Masonic Temple image

Masonic Temple

Tourist attraction Museum Fraternal organization Masonic building

One of the Top rated Museums in Philadelphia


Address

1 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States

Website

pamasonictemple.org

Contact

+1 215-988-1900

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (935 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 4 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: tour (35) history (20) building (20) architecture (14) Philadelphia (12) Masonic (12) guide (11) Temple (10) time (9) hour (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Rachelle M. 1 year ago on Google
    OMG a serious find! A must see! Incredible Free Mason and Knight’s Templar rooms! Worldly architecture that you would never expect to see. So glad we stumbled upon it in Philadelphia!!
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Barb Hauck-Mah (. 11 months ago on Google • 513 reviews
    This was our first visit. We were impressed with the majesty and history of the Masonic Temple, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Our tour guide was excellent, concisely answering everyone's questions. We had no idea that so many U.S. presidents and other American notables were Masons. As expected, there were multiple representations of Ben Franklin's image and he has his own hall. Each hall lavishly represents a different architectural style, such as Ionic, Romanesque or Egyptian. The artifacts in the exhibit cases were helpful in explaining aspects of the Mason's beliefs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amos J. 4 months ago on Google • 360 reviews
    It was a great experience to be able to look around and tour this historic building. I am happy we made the decision to take this tour. The facility is beautiful and filled with history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Greg A. 9 months ago on Google • 240 reviews
    OMG, a time capsule of the Gilded Age. The Masonic Temple is celebrating 150 years and it’s absolutely stunning. The tour last an hour and is worth every penny and it’s amazing that this place is it packed. It’s a must see when you come to Philadelphia.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ariana 8 months ago on Google • 333 reviews
    Well kept architectural gem. This is definitely worth a stop if you have any interest in architecture or decor. Great for photos. Our tour guide wasn't super knowledgeable about the space so you may want to do some research ahead of time Tips: You can't buy same day tickets online You should try to arrive 10 minutes before the tour The tour takes about an hour There is an elevator available for those who have trouble with stairs
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ephraim D. 3 years ago on Google
    Diamond in the heart of Philadelphia. Came for a concert in the main hall and was blown away by the beauty and majesty of the building. Interior views that take your breath away. A rich and fascinating history that adds mystery and intrigue to the Founding Father's and their brotherhood and binds with this most secretive and storied group. Not to be missed!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sara Beth W. 2 years ago on Google
    Really amazing from an architectural/design standpoint, though you realize how much master builders can make one thing look like another. Most of the folks (all men) I was on the tour with seemed to have some sort of masonic connection, but it's worth a look even if you don't have one. It's really stunning on the level of grand palaces overseas. That being said, it's basically a series of meeting halls that masonic groups can rent, they're all set up very similarly and some of the goings-on hold an air of secrecy which can be a little creepy. I found the guy at the front desk to be a little curt, but I think that's more a Philadelphia thing that anything else - I'm from the south and prefer a little more effusive kindness. But in the end, it's a bunch of freedom-loving master architects showing off what they do best, and it's really stunning to look at and well worth the hour and $15 it would cost you.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Osula L. 1 year ago on Google
    I came here by bus on a Tuesday morning in late June 2022. You're only allowed access to the building through a guided tour. I would only recommend this place if you have an interest in the Masonic Fraternity or the building. I found it fascinating. The entire tour was less about the history of the organization and more an advertisement of the dinner rooms and banquet halls they have for rent. Don't get me wrong, they were amazing, but I had to ask all the pressing questions I had in order to get the answers I was seeking - they did not offer it. I came in not knowing anything about the Free Masons. The architecture is really grand and at times jaw-dropping. They provide an hour-long tour each hour (see times online). Bring your student ID for a discount.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donald H. 4 months ago on Google • 351 reviews
    I wasn't sure what to expect initially however, when you enter this building your jaw will drop with just how GRAND it really is! There are several culturally diverse Rooms such as: Corinthians, Greek, Italian, etc. etc. that feature a guided tour scheduled at various time intervals (about an hour long your)! The Guide was knowledgeable & on point with several details in each room that your first-time visitor may not have noticed... As well as information regarding Free Masonry & rituals. The gift shop is well stocked & surprisingly affordable (there are also a number of items for sale you may not have expected to see).

