Activity Overview
An impressive collection of American artwork from colonial times to the present is found at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
A multitude of works can be found by established and emerging artists, including graduates of the Academy itself. John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, Leon Golub, Thomas Eakins and Mary Cassatt are some of the artists on display.
Things to See & Do
- Take a docent-led tour, free with admission, leaving from the lobby at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. each day the museum is open.
- Admire the stunning museum buildings themselves along with the artwork.
- In the museum's Historic Landmark Building, visitors will find works from the 18th, 19th and part of the 20th centuries, including pieces from notable graduates of the Academy.
- The museum's additional edifice, the Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, holds artwork from the second World War forward, and one will see noteworthy pieces from contemporary artists in this section.
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Insider Tips
- In the Historic Landmark Building, don't miss Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington, the same face that appears on the one dollar bill.
- Free Kids' Guides are available at the front desk, pointing out museum items of interest to children and providing information about special classes and activities for this age bracket.
