Join our museum’s Gallery Guides for a “drop-in” tour that explores the vital impacts made by engaged communities on scientific discovery, environmental justice, and public health.

Our Science & Activism Tour invites visitors to consider these questions: Who is a scientist? Who is an activist? How does each bring about change?

Stories include the influential book Silent Spring by conservationist Rachel Carson and the rise of the environmental movement; ACT UP, the AIDS crisis, and the development of the patients’ bill of rights; the Black Panthers’ lead role in community testing for sickle cell anemia; and the community-led research conducted by neighborhood coalition groups fighting to make government and industry accountable for environmental injustice.

This tour offers a broad picture of the ways activists have reshaped our understanding of science and how visitors can become engaged today.


Drop-in tours are free and no reservations are necessary.

More events

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July 11, 2026
Free

Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

Institute staff will be on hand to celebrate 100 years of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge with fun, fireworks-themed activities.

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July 11, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Revolutionary Science

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

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July 13, 2026
Science on Tap

Bram Stoker and the American Vampire

The Mütter Museum’s Jo D’Avella will discuss the American vampire: exploring Bram Stoker‘s Dracula, medical anxieties, body decomposition, and the American Vampire Panic.

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