Science History Institute on Condé Nast Traveler’s List of Best Philly Museums


“An intimate museum that puts the ‘cool’ in chemistry.”
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Distillations Magazine

Latest Issue

Discover how lice are used to study human history. Follow those who track nuclear materials for a living. Drink up a story about desalinated water, and finish up with the saving of old movies.
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Age of Alchemy

Now on View at Our Museum

For many of us alchemy conjures up images of mysticism or a fool’s quest for gold. But alchemy’s golden age was much more. Highlights of this exhibition include paintings, laboratory tools, and more.
Plan Your Visit

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Facility Rentals

From corporate events to galas, from small social gatherings to wedding celebrations, the Science History Institute is an ideal venue for any special occasion!
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The Othmer Library


The Donald F. and Mildred Topp Othmer Library of Chemical History is an independent research library encompassing the history of chemistry and related sciences and industries.
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The Science History Institute collects and shares the stories of innovators and of discoveries that shape our lives. We preserve and interpret the history of chemistry, chemical engineering, and the life sciences.

Support Our Work
We believe access to the past empowers individuals to build better futures. Your financial support makes it possible.
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