Independence Seaport Museum explores Philadelphia’s rich maritime history in a fitting location on Penn’s Landing overlooking the Delaware River. The exhibits “Bound for Philadelphia” and “Coming to America” highlight the city’s immigration history and its importance in the growth of the nation’s population. It also explains the hardships and hazards often faced by the many immigrants who crossed the Atlantic in search of a new life.

Exhibits on small crafts, industrial shipping, and deep-diving technology give the museum a modern aspect. Enjoy excellent views of the Delaware River throughout many of the exhibit spaces, making it easy to imagine the hordes of people landing on that very shore in centuries past.

While you’re here, you can also explore the USS Olympia, which served as a flagship in the Spanish-American War, and the USS Becuna, a World War II submarine. Both National Historic Landmarks are open during museum hours, and noon–4 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month you can get a behind-the-scenes guided tour of additional areas that are normally closed to the public.