It's the 2nd oldest in the country. In case you don't know an Athenaeum is a library and learning center in the subjects of City Planning, Architecture and the Arts. It's brainy and sophisticated but never stuffy. Whether visiting to se its displayed objects or...More

Just across from Washington Square Park this small museum and library is truly a hidden treasure. Nice artifacts and a beautiful library make this a nice place to visit for free. Donations only if you want and we did!

This is a small museum off Washington Square. The exhibits are free, and also quite interesting. The current one documents 250 years of Independence Hall, and the changes that occurred to it and the surrounding vicinity.

After you have walked through Washington Square Park you might want to stop by the Athenaeum on East Washington Square at 219 Sixth Street to experience another aspect of Philadelphia’s renowned history. The Athenaeum was founded in 1814. It is a member-supported library and museum,...More

I've done research at the Athenaeum of Philadelphia, curating historic images of my fair city for a show I was producing; I've also attended terrific lectures by well-known authors, historians, and cultural explorers. Lectures are only $10 and usually include a glass of wine with...More

On Washington Square, close-by other major attractions but little visited, the Athenaeum hides itself away. It’s free to enter and will reward you for doing so. The history and current-day purpose of the Athenaeum, its changing gallery display, and items relating to Napoleon Bonaparte and...More

There are so many reasons to visit the Athenaeum - the lovely building, the library, the architectural archives, and, particularly the special programs. Some of the daytime programs are really unique and are geared to suit a range of ages. Evening programs are followed by...More