The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a natural history museum at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, with dinosaur fossils, wildlife dioramas and hands-on activities. In Dinosaur Hall, see the full-size Tyrannosaurus rex and watch work in the fossil preparation lab. Children can dig for fossils at The Big Dig, meet live animals and explore interactive displays. Dioramas show wildlife from different parts of the world. Check the museum website before you go, since exhibits can close temporarily.
Dinosaur Hall and The Big Dig
Dinosaur Hall brings visitors close to large fossil skeletons, including a full-size Tyrannosaurus rex. The hall also has a fossil preparation lab, where you can see work on specimens, and The Big Dig, a hands-on area where children can try searching for fossils. The dinosaur exhibits are a natural starting point for families, especially those with young fossil fans.
Interactive displays around the museum give children more ways to explore. Outside In is a nature center designed for ages three to eight, with live animals and activities about habitats and the natural world. Activities and animal encounters can vary, so check the museum website before your visit.
Dioramas, butterflies and live animals
Wildlife dioramas depict animals from different parts of the world in detailed scenes. They give the museum’s natural history collection a strong visual focus beyond the dinosaur halls. The Academy also has live animal displays and presentations, with opportunities to encounter animals such as birds, snakes and insects.
A tropical garden with live butterflies is another highlight when it is open. Displays and special exhibitions change, and some areas may be temporarily unavailable. Confirm what is on view before setting out if you have a particular exhibit in mind.
Planning a family visit
The museum has several floors of exhibits, interactive stations and a theater. Families with young children can focus on the dinosaur displays, The Big Dig and the hands-on nature areas; older children and adults may want more time for specimen displays and exhibit text. A visit of around two hours works for a brisk family walk-through, while tours, shows and careful reading can extend the visit.
Online tickets can be discounted and may speed up check-in. Special events such as Dinos After Dark add activities beyond the regular exhibits. The museum has a cafe, restrooms and a gift shop, and wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating and restrooms. Check the website for current exhibits and event details.
A museum with a research collection
Founded in 1812, the Academy opened to the public in 1828. It is both a natural history museum and a research institution, with a collection of more than 18 million specimens. Its work covers biodiversity and environmental science, alongside public education through exhibits, classes and lectures.
The collections include material connected with natural history expeditions, as well as fossils, preserved specimens and plants. Some exhibits interpret how scientists examine and study these materials. The displays connect the museum’s research work with the animals, fossils and ecosystems visitors encounter in its galleries.
FAQ
How long should I spend at the Academy of Natural Sciences?
Plan on about two hours for a family visit. Tours, shows and time spent reading exhibits can make the visit longer.
Is the Academy of Natural Sciences good for children?
Yes. Children can try fossil digging at The Big Dig, explore interactive displays and visit hands-on nature areas with live animals.
What are the main things to see at the Academy of Natural Sciences?
Highlights include Dinosaur Hall, The Big Dig, wildlife dioramas, live animal displays and a tropical garden with live butterflies when open.
Should I buy tickets online?
Online tickets may be discounted and can make check-in quicker. Check the museum website for current ticket and exhibit information.
