Minnesota is home to a plethora of museums that showcase the state's rich history, art, and culture. While visiting these museums can be an enriching experience, the cost of admission can sometimes be a deterrent. However, there are several ways to explore Minnesota's museums without breaking the bank. Here are 10 tips for getting free admission to Minnesota museums, allowing you to indulge in the state's vibrant cultural scene without any financial strain.
Understanding Free Museum Days
Many museums in Minnesota offer free admission on certain days of the week or month. For instance, the Minneapolis Institute of Art offers free admission every day, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts. Similarly, the Walker Art Center provides free admission on the first Saturday of every month, as well as on Thursday evenings. It’s essential to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm their free admission policies, as they may be subject to change.
Take Advantage of Free Museum Days for Kids
Some museums in Minnesota offer free admission to children on specific days. The Children’s Museum of Minneapolis offers free admission on the third Sunday of every month, from 9 am to 5 pm. The Science Museum of Minnesota also provides free admission to children under the age of 3, making it an excellent destination for families with young kids. Additionally, many museums offer discounted or free admission to children during the summer months or on certain holidays.
| Museum | Free Admission Day |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis Institute of Art | Every day |
| Walker Art Center | First Saturday of every month, Thursday evenings |
| Children's Museum of Minneapolis | Third Sunday of every month |
| Science Museum of Minnesota | Children under 3 years old |
Library Passes and Discounts
Many public libraries in Minnesota offer free or discounted museum passes to their patrons. The Hennepin County Library and the St. Paul Public Library are just a few examples of libraries that provide museum passes. These passes can be checked out for a specific period, usually a week, and can be used to gain free admission to participating museums. Additionally, some libraries offer discounts on museum memberships, which can be a great option for frequent visitors.
Museum Membership Benefits
Purchasing a museum membership can be a cost-effective way to enjoy free admission to multiple museums in Minnesota. The Minnesota Children’s Museum offers a membership program that includes free admission to the museum, as well as discounts on special exhibitions and events. Similarly, the Minneapolis Institute of Art offers a membership program that includes free admission to the museum, as well as reciprocal membership benefits at other participating museums nationwide.
Some popular museum membership programs in Minnesota include:
- Minnesota Children's Museum: Offers free admission, discounts on special exhibitions and events, and reciprocal membership benefits at other children's museums
- Minneapolis Institute of Art: Offers free admission, reciprocal membership benefits at other participating museums nationwide, and discounts on special exhibitions and events
- Science Museum of Minnesota: Offers free admission, discounts on special exhibitions and events, and reciprocal membership benefits at other science museums
Special Events and Festivals
Minnesota hosts various special events and festivals throughout the year, many of which offer free or discounted admission to museums. The Twin Cities Jazz Festival and the Minnesota State Fair are just a few examples of events that offer free admission to participating museums. Additionally, many museums offer free admission on special holidays, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day or Museum Day Live.
Community Outreach Programs
Some museums in Minnesota offer free admission to underserved communities through community outreach programs. The Minneapolis Institute of Art offers a community outreach program that provides free admission to low-income families and individuals. Similarly, the Walker Art Center offers a community outreach program that provides free admission to underserved communities, as well as discounts on special exhibitions and events.
These community outreach programs are designed to make museums more accessible to everyone, regardless of income or social status. By participating in these programs, museums can help to promote cultural awareness and understanding, while also providing a valuable resource to the community.
What is the best way to find out about free museum days in Minnesota?
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The best way to find out about free museum days in Minnesota is to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm their free admission policies. You can also check with your local library or community center to see if they offer free or discounted museum passes.
Can I use my library card to get free admission to museums in Minnesota?
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Yes, many public libraries in Minnesota offer free or discounted museum passes to their patrons. You can check with your local library to see if they offer museum passes and what the terms and conditions are.
Are there any museums in Minnesota that offer free admission to children?
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Yes, there are several museums in Minnesota that offer free admission to children. The Children’s Museum of Minneapolis offers free admission to children under the age of 1, and the Science Museum of Minnesota offers free admission to children under the age of 3.
