The oldest Swedish-American museum in the US was founded in 1926. Its handsome building, designed by Swedish-American architect John Nydén, is partly modeled after a 17th-century Swedish manor house, and contains 12 gorgeous exhibition galleries with a fascinating set of items. A highlight is the painted ceiling and wall murals in the Grand Hall by Christian von Schneidau.
American Swedish Historical Museum
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Independence National Historical Park
3.52 MILES
This L-shaped Philadelphia park, bound by 6th, 2nd, Walnut and Arch Sts, protects and honors the institutions that formed the foundation of the United…
4.14 MILES
The premier cultural institution in Philadelphia, this epic art museum would stand out even without Rocky's famous antics on the east steps. Every visitor…
3.78 MILES
Since 2012, Dr Albert C Barnes' eye-popping collection of artworks – predominantly focused on French masterpieces from the late 19th and early 20th…
3.39 MILES
The 'birthplace of American government', this modest, early 18th-century Georgian building is where delegates from the 13 colonies met to approve the…
3.45 MILES
Getting the balance just right between food shopping hub and dining destination, Reading Terminal Market opened way back in 1893 and it's been a…
3.42 MILES
Although the fortress-like exterior of this 1873 building is pretty impressive, it's the spectacular interiors – which took a further 15 years to complete…
3.33 MILES
Completed in 1901 following 30 years of construction, City Hall takes up a whole block, and at 548ft is the world's tallest structure without a steel…
Museum of the American Revolution
3.47 MILES
This impressive, multimedia-rich museum will have you virtually participating in the American Revolution; interactive dioramas and 3-D experiences take…
Nearby attractions
0.16 MILES
The attractive 340-acre FDR Park includes fields and lakes, making it the perfect spot to relax in greenery-starved South Philadelphia. Locals love to…
0.89 MILES
US Naval ships were built and repaired in this yard up until 1996. Although the Navy continues to house decommissioned vessels here, the site now…
2.17 MILES
Best visited at twilight when its neon colors have an inky blue sky backdrop, this installation is a collaborative work by mural artist David Guinn and…
4. Simeone Automotive Foundation Museum
2.43 MILES
The best time to visit this museum that pays homage to historic racing sports cars is when they take some of their 65-plus motors out for a spin on their…
2.44 MILES
North America's oldest botanic garden dates back to 1728 when it was founded by Quaker farmer John Bartram. The lovely 45-acre National Historic Landmark,…
6. South 9th Street Italian Market
2.51 MILES
One of the most vibrant parts of South Philadelphia, this several-blocks-long commercial strip is lined with produce stalls that sell their wares under…
2.55 MILES
A giant mural of ex-mayor Frank Rizzo overlooks the Italian Market parking lot on the corner of Montrose St. It's one of the most regularly vandalized…
2.6 MILES
Learn to tell your Fancy Brigades from your String Bands at this fun museum devoted to the unique tradition of Philadelphia Mummery. Reflecting the many…