Philadelphia’s biggest summer celebration is bringing back one of its most beloved traditions. As part of the 2026 Wawa Welcome America festivities honoring America’s 250th anniversary, free museum days will once again offer complimentary admission to museums, historic houses, and cultural institutions across the city.
Running throughout the festival, the popular program gives visitors the chance to explore some of Philadelphia’s most iconic attractions without paying admission fees. From historic mansions and art museums to science exhibits and cultural landmarks, dozens of institutions are participating in this year’s celebration.
Every free museum day announced so far for Wawa Welcome America 2026
- 📆 June 19
- African American Museum in Philadelphia
- 📆 June 20
- Fairmount Water Works
- Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion
- Paul Robeson House & Museum
- Historic Rittenhouse Town
- 🗓️ June 21
- Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
- 🗓️ June 25
- Independence Seaport Museum
- 📆 July 2
- Institute of Contemporary Art
- 📆 July 3
- Historic Waynesborough
- Science History Institute
- 🗓️ July 4
- Powel House
- Cliveden
Most events are free to attend, though some museums may require advance registration due to limited capacity. Additional participating museums and details are expected to be announced closer to the festival.
Why free museum days are one of Philly’s most beloved summer traditions
Every year, free museum days give both locals and tourists a chance to experience Philadelphia’s rich cultural scene without the usual admission costs.
The program has become a staple of Wawa Welcome America, encouraging visitors to explore historic landmarks, discover lesser-know museums, and revisit iconic institutions across the city.
With America’s 250th anniversary bringing an even bigger spotlight in Philadelphia in 2026, this year’s lineup offers the perfect excuse to spend the summer diving deeper into the city’s history, art, and culture—all for free.
