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Welcome to Philly! We hope that you have a safe and fun time!


Details Regarding the Franklin Institute

Parking & Directions

The Franklin Institute science museum is located in Center City Philadelphia, at the intersection of 20th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The main pedestrian entrance is at street level to the right of the museum steps.


The museum's parking garage entrance is located behind the building at the intersection of 21st Street and Winter Street. The GPS address of our parking garage entrance is 271 North 21st Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Please Note: The Franklin Institute's parking garage has direct access to the museum. The garage has a limited number of spaces and reaches capacity often. Parking is $25 per vehicle. TFI Members save $10.

Be advised that The Franklin Institute garage has a height limit of 6'5" and has limited parking for oversized vans, trucks, and SUVs. 


View Directions to Alternate Parking Locations


Public Transportation

  • If you are traveling to The Franklin Institute by SEPTA's Regional Rail or Amtrak, Suburban Station and 30th Street Station are short cab rides away. If you are able, Suburban Station is in close walking distance and 30th Street is in moderately close walking distance. Go to SEPTA for transit schedules and use their trip planner for helpful hints on getting around the city or visit Amtrak for directions from 30th Street Station. Philadelphia bus riders may also choose SEPTA bus routes 32, 33, 38, or 49. 
  • If you are riding the PATCO Hi-Speedline from South Jersey, take it to 15th/16th Streets and Locust. From there, you are a short cab ride to or in moderately close walking distance from The Franklin Institute. 
  • Take the Philly PHLASH to stop #12 to visit The Franklin Institute from any of the 19 other stops. 
  • Also, on SEPTA, from Delaware County, take the Norristown 100 Line to the 69th Street Terminal. Ride the Market-Frankford line to 30th Street. From there, you can take the free transfer to the Trolley Green Line to 19th Street. The Elwyn Regional Rail Line will also work. 
  • You can travel to Philadelphia from many locations in New Jersey. Visit our Trip Planner for rail stations and bus stops, schedules and fare options, and connections with other NJ TRANSIT, SEPTA, and PATCO services. Our Trip Planner can be found at njtransit.com or by downloading the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App™. 

At The Franklin Institute, we're committed to ensuring every guest enjoys the best possible experience. We strive to meet or exceed Federal, State, and local accessibility standards, welcoming individuals with disabilities into our facilities seamlessly.


Your experience during your visit may involve varying amounts of walking and standing, depending on your chosen activities. Please know that our dedicated guest services team is here to assist you in the most convenient and efficient ways possible. They can offer guidance on optimal routes, share helpful shortcuts, and suggest resting spots tailored to your preferences and needs.


Have questions or specific needs? Feel free to reach out to our Guest Services department in advance at 215.448.1200 or guestservices@fi.edu. We're here to assist you!


Wheelchair Accessible Entrances and Seating


Accessible entrances to The Franklin Institute are located at the 20th Street business entrance or via the parking garage elevators into the Bartol Atrium.


Museum Map


 Sensory Guide

Sneaker Gala Attire

**Attire Suggestions for DNPs of Color Sneaker Gala:**


**General Tips:**


- **Comfort is Key:** Ensure that your attire allows you to move freely and enjoy the festivities comfortably, especially with your choice of sneakers.

- **Express Yourself:** Embrace your individuality and personal style while incorporating cultural elements into your outfit.

- **Coordinate with Confidence:** If attending with a partner or group, coordinate your outfits to complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.

- **Have Fun:** Above all, have fun with your attire and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Sneaker Gala while celebrating diversity and fashion.