Name: Museum Without Walls: Philadelphia’s Open-Air Art Museum
Address: 123 Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Telephone: (222) 999-9999

Museum Without Walls: AUDIO – Philadelphia’s Open-Air Art Museum

A Museum Like No Other

Imagine walking through the streets of Philadelphia and stumbling upon a world-class sculpture—no ticket needed, no opening hours, no barriers—just art, freely accessible. Welcome to the Museum Without Walls: AUDIO, an award-winning public art experience that transforms Philadelphia’s parks and sidewalks into an interactive, open-air museum. This initiative, led by the Association for Public Art (aPA), invites visitors to explore over 50 sculptures across the city while listening to rich, insightful audio stories narrated by artists, historians, civic leaders, and locals.

Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a longtime resident, this self-guided audio tour offers a unique and immersive way to connect with Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.

What Is Museum Without Walls: AUDIO?

Museum Without Walls: AUDIO is a free, self-guided audio tour that brings the stories behind Philadelphia’s public sculptures to life. Instead of plaques or guided tours, visitors use their phones or mobile apps to hear the hidden histories, creative processes, and cultural significance of each artwork.

The project is inspired by André Malraux’s concept of a “Musée Imaginaire”—a museum without physical boundaries—and reimagines it for the 21st century with technology, storytelling, and community voices.

Where to Explore: Key Locations and Sculptures

The Museum Without Walls audio program spans major parts of Philadelphia, especially along:

Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Kelly Drive
Rittenhouse Square
Fairmount Park
City Hall vicinity

Some must-see sculptures featured in the audio tour include:

LOVE by Robert Indiana – A symbol of Philly, perfect for selfies and proposals.
Iroquois by Mark di Suvero – A striking red steel structure near the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The Thinker (Auguste Rodin’s version) – Outside the Rodin Museum, a classic masterpiece.
All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers and Sailors – A powerful tribute with stories of forgotten African American soldiers.
Jesus Breaking Bread – Located at 30th Street Station, blending faith, art, and daily life.

In total, the project includes over 75 audio segments, representing more than 160 diverse voices.

How to Experience It

There are three easy ways to experience Museum Without Walls: AUDIO:

Mobile Phone (Call-in)
- Dial 215-399-9000.
- Enter the stop number located near each sculpture on signage.
- Listen to a 2–3 minute story about the artwork.
Bloomberg Connects App
- Download the free Bloomberg Connects app (iOS or Android).
- Search for “Association for Public Art.”
- Access maps, audio, images, and background info.
Website Access
- Visit the official aPA website.
- Explore the interactive map and listen online.
- Great for virtual travelers and educators.

Each story is designed to be engaging, brief, and told by people directly connected to the piece—from family members of the sculptor to city historians and even local children.

Best Times to Visit

Since it’s an outdoor art experience, the best time to enjoy Museum Without Walls: AUDIO is:

Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather for walking and sightseeing.
Early Mornings or Late Afternoons: Enjoy natural light for photography and fewer crowds.
Evenings in Summer: Many sculptures are beautifully lit at night.

Philadelphia’s cityscape provides a beautiful backdrop to the art, and many sites are near cafés, museums, and scenic parks, making it ideal for day trips or weekend outings.

Who Should Explore It?

This public art program is ideal for:

Art lovers interested in sculpture and public installations.
History buffs who want to learn about Philadelphia’s cultural evolution.
Tourists seeking free things to do in Philadelphia.
Families and educators looking for educational outdoor activities.
Photographers and content creators in search of unique visuals.

It’s accessible, family-friendly, and wheelchair-friendly in many locations.

Why It Matters

Museum Without Walls: AUDIO goes beyond sightseeing—it fosters public dialogue, celebrates diversity, and preserves historical memory. It:

Democratizes access to art—no museum ticket, no entry fee, no walls.
Brings art into everyday life, making the city itself the gallery.
Promotes local voices by integrating community members into storytelling.
Supports cultural tourism in Philadelphia.

In a digital age, this blend of place-based storytelling and public engagement is a model for cities worldwide.

Awards and Recognition

Backed by the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.
Recognized by tourism boards and art organizations nationwide.
Frequently featured in top travel guides and educational resources.
A model for similar projects across the U.S. and abroad.

Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking across various neighborhoods and parks.
Bring headphones or earbuds – For a better audio experience on your phone.
Use Google Maps in combination with the aPA’s map for easy navigation.
Combine it with a visit to nearby attractions – Like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Barnes Foundation, or the Schuylkill River Trail.
Charge your phone before setting out.

Make Art Part of Your Philadelphia Trip

Whether you have a few hours or a full day, Museum Without Walls: AUDIO offers an unforgettable way to experience Philadelphia. It’s free, flexible, and deeply enriching. You’ll see the city not just as a collection of buildings and roads—but as a living museum, telling stories of creativity, struggle, pride, and community.

So next time you’re in Philly, grab your phone, put on your headphones, and walk into one of the most accessible and inspiring art experiences in the world—without ever stepping inside a building.