Philadelphia is home to many world-famous art museums, but did you know it is also home to the oldest art museum in the United States? The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is not only the oldest art museum in the country but also the oldest art school. It was founded in 1805 by Charles Wilson Peale (of presidential portraits fame) and William Rush (America’s “first” sculptor). Keeping reading to learn more about why the Philadelphia art museum is perfect for kids!
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What to Know About The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) Museum
Admission and Location
PAFA is located on Broad Street between Cherry and Race Streets. The museum is a few blocks from some other well-known attractions, like the LOVE sculpture in Love Park, and City Hall. It is directly across from the Pennsylvania Convention Center. PAFA is also a great addition to all of the Christmas activities that we love to do in Philadephia!
Admission to the museum ranges from FREE to $15, depending on age, discounts offered, and memberships you might have. If you are a local college student, a member of the military, or a AAA member, you can enter PAFA for FREE! There are discounts available as well. Check out their website before you visit to learn more. Admission to PAFA is also included in the Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass. If you are planning to visit multiple museums or attractions in Philadelphia, you can save up to 50% off the price of admission.
Parking
Although street parking is available near the museum, there are also several parking lots and garages within a short walk. We recommend either the Love Park garage or the Convention Center Parking Garage.
What Kids Will Love About PAFA Museum in Philadelphia
Lenfest Plaza
Before entering the museum, visit Lenfest Plaza. It is the area that separates the historic landmark building from its modern counterpart, the Samuel M.V. Hamilton building. The plaza features two towering sculptures that kids will love to explore and examine up close: a huge paintbrush (that lights up at night!) and a crashed plane (by an alumnus of PAFA).
The Historic Landmark Building
The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts museum encompasses two buildings: the Historic Landmark Building and the Samuel M.V. Hamilton building. When you enter the Historic Landmark Building, the beauty of the Neo-Gothic building will draw you in. The style and layout of the building lend itself perfectly to the classic and modern art that it houses. Kids will love the maze-like feel of the building as they move from room to room.
Unique and Recognizable Artwork
The Historic Landmark Building is full of classical sculptures and paintings. Recognizable artists like Edward Hicks, Gilbert Stuart, and Rembrandt Peale line the walls.
In addition to their permanent collection, The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts also has rotating exhibits, like this one by artist Rina Banerjee. Visit the museum often to see the featured artists!
Modern Art at the Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building
The Samuel M. V. Hamilton Building, on the other side of Lenfest Plaza, offers a large modern art collection. Various mediums including pottery, paint, and plastic are featured throughout the building. Kids will enjoy the unique perspective of the artists featured here. The building also houses the museum’s beautiful gift shop and a small cafe.
Overall, we really enjoyed our visit to The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Between the history of the museum and the beautiful collection, it truly is a gem and worth stopping by on your next visit to Philadelphia.
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