Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Philadelphia, PA

North America

United States

# Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts – Premier Art Museum and School in Philadelphia
The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) is a historic art museum and school located in Philadelphia, PA. Founded in 1805, it holds the distinction of being the first and oldest art museum and art school in the United States. PAFA is renowned for its diverse collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings, as well as its impressive Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Frank Furness. The academy fosters a vibrant community of artists and art enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary art experiences. Visitors often highlight the museum's beautiful galleries, engaging exhibitions, and the friendly atmosphere that encourages exploration and appreciation of the arts.

## History
### The story of Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts was established with a vision to promote the fine arts in America, serving both as a school and a museum. Its founding in 1805 marked a pivotal moment in American art history, as it sought to provide formal training to artists and to cultivate an appreciation for the arts among the public. Over the years, PAFA has played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape of the nation, influencing generations of artists and art lovers alike.

### Milestones and growth
- **1805**: Founded as the first art school and museum in the U.S.
- **1876**: The construction of the Historic Landmark Building, showcasing Victorian Gothic architecture.
- **1976**: Celebrated its 200th anniversary with significant exhibitions and events.
- **2000s**: Expanded its collection and educational programs, adapting to contemporary art movements.
- **Present**: Continues to host diverse exhibitions and community events, maintaining its relevance in the art world.

### Cultural and local influence
PAFA has significantly influenced Philadelphia's cultural landscape, serving as a hub for artistic expression and education. The academy has nurtured many prominent American artists, contributing to the city’s rich artistic heritage. Its exhibitions often reflect local history and contemporary issues, fostering a dialogue between the past and present. The academy's commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the arts has made it a vital part of the Philadelphia community.

### Continuing the tradition
The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts continues to uphold its founding principles by providing a platform for emerging artists and hosting exhibitions that challenge and inspire. The academy regularly updates its curriculum to include modern artistic practices, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of art education. PAFA’s dedication to preserving its historical collections while embracing contemporary art exemplifies its commitment to both tradition and innovation.

## Community
### Community involvement
PAFA actively engages with the local community through various outreach programs, workshops, and events designed to promote art education and appreciation. The academy collaborates with schools and community organizations to provide access to art resources and training. This involvement not only enriches the community but also fosters a sense of belonging among local artists and art enthusiasts.

### Community notion about the place
The community views PAFA as a cornerstone of Philadelphia's cultural identity. Many residents appreciate the academy's role in promoting local artists and providing a space for artistic exploration. Visitors often express admiration for the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with art in a meaningful way. PAFA is seen as a place where creativity thrives, and its contributions to the local arts scene are highly valued.

### Events and gatherings
PAFA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, lectures, and community gatherings. These events not only showcase the work of students and faculty but also invite local artists to participate, fostering a collaborative environment. Special events, such as art fairs and seasonal celebrations, draw large crowds and encourage community participation, making PAFA a vibrant hub for artistic expression.

## Offerings
### What Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts offers
PAFA offers a unique blend of educational programs and artistic experiences, catering to a diverse audience. The academy provides formal art education through its school, while also serving as a museum that showcases a rich collection of American art. Visitors can explore various exhibitions, attend workshops, and participate in community events, making PAFA a multifaceted institution dedicated to the arts.

### Dining and food experience
While PAFA is primarily focused on art, it also features a small café that offers a selection of refreshments for visitors. This space provides a comfortable environment for guests to relax and reflect on their experiences within the museum. The café’s offerings are designed to complement the artistic atmosphere, making it a pleasant stop during a visit.

### Events and packages
PAFA frequently organizes special events and programs that cater to different audiences, including family days, artist talks, and gallery tours. These events often include packages that enhance the visitor experience, such as guided tours that delve deeper into the art and architecture of the academy. Educational programs are also available for schools and community groups, ensuring that art education remains accessible to all.