  • 5/5 Rebecca C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful building rich in US history. Located just around the corner from the convention center, the masonic temple in Philadelphia was an easy place to visit. The building itself was beautiful but the inside was just amazing!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thi L. 2 years ago on Google
    The architecture of the building is stunning. It's a staircase lover's dream. So much history and beauty around every corner and on every floor. The establishment is very well preserved and the folks running the place are kind and helpful.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Free C. 1 year ago on Google
    WOW! Architecture is incredible! Every room is unique! Highly recommend visiting it!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ron M. 3 years ago on Google
    Thanks to our daughter for directing us to a guided tour of the Masonic Temple of Philadelphia. Very enjoyable and such an impressive building which is the size of an entire city block! It is simply Amazing! The cost today to build this magnificent building would be well over $ 250 million dollars. This Masonic Temple serves as the headquarters of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. It includes their Masonic Library as well as their Museum. It took 5 years to build, it was completed in 1873; then another 15 years to complete the interior! Our travels has taken us all over the world. This has to be one of the best sites we were glad to have visited. Booyah! Because of its immensity I have uploaded over 250 pictures of this amazing building!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mathew C. 1 year ago on Google
    Not going to lie, I originally thought of this place as a religious group and went in knowing only what little details I remembered from watching the movie National Treasure. So going in with a pretty much low expectation and no knowledge. This was actually the most informative and somewhat amusing tour guide I went on. Definitely make sure to see the tour times for the day you visit. There were a few Freemasons on the tour with us that elaborated a little more about other temples. Beautiful architecture and every room was aesthetically pleasing. A very fun stop and see place for an hour tour and not a lot of walking more sitting and learning and asking questions about the work of art that is the building.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Everett G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful edifice. The place is simply stunning. Here for an intimate Jazz performance of the music of Frank Sinatra and Nat "King" Cole.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Corey A. 2 years ago on Google
    Great architecture and amazing things to look at. I wish I could have gotten a chance to explore more of the building, but time and velvet roads wouldn't allow that.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Walter G. 2 years ago on Google
    Heard Fever concert here. String quarter and soloist singer. Christmas music. The quartet and particularly the excellent soloist were let down by the sound system. Booming bass and generally crackling higher registers diminished the otherwise fine performance. The room was well decorated with hundreds of led candles and the Temple itself is spectacular. I highly recommend a tour of the temple and a taste of the concerts put on there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Phillip P. 2 years ago on Google
    A beautiful architectural building, with plenty to see, such as paintings, statues, artifacts. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, seemed to really enjoy what he was doing. I would definitely return, could spend hours and hours here and constantly find new things and admiring the craft.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alani R. 2 years ago on Google
    I went in expecting to see some interesting architecture and I can't say I was disappointed in the slightest! The place can only be viewed by taking the guided tour, so make sure to buy tickets or show up for one of the 5-6 tours they do daily. You then get to see multiple extravagant rooms with insane levels of detail across every square inch. Included in the tour is not just a walkthrough of intense architecture, but also history of the freemasons and the building itself. The tour lasts about an hour and is a good activity to throw in-between attractions within the city.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 yvette o. 1 year ago on Google • 19 reviews
    My Dad was a Mason and I was so excited to visit the temple. It is STUNNING. It’s a building that is loved and cared for. You can see that from the moment you enter. I enjoyed the tour but wanted to spend more time in certain areas. Our guide was wonderful and knowledgeable. I would have liked it to start out with general information about Masons, their history and their roles. He did answer every question asked though! Loved the experience. ❤️Well worth the admission.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laura H. 5 months ago on Google • 28 reviews
    Absolutely beautiful, had a great tour very informative . Highly recommend if you are a history buff.

  • 5/5 Burke L. 9 months ago on Google • 26 reviews
    We had a great tour at the Philadelphia Masonic Temple. If you have never gone make the time. The tour lasts about an hour. Our guide was very informative and had a great knowledge about the history of the building and the work that the Mason perform.

