Academy of Natural Sciences is shutting down its museum after nearly 200 years
10 hours ago
- The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia will close its museum on September 30, 2026, after nearly 200 years of operation, with the last regular day on September 27.
- Drexel University, which oversees the museum, cited declining admissions that never recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic as a key reason for the closure.
- The closure aims to protect the museum's vast collections (over 19 million specimens) and support long-term stewardship, though it will be painful for staff and the public.
- Museum hours were cut to three days a week in 2025, and the summer science camp was eliminated earlier in 2026 to control costs.
- The Academy reported $25.8 million in revenue and $23.8 million in expenditures for 2025, with $110 million in assets and $4.13 million in liabilities.
- Scott Cooper, president and CEO of the Academy, is resigning, but the institution remains committed to making its collections accessible for research and seeking public engagement opportunities.