Woodmere Smith Hall

Woodmere Art Museum — Museum Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Zoom out. What’s this place all about? Set on six acres in Chestnut Hill (about a 30-minute drive from the city), the Woodmere requires more of a commitment than a museum in Center City , but it's worth the trip. The stone mansion, carriage house, and grounds offer a step back in time with a breath of fresh air. A museum's permanent collection is its defining feature: How was this one? The Woodmere's collection is focused entirely on Philadelphia art and artists with more than 8,000 pieces in its collection. Exhibits keep us coming back. What can we expect? The programming at the Woodmere attracts more than art lovers. In addition to music, movies, lectures and events, they also have family-friendly events (the annual straw maze, for one). What did you make of the crowd? This museum's location outside of Philadelphia makes it a well-kept secret. You'll find mostly locals here. On the practical tip, how were the facilities? The stone mansion is set on six acres of gardens, and walking to discover the sculptures is a nice way to spend an afternoon. Any guided tours worth trying? Guided tours are geared for groups (for a fee) but during the summer, they offer special children's tours. Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it? It's heavy on artisan-made jewelry and pottery. Is the café worth a stop? There is no cafe available here, but nearby restaurants fit the bill. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? Wander the gardens to discover larger-than-life sculptures." - Nancy DePalma

Chestnut Hill’s museum devoted to Philadelphia artists, expanding in 2025 with Frances M. Maguire Hall for Art and Education. Profiled by The Philadelphia Inquirer, it foregrounds Violet Oakley, Arthur B. Carles, and a diverse contemporary scene.