May First Saturday Open House: AnatoMAY with the Wagner Free Institute of Science

What can real-life observation — of skeletons, fossils, and other natural specimens— teach us about the inner workings of humans and animals? 

Join the and The Mütter Museum and Historical Medical Library in learning about anatomical structures, how the study of anatomy has developed since the 19th century, and the vital role museums and their collections play in advancing scientific knowledge.

Enjoy an engaging presentation about comparative anatomy, as well as a plethora of hands-on activities for all ages! Test your scientific knowledge with a skeleton matching game, a bone model pop-up, and a make-your-own paper skeleton!

Visitors can also draw from observation of the Wagner’s vast collection of skeletons and taxidermy to draw their own scientific illustrations. Hang your drawings in the museum or take them home with you. Then head out to the Wagner’s Teaching Garden to create and take home your very own wet specimen! Learn about different preservation methods, explore the garden for various natural materials (including flowers, bugs, sticks), and preserve them in small jars with the help of Wagner staff.

Sara Ray, PhD, Senior Director of Interpretation and Engagement at The Mütter Museum and Historical Medical Library, will deliver a special talk in our Victorian lecture hall at 1 PM and again at 3 PM! Learn about the 19th-century science of comparative anatomy and the central role of museums in the scientific quest to understand nature’s order and laws. There will also be educational materials related to historic anatomical and medical instruction on view!

The Wagner Exhibit Hall will be open for self-guided exploration of the natural history collection throughout the day. Explore our 100,000 natural history specimens, including ancient fossils, glowing minerals, and animals from around the globe. Wander at your own pace or follow the path of one of our themed scavenger hunts!

Things to Know Before Your Visit to the Wagner Free Institute of Science:

• Walk-in visitors are welcome. Advance registration is appreciated and will speed up your entry to the museum.
• There is no coat check or place to stow personal items – please travel light.
• The museum is located on the second floor of the building. There are 5 steps at the entryway and a flight of stairs to access the museum. It is not wheelchair accessible.
• To protect the specimens and our historic interiors, photography is not allowed in the museum. Open containers of food and drink are not permitted in the building.
• The Institute does not have a parking lot. Street parking on Montgomery Avenue and 17th Street is free. There is 2-hour free parking on Bouvier Street and on many blocks near the Wagner and metered parking on Cecil B. Moore Avenue. The nearest parking garage is at the Liacouras Center on 15th Street and Montgomery Avenue.