The Academy of Natural Sciences, established in 1812, is the oldest natural science museum in North and South America, chock-full of permanent and touring exhibits, family programs and activities. All 4 stories of the Academy are wonderful for all ages and feature a variety of permanent exhibits that would delight any child. If they like a little adventure, more than 30 dinosaurs and other Mesozoic reptiles reside in Dinosaur Hall, including a 42-foot long Tyrannosaurus Rex! For the daintier types, the Butterflies! exhibit showcases live butterflies from Central and South America, East Africa and Southeast Asia in its tropical garden. And everyone can enjoy The Live Animal Center, which holds over 100 live birds, mammals, reptiles and invertebrates. Ceiling-to-floor observation windows let you look behind the scenes, where staff and volunteers feed, groom and upkeep all of the animals.
Check out the website before heading over, because the visiting exhibits are ever-changing and always exciting.