teen programs

education is key

At Independence Seaport Museum, we believe education is key for inspiring future generations of thinkers, historians, engineers, builders, and conservationists.  All of our programs center around not only our mission, but how the skills learned can be adapted to their daily lives and help improve their community.  We offer a wide array of programs suitable for high school students. 

River Ambassadors

The River Ambassadors program is a ten-week, paid work and learning experience for Philadelphia teens entering 10th-12th grade. The River Ambassadors program trains teens to work as ambassadors of sustainability, STEM and history for Independence Seaport Museum visitors. Our unique program form allows high school students to earn money, learn about the science and history of the Delaware, and move forward as resources to and advocates for their respective communities. 

For more information, click here!

Apply here!

Please submit an application before April 19th at 12 AM to be considered for priority interviews.

Lead support for Independence Seaport Museum’s River Ambassadors is provided by the William Penn Foundation. Support also provided by The W. W. Smith Charitable Trust, The Hamilton Family Charitable Trust, The Arcadia Foundation, The Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation, and The Dolfinger-McMahon Foundation.

Workers restoring boats at The Independence Seaport Museum

Sailor Program

The SAILOR STEM Program takes aim at connecting our region’s youth to the water through wooden boatbuilding.  Our hands on approach encourages growth in Engineering, Mathematics, and the Sciences as well as team building, problem solving, and leadership.  

How to get here:

Independence Seaport Museum is located on Philadelphia’s Penn’s Landing waterfront. We are a short walk from the Old City historic district and can be accessed on foot either from Market Street (Follow the steps down to the river and then walk along the water until you see our building.) or from Columbus Boulevard (Cross over Columbus Boulevard via Dock Street, make a left at the Hilton, and then a right at the Walnut Street light. Then continue straight until you see our building). 

Public Transportation

  • SEPTA: Bus routes 17*, 21*, 25, 42*, and 48. Market-Frankford Line, 2nd street station
  • PATCO: The 8th & Market stop is the closest to the Museum, just a quick cab ride or walk through the historic district.
  • Use GoPhillyGo for biking, walking, and public transportation directions to visit us.
* Indicates routes that have been rerouted due to the closure of the Chestnut Street Bridge. Please click here to learn more.

visit the seaport museum

Immerse yourself in award-winning exhibitions and climb aboard the Olympia, a nineteenth-century cruiser, and the Becuna, a World War II-era submarine.  

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