National Museum of American Jewish History

Philadelphia’s Old City is a neighborhood rich with tradition, culture and history. Naturally, the addition of the National Museum of American Jewish History has felt right at home amongst the nearby famous landmarks, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, since its opening in 1976. Overlooking the Independence National Historic Park, the museum is one of the few modern structures in the area, with its interesting glass architecture on the exterior of the building.

Inside, visitors can find four floors of exhibits full of educational material and vivid images. Starting at the fourth floor, guests can descend through Jewish history in America, including focal points like the Foundations of Freedom exhibit that examine the lives of early Jewish settlers from 1654 to 1880. On the next floor can be found an exploration into the American dream as the museum delves into the years between 1880 and 1945. On the second floor, there are a number of exhibits starting in the post-war and reaching the contemporary as the focus shifts to the cultural and societal achievements of modern Jews in our changing America. Finally, the Only In America Gallery is a Jewish Hall of Fame that features 18 prominent figures — some well known like Sandy Koufax, Irving Berlin and Barbara Streisand; and others who are lesser known but have still earned the same prestige.

The museum is easily accessible by subway or bus, and is $12 for general admission and free for children.

National Museum of American Jewish History

101 S Independence Mall E

Philadelphia, Pa. 19106

215 923 3811