The Rosenbach

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4.7

( 8 reviews )

Museums, Cultural Center, Art Museums

Closed 10:30 AM - 06:00 PM See Hours

2008-2010 Delancey St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States

+1 2157-321-600

The Rosenbach is a renowned museum and library located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Established in 1954, The Rosenbach is home to an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and fine art, making it a premier destination for literature and history enthusiasts. The museum's mission is to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of the written word through engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. With an emphasis on promoting literacy and intellectual exploration, The Rosenbach offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Whether it's exploring the extensive collection of literary treasures or participating in guided tours and special events, The Rosenbach provides a captivating journey through the world of literature and art. With its rich history and commitment to preserving and celebrating literary heritage, The Rosenbach continues to be a cherished cultural institution in Philadelphia and beyond.

Reviews

4.7/5

8 reviews

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John cornelius

March 22, 2024

Highly recommend, a hidden gem in Philly. The Rosenbach’s has a long family history and they did rare book collection. The tour Guide Joe is a great great person, knows a ton about this house and the interiors and tells story in an alluring way. I love the paintings in the house and also the shelves filled with books. Happen to find a pop-up book (Alice in Wonderland) and I’m absolutely mesmerized by it.

Lanae duchesneau

March 22, 2024

One of the best museum tours I’ve ever been on. The guides were knowledgeable and the museum is packed with hidden gems - such as books from the 1400’s! It also provides a glimpse into the history of Philadelphia. Recommend purchasing tickets beforehand as they have scheduled tours throughout the day. You can walk around a small exhibit for free, but we chose to purchase the $12.50 ticket to get access to a tour of the entire museum.

Jiayin lin

March 22, 2024

I had an amazing experience on my first trip to this museum. I learned about the Rosenbach brothers’ lives, and how one of them started to collect priceless books. Some of them were around the 1300s. The tour guide, who’s name is Steve, gave me and my dad a tour all over the house in a nice professional manner. He was amazed how I gave him history facts, and offered me to take a course on becoming a tour guide. Anyways, I would recommend that you go to the museum for an interesting experience. Thank you!

Bing wu

March 22, 2024

Lovely tour guide (even on their first day!), gorgeous house and decor, and incredible, first-edition books!!! So interesting to learn about the Rosenbachs and share in their wonder of literature. Some of the works were by Austen, Franklin, Carroll, Dickens... the list goes on. Pretty little back garden as well. Highly recommend visiting and/or or attending some of their events.

Chris “chrispow” mcclain

March 22, 2024

What an excellent experience! My tour guide had a contagious enthusiasm even while giving us the very last tour on a Sunday evening. This museum is fully of hidden gems that are sure to intrigue even those that aren't history aficionados! If you're on the fence about going, do it, you won't regret it! As for myself, I'll be sure to come back soon.

Brenda disbrow

March 22, 2024

Nice collection but very annoying that you can only see it with a guided tour. I wanted to explore on my own but had to listen to history of various pieces of furniture and paintings that didn’t interest me. Also, even when we got to the book collection, which to me was the point, it was very much tour guide led with little room for exploration of the impressive collection. I’d recommend allowing visitors access without a guided tour.

Brad glasgow

March 22, 2024

Hidden gem on a beautiful block with a large collection of old books and guided tours. Books going back to the invention of the printing press with the oldest around 1482. On the downside, sadly you can't touch/hold any books, some sections closed off since COVID, and there used to be a Maurice Sendak collection that is no longer present. Historical marker outside the museum. Only $5 admission with a student ID.

Jim fisher

March 22, 2024

This might be my favorite museum of all time! The collection of books is second to none. The atmosphere of the museum is cozy and unlike any place I’ve been before. The docents at the Rosenbach are thrilled to answer questions and give guided tours, which I recommend doing! This past year, I became a member of the Rosenbach, and I am so glad that I did.