The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is a fantastic place to learn about the contributions and accomplishments of America’s Jewish citizens throughout history. Located just off Independence Mall in Philadelphia, the museum explores a diverse array of topics and periods of America’s past and present, which can give a different and often fascinating perspective on historical events and characters.

One museum exhibit navigates America’s early commitment to religious freedom, and includes a letter from George Washington himself written to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island in 1790 guaranteeing freedom and equality for all religions. Other galleries explore the role of Jewish culture in arts and entertainment, and the Only In America gallery celebrates the lives of prominent Jewish citizens such as Albert Einstein, Jonas Salk, Harry Houdini, and Ruth Bader Ginsberg. While the museum is dedicated to American Jewish culture and history, events at the museum are widely inclusive and feature lectures and performances from the LGBTQIA+ community, Indigenous people, and people of color also. The museum welcomes all, and invites visitors from every background to share their own experiences and perspectives.

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History was originally founded in 1976 in the historic Congregation Mikveh Israel building but moved to its current location in 2005. It emerged from financial struggles in 2021, when Stuart Weitzman (a high-end shoemaker who, among other things, designs the footwear for Oscar nominees at the Academy Awards) contributed to keeping the museum in place. In honor of this donation his name was added to the museum’s title.

Part of what makes America great is the contributions of the many diverse cultures that have helped shape it. The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is a fun stop when in Old City, and located only a block away from the Constitution Center. As a Smithsonian-affiliated museum, admission is free and visitors can see the exhibits from 10am-5pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. For more information on upcoming events and exhibits visit their website here.