### Facilities and features
- Historic Landmark Building with Victorian Gothic architecture
- Hamilton Building housing contemporary exhibitions
- Spacious galleries with natural light
- Gift shop featuring curated art-related items
- Active student workspace for art creation

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of PAFA highlight its stunning architecture and diverse art collections, with many visitors appreciating the blend of classic and modern art. The welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff contribute to a positive experience for guests. However, some reviews mention that certain galleries may be closed during visits, which can affect the overall experience.

### Compliments and strengths
Visitors frequently compliment PAFA for its beautiful galleries and the quality of its exhibitions. The architecture is often described as breathtaking, with many noting the impressive details of the Historic Landmark Building. The academy's commitment to showcasing local artists and providing educational opportunities is also praised, making it a beloved institution in Philadelphia.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors express disappointment when specific galleries are closed or when they find the admission fee to be high relative to the available exhibits. Despite these concerns, most agree that the overall experience is worthwhile, especially for those interested in art and history.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts is highly regarded for its contributions to the arts and its role in the community. The combination of a rich history, stunning architecture, and a commitment to education makes PAFA a must-visit destination for art lovers. While there may be occasional drawbacks, the strengths of the academy far outweigh them, ensuring a rewarding experience for visitors.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts is located at 118-128 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, in the heart of the city. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The surrounding neighborhood is rich in cultural attractions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the historic City Hall. Visitors to PAFA can enjoy a day filled with art, history, and exploration, making it an ideal starting point for a cultural tour of Philadelphia.

## FAQs
**What are the admission fees** Admission fees are $18 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.
**Is there parking available** Yes, there are several parking options nearby, including street parking and garages.
**What are the museum hours** PAFA is open Thursday to Sunday, closed Monday to Wednesday.

## Visit Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Today
The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts invites you to explore its rich history, diverse art collections, and vibrant community engagement. With its stunning architecture and engaging exhibitions, PAFA offers a unique experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Discover the beauty of American art and the academy's commitment to fostering creativity in Philadelphia. Whether you're a local or a tourist, PAFA is a destination that promises inspiration and enjoyment.

592355e2-769f-44ea-815a-c7beaa639f3b

I visit museums without pre-conceived notions, reading reviews generally after the fact. PAFA -- as it's known -- is a good one. Founded in 1805 the academy is the first school and museum of fine arts in the United States. The historic landmark building is closed for renovations with three stories of exhibits now housed in their Hamilton Building (which is NOT named for Alexander!) Several things impacted me: the galleries are wide open, light and airy. A pleasure to walk through. A number of items from the Atwater Kent collection -- formerly the Philadelphia History Museum -- are on display. The diverse collection ranges from baseball, department stores (Wanamakers, anyone?), civil rights ... the list goes on. There is student and alumni art for sale and casts of Greek and Roman antiquity located in an active student workspace. As with most museums, exhibits change. The gift store with its friendly proprietor, is as good as any I've been to. A beautifully curated collection, and after Thanksgiving, I believe everything is discounted 30% for the holidays.

d7b757f4-c7e4-41d6-96d7-6de1488d4adb

Great local arts (and oldest fine art) Enjoy their occasional events. V inclusive and alternative. Friendly and clean

681713ce-4e69-4bea-8c0a-9715632b5b2f

Both indoors and out, this place is beautiful. The building on the right has three floors of gallery space with a beautiful mix of framed artwork plus some sculpture, a very pleasing sampling of artistic styles. The top floor had a single artist exhibit currently featuring Philip Cohn. He's a local NJ/Philly painter known for his beach paintings and a few of the Mummer's Parade, a favorite childhood memory for me. The building on the left has elaborate architectural details both indoors and out, and features large installation pieces of contemporary artwork. Definitely recommend visiting.

