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Free and Cheap Museum Days

Are you a museum enthusiast on a tight budget? Or perhaps you're looking for ways to entertain your family or friends without breaking the bank? Well, you're in luck! Many museums around the world offer free or discounted admission days throughout the year. These events are designed to make art, history, and culture more accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

Free Museum Days

Nationwide Free Museum Days​

  • Smithsonian Free Day: The Smithsonian Institution offers free museum day on the 18th of every month (check individual museums for participation). With 19 museums across the country, you can explore America's history, science, and culture without spending a dime.
  • National Museum of Women in the Arts: This Washington D.C. museum offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month.
  • American Museum of Natural History: The New York City museum provides free admission to children under 2 years old every day, as well as pay-what-you-wish admission for everyone else on Wednesdays during January and February.

State-Specific Free Museum Days​

  • Florida Museum Free Day: Many museums throughout Florida offer free or discounted admission on the first Tuesday of each month. Participating institutions include the Miami Children's Museum and the Orlando Science Center.
  • California State Parks Free Day: In addition to state parks, several museums along the California coast participate in this program. These include the San Diego Natural History Museum and the California Museum.

International Free Museum Days​

  • National Museum of Ireland: The Dublin museum offers free admission on Tuesdays, as well as pay-what-you-wish pricing for everyone else on Sundays.
  • Canadian Museum Free Day: Many museums across Canada participate in this program. Participating institutions include the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Canadian National Railway Museum.

Discounts on Pay-What-You-Wish Days​

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art: On Wednesdays from 5:00 PM to closing, and Saturdays from 6:00 PM to closing, admission is pay-what-you-wish at this iconic New York City museum.
  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Pay-what-you-wish pricing applies on the second Tuesday of each month.

How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Day Out​

Plan ahead and check each participating museum's website for specific details, including any restrictions or requirements. Make sure to budget for food, transportation, or other expenses associated with your outing.

Tips

  • Group Discounts: Some museums offer discounts for groups of 10 or more visitors.
  • Educational Benefits: If you're planning a group visit, ask if the museum offers free or reduced admission for students and teachers.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteering at a local museum to gain free access while also giving back to your community.