How to Save Money on Museum Admission Costs
Museums are fantastic places to visit. However, if you make frequent trips throughout the year, it becomes a big expense to pay full price, especially if you are going with someone else. Everyone should be able to experience the arts and not have to pay a lot of money to do so. Here are some ways to pay a visit to some great museums and not have to empty out your wallet to do so.
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Visit smaller, local museums instead of always going to larger museums in a big city. The smaller museums usually have a much smaller admission charge than the larger museums and some even have free admission altogether.
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Take advantage of discounts if you are a senior, student or if you are bringing your child. Most museums will offer discounts off of their admission fee if you are over or under certain ages as well as offering discounts to students no matter what age they are.
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If you go to a specific museum often, consider becoming a member. Not only do members get free or reduced admission depending on the museum, but they also could get invitations to special events, parties and exhibits.
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If you live or are visiting New York City, consider getting a City Pass. The pass will allow you to pay a flat fee and give you admission to various places, including a few museums. You have several days from the date of first use to use up your pass (see Resources below).
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Go during certain hours. Many museums will have certain hours one or several days a week where they offer free or reduced admission. While it may only be a couple of hours, you can always go back another time to see whatever you missed.
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Go to the museum with your child’s class. Many schools take the kids on class trips to a museum relatively close. Offer to go as a class parent and you can view the museum for a discounted rate as part of going with the class.
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Check with the local museum to see if they offer discounted admission to local residents. You could save quite a few dollars just for living in the same area.
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Ask your credit card company or through your bank to see if they offer a free or reduced admission to any museums as rewards for being a member. There usually are restrictions, such as you having to go only on a certain day, but it’s better than paying full price.
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Smithsonian magazine has an annual Museum Day where, for one day, you and a friend get your choice of one free admission to hundreds of various museums (see Resources below).
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure to check into all restrictions that may apply when getting a discounted admission to any museum.
