DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa (WHP) — The State Museum of Pennsylvania is closing for a 3-year renovation beginning Monday, August 3rd making this week the last chance for visits until 2029.
In June 2025, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) announced the $55 million upgrade to the State Museum building and the tower that formerly housed the State Archives.
The project is the largest upgrade to the facility since it opened in 1964.
The third floor of the museum closed on January 4th of this year. The museum says that the full museum closure is necessary because all floors are being impacted by the project.
As part of their countdown to the project, general admission from July 1 to August 2 is pay-as-you-wish.
The museum is expected to reopen in early 2029.
Details of Upgrades
When the initial investment was made in June 2025, the museum shared the following information about the renovations.
“This project is more than a renovation—it’s an invitation to Pennsylvanians to explore their home state. With this project, we are creating a vibrant space for telling Pennsylvania’s rich and significant history, making improvements to meet the expectations of today’s visitors and adding new dynamic experiences,” said Andrea Lowery, PHMC Executive Director. “As stewards of this history for future generations, we are also making critical improvements to provide state-of-the-art environments for the long-term protection and preservation of the artifacts entrusted to our care.”
Enhanced Visitor Experience | State Museum of PennsylvaniaNew welcome experience with renovated lobby and a new introductory exhibitInstallation of two 15-person passenger elevators within the museumCreation of a new event space and roof terrace on the fifth floorNew museum storesImproved visitor amenitiesEnhanced Visitor Experience | PHMC TowerInstallation of two 15-person passenger elevators within the PHMC towerCreation of an educational observation level at the 16th floor of the PHMC towerImproved StewardshipNew collections storage areas with state-of-the-art environmental controlsNew changing exhibit gallery for hosting special artifact loans and traveling exhibits