Got a Mind for Science, or Just Fun? Get Driving

Some of the best school trips in the memories of New Jersey's students involve the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia—and for good reason.

Where there are usually, in most museum settings, a few examples from a lot of different fields of study and interest, the Franklin Institute almost literally has everything under one roof. It's a favorite of teachers and class chaperones, and Kat Stein, public relations director for the Franklin Institute, knows why: “Our exhibitions and experiences are created to appeal to all ages. There is literally something for everyone.”

“The Franklin Institute has close ties to its namesake, Benjamin Franklin, and has a number of his inventions on display in its new 'Electricity' exhibit such as a lightning rod,” Stein said. “Artifacts from the 'Frankliniana' collection are located throughout the museum.”

There is also a massive model of a human heart that visitors can walk through, examples of real aircraft, and more.

You probably have those fantastic memories from when you were a kid; now, you might want to share them with your own children. That's why we've chosen the Franklin Institute for this installment of Day Tripper, a weekly look at destinations that are out of town, but in reach, and worth the trip.

DAY TRIPPER DIGEST

Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes.

Why it’s Worth the Trip:  As an experience, the Franklin Institute is not only memorable, but is in the center of so many fascinating places that one trip might not be enough.

How to Get There from Here: Detailed driving directions.

You’ll Probably Get Hungry:  The Institute has its own restaurant, the Franklin Foodworks. If you are looking for something else, try Frog Burger, the Wagon Train Deli, Little John’s Pizza, or the Rose Tattoo Café.

While you’re in the Area:  The Franklin Museum is centrally located in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is within walking distance, and nearby is the National Constitution Center, Liberty Bell, as well as the U.S. Mint. You will run out of time before you run out of things to do.

Kat Stein made a point that, while the museum is a place of interest, it is also a monument

“We are home to the Benjamin Franklin Memorial. Located in a rotunda [much like the Jefferson Memorial], it is one of the only national memorials in private hands, and admission is free,” Stein said.

Because of Franklin’s connection to the museum, science plays a major role in the exhibits, but that is only a component—as evidenced by the current exhibition, Leonardo da Vinci’s Workshop. Visitors can not only see the scientific mind and engineering brilliance, but get reacquainted with his art all in one setting. The da Vinci tour runs until May 22.

“The Franklin Institute is also home to a working train, where visitors can take a ride up and down the track here–the train was literally driven into the museum when it was built, and the walls were closed up around it,” Stein said.

The site’s IMAX Theater has a varied array of features including "Forces of Nature," "Legends of Flight" and, yes it is true, the latest edition of the "Fast and the Furious" series, "Fast Five" in the jaw-dropping IMAX Experience format.

Stein also indicated that there is more to come in the near future. “In addition to our regular exhibitions, we will be opening the touring exhibition 'Mummies of the World' June 18 to Oct. 23. Additionally, 'CSI:  The Experience' will be featured beginning Oct. 1.”

When asked of things potential visitors should take, or ought to know, before they come, Stein was pretty forthright about how busy things can get in the area: “Bring your curiosity and prepare to get hands-on. Come at 9:30 a.m., when the museum opens, and beat the crowds [and beat out competition for cheap parking nearby].”