The Independence Seaport Museum is located along the Delaware River on Penn's Landing in Philadelphia. It is the main repository for many historic artifacts, art and archival items from the Delaware Valley. It is the perfect place for families and individual travelers who enjoy maritime history, boat making or taking a sail on the Delaware River. It is best known for Admiral Dewey's famed flagship, Olympia and the World War II submarine, Becuna.
Best and worst times to go to the Independence Seaport Museum
The best time to visit the museum is the last week of June. Each year the museum hosts the Tall Ships event which is considered one of the most exciting interactive sailing events in the United States.
The worst time to visit the museum is during the week of the Christmas holiday as the museum is closed on Christmas day and New Year's Day.
Must see/do at the Independence Seaport Museum
Visitors to the museum with a passion for boats must attend a class in the museum's wooden boat-making shop, which is open year-round.
Another must do is taking a tour of the vessels docked in the river the Olympia and the Becuna. These are part of the museum's permanent collection.
For families, Seafarin Saturday offers tons of fun and free admission. There are interactive nautical activities plus other hands-on fun like making pirate rattles or sailor valentines.
Admission to the Independence Seaport Museum
There are a variety of prices for tours, events and exhibitions. General admission for adults, kids and seniors is under $20 and includes a boat-making tour, general admission to the museum plus ship and submarine tours.
Parking and public transportation to the Independence Seaport Museum
Parking is available in the large lot adjacent to the museum. Additional discount parking is available at the Quality Parking lot on Front Street just a couple of blocks away. There is also an abundant amount of metered street parking as well.
The PLASH shuttle is available all year round and operates via 22 stops. There is more information about their year-round seasonal schedules on their website.
Food at the Independence Seaport Museum
Visitors can bring their own food and eat on the fourth floor of the museum. In addition, there are many restaurants and pubs within walking distance of the museum. If visiting in the summer months, there are food vendors directly outside the museum along Penn's Landing offering a variety of items like hot dogs or funnel cake.
Insider tip for visitor to the Independence Seaport Museum
The museum is the only place where the adventurer can rent a kayak on the Delaware River between May through September.
Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist and digital media specialist for 20 years.