Franklin Court, Philadelphia

Name: Franklin Court
Address: 318 Market St, Philadelphia, 19106-2704, United States
Telephone: (215) 965-2305

#44 among attractions in Philadelphia

Museum, Historical place, History museum

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Facts and practical information

Nestled within the historic heart of Philadelphia lies Franklin Court, a museum that pays homage to one of America's most influential Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin. This unique site, situated at 318 Market Street, offers a window into Franklin's world, where innovation and intellect converged to shape the nation.

Franklin Court stands on the very ground where Franklin's Philadelphia residence once stood. Although the original structure no longer exists, the museum has been thoughtfully designed to evoke the essence of the 18th-century home. Visitors are immediately transported back in time, with the site featuring a steel "ghost structure" outline that represents the dimensions of Franklin's house.

The museum itself is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that chronicle Franklin's multifaceted life as a printer, scientist, diplomat, and statesman. Interactive displays and visual presentations bring to life his contributions, from his experiments with electricity to his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

An integral part of the Independence National Historical Park, Franklin Court also includes the Benjamin Franklin Museum, a post office that still operates and honors Franklin's role as the first Postmaster General, and the Franklin Print Shop, which demonstrates 18th-century printing techniques.

Open to the public year-round, Franklin Court provides an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The museum is not only a tribute to Franklin's legacy but also an educational resource that illuminates the broader narrative of America's founding era.

Coordinates: 39°56'59"N, 75°8'48"W

Address

318 Market StCenter City (Old City)Philadelphia 19106-2704 United States

Contact

(215) 965-2305

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Day trips

Franklin Court – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, National Museum of American Jewish History, Independence National Historical Park.

~990 ftW
, Museum, History museum
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~690 ftW
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~520 ftSE
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~950 ftW
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American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia
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~610 ftS
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~880 ftS
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Merchants' Exchange Building, Philadelphia
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~1010 ftW
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~910 ftNW
Park
Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia
5 min walk • Independence National Historical Park is a federally protected historic district in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States that preserves several sites associated with the American Revolution and the nation's founding history.
~260 ftS
Museum, Science museum, Library
Chemical Heritage Foundation, Philadelphia
2 min walk • The Science History Institute is an institution that preserves and promotes understanding of the history of science. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it includes a library, museum, archive, research center and conference center.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Franklin Court open?

Franklin Court is open:

Monday 10 am - 5 pm
Tuesday 10 am - 5 pm
Wednesday 10 am - 5 pm
Thursday 10 am - 5 pm
Friday 10 am - 5 pm
Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday 10 am - 5 pm

Which popular attractions are close to Franklin Court?

Nearby attractions include National Liberty Museum, Philadelphia (2 min walk), Chemical Heritage Foundation, Philadelphia (2 min walk), Congregation Mikveh Israel, Philadelphia (2 min walk), Museum of the American Revolution, Philadelphia (3 min walk).

How to get to Franklin Court by public transport?

The nearest stations to Franklin Court:

Metro

2nd Street • Lines: Mfl (4 min walk)
5th Street • Lines: Mfl (4 min walk)

Bus

FlixBus Philadelphia Market Street • Lines: 2602, 2680, N2610 (7 min walk)
Spruce St & 6th St • Lines: 12 (11 min walk)

Train

Jefferson Station (17 min walk)
Suburban Station (30 min walk)

Tram

13th Street • Lines: 10, 11, 13, 34, 36 (22 min walk)
15th Street • Lines: 10, 11, 13, 34, 36 (26 min walk)

Light rail

Adventure Aquarium • Lines: River Line (26 min walk)
Entertainment Center • Lines: River Line (29 min walk)