Nature & natural history museums in Pennsylvania

Upon completion, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden will span 186 hectares and will feature a variety of attractions. These include 18 different themed gardens, 5 forests representing various biomes, a visitor center, an outdoor amphitheater for performances, a garden dedicated to wedding celebrations, and a botanical research center. This diversity of features promises a rich and varied experience for visitors.

The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, holds the distinction of being the first zoo in the United States. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the zoo, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting the city.

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is home to approximately 22 million specimens, making it one of the world's leading institutions for paleontological collections. The museum's exhibits are organized into 20 distinct galleries, each offering a unique perspective on the natural world.

The Independence Seaport Museum, previously known as the Philadelphia Maritime Museum, is a museum dedicated to the maritime history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Valley. It is located on the Penn's Landing complex along the Delaware River. The museum was founded in 1961 by J. Welles Henderson and houses several ships, including two National Historic Landmarks.

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is divided into various sections, each showcasing different types of animals. The African Savanna section features animals from Africa, primarily large cats. The Forest Passage section is home to animals from Asia. The Islands and Water's Edge sections display animals from coastal and arctic regions. This layout allows visitors to experience a variety of wildlife from different parts of the world.

Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway near Logan Circle, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University opened its doors to the public in 1828. It has a history of employing great American scientists of the time, often on a voluntary basis. Some of these include Thomas Say and Thomas Nuttall. Visitors can explore the institution's rich history and its contributions to the field of natural sciences.

Longwood Gardens is a botanical garden situated in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, approximately fifty kilometers west of Philadelphia. The garden spans an impressive area of 4.2 km², offering a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life.

The Lehigh Valley Zoo, located in the Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania, is a 29-acre zoo situated in Schnecksville. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of wildlife in a spacious and natural setting.

Meadowcroft Rockshelter is an archaeological site located near Avella in Washington County, southwest Pennsylvania, United States. It is situated about 36 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. The site was excavated from 1973 to 1978 by a team from the University of Pittsburgh led by James M. Adovasio. It provides evidence of early human occupation, possibly dating back to 16,000 years ago and possibly even up to 19,000 years ago.

The National Aviary is a bird park located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is situated in the Allegheny Commons Park and is run as a non-profit organization. The park is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and was granted the honorary national status in 1993, hence the name National Aviary.

Grey Towers National Historic Site, also known as the Gifford Pinchot House or The Pinchot Institute, is a historic mansion located in Dingman Township, near Milford, in the US state of Pennsylvania. This site is significant as it was the home of Gifford Pinchot, a forester and politician who was the first director of the United States Forest Service (USFS).

Chanticleer Garden, located at 786 Church Road in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a 48-acre botanical garden. It was built on the grounds of the Rosengarten estate, offering a vast expanse of flora for visitors to explore. The garden's location and size make it a significant destination for those interested in botany or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in nature.

The Arboretum at Penn State is a significant green space located adjacent to the University Park campus in State College, Pennsylvania. It includes the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, which is a part of the arboretum. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of plant species and enjoy the serene environment of the gardens.

The Wyck house, also known as the Haines house or Hans Millan house, is a historic mansion, museum, garden, and urban farm located in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This site offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and nature, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience of the past. The house was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1971, further emphasizing its historical significance.

The Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden is a unique botanical garden that spans 0.3 acres. It is managed by the Rodef Shalom synagogue and is located in the Shadyside neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This garden offers a serene and educational environment for visitors to explore and learn about various plant species.

Friendship Hill, located near Point Marion, Pennsylvania, was the residence of Albert Gallatin, a prominent early American politician and statesman. Gallatin's distinguished career included serving as a U.S. Congressman, the longest-serving Secretary of the Treasury under two presidents, and ambassador to France and Great Britain. This historical connection adds a significant layer of interest to the site for visitors interested in American history.

The Barnes Arboretum, located in Merion, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit arboretum and botanical garden that spans across 5 hectares (12 acres). It is a member of the Botanical Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and is recognized internationally as a botanical institution. The arboretum is open to the public daily without charge.

Jenkins Arboretum is a non-profit arboretum and botanical garden located in Devon, in the heart of Philadelphia's Main Line. It spans an impressive 46 acres, offering visitors a vast space to explore and enjoy. The arboretum is home to a variety of plant species, making it a great destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.

The Lake Erie Arboretum, also known as The Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park (LEAF), is a significant green space in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is an arboretum and botanical garden that spans over 130,000 m² (33 acres) within Frontier Park. This vast area is home to a diverse range of trees and plants, making it a great place for nature lovers and those interested in botany.

The Lee and Virginia Graver Arboretum is a non-profit arboretum and botanical garden that spans 63 acres. It is owned by Muhlenberg College and is located in Bushkill Township, north of Bath, Pennsylvania. This location offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Delaware County Institute of Science, located in Media, Pennsylvania, serves as a museum, library, and education center. It offers a unique blend of science and natural history, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of various scientific disciplines and natural phenomena.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a unique non-profit organization, folk art environment, and gallery space located on South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This distinctive space offers a blend of art, history, and community, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.

The Erie Zoo is situated in the heart of Glenwood Park, nestled between Cherry Street and Glenwood Park Avenue. This expansive 15-acre zoological park is home to a diverse range of animals and plant species, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Scott Arboretum, located on the campus of Swarthmore College, is a public arboretum that is open daily without any admission fee. This arboretum is operated by the college and offers a unique blend of nature and education for visitors.

Hershey Gardens is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans 23 acres. It is located at 170 Hotel Road, Hershey, near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This location offers a unique blend of nature and beauty, making it a great place for tourists to explore and enjoy.

The Taylor Memorial Arboretum is a non-profit arboretum and botanical garden that spans across 30 acres. It is located in Wallingford, Pennsylvania. This expansive green space is a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and is identified by the herbarium acronym TAYMA.

