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Barnes vs Masonic Temple

Both Masonic Temple and The Barnes Foundation are praised by travel writers. Overall, The Barnes Foundation is the choice of most professionals compared to Masonic Temple. The Barnes Foundation has a TripExpert Score of 98 with endorsements from 11 publications including Time Out, Where and Fodor's.

Barnes
Barnes
9 / 10
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
From $0 /night
Frommer's Frommer's
"This world-renown museum is stuffed with some 8,000 largely Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works." Full review
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The number of visitors is strictly limited, and entries are timed, so it is wise to book tickets ahead of time.
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"Exceptionally fine collection of impressionist, post-impressionist and early French modern paintings, including works by Cézanne, Degas, Matisse, Monet, Picasso, Renoir and Van Gogh." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"Displays works by masters like Matisse, Cézanne, and Renoir in a peaceful salon-style setting." Full review
Not For Tourists Not For Tourists
"The collection's controversial move to the city is to your benefit. Go!"
Fodor's Fodor's
"While the statistics are impressive—81 Renoirs, 69 Cézannes, 59 Matisses, 46 Picassos, 7 Van Goghs, 6 Seurats (and many more)—almost more inspiring is this soaring marble-and-glass museum. " Full review
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Masonic Temple
Masonic Temple
8 / 10
1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"The temple is one of the city's architectural jewels, but it remains a hidden treasure even to many Philadelphians." Full review
Concierge Concierge
"The city's best-kept secret, this ornate 19th-century temple designed to house the state's Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania hides in plain sight across from City Hall."
Not For Tourists Not For Tourists
"Giant staircases and oak appointments."
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
1 Star
"This Medieval Norman-style granite structure (1873) marked by spires and towers was conceived by Masonic brother James Windrim." Full review
National Geographic National Geographic
"“Stunning architectural features that look like wood or stone but are actually ornate plaster”...Stone Norman cathedral exterior and huge, lavish interior rooms with such themes as a Grecian temple " Full review
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