Penn Museum of Anthropology Philadelphia
Mummies and more
In a smaller town, the Penn Museum of Anthropology would be a marquee attraction. With one of the biggest collections of African artifacts in the US, it should be mobbed! But on non-event weekends, you may have it to yourself.
Don’t overlook this jewel! The museum collection fills a beautiful building on the edge of the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. I love the courtyard, fountain and red brick, and the museum’s oddball layout. Its Asian and Etruscan artifacts are impressive.
The museum’s multi-media exhibit of Native American objects and history spins a narrative that crosses generations and brings the culture alive. Contemporary items in the exhibit add relevance and immediacy to the history. New Middle East galleries offer stunning pieces and are part of a renovation that is slowly reshaping this treasure.
The museum's star attraction is the African collection, which represents the whole of the continent. The Egyptian collection is its most important and impressive part. See numerous tombs and coffins and get an up-close view of the mummies.
In a lab off of the main exhibit, you can see technicians working on the preservation of mummies. Ask them about the mummification of animals, like cats and birds. They’ll be eager to explain. There are hands-on exhibits that are interesting to all ages.
I love how I can lose track of time here and spend a whole day lost in this museum’s rambling hallways and immense galleries of Buddhas and Pharaohs. Come here to feel humble.
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Laurel Hill Cemetery
I see dead people
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Fabric Workshop and Museum
Contemporary art
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Material Culture
Anthropology museum or shop?
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Duross & Langel
Good clean fun
"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Woodmere Art Museum
Home to Philadelphia artists
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Simeone Foundation
The cool car museum
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Greene Street Consignment
Fashion-forward fun
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Tria
Beer, wine, and cheese Nirvana
"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Hokka Hokka
Too pretty to eat
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Night Kitchen
The best bakery in Chestnut Hill
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Solar Myth
Adventurous Jazz Bar
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Mummers Concerts
So local
The only reason I know about the Mummers Concerts in Philadelphia is because I lived behind the small 'park' for over 10 years! Can't get more local...
by
Doug
Daub
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
