The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia offers visitors an immersive experience that transports them back in time. Founded in 1855, the institute is a unique natural history museum, educational center, and library located in a National Historic Landmark.
With original displays and specimens from the 1800s, visitors can experience how people of that era would have interacted with these natural wonders. Executive Director Susan Glassman notes that the exhibits have remained largely unchanged since the 1890s, providing a snapshot of natural history at that time. This allows visitors to witness how our understanding of the natural world has evolved over time.
The Wagner also offers free educational programs for both children and adults, reflecting its commitment to making science accessible to all. One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting the Wagner is witnessing the sense of wonder that visitors, especially children, experience when they explore the displays. Glassman explains that the institute is a place where people can come and be inspired by the beauty and complexity of nature. To learn more about the Wagner Free Institute of Science and its offerings, visit their website at wagnerfreeinstitute.org.