Welcome to the
Wagner Free Institute of Science
The Wagner Free Institute of Science is a natural history museum and educational institution. Founded by William Wagner in 1855, it is dedicated to free education in science.
Now a National Historic Landmark, the Wagner offers contemporary science programs and a rare experience of a Victorian natural history museum.
Visit the Wagner
The Wagner’s landmark museum is free to visit, open all year round, Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 4:30pm and on the 1st Saturday of the month from February-June & September-December. Our upstairs exhibit hall houses over 100,000 natural specimens, including ancient fossils, glowing minerals and animals from around the globe! Wander at your own pace or follow the path of one of our themed scavenger hunts. Feel free to pick up pencils and paper and spend some time sketching from the collection.
Accessibility note: The Wagner’s building is a National Historic Landmark. The museum is located on the second floor and requires climbing a flight of stairs to view. Contact us for more information about accessibility.
Please note: The Wagner will be closed to the public on November 14 & 15, 2024 ahead of our A Sip of Science benefit party. View all museum hours and planned closures here.
Our Next Program is…
November First Saturday: Bounce, Bend or Break: The Science of Flexibility
Saturday, November 2nd, 12-4pm
Join us for an afternoon exploring the ways flexibility occurs in nature with Dr. Thomas Twardowski, Chemistry professor at Thomas Jefferson University. Participants will enjoy multiple hands-on activities including The Interesting Ball, Properties of Putties, Polymer chains & make your own glow-in-the-dark slime!
Join Our Team!
Museum Educator
We’re looking for a full-time Museum Educator! This position works as part of the Education Department to plan and implement museum-based programming. The Museum Educator will lead and schedule field trips and coordinate visits for college and adult groups. Learn more and apply below!
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