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Discovery Awaits at the Seaport!

The Independence Seaport Museum, located along the Delaware River at Penn’s Landing, invites visitors of all ages to discover Philadelphia’s river of history and world of connections. With water as the unifying thread, stories of those who lived and worked along our regional waterways come to life through award-winning exhibitions. Our historic ships, the Olympia and the Becuna, connect Philadelphia to the rest of the world, telling tales about the people and cultures they have interacted with on their journeys. These stories are woven into every aspect of the visitor’s journey, from the first time they enter the lobby to when they walk off the gangway of Olympia.

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Wondering What You’ll Sea?

OLYMPIA

OLYMPIA, a nineteenth-century cruiser, is the oldest steel floating warship in the world. Launched in 1895, follow in the steps of history on your visit as you learn about the sailors who served aboard throughout her impressive 27 years of service.
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BECUNA

BECUNA, a World War II-era submarine, traveled globally during her 25 years of service. She also saw a modernization process known as the “GUPPY” Program. BECUNA is the only Guppy 1-A type submarine remaining anywhere in the world. Dive below on your visit to the museum to discover more!
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Award Winning Exhibitions

Inside the museum’s building, Philadelphia’s history starts at the Delaware River. Our exhibitions tell not only the story of the city’s maritime history but also the cultural and environmental impact of our local waterways from before William Penn’s arrival up until today.
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The Seaport Boat Shop

Carve out some time to visit the Seaport Boat Shop, where maritime tradition meets creativity and community. Located right inside the main entrance, watch staff and volunteers restore wooden vessels, educate the next generation on boatbuilding, and more!
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On-Water Programming

In summer, join the museum for various on-water programming that gives you access to the Delaware River like no other place in Philadelphia! Perfect for dedicated time with family or friends, Paddle Penn’s Landing lets you jump in paddle boats and explore in our boat basin. If you are looking to get out onto the river, kayak excursions are also offered, with various trips available based on your kayaking experience.
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Museum Store

No trip to the Independence Seaport Museum is complete without stopping at the Museum Store! Filled with goodies for all ages and interest levels, ranging from Philly-made products to OLYMPIA-themed hats and sweatshirts, there is something for everyone! And, the best part about shopping with us? The money earned in the store gets reinvested in our mission, programs, and collections. Can’t make it to the Seaport but still want to shop? Check out our online store, where we offer prints, home goods, and apparel. Click the link below to get started.
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philadelphia tips

Whether this is your first time visiting the city of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, or you already have your sea legs, here are some resources to help make the most of your time in Philadelphia:
  • When you are looking for other places and gems to explore, check out Visit Philadelphia and the Independence Visitor Center; both are great resources to let you know what’s going on around town and can’t-miss destinations. 

 

  • For transportation tips, visit our Traveling to the Seaport page, where we keep information like the best places to park, the closest SEPTA routes, and more (insider tip: if you are visiting during the summer, consider using the PHLASH to not only visit the museum but other iconic Philadelphia attractions).

 

  • While the Independence Seaport Museum doesn’t have a café, there are a lot of local eateries along the waterfront and right across Columbus Blvd. in neighboring Old City. Some favorites of both visitors (and staff!) include Waterfront Gourmet, Spasso Italian Grill, Campo’s, and Liberty Point (seasonal).

Photography and Videography Policy

By entering the Independence Seaport Museum, you authorize museum staff to photograph or film you for future marketing and public relations campaigns. Examples of such usage include but are not limited to, signage, printed collateral, and online for any purpose (commercial or otherwise).

What Can Guests Photograph or Film?

The Independence Seaport Museum encourages guests to take photos and videos to remember their visit to the waterfront. However, we have a few guidelines all guests are required to follow:

· Photography: It’s encouraged, but make sure it’s without a flash to help protect our collections!

· Videography: Please be considerate of other visitors and try not to capture them while recording, as they haven’t provided consent to be captured on personal footage.

· Museum staff is not to be photographed or filmed unless they provide consent.

If you are looking to do a professional photoshoot or capture footage for a potential project, please contact our Director of Strategic Communications for approval and guidance.

visit the seaport museum

Immerse yourself in award-winning exhibitions and climb aboard the Olympia, a nineteenth-century cruiser, and the Becuna, a World War II-era submarine.  

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