Located along the Delaware River, the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia is one of the largest maritime museums on the Atlantic Coast. It is home to extraordinary nautical treasures waiting to be discovered, including the oldest steel warship afloat in the world, the only Spanish-American War era cruiser still in existence and a striking WWII-era submarine. Besides its interactive exhibitions, this Philly museum is also renowned for its boatbuilding shop where visitors can watch artisans at work, as well as intimate concerts that celebrate music’s greatest stars.
This season, Candlelight at Independence Seaport Museum welcomes fabulous tributes to the likes of Queen and Prince. Guests can enjoy their favorite tunes in the best place in the city for hands-on maritime history and boatbuilding.
Background on the Independence Seaport Museum
The history of the Seaport started in 1960 when maritime collector J. Welles Henderson thought Philly lacked a fitting maritime museum like other East Coast cities did. It was opened as the Philadelphia Maritime Museum, showcasing only Henderson’s private collection.
Over the years, the museum expanded to include more than 10,000 objects, one million documents, a warship and submarine, moving to its current location at Penn’s Landing in 1995. Not only does it educate locals and tourists of a crucial part of Philly’s past, it also preserves and interprets the history of the Maritime Commerce Gateway (the Delaware River and Bay).
What can you do at the Independence Seaport Museum?
There’s lots to do at the museum so you’ll need to clear your schedule for the day and see all the activities the Seaport has to offer. From its award-winning exhibits to the educational workshops that include traditional boatbuilding and sailing lessons, there are plenty of things to do with the whole family. Visitors can also paddle Penn’s Landing and go kayaking should the weather permit it.
Additionally, the Independence Seaport Museum has recently become a popular spot for weddings, cocktail receptions and galas thanks to its stunning views of the Delaware River. Over the last months, it has also welcomed gorgeous Candlelight concerts that pay homage to classical legends and contemporary icons. This season, the series continues to light up this Philly landmark with thousands of candles and iconic melodies.
Where is the Independence Seaport Museum and how to get there?
Located in the Penn’s Landing complex along the Delaware River, the Seaport Museum is just a short walk from the Old City historic district. It’s easily reachable by public transport as several SEPTA bus routes (including the 5,17, 21, 25, 42, and 48) stop nearby.
If you’re driving to the museum, the closest parking lot is located next to the building in the Hilton Penn’s Landing Parking Garage on Columbus Boulevard. ADA accessible designated spaces are available next door in the Hilton Parking Garage. There are also more paid parking options directly adjacent to the museum.
What exhibits are on at the Independence Seaport Museum?
Visitors can see the oldest steel warship afloat in the world—USS Olympia, Becuna—a WWII-era submarine, learn about the history of the US Navy at Patriots & Pirates, explore the history of local waterways at River Alive!, marvel at toy models of iconic vessels at Small but Mighty, and become part of the action and watch staff restore wooden vessels at the Seaport Boat Shop.
Is the museum accessible?
Yes, the main museum building is fully accessible, though the historic ships are not currently ADA accessible due to their original naval ladders and narrow companionways. Visitors with disabilities may be accompanied by paid Personal Care Attendants (PCA) at no additional cost during their visit. This applies to all ticketed events, general admission and special exhibits that the visitor is attending. In addition, service animals are always welcome.
Is there a café at Independence Seaport Museum?
While the museum doesn’t have a café or restaurant, it is located at Penn’s Landing, which is surrounded by seasonal food vendors and nearby restaurants.
Nearby venues in Philadelphia
The Independence Seaport Museum is only a 10-minute walk from the Museum of American Revolution and a further 10 minutes to the Liberty Bell. Additionally, across the Delaware River, lies Adventure Aquarium in Camden.
Restaurants near the Independence Seaport Museum include Keating’s Rope and Anchor Bar + Kitchen, Spasso Italian Grill, Panorama and Royal Boucherie if you want to grab a quick dinner after visiting the museum of attending a Candlelight concert. There are also more Candlelight venues to explore in the city, all offering a special charm to these live music evenings.
