Step into the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, where history isn’t just displayed—it breathes. From ancient Egyptian mummies to lost Mayan relics, every artifact whispers secrets across millennia. This isn’t a museum; it’s a time-travel adventure that lets you touch the pulse of human civilization.











Everything you need to know about Penn Museum
The University Inn, located within the University of Pennsylvania campus, is a top choice just a 5-minute walk from the museum. This historic building blends academic charm with modern amenities, offering guests convenient access to Philadelphia's cultural heart. Nearby, Radcliffe Hotel provides upscale rooms, free parking, and exclusive early-entry passes to the museum—perfect for avoiding crowds.
Guests can also enjoy nearby attractions like the Philadelphia Art Museum and Independence National Historical Park. All recommended hotels feature free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and staff fluent in English. Ideal for academics, students, and culture seekers exploring ancient artifacts including Egyptian mummies and Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets.
From hotels near the Penn Museum, take SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line or Broad Street Line subway—just a 10-minute ride to the Philadelphia Art Museum or Liberty Bell Center. For a scenic option, walk west along North Avenue (about 20 minutes) to reach Philadelphia City Hall.
Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to major sites, and some provide access to CityPASS tickets for discounted entry. Additionally, Bike Share stations are nearby, allowing you to cycle comfortably between the museum and Fairmount Park. Use Google Maps or the SEPTA app for real-time transit updates and optimized routing, ensuring smooth, stress-free exploration.
Must-visit exhibits include the Ancient Egyptian Mummy Gallery, featuring over 30 well-preserved mummies with detailed medical analyses and 3D scans revealing burial practices. The Mesopotamian Cuneiform Tablets section displays original clay tablets, including fragments of the Code of Hammurabi.
The Middle Eastern and African Antiquities Collection showcases ceramics, jewelry, and ritual objects from Sudan, Ethiopia, and beyond. The museum also hosts live lectures and interactive workshops led by archaeologists, offering deep insights into ancient civilizations.
Interactive touchscreens allow visitors to virtually reconstruct ancient cities. HopeGoo a guided tour in advance enhances understanding and access to restricted areas.
Staying near the Penn Museum offers exclusive perks like early access to the Egyptian Mummy Gallery and Greek Pottery Hall, avoiding peak-hour crowds. Many hotels partner on Cultural Explorer Packages, which include museum tickets, guided brochures, and limited-edition souvenirs.
Weekend events such as "Mummy Unwrapped Nights" combine immersive lighting displays with expert lectures, ideal for families and teens. Guests may also join museum volunteer programs, assisting with artifact cataloging or exhibition planning for a hands-on learning experience.
Some rooms feature theme décor inspired by ancient civilizations—pyramid murals, cuneiform-patterned rugs—creating a truly immersive historical atmosphere.
The Westin Philadelphia Downtown is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from the museum. Its prime location offers easy access to Penn's campus and major city attractions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The hotel features modern rooms, complimentary premium breakfast, and excellent service.
With nearby SEPTA subway access, guests enjoy seamless travel across Philadelphia. Opt for a room with a window to enjoy views of the city skyline and lush university grounds. Ideal for academics, tourists, and families seeking comfort and convenience in a vibrant urban setting.
Before visiting the museum, stroll through the University of Pennsylvania campus, admiring historic architecture such as Walter’s Memorial Hall and Van Pelt Library. Follow 34th Street South to discover independent cafés and art galleries like Society Hill Coffee Co., offering specialty brews and cozy reading nooks.
Consider HopeGoo a Philadelphia History Center tour to explore the area’s colonial roots and urban evolution. The museum itself showcases rare artifacts including Egyptian mummies, Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets, and Native American relics—enhanced by interactive digital displays. Planning ahead ensures a deeper, more enriching cultural journey.
From the museum, walk to the intersection of 34th Street and Market Street, where you can catch SEPTA Subway Line 15 or Bus Route 17, reaching downtown in just 15 minutes. For faster travel, use ride-hailing apps like Lyft or Uber—a trip takes about 8 minutes and costs $12–$16.
Alternatively, rent a bike via Bike Share Philly from a station near the museum and ride along the Schuylkill River Trail to downtown—a scenic 20-minute ride that’s eco-friendly and enjoyable. All options connect seamlessly to key attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Academy of Music.
Use the SEPTA Transit App for real-time schedules and updates. With high efficiency and multiple choices, transit here suits all types of travelers.
Yes, several family-friendly options are nearby. Visit the Please Touch Museum in West Philadelphia—just a 15-minute drive—featuring interactive exhibits like a firefighter station, space adventure zone, and animal habitat play areas, perfect for children.
Enjoy a picnic on the University of Pennsylvania’s green lawn, where kids can fly kites or play frisbee. Weekends often host outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets, ideal for family bonding.
For nature lovers, walk to Fairmount Park, passing through the Philadelphia Botanical Garden, which offers ecological tours and hands-on workshops for kids. These experiences combine relaxation with learning, making them ideal for family trips.
Child-friendly and rich in educational value, these activities enhance any visit to the museum.
See what other travelers say about Penn Museum

Staying in the heart of Philadelphia doesn’t have to break the bank, and this hotel proves it. I was genuinely surprised by how affordable the rates were—better than any other option I found across the city. The location is perfect: within walking distance to major attractions, museums, and downtown hotspots. I didn’t expect such a spacious and well-designed room for the price, and it felt more like a luxury stay than a budget one. The staff were friendly, the bed was comfortable, and the overall vibe was welcoming. If you’re visiting Philly and want a great balance of value, convenience, and quality, this is the place to book. I’d absolutely stay here again.

