Academy of Natural Sciences to Close Parkway Museum After 200 Years
At the end of September, the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia will shut down its Parkway museum, marking the end of nearly two centuries as a public attraction. Established in 1812 and opened to the public in 1828, the museum is renowned for its dinosaur displays and engaging activities. Many visitors shared their sadness, reminiscing about their experiences there. Marcia Halbert, aged 97, remarked, "I think it's a loss to Philadelphia." The Academy attributed the closure to a drop in visitor numbers after COVID-19, which led to a reduction in its operating days from five to three last year. The final day of operation will be Sunday, Sept. 27, with closure on Sept. 30 to redirect efforts toward research and collections.
Key facts
- The Academy of Natural Sciences will close its Parkway museum at the end of September.
- The museum was founded in 1812 and opened to the public in 1828.
- The museum is known for its dinosaur exhibits and a towering Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
- Visitation has declined despite efforts to rebuild following the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Last year, the museum reduced its operating schedule from five days a week to three.
- The Academy stated that closing the museum is necessary to concentrate resources on research and collections.
- The museum's last day open to the public will be Sunday, Sept. 27.
- The institution will cease operations on Sept. 30.
Entities
Institutions
- Academy of Natural Sciences
Locations
- Philadelphia
- United States