Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

As the first art school and museum in the United States, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) has celebrated the transformative power of art and art-making since 1805. PAFA is home to a world-class museum of American art, located across the street from the Convention Center in the Historic Landmark Building (designed by Frank Furness and opened to the public in 1876) and the contemporary Hamilton ... Building. PAFA’s collection and innovative exhibitions feature historic, 20th century, and contemporary works from artists like Mary Cassatt, Charles Willson Peale, Thomas Eakins, Barkley L. Hendricks, Henry Ossawa Tanner, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby. Private guided tours are available, as well as many public programs.  The Museum Store is an excellent spot to find a unique gift or souvenir, and both PAFA buildings offer event spaces for intimate or large gatherings where you can find yourself surrounded by works from some of America’s greatest artists.  In addition to the Museum, PAFA offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the fine arts and continuing education courses for the artist in us all.