The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University announced that its public museum in Philadelphia will permanently close on September 30, 2026, after nearly 200 years of operation. Officials said the decision was driven by declining attendance after the COVID-19 pandemic and rising operating costs, while emphasizing that the Academy's scientific research, collections, and educational work will continue. 

Introduction

One of Philadelphia's oldest and most recognizable museums is preparing to close its doors.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University announced that its public museum on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will cease operations on September 30, 2026. The closure marks the end of nearly two centuries of public museum exhibitions, although Academy leaders say the institution itself will continue its scientific research, world-renowned collections management, and educational mission.

For generations of visitors, the museum has been known for its Dinosaur Hall, wildlife dioramas, fossil exhibits, and hands-on science experiences. The announcement has sparked concern among educators, researchers, families, and Philadelphia residents who consider the museum a landmark of the city's cultural and scientific heritage.

What Happened?

The Academy of Natural Sciences confirmed that its museum will permanently close at the end of September following a strategic review conducted by Academy and Drexel University leadership.

According to the joint announcement, officials concluded that continuing to operate the museum in its current form had become financially unsustainable. Visitor numbers have not returned to pre-pandemic levels despite investments in new exhibitions and public programming, while operating and maintenance costs have continued to increase.

The museum's final day of operation will be September 30, 2026, with its last regular public visiting day scheduled before the closure.

Importantly, the announcement applies only to the museum's public exhibition space—not to the Academy as a scientific institution.

Key Details

• The Academy of Natural Sciences museum will close on September 30, 2026.
• The museum first opened to the public in 1828 and is among the oldest natural history museums in the Western Hemisphere.
• The Academy itself was founded in 1812.
• Scientific research, laboratories, archives, and the Academy's collections will continue operating.
• Approximately 19 million biological specimens, fossils, minerals, and archival materials will remain under the Academy's care.
• Drexel University said it is exploring new ways to display parts of the collections and continue public engagement in the future.
• The Academy building on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will continue housing research collections while long-term plans are evaluated.

Why Is the Academy of Natural Sciences Museum Closing?

Officials identified several factors behind the decision.

The most significant include:

• Long-term declines in museum attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Rising operational and maintenance expenses.
• The need to prioritize funding for scientific collections and research.
• Financial pressures affecting the Academy's long-term sustainability.

In its official statement, Drexel University said leadership examined multiple alternatives before deciding that closing the museum was the best way to protect the Academy's broader scientific mission.

The institution stressed that the closure was not made lightly and followed extensive planning over several years.

Background

Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences is recognized as the oldest natural sciences institution in the Americas.

Its museum opened in 1828, introducing generations of visitors to paleontology, zoology, geology, environmental science, and biodiversity.

Among its best-known attractions are:

• Dinosaur Hall
• Historic wildlife dioramas
• Live animal exhibits
• Fossil dig experiences for children
• Rotating science exhibitions
• Rare scientific collections documenting Earth's biodiversity

Beyond the museum, Academy scientists conduct research on climate, freshwater ecosystems, conservation biology, biodiversity, and environmental health.

Since affiliating with Drexel University in 2011, the Academy has continued serving both as a public museum and a globally respected research institution.

What Officials Said

In a joint message released by Drexel University President Antonio Merlo and Academy Board Chair Suzanne Biemiller, leaders acknowledged the emotional impact of the decision.

They said changing visitor behavior after the pandemic and increasing operating expenses created long-term financial challenges that threatened the Academy's broader mission.

The statement also emphasized that the institution remains committed to scientific research, education, and preserving its internationally significant collections while exploring financially sustainable opportunities for future public exhibitions.

The announcement also confirmed that Academy President and CEO Scott Cooper is stepping down during the transition, with university and Academy leaders working on future governance arrangements.

Why This Matters

The closure represents more than the loss of another museum.

For nearly 200 years, the Academy of Natural Sciences introduced millions of visitors to natural history and inspired careers in science, education, and conservation.

Philadelphia will lose one of its most recognizable family attractions and educational destinations, particularly known for welcoming school groups and young children.

At the same time, the announcement preserves an important distinction: the Academy's research programs and collections are not being dismantled. Scientists will continue their work, and officials say the collections will remain protected while new models for public engagement are explored.

What Happens Next?

The museum will remain open through September 30, giving visitors a final opportunity to experience its exhibits.

After closure:

• Research laboratories will continue operating.
• Collections will remain under Academy stewardship.
• Drexel and Academy leadership will evaluate long-term options for displaying portions of the collections.
• Discussions are also continuing on the institution's future governance and financial structure.

Officials have not announced a replacement museum or a timeline for any future public exhibition space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Academy of Natural Sciences museum closing?

Officials said declining attendance after the pandemic and rising operating costs made the museum financially unsustainable.

When will the museum close?

The museum is scheduled to permanently close on September 30, 2026.

Is the Academy of Natural Sciences shutting down completely?

No. The museum is closing, but the Academy will continue scientific research, collections management, education, and environmental programs.

What will happen to the museum's collections?

The Academy's approximately 19 million specimens and research collections will remain protected and continue supporting scientific work.

Will Dinosaur Hall remain open?

No. Dinosaur Hall will close along with the museum on September 30 unless future public exhibition plans are announced.

Can visitors still visit before the closure?

Yes. The museum will remain open during its scheduled operating days until the announced closing date.

Who operates the Academy of Natural Sciences?

The Academy has been affiliated with Drexel University since 2011 and is operated as the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.

Sources

• Drexel University – Official announcement: Preserving the Academy of Natural Sciences' Legacy and Collections for the Future.
• The Philadelphia Inquirer – Reporting on the museum closure and institutional plans.
• NBC10 Philadelphia – Confirmation of the museum's Sept. 30 closure.
• CBS Philadelphia – Coverage of the announcement and community reaction.
• WHYY – Reporting on the Academy's continued research mission after the museum closes.