A special message from our partner, Independence Seaport Museum:
Kick off summer in the middle of a bustling Philadelphia waterfront at Independence Seaport Museum. With so much to do on the Delaware River Waterfront, the Museum is at the forefront of exciting activities to discover.
A perfect outing for when family is in town, a night out with friends, or simply something different checked off your bucket list before graduation. Below are our five favorite ways to enjoy the Independence Seaport Museum this summer:
1. Step back in time aboard not one, but two National Historic Ships docked on the Delaware River Waterfront. Launched in 1892, Cruiser Olympia is the oldest steel warship afloat in the world. Incredible relics can be found around every corner on this majestic WWI ship. The second ship available to explore is Submarine Becuna. Launched in 1944, you’ll discover what life was like for a sailor aboard this underwater historic WWII vessel. Both historic ships are included with regular Museum admission but if classes run past 5 p.m., you can step aboard both ships Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings for $8 per person from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day.
2. For students who are over 21 years of age, the fascination and wonder of National Historic Ship Cruiser Olympia doesn’t have to stop at a tour. Climb aboard for Admiral’s Tavern, our pop-up beer garden held right on the stern of the ship. Craft beers available from featured breweries, and activities like quizzo and karaoke take place, all while soaking in the unique atmosphere and incredible views of the Ben Franklin Bridge. Admiral’s Tavern is open every Friday and Saturday night from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. through the end of September. A night on Admiral’s Tavern is sure to be Instagram-worthy.
3. Philadelphia-centric and impactful exhibits reside inside Independence Seaport Museum, along with Workshop on the Water, a working boat shop. Tides of Freedom explores the concept of freedom through the lens of the African experience along the Delaware River. Discover Philadelphia’s connection to the founding of the United States Navy in Patriots and Pirates. You can also find Crazy Philadelphia Eddie on our second floor, which commemorates Philly tattoo legend Eddie Funk, known for his notable tattoo legacy and artistic role in the counterculture of 1960s South Street. Regular Museum hours are Monday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. College students receive a discount on admission at only $12/person!
4. A boat rental in our basin at Paddle Penn’s Landing is the perfect way to start your evening on the waterfront, or to top off a day full of activities. Paddle your way around with a roommate, or impress a date at sunset, in a kayak, rowboat, pirate ship, swan or dragon, for a perfect outdoor recreational activity.
5. If you test the waters in a kayak and are looking for more time on the river, then we have good news: you can join a kayak excursion this summer that goes to notable Philadelphia landmarks like Graffiti Pier, the Three Sisters Shipwreck and Petty’s Island. Kayaking adventures are a unique way to take in the city from a different perspective – on the water.
Bonus: River Alive! will be a new, 4,000 square foot exhibition opening at the Museum in November 2018. It will feature multiple interactive and hands-on experiences that focus on the wonders and challenges of the Delaware River Watershed. Mark your calendars now!
