Have you ever wondered what it’s like to wander through centuries of human creativity and expression? Well, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is your answer.
From its beginnings in the 1876 Centennial Exhibition to the incredible collections it houses today, this museum has a way of sparking curiosity in just about anyone.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just someone looking for a beautiful way to spend an afternoon, this guide will take you through the museum’s rich history, incredible collection, and everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
So, let’s get into it, shall we?
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
From Centennial Exhibition to Cultural Icon
The Museum of Art in Philadelphia has a history as rich and captivating as its collection. Its roots trace back to the 1876 Centennial Exhibition, a grand world’s fair held in Philadelphia to celebrate America’s 100th birthday.
The exhibition was a massive hit, showcasing all sorts of industrial and artistic wonders from around the globe. In fact, it was so inspiring that a group of Philadelphians decided to create a permanent museum to house all this amazing stuff.
And so, in 1877, the Museum of Art in Philadelphia opened its doors to the public, though it was initially housed in a temporary location at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park.
In the early days, the museum’s collection mainly focused on European and American art—reflecting the tastes of its founders, you could say.
But as time passed, the museum’s horizons expanded, and so did its collection. Today, it’s a kaleidoscope of artistic expression that shows the incredible range of human creativity across the globe and throughout history.
Fast forward to 1928, and the museum made a big move—quite literally. It relocated to its current iconic spot on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, a grand boulevard designed to be the heart of Philadelphia’s cultural scene.
The new building, designed in the elegant Beaux-Arts style, was a perfect fit for the museum’s growing collection, with plenty of space for awe-inspiring galleries and exhibition halls we all love.
But the story doesn’t end there. Throughout the 20th century, the PMA museum kept evolving and expanding.
New wings were added, like the Rodin Museum, home to the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris, and the Perelman Building, a sleek and modern space dedicated to modern and contemporary art.
And recently, in 2021, the museum got a major facelift thanks to renowned architect Frank Gehry.
Gehry’s renovations transformed the interior, creating even more gallery space, a state-of-the-art learning center, and many improvements to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Exploring the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s Famous Pieces
Okay, get ready to have your mind blown. The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s collection is massive—we’re talking centuries of art from all over the world.
It’s impossible to see it all in one go, but let’s dive into some of the highlights, the pieces that make this museum truly special.
European Art
European art galleries are genuinely something to behold.
You start by stepping into the beauty of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, where you’ll face masterpieces like Peter Paul Rubens’ dramatic “Prometheus Bound” and El Greco’s emotionally charged “Pietà.”
Then, there’s the world of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, where light and color take center stage.
Here, you can lose yourself in the beauty of paintings by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Vincent van Gogh’s iconic “Sunflowers.”
As you may already know, these artists changed the game, focusing on capturing the fleeting moments and the ever-changing effects of light—works that continue to leave us in awe today.
And we can’t skip over the museum’s modern and contemporary collections. This is where you dive into the whirlwind of 20th-century art, with legends like Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, and Salvador Dalí on display.
Plus, you’ll find yourself drawn to thought-provoking pieces by contemporary artists pushing the boundaries and exploring new ways to express themselves.
Asian Art
If you’re into Asian art, the museum has an amazing collection that covers centuries of artistic traditions from across Asia.
In China, you’ll be amazed by the delicate porcelain—seeing the craftsmanship up close is stunning. And the calligraphy is equally captivating, with each stroke and character finely drawn.
Not to mention, you’ll come across statues of Buddhist and Daoist figures that bring a sense of calm and power.
Then, in Japan, the collection brings you up close with Hokusai’s ‘Great Wave,’ along with samurai armor that is intricately designed. You’ll also see tea ceremony tools, where each piece demonstrates Japan’s rich artistic traditions.
Finally, in the Indian and Southeast Asian section, you’re met with vibrant textiles from India, serene sculptures of Hindu and Buddhist figures, and dynamic artworks from Southeast Asia. And it’s safe to say that this mix of cultures and styles makes for a fascinating display.
American Art
The American art collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art features portraits, landscapes, and decorative arts that tell the story of America’s artistic past.
You’ll encounter Gilbert Stuart’s celebrated portrait of George Washington and depictions of other pivotal American leaders.
Venturing further, you’ll find masterful landscapes by Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church from the Hudson River School, capturing the essence of the American wilderness.
On top of that, the collection also includes colonial-era decorative arts, which reveals the intricate craftsmanship of early American artisans.
As you continue, Thomas Eakins’ vivid scenes of Philadelphia life share space with Georgia O’Keeffe’s intensely colored flower paintings.
Meanwhile, Mary Cassatt’s works open a window to the experiences of American women Impressionists, and Winslow Homer’s seascapes offer a powerful portrayal of the ocean.
In the contemporary sections, Andy Warhol’s iconic pop art and Jasper Johns’ thought-provoking flag paintings invite deeper reflection on modern American culture.
Get Creative at the Art Museum in Philadelphia
Sure, the art museum in Philadelphia is packed with beautiful pieces, but it’s also a place where you can learn and create.
The great news is that they have a lineup of programs and events designed to spark your creativity, regardless of age or skill level.
Let’s take a look at them together:
- Workshops & Classes: From sculpting to photography, the museum offers a variety of workshops and classes where you can learn from the pros and try your hand at different artistic techniques
- Lectures & Talks: Renowned scholars, artists, and curators share their knowledge and insights in the museum’s lectures and talks.
- Family Programs: They offer interactive tours, art-making workshops, and storytelling sessions, making art accessible and enjoyable for the whole family.
- Film Screenings: The museum’s film program features a diverse selection of films, documentaries, and artist talks, exploring the intersection of art and cinema.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for a Memorable Experience
All right, now that you’re excited about exploring this amazing museum, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of planning your visit.
Here are some tips and essential info to make the most of your time at the Philadelphia Museum of Art:
- Book tickets ahead of time: It’ll save you precious minutes (and maybe a few bucks!), especially if you’re visiting during busy periods.
- Pick your priorities: The museum is huge. You won’t see it all in one go, so figure out what you’re most interested in and plan your route.
- Slow down and soak it all in: Don’t rush! Give yourself plenty of time to truly appreciate the art.
- Take a guided tour: A tour is a great way to learn more and get those fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.
- Check the website before you go: The museum’s website is packed with useful info about current exhibitions and events. So, it’s worth a look!
The Essentials
Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Hours:
Monday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Closed
Wednesday, Closed
Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Friday, 10:00 a.m.–8:45 p.m.
Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission:
Adults: $30
Seniors (65 & over): $28
Students with valid ID: $14
Youths (18 & under): Free
Members: Free
Member Guests: $15
Member Guests Seniors (65 & over): $14
The Philadelphia Museum of Art awaits
As we’ve seen, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is much more than a collection of paintings and sculptures. It’s a living, breathing story of human creativity that spans centuries and continents.
From the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Hudson River School to the thought-provoking works of contemporary artists, there’s something here to ignite every visitor’s imagination.
So, the next time you find yourself in Philadelphia, set aside some time to explore this incredible museum.
Trust us; it’s an experience you will want to have.
