1. HomepageHomepage
  2. United States
  3. Pennsylvania
  4. Philadelphia
  5. Current: Wagner Free Institute of Science
  Manage this page
4.41 rating
  Save museum

Wagner Free Institute of Science and its collection

Wagner Free Institute of Science
Source

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is located at 1700 West Montgomery Avenue in north Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This natural history museum is a unique example of a Victorian era scientific society, complete with a museum, research center, library, and educational facilities. The buildings, which were developed between 1859 and 1901, house the collections of founder William Wagner and have been designated a National Historic Landmark.

History and Founding of the Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science was established in 1855 by William Wagner, a merchant, philanthropist, and gentleman scientist. Wagner's vision was to provide free educational courses about the natural world to anyone interested. The institute started with Wagner offering free science lectures at his home, Elm Grove, and due to their popularity, the lectures were moved to a public hall and later to its permanent home designed by Philadelphia architect John McArthur, Jr.

Collections at the Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science museum houses over 100,000 specimens, including a variety of minerals and fossils collected by Wagner himself. These collections provide a unique insight into the natural world and the history of science from the 19th century to the present.

Read more…

Science & Technology Science & Technology Geology Historic house

#16 Free museums in Philadelphia #6 Science & Technology in Philadelphia #20 Historic houses in Philadelphia #24 Free museums in Pennsylvania #12 Science & Technology in Pennsylvania #4 Geology museums in Pennsylvania #33 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #71 Geology museums in United States

#16 Free museums in Philadelphia #6 Science & Technology in Philadelphia #20 Historic houses in Philadelphia #24 Free museums in Pennsylvania #12 Science & Technology in Pennsylvania #4 Geology museums in Pennsylvania #33 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #71 Geology museums in United States
Wagner Free Institute of Science
1700 West Montgomery Avenue
PA 19121 Philadelphia
Pennsylvania

Images of Wagner Free Institute of Science

Visitor information Wagner Free Institute of Science

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
9:30 – 16:30
Wednesday
9:30 – 16:30
Thursday
9:30 – 16:30
Friday
9:30 – 16:30
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

1st Saturday of the month
12:00 - 16:00

More opening hours

Admission

0+Free
More ticket prices

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Wagner Free Institute of Science.

Location & Map

1700 West Montgomery Avenue, Philadelphia

Discover all museums in Philadelphia

Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Wagner Free Institute of Science have been found.

Wagner Free Institute of Science Reviews

Wagner Free Institute of Science has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia is a well-preserved 19th-century natural history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The museum houses an extensive collection of specimens, including fossils, minerals, and mounted animals, displayed in original wooden and glass cabinets. Many visitors appreciate the museum's authenticity and its commitment to maintaining its Victorian-era atmosphere.

    The institute's lecture hall, which still hosts educational programs, is noted for its historical significance. Visitors often comment on the knowledgeable and passionate staff who provide informative tours, enhancing the overall experience. The museum's small size allows for an intimate and unhurried exploration of the exhibits.

    Some visitors mention that the lack of modern, interactive displays might make it less engaging for younger children. Additionally, the museum's limited opening hours can be inconvenient for some. However, most reviewers agree that the admission-by-donation policy makes it an excellent value for those interested in natural history and the history of science.

    While the museum may not appeal to everyone, it is generally regarded as a worthwhile visit for those interested in science, history, or unique museum experiences. The Wagner Free Institute of Science offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience a museum as it would have appeared over a century ago.

    Read more…

  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

Write a review

Your review helps other people learn about great and less great museums. If you've visited Wagner Free Institute of Science, you can write your review below! Please pay attention to our content guidelines before you post your review.

Nearby and in or around Philadelphia

Discover museums near Wagner Free Institute of Science in or around Philadelphia.

Discover all museums in Philadelphia