The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University – Highlights of the oldest natural history museum in the Americas include Dinosaur Hall, with a fossil preparation lab and hands-on fossil dig site; live butterflies in a tropical garden; a children’s nature center with live animals; and historic dioramas with animals from around the world. Changing exhibits are mounted throughout the year as well. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
Philadelphia’s dinosaur museum is fully wheelchair accessible; best entrance is on 19th Street. Exhibits and activities of special interest to the visually impaired include Outside In, featuring touchable small animals and Dinosaur Hall’s Big Dig, showcasing bones and skulls, along with various specimens on display and in shows throughout. Service animals are especially welcome in spaces without live animals. Free-of-charge ASL interpretation requires two weeks’ notice. The Access to Science Initiative arranges special nights for children with autism and their families, and pre-visit materials help prepare children with different levels of developmental abilities for their exploration of the museum. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 299-1000, ansp.org