  • 5/5 Dan P. 1 year ago on Google
    The Philadelphia Masonic Temple is a historic landmark in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Built in the 19th century, the temple boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture, with intricate details and ornate carvings that make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. The temple also houses a museum that showcases the history and significance of the Freemasons in America, featuring an impressive collection of artifacts, documents, and memorabilia. The guides you will meet here have extensive knowledge of the temple's history and the Freemasons, and they are very knowledgeable and engaging. They will give you a deep understanding of the significance and symbolism of the temple's design and artwork. Overall, the Philadelphia Masonic Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or secret societies. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

  • 5/5 Arman N. 1 year ago on Google
    I've admired this "castle" since I was a kid and was delighted to learn it offers tours! The building has a dazzling theatricality with some truly ingenious uses of traditional architectural forms in exotic combinations. A truly stunning building and thoroughly enjoyable tour guide keep the 90 minute experience interesting. The price of family tickets makes it a good value too!

  • 5/5 John F. 1 year ago on Google
    I lived in the area for decades and went for the first time today. $15 for adults, 1 hour tour This is a first-class tour where you visit rooms including the Norman Hall, Oriental Hall, banquet room where weddings and other functions are held, before returning to the Exhibit Hall (original library room). Energetic tour guide, we had brother John, will answer questions throughout and share corny jokes I loved. Look for George Washington's apron and Ben Franklin's sash.

  • 5/5 Angela M. 1 year ago on Google
    Went here for candlelit concert. My goodness, was I floored with the building's paintings, sculptures, and designs!! Very amazing! I only get to see small part of it, because of the event am goin, but would love to take proper tour. Once you're inside, it feels like you time traveled back in time!

  • 4/5 John Michael S. 2 years ago on Google
    Terrific spot to learn about the reign of wealthy white men through our nation’s history.

  • 5/5 Anita P. 10 months ago on Google
    It is a great historical place to visit and learn about one of the oldest organizations. Gorgeous architecture and the guide is very knowledgable .

  • 4/5 Frank L. 11 months ago on Google
    Did the tour as part of the buildings 150 anniversary. Very interesting.

  • 5/5 anthony m. 1 year ago on Google
    The guide was knowledgeable and funny. The interior rooms were beautiful

  • 5/5 Michael Shingo C. 2 years ago on Google
    Played a wedding here, definitely one of the most interesting and historic venues you could possibly book

  • 3/5 Alexandra D. 2 years ago on Google
    Hum...went for a Vivaldi performance with FEVER. I didn't get the chance to roam. The inside is gorgeous!

  • 5/5 Anwar Md H. 7 months ago on Google
    The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia stands as an architectural gem and a significant historical landmark, representing a fascinating blend of intricate design and Masonic tradition. Stepping inside this grand edifice, visitors are greeted by a captivating display of ornate details, symbolic decor, and a rich history embedded in every corner. The temple's interior showcases opulent ceremonial rooms, adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass, and symbolic motifs, offering a glimpse into the secretive world of Freemasonry. Guided tours take guests through the various chambers, revealing the symbolism, rituals, and history of this centuries-old fraternity. The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia is not only a testament to exquisite craftsmanship but also a portal into the enigmatic traditions and teachings of the Freemasons, providing an enlightening and captivating experience for history enthusiasts and those intrigued by the mystique of secret societies.

  • 3/5 Heidi G. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful building. The tour we took was less than. The tour guide was condescending, abrupt and really downright rude at times. Less than professional and not a good representation of Philly. If you don't like the general public then don't take on the role of giving tours. Sour experience. Wouldn't recommend. We went on July 22, 2023 at 2pm.

  • 5/5 Joseph Gunselman J. 3 years ago on Google
    Great tour with cool artwork and architecture. Definitely worth the visit to see the history.

  • 5/5 Therese B. 2 years ago on Google
    I saw a string quartet perform an incredible Queen tribute show by candlelight here. It was incredible. The temple is a true Philly treasure, but I'm dying to know what material the floors are made from. Google says not marble. :/

  • 5/5 Dropping D. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is awesome. Lots of picture opportunities. Tons of Pennsylvania and world history. Just a great place overall. Do yourself a favor and go see it.


Call +1 215-988-1900 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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