Map

Barnes vs The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute and The Barnes Foundation are both rated very highly by professional reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, The Barnes Foundation ranks slightly higher than The Franklin Institute. The Barnes Foundation has a TripExpert Score of 98 with accolades from 11 publications including Time Out, Not For Tourists and Afar Magazine.

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
i
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
Show All Reviews
The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute
9 / 10
222 N 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"Founded more than 175 years ago to honor Benjamin Franklin, this science museum is as clever as its namesake, thanks to an abundance of dazzling hands-on exhibits." Full review
Concierge Concierge
"You gotta love the walk-through heart, which thankfully has been refurbished and expanded since it was built in 1953."
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"The walk-through, pulsing model of the human heart at this well-heeled science emporium is macabre enough to enchant children." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
2 Stars
"Founded in 1824 to teach science to artisans and mechanics, the Franklin Institute and its museum have made science entertaining." Full review
Frommer's Frommer's
"The Franklin Institute isn't just kid stuff. All ages love this thoroughly imaginative trip through the world of science." Full review
Show All Reviews