314-322 Market Street; 
(alternate entrance at Chestnut Street walkway)
(215) 597-2760
Hours: Daily, fall-winter 10:00am-5:00pm, summer-September 10:00am-6:00pm, spring 9:00am-5:00pm
Admission: Free

Franklin Court, a museum built on the spot of Benjamin Franklin’s first permanent home in Philadelphia, is a marvelous tribute to the city’s most beloved inventor/pioneer. In addition to the museum itself, there is a skeleton of his old home, which is displayed in the courtyard adjacent to the original. Also nearby, there is a large park area that contains stones engraved with some of Franklin’s quotes pertaining to his house, which are quite witty even today. Mixed in with the stones are viewing windows, allowing you to peer underground into early wall foundations and cornerstones.

Inside the museum, the visitor is treated to displays celebrating the many, many inventions credited to Franklin, which are presented interactively. There is an extensive sound system which allows guests to listen to quotes from Franklin himself as well as what his peers thought about him. Don’t miss the twenty-minute video showcasing his life’s work as well; it’s much more interesting than it sounds.

In the area surrounding the court, there are also restorations of a Revolutionary War-era print shop and post office. The latter is definitely worth a visit, as you’ll be able to obtain an authentic "B. Free Franklin" lettermark on any envelope you choose. All in all, Franklin Court is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful life, and the painstaking manner in which it was all restored makes it indispensable to your Philadelphia vacation.