INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR MONUMENTS AND SITES OPEN HOUSE & National Historic Landmark Tour

Date: 
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 - 9:30am - 5:00pm
Location: 
Wagner Free Institute of Science 1700 W Montgomery Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19121
United States

Did you know Philadelphia is home to 67 of the country's 2,618 National Historic Landmarks (NHLs)? They represent some of Philadelphia’s most important historical places, events and people that are found in neighborhoods throughout the city. On Tuesday, April 18, many of Philadelphia's historic landmarks will offer tours, virtual talks, special activities and prizes as part of an annual celebration organized by the Global Philadelphia Association.

Join us for an Open House and guided tour on April 18th as part of a citywide celebration of the International Day for Monuments and Sites! 

Explore the Wagner’s historic architecture and its collections. The Exhibit Hall will be open for self-guided exploration. We have scavenger hunts and drawing activities for all ages. Also on display is a special exhibit focused on the construction of our National Landmark building, illustrated by photographs and materials from the Wagner’s archives. Afterwards, stop by our gift shop and pick up a geode to crack open, polished crystals for your collection, a vintage tea towel or your own copy of Historic Landmarks of Philadelphia!

At 4pm join us for a presentation in the Lecture Hall followed by a guided walk through the museum, highlighting the architecture and a few of the most intriguing specimens—including dinosaur bones and the cabinet of human evolution. The tour is designed in collaboration with Girard College, our neighboring National Historic Landmark, whose founder Stephen Girard inspired William Wagner to build his own educational institution.

Tickets are not required to visit the museum - you can speed your entry by signing up HERE. To register for the presentation & guided tour, sign up below. The tour is open to all ages! Admission is free to the museum and program, donations are greatly appreciated!

Prior to the Wagner tour, we encourage visitors to experience the architecture of Girard College with a guided walking tour of its 43-acre campus led by Director of Historical Resources Kathy Haas. This tour begins at 2:30pm, leaving time for participants to walk to the Wagner and learn more about the connections between the institutions. The two sites are located less than a mile away. 

Sign up HERE separately for the Girard College tour at 2:30pm. And for more information about activities and tours at other sites, you can keep an eye out on the Global Philadelphia Association site for updates & follow along on the Facebook page!

Categories
Topic: 
History and Preservation
Topic: 
World Heritage