How to Visit U.S. Museums for Free
Visiting museums is difficult, and often comes with a steep price tag. Hurdles between the hopeful visitor and the institution range from transportation and parking woes, operating hours that clash with the typical 9-5 work schedule, availability of refreshments and comfortable seating- and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Perhaps one of the largest hurdles separating audiences from their institutions and vice versa is the dreaded admission fee. However for those able to do a little research beforehand, many museums participate in access initiatives that can remove or reduce this barrier. Here are some tips on how to enjoy a day of educational entertainment without breaking the bank:
Student & Senior Citizen Discount Programs
Perhaps the most commonly accepted discounts are those issued to students and senior citizens. A quick search on the internet or call to the museum in question can help you form a picture in advance of your outing. Note that many institutions will require some sort of ID to verify you qualify, whether that’s a high school or university-issued student ID, Medicare card, or drivers license.
Museums for All
With over 500 participating museums, the Museums for All nationwide access ensures families receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are offered either free or deeply discounted admission. All manner of institutions participate in this program, ranging from art galleries, science centers, historical houses, zoos, and more. Interested? Search Museums For All’s database of partner institutions here.
Museums on Us
Do you have a Bank of America card? If so, take advantage of their Museums on Us program! With free admission to over 225 cultural institutions during the first weekend of each month, it’s a great loophole for young adults who don’t qualify for other discount programs. Upcoming Museums on Us dates are April 4th-5th, May 2nd-3rd, June 6th-7th, and the 4th of July weekend! To start planning your weekend of stress-free learning, click here.
Blue Star Museums
While many museums offer free or reduced admissions for those in the military, institutions participating in the Blue Stars Museums initiative provide free admission for the whole family from May to September. You can search Blue Star Museums’ database here.
5. Library Card Holders
The trend of offering free admission to library card holders seems to be on the rise in the United States, growing off the popularity of New York City’s Culture Pass. While a complete database of all museums that offer free admission to library card holders does not exist yet, it’s well worth a quick search or call.
6. AAA Members
Are you an AAA (American Automobile Association) member? If so, it’s time to peruse their Discounts & Rewards page! Underneath the “Theme Parks & Attractions” listing is a whole host of museums you can visit for a reduced admissions price when you show your AAA membership card.