Dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Franklin, the Franklin Institute Science Center is one of the oldest science centers in the United States. Their mission is to encourage a passionate embrace of science and present concepts, advances, and innovations that would have delighted scientific innovator Ben Franklin.
Open daily from 9:30-5, the Franklin Institute has everything from historical landmarks to 360 degree views of space. The Benjamin Franklin Memorial, dedicated as the official national memorial, is a 20 foot marble statue located in the museum’s Roman style rotunda. Reminiscent of the Lincoln Memorial, Ben Franklin is pictured seated regally overlooking his scientific domain.
Some of the exhibitions you may see at the Institute include LEGO masterpieces, over 200 pieces of art and artifacts pertaining to the history of the Catholic church in Vatican Splendors, as well as concept galleries on electricity, physics, machines, anatomy, the earth, and space. All exhibits include interactive opportunities for adults and children to experience hands-on learning. The Institute is also renowned for their exciting and informative Live Science shows and demonstrations.
The Institute is also home to an IMAX theater where you can catch showings of 3D films such as Prehistoric World and Mysteries of the Unseen World. You may also visit Fels Planetarium inside a 60 foot diameter dome with 360 degree views of how the night sky would look without light pollution.