15 Best Museums in Philadelphia

What’s this place all about?
Established in 1976, the original National Museum of American Jewish History was a small, intimate museum visited largely by the Jewish community. But in 2010, Newseum architect Jim Polshek designed a new building that transformed it into a museum on the scale of the Smithsonian, complete with three-and-a-half floors of permanent collections and special exhibits.

What's on display?
Starting with the arrival of a small group of Jews in 1654, the museum traces the American Jewish experience through to the present-day, using its collection of 30,000 artifacts to tell the story. The core exhibition walks visitors through the wave of immigration from Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, through World War II, the establishment of Israel, and ends with an Only in America Gallery/Hall of Fame. Start your tour at the top of the building and wind your way down through the years.

Any exhibits worth checking out?
The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, like "The Art of Rube Goldberg," "Bill Graham and the Rock and Roll Revolution," and "Richard Avedon: Family Affairs" that make it feel as though it doubles as an art institution.

What's the crowd like?
A favorite of school groups, the museum is often filled with kids. If you’re hoping to avoid them, it’s best to plan a weekend visit.

Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it?
For fans of Judaica, the museum’s shop is an excellent destination, offering an exceptionally well-chosen selection of ritual objects like kiddush cups and shabbat candle holders, many from contemporary artists.

Any other tips?
Admission at the museum is on the steeper end of things, clocking in around $15, so plan to spend an afternoon or a morning here to get the full experience. If you’re short on time and funds, the museum’s Hall of Fame gallery is free and includes Einstein’s pipe and Steven Spielberg’s camera. While you’re there, cast your vote for future inductees.