Free Museum Days: Art, History, and Science for $0
Museum tickets add up fast, but there are many ways to walk in free. Monthly free days, Smithsonian Museum Day, library passes, and more.
“Students, the finest classrooms in the world have marble floors and famous paintings. On free days, the tuition is nothing at all.”
Ways to visit museums for free
1. Monthly free days
Many museums set aside a free day or evening each month, such as the first Sunday, the first Tuesday, or a weekly free evening. Some are free for residents of their city or county on certain days. Check the “Visit” or “Plan Your Visit” page of any museum you love.
2. Always-free museums
Some museums never charge general admission at all, including the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. and many university and small local museums.
3. Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day
Once a year, Smithsonian Magazine hosts Museum Day, when participating museums across the country offer free admission. Download a free ticket online, usually good for two people.
4. Library museum passes
Many public libraries lend free passes to local museums, zoos, and gardens. See our Library of Things handout.
5. Bank and card programs
Bank of America cardholders can visit 225+ museums free on the first full weekend of each month. See our Museums on Us handout.
6. Military and EBT programs
Blue Star Museums offers free summer admission for active-duty military families, and Museums for All offers free or reduced admission with an EBT card at participating museums.
Why I assign it to my students
- It is free. Same exhibits, no ticket price.
- Endless learning. Art, science, history, and culture for every age.
- Great for every season. Indoor fun on rainy or hot days.
How to plan a free visit, step by step
- Make a list of museums within an easy drive.
- Check each museum’s website for free days, free evenings, and resident discounts.
- Reserve tickets if needed. Some free days require free timed tickets.
- Put the dates on your calendar.
- Pack snacks and water, and check parking options ahead of time.
Professor Ima’s quick tips
- Free days can be busy. Arrive at opening or late in the day.
- Special exhibits often still cost extra, so enjoy the permanent galleries.
- Parking may not be free. Public transit or carpooling can help.
- Ask about senior days. Many museums offer free or reduced admission for older adults.
Who it’s great for
- Families: an inspiring day out with kids, minus the ticket bill.
- Grandparents: share a favorite exhibit with the grandkids.
- Retirees: a new museum every month adds up to a year of adventures.
- Students: many museums also offer free or discounted student admission.
Frequently asked questions
Are free days really free?
General admission is free. Special exhibits, parking, and food may cost extra.
When is Smithsonian Museum Day?
It is held once a year, usually in the fall. Check the Museum Day website for the next date.
How do I find free days near me?
Check each museum’s website, your local tourism site, or ask at your library.
Professor Ima B. Cheap
Free days, programs, and rules vary by museum and change over time. Confirm before you go. Cheap101 is not affiliated with any museum or with Smithsonian Magazine. More handouts: Free Stuff · Museums on Us