The Academy of Natural Sciences; Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA

Oh my dearest readers, how I have missed you! It has been a bit since I’ve picked up my quill, but I am finally able to stretch my fins once again since surgery!

February is a busy month for this mermaid; Bella’s birthday, Valentine’s Day and David’s birthday all in one week! I was very spoiled this year and spent the week with David in good ol’ Philadelphia while he took vacation time from his work in honor of his birthday. Bella came along for the stay; however, she (like me) is not particularly a city girl. We spent much of the time relaxing together and catching up on different shows – I got through the first season of Fallout and watched the Back to the Future trilogy for the first time (“GREAT SCOTT”). But near the end of our mini staycation, I took some PTO myself from my work and we decided to go on an adventure in the city!

As a kid, I was a typical tomboy. Instead of Barbies and babydolls, I wanted stuffed animals and dinosaurs. So, what better way to honor my child-at-heart than to go to a museum to see some dinos! The Academy of Natural Sciences did not disappoint – there was one entire wing and mezzanine dedicated to the prehistoric creatures. On this particular day, one school group was taking a tour at the same time David and I were exploring, and there were also some parents wandering around with their kiddos. However, there was plenty of space for us to keep our distance and enjoy the exhibits at our own pace. Upstairs, on almost an entire half of the mezzanine, was a “dinosaur dig” play area for children. It was sweet to see how excited the little ones were to be able to dig for dinosaur bones, and the parents could watch knowing the area was sectioned off keeping everyone contained and safe.

The second floor contained exhibit after exhibit of animals on display. From the African savannah to the bamboo forests of Asia, lions, tigers and bears (oh my!); there was something for everyone to learn about. Please keep in mind that these exhibits are of taxidermy animals, something that I was used to being that I grew up with around hunters who enjoyed putting their various animal trophies on the walls. But I know this might not be a fun experience for everyone! If you’re looking for fun with live animals – don’t worry! The third floor of the Academy contained an exhibit where kids could get hands on experience with some smaller specimens. Snakes, insects, frogs and turtles just to name a few! David and I met a very knowledgeable and friendly volunteer who was happy to give us facts and information about each of the species. We particularly enjoyed quizzing him about the legless lizard (that is different than a snake!).

Overall, it was a fun, educational day with David and full of my favorite: DINOSAURS!    

Lady Needs-To-Sit's Starfish Guide

Restroom Rundown

In the Academy there was bathroom on just about every floor (technically there were six floors in total and four of them had restrooms!). This aspect was quite nice because I never felt like I was searching for a restroom. There was always one relatively nearby! I personally did not use the bathroom facilities, but David did in our time at the Academy - and you can rest assured they were clean as a whistle!

Seating Situation

I was so pleasantly surprised at the amount of seating throughout the Academy. My favorite spot was the window seats on the dinosaur mezzanine. Here I could rest and still have a nice view of the exhibits but also observe what was going on outside (yes, this mermaid is a nosy-rosey)! Each section of the Academy had some sort of seating, and plenty of it. I never felt like I was taking up limited space meant for the elderly or a tired parent.

Railing, Ramps & Elevators (Oh My!)

The Academy was very accessible when it came to signage of where elevators were located, and the elevators themselves were situated near the main staircases. This ensured that if part of your party wanted to take the stairs, it was easy to meet them at the top since the elevator was close by. I started our day by taking the stairs, working my new hip as much as I could, but then eventually ended up using the elevators. The stairs had excellent railing, and I felt like it supported my weight well. However, I'm not giving it a full 5 starfish rating due to the occasional few steps that were around the Academy that did not have an easy ramp access nearby.

Parking Lot Party

My apologies readers, I can’t properly rate the Academy’s parking situation because David and I walked there! Due to this, I’m giving 3 starfish - my neutral rating.

Will I Return?

I would return to the Academy of Natural Sciences if there was a new exhibit for a limited time. We unfortunately missed the last special exhibit by just a few days. I’m also intrigued by the “Dinos After Dark” event the Academy holds. So yes, I foresee myself returning and happily sharing my childhood love of dinosaurs and animals with the little ones in my life.

Swimmingly yours,

LNTS