Welkinweir is a vast 197-acre area that serves as a nonprofit arboretum, garden, mansion, and conservation area. It is situated at 1368 Prizer Road, in the East Nantmeal Township of Pennsylvania, United States. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Centennial Arboretum is a significant part of Philadelphia's Fairmount Park, situated at the southeast corner of Belmont and Montgomery Drives. It is housed within the Horticulture Center, making it a central point for plant and tree enthusiasts visiting the city. The location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the diverse plant life.

Bartram’s Garden in Philadelphia holds the distinction of being the oldest existing botanical garden in North America. It was established in 1728 by John Bartram, a Quaker, botanist, and co-founder of the American Philosophical Society. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the garden, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in botany and history.

The Center for PostNatural History is located in the Garfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh. This storefront museum is unique in its focus on organisms that have been intentionally and heritably altered by humans through methods such as selective breeding or genetic engineering. This phenomenon is referred to as the postnatural.

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a botanical garden located in Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is a complex of buildings and gardens that is situated near the Carnegie Museums in Oakland. This location offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from exploring the diverse plant species to admiring the architectural beauty of the conservatory buildings.

The Curtis Arboretum, located in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, spans an impressive 45 acres. This expansive arboretum offers a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The Merion Botanical Park is a city park and botanical garden situated at 100 Merion Road, Merion, Pennsylvania, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania, situated at 300 North Street in downtown Harrisburg, is a significant cultural institution managed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The museum's primary role is to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the region, making it a valuable resource for visitors interested in Pennsylvania's rich heritage.

Today, ZooAmerica spans 11 acres and houses more than 75 species and 200 individual animals. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, including some that are rare and endangered. This provides visitors with the opportunity to see and learn about a wide variety of animals, many of which they may not encounter elsewhere.

An interactive "mini-zoo". Average visit is 40 minutes, but stay as long as you like. A unique experience. Feed and interact with animals and reptiles, including monkeys, lemurs, bear, lizards, giant toads, and petting animals. Visit our website for more information. Safe and fun. Treats available

The Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic site that was once the city's second municipal waterworks. It was designed in 1812 by Frederick Graff and constructed over a period of 60 years from 1812 to 1872. The waterworks was operational until 1909 and during its time, it was highly praised for its design and became a popular tourist attraction.

Elmwood Park Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including amphibians, birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles. Some of these animals are on exhibit, while others are used for educational outreach purposes. The zoo's collection includes red pandas, bison, zebras, giraffes, jaguars, otters, and an American alligator named Penny, among others. The zoo also has a North American bald eagle named Noah, who serves as an ambassador for wildlife conservation outreach programs.

The Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art is a non-profit institution situated in Nay Aug Park, Scranton, Pennsylvania. This museum is a unique blend of natural history and art, offering a diverse range of exhibits for visitors to explore. Whether you're interested in ornithology, visual arts, ethnology, or fossils, the Everhart Museum has something to pique your curiosity.

The Frost Entomological Museum houses an impressive collection of approximately 1.3 million arthropod specimens. In addition to this, the museum also provides a public exhibition and educational space. This allows visitors to not only view the vast collection but also learn more about the specimens and their significance.

The Boal Mansion houses a unique collection of artifacts that span centuries. Among the items on display are the admiral's desk of Christopher Columbus, a lock of hair from Napoleon, two pieces of the true cross of Jesus, and the carriages, tools, and weapons of eight generations of the Boal family. These items provide a tangible connection to the past and offer a fascinating insight into history.

Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is a nature preserve, botanical garden, and accredited museum spread across 134 acres. It is located at 1635 River Road, New Hope, Pennsylvania. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists.

The Henry Schmieder Arboretum is a significant part of the Delaware Valley College campus in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. This non-profit arboretum and botanical garden spans an impressive 24.28 hectares (60 acres), offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of plant life and natural beauty.

The Henry Foundation for Botanical Research, located in Gladwyne, is a non-profit botanical garden that covers an expansive area of about 20 hectares or 50 acres. This vast space is dedicated to the preservation, study, and display of various plant species, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and botanical enthusiasts.

The Horticulture Center in Philadelphia is a significant location for those interested in botany and gardening. It is conveniently located in Fairmount Park, at the southeast corner of Belmont and Montgomery Drives. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and learn about various plant species.

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is an educational facility that is situated within the beautiful Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the environment while enjoying the natural beauty of the park. The center is named after former Pennsylvania Governor and former U.S. Department of Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge.

The Rachel Carson Homestead, a site on the National Register of Historic Places, is situated in Springdale, Pennsylvania. This location is approximately eighteen miles northeast of Pittsburgh and in close proximity to the Allegheny River. This historic site offers a unique opportunity to explore the birthplace and childhood home of Rachel Carson, a significant figure in the modern environmentalist movement.

The Holtwood Arboretum, also known as Holtwood Preserve, is a vast recreation area, arboretum, and wildflower preserve located in Holtwood, Pennsylvania. Spanning over 5,000 acres, this preserve offers a diverse range of activities and sights for visitors. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers, offering a unique blend of recreational activities and natural beauty.

The Brandywine Wildflower and Native Plant Gardens are a part of the Brandywine River Museum. They are conveniently located on U.S. Route 1, right next to the Brandywine Creek in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are visiting the area.

Swiss Pines is an expansive 19-acre arboretum and Japanese garden situated on Charlestown Road in Malvern, Pennsylvania. This serene location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

The Arboretum at Penn State Behrend is a sprawling 725-acre arboretum situated on the campus of Penn State Behrend in Erie, Pennsylvania. It is a public space, open to all without any charge. This makes it an accessible destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a chance to explore a diverse range of flora without any financial constraints.