Staying at Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City was an excellent experience from start to finish. The room was immaculate, well-appointed, and incredibly quiet—perfect for a good night’s sleep with no noise disturbances. Daily housekeeping kept everything fresh and clean, which I really appreciated. Located right in the heart of downtown Philly, it's super convenient for exploring the city on foot, with restaurants, shops, and attractions just steps away. Check-out was seamless—just return the key and the pre-authorization cleared instantly. No delays, no hassle. The comfort, cleanliness, and central location make this hotel a standout choice. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Philadelphia.

Staying at The Inn at Penn was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish. The hotel's ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, and the room was spacious and beautifully appointed—perfect for a relaxing getaway. But the highlight had to be breakfast, hands down the best I’ve had in the U.S. The staff, especially Rashad and Ales, were incredibly attentive and warm-hearted. They went out of their way to help me order a special breakfast for my child, even bringing a little bowl of cereal with care. Their kindness made the morning feel truly special. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, making this stay unforgettable. If you're looking for a memorable, high-quality hotel experience in Philadelphia, this place delivers on every level. 10/10 without hesitation.

Staying right in the heart of Philadelphia made everything so convenient—just a short walk to City Hall, only a few hundred meters away. The hotel itself is massive, and when I arrived, it was completely booked with no availability even for another night, which says it all about how popular this place is! I got a compact suite that was surprisingly spacious and comfortable. The staff went above and beyond—when I realized my credit card was missing, they actually helped me find it and had it safely sealed and returned. That kind of care is rare and truly appreciated. With such an unbeatable location, excellent service, and incredible value, this hotel deserves every single point. I’d definitely stay here again.

This hotel truly exceeded my expectations in every aspect. From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and luxurious. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from downtown Philadelphia, with easy access to public transit and plenty of dining options nearby. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully decorated, with a super comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The soundproofing is excellent—no noise from the hallway or street at all. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, even offering a complimentary room upgrade without any hassle. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, diverse, and delicious, with a great mix of American classics and international options. Overall, this is one of the best stays I’ve had in years. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers.

The location is unbeatable—just a 5- to 20-minute walk to all the major attractions, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Philadelphia. The hotel is literally across from Reading Terminal and the Jefferson subway station, so getting around the city is effortless. Breakfast was excellent—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. I especially appreciated the complimentary tea and coffee available in the lobby—perfect for a morning pick-me-up. My family and I were thoroughly impressed and highly recommend this property for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at this Hampton Inn was an absolute highlight of my trip to Philadelphia. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and near major transit lines. One of the best perks? The 24/7 self-service station in the lobby offering free hot water, ice-cold drinks, and fresh coffee—perfect for late-night or early-morning needs. When it came time to check out, my deposit was refunded instantly—something I’ve never experienced elsewhere, especially after staying in New York just a week prior where the refund still hasn’t gone through. The room itself was spacious, immaculately clean, and the bed was incredibly comfortable—truly made for a restful night’s sleep. Despite being the most affordable option on my itinerary, this hotel delivered the best overall experience. If you’re looking for value, comfort, and convenience all in one, this is the place to stay.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City was an excellent choice. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of downtown, just one block away from Chinatown—perfect for dining, shopping, and exploring. Everything I needed was within walking distance, including major attractions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had all the modern amenities I’d expect. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout my stay. Cleanliness, comfort, and convenience all scored top marks. It’s rare to find such a great balance between location, quality, and value—this place truly delivers. I’ll definitely be returning.

My stay at Homewood Suites by Hilton Philadelphia-City Avenue was absolutely excellent. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. The location is perfect—just a short walk from public transit and close to restaurants, shops, and attractions. My room was clean, spacious, and well-appointed with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast—fresh, hot, and varied options that catered to different tastes. The hospitality truly stood out; every interaction with the team felt genuine and warm. If you're visiting Philadelphia, this hotel is definitely worth considering. A top-tier experience from start to finish.

Staying at Homewood Suites by Hilton University City Philadelphia was an absolute pleasure. The location is unbeatable—just a short drive from Penn and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, making it perfect for both business and leisure travelers. The lobby on the third floor feels spacious and elegant, instantly setting a high-end tone. On-site valet parking is available (around $45 per night, $27 for daytime 1–6 hours), with no extra fees—tip is optional, which I appreciate. Housekeeping is excellent; rooms are cleaned daily with attention to detail. Breakfast is served in a lovely, relaxed setting. While the selection is modest, the waffles are absolutely delicious—worth waking up early for. Plus, there’s a great Chinese restaurant nearby called Jiangnan Fu, ideal for a quick dinner after a long day exploring. This hotel truly delivers comfort, convenience, and charm—all in one.

Staying at Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Philadelphia, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot—everything from museums to restaurants is just a short walk away. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained. My room was compact but efficiently laid out, with a super comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall vibe felt welcoming and stylish. Even though the room size is modest, it didn’t feel cramped thanks to smart design and thoughtful touches. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Philly.

Staying at this Holiday Inn was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the airport and close to the stadium, making it super convenient for both business trips and travel. The hotel itself is quiet and well-maintained, with clean, spacious rooms that feel really comfortable. I especially appreciated the full breakfast spread—fresh, diverse, and delicious. Everything from the amenities to the staff service felt top-notch. If you're in Philly, this is definitely a go-to choice. I’ll be back without hesitation.
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