Museum of the American Revolution

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Museum of the American Revolution



TypeHistory museum
Address101 South Third Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodOld City
Phone(215) 253-6731
WebsiteOfficial site
Established2017
FounderH.F. "Gerry" Lenfest (primary donor)
DirectorR. Scott Stephenson
HoursDaily 10 AM - 5 PM
Museum of the American Revolution(215) 253-6731101 South Third StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

The Museum of the American Revolution sits in Old City and tells the story of the American Revolution. It matters because it explores what that revolution meant then and means now. The museum opened in April 2017, and right away it became known for one artifact above all: George Washington's headquarters tent. That's the actual tent Washington used while commanding the Continental Army throughout the war.[1]

The galleries aren't what you'd expect from a typical history museum. They're built for immersion. You'll find theatrical presentations, rare artifacts, and stories from people who usually don't get heard: enslaved people, Native Americans, women, ordinary citizens caught in the chaos of revolution. The location helps too. You're steps away from Independence Hall and other sites that shaped the nation.[2]

History

Origins

This museum didn't appear out of nowhere. The Valley Forge Historical Society had been collecting Revolutionary War artifacts for over a century. When Philadelphia philanthropist H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest decided to give a major gift, everything changed. He wanted a world-class museum in historic Philadelphia, and that's what happened.

The Building

Robert A.M. Stern Architects designed the building. It opened on April 19, 2017. That date wasn't random. It marked the 242nd anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Georgian Revival style fits the surrounding architecture of Old City perfectly.

Location

Geography matters here. The museum stands on land with actual Revolutionary significance:

  • Site of the former Pemberton House
  • Near where Carpenters' Hall stood (First Continental Congress met there)
  • A few steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
  • Right in the heart of the most historic square mile in America

Exhibits

Washington's War Tent

You can't miss this. The museum's centerpiece is George Washington's headquarters tent, and it's the real deal. Washington lived and worked in this tent during much of the Revolutionary War. Some facts about it:

  • Served as his mobile headquarters from 1778-1783
  • Was set up at Valley Forge, Yorktown, and other encampments
  • There's a dramatic theatrical presentation when you see it
  • It ranks among the most important surviving Revolutionary War artifacts

Core Exhibition

The permanent galleries break the Revolution into themed sections. They don't just tell what happened. They show what it felt like, who experienced it differently, and what came after.

Gallery Theme
Road to Revolution Causes and buildup to war
The War Experience Life during the conflict
A Revolutionary People Diverse perspectives
The Price of Freedom Consequences and legacy

Notable Artifacts

Beyond Washington's tent, you'll see:

  • British General Howe's campaign furniture
  • Oneida Nation wampum belt
  • Revolutionary-era weapons and uniforms
  • Original documents and artwork
  • Personal effects of soldiers and civilians

Immersive Experiences

These aren't just displays. The museum puts you in the moment:

  • Battlefield Theater: A multi-sensory experience of the Battle of Brandywine
  • Privateer Ship: An interactive recreation of Revolutionary-era naval warfare
  • Period Room Reconstructions: What life looked like in Revolutionary Philadelphia

Special Exhibitions

The museum doesn't rest on what it's already built. It regularly brings in traveling exhibitions and develops new shows that explore different angles on the Revolutionary era and its effects on what came after.

Visiting the Museum

Hours

The museum's open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Thanksgiving and Christmas are the only days it closes.

Admission

Prices vary by age and status:

  • Adults: Approximately $24 (check the website for current pricing)
  • Seniors/Students: Discounted rates available
  • Children (5 and under): Free
  • Members: Free

Tips

Plan on spending two to three hours. Really, don't rush through this. The Washington's tent presentation alone is worth the trip. Audio guides are available if you want more detail about specific artifacts. Start in the introductory theater so you understand what you're about to see. While you're in the area, combine this with visits to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Getting There

Multiple ways work:

  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
  • SEPTA Bus: Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48
  • PHLASH: Independence Mall stop
  • Walking: It's central to Old City historic sites
  • Parking: The Independence Mall garage is nearby

Nearby Attractions

You'll be surrounded by history:

Programs and Events

Educational Programs

The museum works with schools and groups:

  • School field trips
  • Teacher workshops
  • Family programs
  • Scout programs

Public Programs

There's always something happening. Lectures and author talks draw crowds. Revolutionary War reenactments bring the past to life. Living history demonstrations show what daily work looked like. Special events mark important anniversaries.

Revolution Place

This interactive discovery center exists for families. Kids can do hands-on activities, dress up in period clothing, and learn how people actually lived during Revolutionary times.

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "About the Museum". Museum of the American Revolution. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Museum of the American Revolution". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025

External Links

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