Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Rodin Museum

Experience the Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Rodin Museum offers an inviting blend of iconic artworks and peaceful sculpture gardens, all for around $30. With just a single ticket, you gain two-day access—giving you ample time to explore the vast galleries and serene outdoor spaces. The experience is well-suited for art lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.

What we particularly love are the diverse collections—from Monet’s luminous water lilies to Rodin’s expressive sculptures—and the guided tours that are offered free at the top of every hour, making it easy to gain insight without extra cost. That said, one possible drawback is that the Rodin Museum is closed from Tuesday through Thursday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Whether you’re visiting Philadelphia for the first time or are a returning connoisseur, this experience offers an excellent introduction to American, Asian, European, and Latin American art. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy a mix of indoor galleries and tranquil outdoor sculpture gardens.

Key Points

• Two-day access with one ticket enhances value and flexibility.
• The main building boasts 200 galleries, covering a wide range of styles and periods.
• Guided tours run frequently and free after admission, perfect for gaining deeper insights.
• The Rodin Garden offers a peaceful outdoor space filled with sculptures, ideal for relaxing or taking photos.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible and children 18 and under enter free.
• Expect some galleries or artworks to be temporarily off view during maintenance, so check ahead if specific pieces are a must-see.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Art-filled Day

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a towering, impressive structure that beckons visitors with its neoclassical facade and sprawling grounds. Once inside, you’re met with a staggering 200 galleries of world-class art. The museum’s collection spans centuries and continents, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy variety.

You’ll love the Impressionist galleries, where masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet’s Japanese Footbridge create a luminous, immersive experience. The water lilies and Japanese bridge, in particular, are captured in peaceful, reflective displays that evoke a sense of calm amidst the bustling city. Modern and contemporary art lovers will also find favorites, including Picasso’s Three Musicians—a lively, colorful piece that exemplifies the vibrant energy of 20th-century art.

Throughout the galleries, the architecture itself adds to the experience. The museum features an array of architectural treasures—from medieval cloisters and Chinese palace halls to Indian temple halls—reflecting the global scope of its collection. These spaces aren’t just containers for art; they are part of the story, offering a sense of history and craftsmanship.

The guided tours scheduled every hour are a bonus. They’re free and provide context, making the art more meaningful. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for a deeper understanding, these tours help unlock stories behind the works. We loved the way guides bring art to life with their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Across the street, the Rodin Museum offers a different, more contemplative experience. Enter through a quiet garden setting filled with Rodin’s iconic sculptures, like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. The outdoor sculptures are displayed in a neatly maintained garden, providing a tranquil space perfect for reflection or a quick photo session.

The museum’s collection is a comprehensive showcase of Rodin’s work, allowing visitors to see his mastery in capturing movement and emotion. It’s especially appreciated on days when the main museum’s crowds are manageable, giving you a peaceful break from indoor galleries.

A highlight is the Art-inspired gift shop and cafes at both locations. You can browse unique books, jewelry, textiles, and children’s treasures that make meaningful souvenirs.

Practical Details and Tips for Visiting

The cost of $30 per person is a reasonable investment considering the two-day access and the sheer scope of artworks. We think the value is especially good because of the guided tours, which typically run on the top of each hour, providing background and stories that enrich your experience.

The main building hours are Thursday to Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 8:45 PM on Fridays—perfect if you prefer late afternoons or evenings for your visit. The Rodin Museum is open Friday to Monday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Note that the Rodin Museum is closed Tuesday through Thursday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Parking isn’t included, so consider public transit, nearby street parking, or paid lots. Food options are available nearby, including Stir, a restaurant designed by Frank Gehry—an architectural treat in itself for design enthusiasts.

The baggage store is free of charge, which is great if you’re touring around with backpacks or coats. Accessibility isn’t an issue, as the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Considering the maintenance work that occurs periodically, some galleries or artworks might be temporarily unavailable, so checking in advance if a particular piece is essential to you can help avoid surprises.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive cultural experience without spending a fortune. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse collections and the ability to see both American and international works in one place. Families with children will find the free entry for those under 18 and the engaging exhibits a bonus.

If you love guided commentary, the free tours are a highlight, turning a museum visit into an educational experience. The outdoor sculptures and peaceful gardens make it appealing for those who want a relaxing, scenic break from city walking.

On the practical side, the two-day access offers the flexibility to split your visit into a morning at the main building and an afternoon or next-day stroll through the Rodin Garden. This allows you to soak in the art at your own pace.

The Sum Up

The Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Rodin Museum together provide a well-rounded, accessible, and enriching art experience. Their combination of indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture gardens ensures there’s something for every kind of visitor. For a modest fee, you get not just a glimpse of masterpieces but a chance to truly connect with art in a setting designed to inspire curiosity and reflection.

This tour is best suited for visitors who appreciate a broad cultural journey—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned museum-goer. The guided tours and peaceful gardens enhance your understanding and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to any Philadelphia visit.

If you’re looking for a thoughtful, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable art outing, this experience hits the mark. Plus, with free children’s entry and the option to explore over two days, it offers excellent value and flexibility for families, couples, or solo travelers alike.

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FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $30 per person, which includes two days of access to both the main Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum.

How long is the experience?
While the ticket is valid for two days, the recommended visit duration is typically a few hours at each location, allowing enough time to enjoy the art and guided tours.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are offered to the public free of charge, running at the top of each hour after admission. They provide valuable insights into the collections.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely, the museums are wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.

Can I visit the Rodin Museum on the same day as the Philadelphia Museum of Art?
Yes, but keep in mind that the Rodin Museum is closed from Tuesday through Thursday, so plan accordingly.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 18 and under enter free, making it a family-friendly experience.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants you access to the main galleries, the outdoor sculptures, and the Rodin Museum, as well as free baggage storage.

Is there food nearby?
Yes, there are cafes and restaurants close to the museums, including Stir, designed by Frank Gehry, which offers a convenient dining option.

Exploring the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum combines culture, beauty, and peaceful reflection, all at a manageable price point. Whether for a quick visit or a leisurely exploration, this experience offers a genuine taste of art’s power to inspire.

You can check availability for your dates here: