Academy of Natural Sciences museum to close on September 30

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the oldest natural science research institution in the United States, is scheduled to close its museum on September 30. The decision follows shifts in audience behavior and rising operating costs.

Crowds have visited the Philadelphia institution in recent weeks to view its collections before the deadline. Founded in 1812, the Academy has operated the museum since 1828. While the museum is closing, Drexel University leadership stated that the Academy remains committed to public engagement and education, noting that work is ongoing to find financially sustainable ways to display collections and engage with the natural sciences.