Museum of the American Revolution
| Type | History museum |
|---|---|
| Address | 101 S 3rd Street |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Old City |
| Phone | (215) 253-6731 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 2017 |
| Collection | 3,000+ objects |
| Visitors | 500,000+/year |
| Admission | $24 adults, $17 children |
| Hours | Daily 10am-5pm |
| Transit | 2nd Street Station (MFL), SEPTA buses |
| Architect | Robert A.M. Stern Architects |
The Museum of the American Revolution is a history museum in Old City, Philadelphia, dedicated to telling the story of the American Revolution through immersive exhibits and rare artifacts. Opened in 2017, the museum's centerpiece is George Washington's actual headquarters tent, used throughout the Revolutionary War.[1]
History
The museum grew from a decades-long effort to create a world-class institution telling the Revolution's story in Philadelphia, where independence was declared. The collection originated with the Valley Forge Historical Society, which held Washington's tent.
The $150 million museum opened on April 19, 2017—the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord—in a purpose-built facility designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects.
Exhibits
Permanent Galleries
The museum's core exhibition spans multiple galleries:
- Revolution Place — Immersive room-scale recreations
- The Coming Revolution*** — Colonial tensions and resistance
- The War Experience — Military conflict and daily life
- A New Nation*** — Building the republic
Washington's War Tent
The museum's most significant artifact is George Washington's headquarters tent:
- Used throughout the Revolutionary War
- Where Washington planned strategy
- Survived 240+ years
- Displayed in its own theater with multimedia presentation
- One of the most important Revolutionary War artifacts in existence
Other Highlights
- Original printing of the Declaration of Independence
- Weapons and uniforms
- Privateer ship model
- Personal items from key figures
- Interactive experiences
The Building
Robert A.M. Stern designed the building to complement Old City's historic architecture:
- Red brick exterior
- Georgian-inspired details
- Modern exhibition technology
- Three floors of galleries
- Rooftop terrace with views
Visiting
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 10am-5pm |
| Admission | $24 adults, $17 children 6-17, free under 6 |
| Address | 101 S 3rd Street |
| Time needed | 2-3 hours |
| Best for | History enthusiasts, families, students |
Tips
- The tent presentation runs on a schedule—ask at entry
- Combine with nearby Independence Hall (free, but timed tickets required)
- Audio guides available
- Café on site
Getting There
- SEPTA Subway — 2nd Street Station (Market-Frankford Line)
- SEPTA Bus — Routes 17, 33, 48, 57
- Walking — In Old City, steps from Independence Hall
- Parking — Nearby garages (AutoPark at Independence Mall)
Frequently Asked Questions
See Also
References
- ↑ "Museum of the American Revolution". Museum of the American Revolution. Retrieved December 23, 2025