Independence Seaport Museum

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Seeking Profit and Power: Philadelphia, China Trade, and the Making of America

Around 150 rarely seen objects trace how the young United States, cut off from British trade after the Revolution, turned east to China and built itself into a global economic power.

Now showing20 Mar – 3 Jan 2028$23

Philippine-American War (1899-1902): Complex Symbols & Conflicting Relationships

Aboard the cruiser Olympia, a rarely told account of the Philippine-American War and the symbols born of it, made with the Filipino Executive Council of Greater Philadelphia.

Now showingOngoing$23

Small but mighty!

Nearly 50 rarely shown ship models, from US Navy vessels and pond yachts to the toy craft sailed across the floors of grand Victorian houses in the 19th century.

Now showingOngoing$23

Black Life Along the Philadelphia Waterfront: The Fullness Thereof

Opening March 2027: almost 400 years of Black Philadelphians and the Delaware River, from the portal of enslavement to a route for freedom seekers, a source of labour and a place of celebration.

Now showingOngoing$23

Permanent Collections

Introductory Exhibition

Over 100 treasures from the collection, most never previously displayed, introducing Philadelphia's Revolutionary naval history and the shipyards of the Delaware River.

Permanent collection$23

Submarine Becuna

Launched in 1944 and berthed at Penn's Landing since 1976, the USS Becuna is toured with a guide: torpedo rooms, cramped bunks and the machinery that kept 80 men alive underwater.

Permanent collection$33

Patriots & Pirates

The US Navy was founded in Philadelphia. This gallery covers the fight against the Barbary pirates and lets you climb aboard Diligence, a replica 1797 schooner built in the museum's own boat shop.

Permanent collection$23

River Alive!

Hands-on gallery about the Delaware River, which supplies drinking water to 15 million people, with water play, a larger-than-life video game and conservation exhibits for families.

Permanent collection$23

Cruiser Olympia

Commissioned in 1895 and the oldest steel warship still afloat, Dewey's Manila Bay flagship is open deck by deck, from officers' quarters and galley to the sick bay and engine rooms.

Permanent collection$23

Nearby

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Museum of the American Revolution

Military6 min walk

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National Constitution Center

Children13 min walk

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African American Museum in Philadelphia

Local History14 min walk

Visitor Information

How much does Independence Seaport Museum cost?

Standard adult admission to Independence Seaport Museum is $23. Children 3-17, college students, military and seniors $18; members free. Submarine Package (adds a guided USS Becuna tour) $33 adult / $28 discounted. Olympia Engine Room Tour add-on $15, age 10+.. Prices for special exhibitions and timed-entry slots may differ.

What are the opening hours of Independence Seaport Museum?

Independence Seaport Museum is open Thursday to Tuesday 10:00-17:00, last entry 16:30. Closed Wednesdays. The historic ships may close in bad weather.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.

Where is Independence Seaport Museum?

Independence Seaport Museum is located at 211 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States, in the Penn's Landing area of Philadelphia. The nearest stations are 2nd Street (SEPTA Market-Frankford Line), 8th & Market (PATCO) and SEPTA bus routes 5, 17, 21, 25, 42, 48.

What can I see at Independence Seaport Museum?

Penn's Landing maritime museum where you climb aboard the world's oldest floating steel warship and a WWII submarine. Current highlights include Introductory Exhibition, Seeking Profit and Power: Philadelphia, China Trade, and the Making of America and Submarine Becuna.

Do I need to book Independence Seaport Museum in advance?

Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.

When is the best time to visit Independence Seaport Museum?

Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.