From its massive Mural Arts Program to its hole-in-the-wall galleries, Philadelphia has a strong visual arts scene -- and luckily, much of that scene can be experienced for free. Read on for eight great ways to see art in Philadelphia.
1. First Friday
Philadelphia has several galleries, and the best time to visit them is between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. During that time many galleries unveil new exhibits and offer free wine, beer and snacks to patrons. Much of the First Friday hubbub is centered around gallery-rich Old City, but galleries in other neighborhoods such as
Northern Liberties participate as well.
Philadelphia's Mural Arts Program has painted over 2,800 murals in the city. While the Program does run excellent
guided tours for a fee, the organization also offers a free
self-guided tour map (PDF) that features both walking and driving tours.
Exhibiting work from both established and emerging contemporary artists, entrance to this museum is free for all visitors.
Free art doesn't just mean looking at art. The Fleisher Art Memorial offers a variety of inexpensive and tuition-free art classes for people of all ages.
Entrance to the Philadelphia Museum of Art is typically $16 for adults, but on the first Sunday of every month, patrons can pay what they wish. Children 12 and under are always admitted to the museum for free.
Featuring the work of famed French sculptor Auguste Rodin, admission to the Rodin Museum is free, but a $5 donation is suggested.
The Fairmount Park Art Association maintains an online map of public art in Philadelphia that you can use to plan your own walking tour.
