Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Through the rare combination of our spectacular galleries, our internationally known school of fine arts, and our public programs, PAFA strives to provide students and visitors alike with a unique and thrilling experience.  Highlights include:

  • The Museum

    Founded in 1805, PAFA is the nation's first art museum and school of fine arts. Over the past two centuries, PAFA has assembled what scholars and collectors describe as one of the three finest collections of American art in the world, from colonial masters like John Singleton Copley and Benjamin West to major contemporary artists such as Red Grooms and Faith Ringgold.

  • The School

    As one of the world's most distinguished school of fine arts, PAFA combines the traditional with the contemporary. The Academy's faculty of working artists trains the painters, sculptors, and printmakers of tomorrow.

  • The Buildings

    Few museums are housed in their own work of art, but PAFA’s Historic Landmark Building is considered one of America’s finest surviving examples of Victorian Gothic architecture. Opened in 1876, this Victorian treasure was designed by the illustrious Philadelphia firm of Frank Furness and George Hewitt. The soaring contemporary Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building was purchased in 2002 and opened its doors as part of PAFA’s campus in 2005, commemorating the Academy’s 200th anniversary.

Admission

Admission to the Permanent Collection:

Adult $10
Seniors and Students with I.D. $8
Youth ages 5-18 $6
Members and children under 5 Free

Admission to Special Exhibitions
(includes the Permanent Collection):

Adults $15
Seniors and Students with I.D. $12
Youth ages 5-18 $10
Members and children under 5 Free

The Morris Gallery exhibitions and the ground floor of the Historic Landmark Building are free.

Tours

Daily Docent-led Museum Tours, School Campus Tour by reservation, Adult and School Group Tours by reservation.

Food

Academy Café located in the Historic Landmark Building features caterer Jimmy Duffy and Sons serving breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack.

Shop

Portfolio offers a selection of jewelry, gifts, cards, books, and accessories including merchandise produced specifically for PAFA that is unavailable elsewhere in Philadelphia. Selected items are also available online.

© 2010 Parkway Council Foundation. All rights reserved.