How To Visit The World’s Best Museums For Free
Museums are full of culture, history, and art; they offer visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human civilization.
In the heartbeat of every major city lies a treasure trove of knowledge and heritage, its museums. Whether steeped in history or showcasing the cutting edge of modern art, museums beckon to locals and tourists alike, both eager to uncover one of the city’s greatest essence.
Did you know that you can gain access to iconic landmarks like The Louvre, The Museum of Modern Art, The Hermitage, or even The Vatican without spending a penny? Believe it or not, it’s entirely possible! We’re excited to let you in on one of our favorite hacks that will revolutionize how you explore these stunning, historic places.
Museum Free Days: What are they?
So how can you visit these museums for free? The answer is museum free days! It’s a common practice in the museum community to offer free days for visitors to come enjoy.
Museum free days are specific dates when museums open their doors to the public without charging admission fees. These days are a fantastic way for tourists and locals to access cultural institutions and experience their exhibits without worrying about entrance costs. It’s a win-win situation, as museums get to engage with a broader audience, and visitors get to explore without the financial burden.
Benefits of Museum Free Days
Museum free days are a global phenomenon, with institutions from various countries participating in this practice. When planning your travels, be sure to check the official websites of museums or local tourism boards for information on free admission days. Additionally, some cities host special events or festivals during which multiple museums offer free entry, providing an excellent opportunity for a cultural marathon.
The financial benefits of museum free days are significant. For example, a family of four visiting a museum with an average admission fee of $20 per person could save $80 on a free day. These savings can be redirected towards other travel expenses like accommodation, additional attractions or of course, our favorite – food and dining!
Tips for Museum Free Days
Some words of advice when it comes to museum free days. This is an amazing deal after all, so you want to make sure that you can get the best out of it.
Check Ahead: This is the most important. Look online. Confirm the museum’s free days schedule in advance, as dates may vary throughout the year. There’s always a chance of something changing, so you definitely want to check before you go. Check our list below!
Arrive Early: Free days can attract larger crowds, so arriving early ensures a more comfortable and leisurely experience. Locals and other travel hackers like you will probably be there to enjoy the experience.
Plan Your Itinerary: Take advantage of free days by planning to visit multiple museums in the same area. This allows you to maximize your adventure and exploration.
Top Museums Around the World Offering Free Days
Museum free days offer a wonderful opportunity for travelers to dive into the world of art, history, and culture without straining their budgets. Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts, modern art, or natural history, there’s likely a museum with free admission waiting for you. So plan your itinerary wisely, explore the cultural wonders, and make the most of these opportunities during your travels!
United States of America
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York City, NY
Cost: $28 (Adults/Online) $30 (Adults/At MoMA)
Free Day: First Friday of every month from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM for NY residents (advance notice required)
Visit their official website for more details
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $20 (Adults/Resident) $25 (Adults/Non-Resident)
Free Day: Second Tuesday of each month and LA County residents after 3:00 PM Monday to Friday
Visit their official website for more details
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), San Francisco, CA
Cost: $30 (Adults)
Free Day: Free admission on the first Thursday of each month from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Visit their official website for more details
The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost: $32 (Adults)
Free Day: Free admission for Illinois residents every Monday, Thursday and Friday
Visit their official website for more details
Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $30 (Adults)
Free Day: Pay What You Wish admission is available on the first Sunday of each month and every Wednesday evening after 5:00 PM
Visit their official website for more details
Canada
Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver
Cost: CAD 29 (Adults)
Free Day: First Friday of every month from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Visit their official website for more details
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Montreal
Cost: CAD 24 (Adults)
Free Day: First Sunday of the month (except for exhibitions)
Visit their official website for more details
Europe
The Louvre, Paris, France
Cost: €22 (Adults)
Free Day: First Friday of each month after the 6:00 PM (except July and August)
Visit their official website for more details
Vatican Museums, Vatican City
Cost: €20 (Adults)
Free Day: Last Sunday of each month
Visit their official website for more details
Japan
Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo
Cost: ¥1000 (Adults), Free for high school students and younger
Free Day: May 18, September 18, November 3
Visit their official website for more details
National Museum of Modern Art (MOMAT), Tokyo
Cost: ¥500 (Adults), Free for high school students and younger
Free Day: May 18
Visit their official website for more details
The National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo
Cost: ¥500 (Adults), Free for high school students and younger
Free Day: May 18, November 3
Visit their official website for more details
Latin and South America
Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP), São Paulo, Brazil
Cost: R$ 60 (Adults)
Free Day: Tuesdays until 2/22/24
Visit their official website for more details
Mexico
Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec), Mexico City, Mexico
Cost: MXN 90 (Adults)
Free Day: Sundays for National Public and Foreigners residing in Mexico
Visit their official website for more details
Russia
The Hermitage, St. Petersburg, Russia
Cost: ₽500 (Adults)
Free Day: First Thursdays of every month for residents of Russia and some of EU
Visit their official website for more details
