Experience Doylestown’s Beloved Mercer Museum

The Mercer Museum has been a go-to spot in Doylestown since it was built in 1916, with people traveling all over the country to experience the superb exhibits. Between the low prices and 55 exhibits, it is no surprise that the Mercer is a fan favorite. The Mercer allows for self-guided tours through their permanent exhibits, which include objects that document the lives of early Americans; these objects contain products of early American craft, trade, occupation, lighting devices, and architectural hardware. This Museum has a lot of other benefits that are hard to pass up.

The Mercer Museum is open for visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The research library is open Tuesday-Wednesday from 1-5 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Senior citizens and immunocompromised guests are allowed to early-hour admission, meaning they can get early access to exhibits, which are available from 10-11 a.m. The cost for the museum is also reasonable, with members and children under five receiving free entry. The youth tickets are $8, students are $10, seniors are $13, and adults cost $15. However, numerous discounts can be applied, including museum members, members of AAA, Blue Star Families, active military, local teachers, and veterans. Parking is another free benefit. Cheryl Archibascio, who has never been to the Mercer, but hopes to someday, says, “The price is very reasonable considering all that is being offered to you. Free parking is also exciting since it is rare these days.”

Once inside the museum, there are numerous exhibits offered, allowing for a beneficial learning experience. Out of the 55 exhibits, there are over 40,000 artifacts, all showing how life for early Americans used to be. Jennifer McCarthy, who has been to the Mercer multiple times, states, “I had an all-around great experience; I learned a lot from the artifacts shown. But I am sure there is always more to learn.” These exhibits are permanent, but there are always opportunities to experience something new. There are featured exhibits, including Music at the Mercer and Awaken – an experimental exhibit. McCarthy continues to say, “I remember they held a lego exhibit years ago, and I took my kids. It was obvious they put a lot of effort into it; it was extremely memorable.” There are also multiple events held, including fundraisers and classes. For those who don’t have the time to go to Mercer or would rather experience it virtually, there is an option for a virtual self-guided tour. This tour takes you through pictures and descriptions of different exhibits of your choice.

During my experience at the Mercer Museum, there was a lot of information to learn from. Upon arrival, my group and I made our way inside the castle-like building, where we bought tickets and had the option of an audio guide. We went down to the main hall, where large artifacts hung on the walls and ceiling. Some artifacts included were wagon pieces, canoes, baskets, chairs, and sleds, all carrying a unique story. The most notable part of the museum was the artifacts hanging on the wall and ceiling and understanding the history behind them. The Mercer Museum is a historical attraction with interesting information within its walls. If you are interested in the history of Americans or want something to do, go to the Mercer Museum.