Neon Museum of Philadelphia

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Neon Museum of Philadelphia

A sampling of some of the neon signs on display at the Museum.

Credit

Michael Bixler (retrieved from hiddencityphila.org)

Site overview

The Neon Museum of Philadelphia provides an engaging space for visitors to hypnotize themselves in the glow of beautifully preserved neon signs, art exhibitions, and entirely new neon creations. Started by Professor Len Davidson in 1979, the Neon Museum of Philadelphia is a celebration of the lost art of neon sign making and 20th-century Americana as a whole. Visitors are welcome to not only explore the Museum's unique pieces but even take part in activities such as a recreation of a classic Philadelphia sidewalk-chalk game. The Neon Museum is a celebration of all things America and represents an ode to the cutting edge of yesterday.

Neon Museum of Philadelphia

A sampling of some of the neon signs on display at the Museum.

Credit

Michael Bixler (retrieved from hiddencityphila.org)

Site overview

The Neon Museum of Philadelphia provides an engaging space for visitors to hypnotize themselves in the glow of beautifully preserved neon signs, art exhibitions, and entirely new neon creations. Started by Professor Len Davidson in 1979, the Neon Museum of Philadelphia is a celebration of the lost art of neon sign making and 20th-century Americana as a whole. Visitors are welcome to not only explore the Museum's unique pieces but even take part in activities such as a recreation of a classic Philadelphia sidewalk-chalk game. The Neon Museum is a celebration of all things America and represents an ode to the cutting edge of yesterday.

How to Visit

Open to the public Friday 1 PM-6PM, Saturday and Sunday 12-5 PM. Reservations Preferred

Explore Modern House Partnership

Your Docomomo US membership will grant you a 10% discount at the Neon Museum of Philadelphia Gift Shop. Offer does not apply to online orders.

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Location

Neon Museum of Philadelphia

1800 N American Street
Philadelphia, PA, 19122

Country

United States
More visitation information

A sampling of some of the neon signs on display at the Museum.

Credit:

Michael Bixler (retrieved from hiddencityphila.org)

A sampling of some of the neon signs on display at the Museum.

Credit:

Michael Bixler (retrieved from hiddencityphila.org)

Original Brief

 

The Neon Museum of Philadelphia got its start in the 1970s, when Professor Len Davidson opened his American Dream-themed tavern, The Gamery. This quirky locale contained relics of Americana, from Lionel trains, antique pinball displays, and a Hollywood celebrity booth. Illuminating the whole space were Neon signs, their allure starting Davidson on a long path that brought him back to his hometown of Philadelphia in 1979. Seeking out the remaining tube benders and scavenging for neon treasures left by the wayside, Davidson became deeply involved in all things neon. Starting Davidson Neon Design and the Neon Museum of Philadelphia to preserve and create new neon art, Davidson provides a space for visitors to become immersed in the glow of yesteryear and learn about the production of these vibrant decorations.