7be10c03-0c80-49e2-ae23-3d9a9e561352

There are two sections to this museum. The modern side and the classic side. The modern side is as expected. A lot of drawing, photography, experimentation. The classic side is also to be expected: classic artists, lots of brush strokes, a lot of white folk. But together, they both make a great experience. And the architecture of the older, "classic" side makes for an experience like out of "Alice in Wonder Land." Ticket fee is 15 dollars and worth it. You get a small modern art museum and a small classical art museum (with fantastic and Instagrammable architecture), but there is a great public space between the two, and a small cafe. A great place to enjoy a morning or afternoon. And close to city hall, the Masonic temple, and many other attractions.

e076fe7c-f97c-41b4-9878-487952eacabf

Only had time for one museum visit today and I picked PAFA. From its website I saw that a new student exhibit was displayed in the 2nd building. When I walked into the first building, I was amazed by its architecture. The detailed columns and wall tiles was the backdrop for the beautiful art displayed on each floor. Outside, the building were 2 pieces of sculptures; a paint brush and bent airplane. Both were well worth my visit. The art exhibits ranged from European paintings to modern student art. Variety was abundant here.

9feed03c-eb2c-4b6c-9ef2-407ffcfc4ef8

PAFA is the first and oldest art museum and art school in the US. I visited the museum a few weeks ago when I was in Philadelphia on a solo trip. It's known for its collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings. There were some great exhibitions when I visited: "Making American Artists: Stories from PAFA, 1776-1976" and "Evade or Ensnare: Decorative Illusionism in Historic and Contemporary Painting." Tickets are $18 for adults and you can reserve your tickets online. (They are closed Monday-Wednesday.) But one of the highlights of the museum is one of the two buildings that make up the museum - PAFA's Historic Landmark Building. It's considered one of the finest surviving examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in America (a Frank Furness). I was in awe of the building - talk about maximalist design! PAFA doesn't get as much attention as some other art museums in Philly (there is so much good art in Philly), but you should absolutely keep it on your list to visit! A great collection and a really special example of Philly architecture to boot. Well worth visiting.

b4ff66b2-efe2-40c6-afea-cd4d1e1fcd75

3.5 stars. At first I was disappointed with this place--thought I paid $18 only to find that two of the main galleries were closed. Fortunately there was a whole other section in the building next-door--the permanent collection--that made the admission more worth the price. Good place to check out if you want to see something different downtown that might be a little less crowded than other museums.

fe0e2230-0fd1-434d-a59f-f04acb604f19

Gorgeous architecture and love the huge art works outside the building. When I walked pass, I couldn't help to check out this museum. Lots of great paintings and sculptures. Very interesting!

d0e7a78c-15c0-44ce-ac61-f4ed5cd65855

I attended a conference in Philly that hosted our opening night mixer at PAFA. Walkable from our hotel in the downtown area, PAFA is hard to miss with the giant paintbrush out front. The building is architecturally stunning, from the tile floors to the grand staircase and crown molding. The artwork, the statues - stunning in grandeur. Add in cocktails and appetizers during an event and it's even better.

2dab949b-6758-45f0-8043-c0ed1ceb6cdc

I went to school here in the late 80s. The good: If you want to learn how to create fine art, especially representational art, it's hard to beat the Academy. The bad: If you want to make a decent living, own your own home, have a reliable car, maybe a kid or two, keep looking. This place is strictly fine art, the kind lots of people want to make, but very few want to buy. Realistically, you're going to have to get a teaching job or marry money to make art and survive.

Discover the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, a premier art destination offering inspiring exhibits and cultural experiences. Plan your visit today.

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia - Art & Culture

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

Pennsylvania

Explore the full menu at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 118-128 N Broad St.

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Menu – Food & Drinks in Philadelphia

Learn about Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia. Discover our history, mission, and what makes us a cultural landmark. Located at 118-128 N Broad St.

About Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Philadelphia

Opening hours for Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Philadelphia. Find opening hours for Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Philadelphia on 118-128 N Broad St.

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

Saami Somi

Hunger Burger

Beck's Cajun Cafe