Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
101 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
At the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, you can learn about Jewish heritage while browsing exhibits curated to showcase the culture and traditions of Jews in America. The Smithsonian-affiliated museum hosts special events and houses more than 30,000 objects, organized according to themes such as American-Jewish immigration, art, charity, sports, and religion.
Founded in 1976, the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is the only museum in the US dedicated to the American Jewish experience. Museum exhibits highlight the diverse backgrounds and stories of those who first came to the US in the 1600s, up to modern-day Jewish life. Because of its convenient location across from Independence Mall and near the Liberty Bell, the Weitzman, as it’s now known, is included in many tours of Philadelphia’s historic district.
The museum is often abbreviated to "the Weitzman,” as it was named after shoe designer and benefactor Stuart Weitzman in 2021.
The museum entrance is wheelchair-accessible, and you can reach all floors by elevator. Standard wheelchairs are available, free of charge, on a limited basis at the admissions desk.
Service animals are welcome in the museum.
Backpacks, umbrellas, and large bags and purses must be checked at coat check.
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is located near the intersection of Fifth and Market Street in Philadelphia, and is accessible via SEPTA’s Market-Frankford line; both east and westbound trains stop at Fifth and Market. The city’s purple Phlash trolleys travel directly between the major museums and attractions in Center City.
The museum is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from mid-morning to late afternoon. Check the museum’s website for up-to-date schedule info, as it’s closed (or closes early) on select holidays, and there are summer hours. Drop-in tours with a docent take place at 11am and 2pm, Friday through Sunday. Check the museum’s website for up-to-date schedule info and tours, as it’s closed (or closes early) on select holidays, and there are summer hours. Budget around 2 hours to explore the museum.
Located about a block away from the Weitzman, Philadelphia’s National Liberty Museum showcases the inspirational stories of freedom fighters, movement leaders, and politicians through interactive exhibits and contemporary art pieces. Its aim is to encourage a sense of civic responsibility, leadership, and integrity among its visitors. The institution’s 21-foot (6-meter) “Flame of Liberty” sculpture by Dale Chihuly serves as a striking centerpiece.
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