowdown before you visit.
Academy of Natural Science highlights
- Butterflies! – See live butterflies from around the world flying around this tropical garden exhibit.
- Outside In – geared towards kids from 3-8 and their parents, this offers visitors a chance to get hands-on with live animals.
- Dinosaur Hall – see skeletons of more than 30 species, including Avaceratops, Chasmosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, and more. Learn about the science behind paleontology and important discoveries.
- The Big Dig – put on some goggles, grab your fossil brush, and get digging. With the focus on younger audiences, visitors can dig around a designated area to find and identify bones and fossils.
- Dioramas – a fusion of art and science, these windows into wildernesses of far-off places are both fascinating and educational.
Did you know?
- Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Science is the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the New World
- This museum was formerly known as the Academy of Sciences in Philadelphia
Go Philadelphia passes are the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility when sightseeing in Philadelphia. Your pass includes Academy of Natural Science tickets, plus admission to dozens of top attractions.
