Three Ways to Save on Museum Fees
Now that summer is here, we’re all looking for ways to keep our kids busy without breaking the bank. I love our area museums, but have you seen the admission prices? Once you add in parking, a snack and a gift, it’s a budget buster. Luckily there are three programs to help us keep everyone occupied within budget.
The Museum Adventure Pass presented by Macy’s is run through your local library. All you have to do is present your library card to receive a print-out with the discounted museum pass. Most of the discounts are good for one week. The only catch is a limited number of people (usually one) can check-out the discounted pass at any time. It’s best to plan ahead so you have your deal in hand when you need it.
Target offers free and discount admissions to numerous local arts organizations including theaters and museums. Of course, the summer arts festival at Millennium Park is a family-friendly daily event in one of Chicago’s most family-friendly places.
With Museums on Us, Bank of America provides free admission to credit or debit card holders the first weekend of every month. While you do have to be a Bank of America cardholder to participate, what’s worth remembering about this program is that it is national. You can find museums in most major cities participating. It’s something to remember as you plan your next vacation.
Do you know of another program that will help families stay engaged and within budget? If so, please leave the information as a comment. The more information we can share, the better for all of us.
Shari writes about life with twins at Two Times the Fun. Photo courtesy of Stock Exchange.
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If you are looking for a great family event this weekend that is free then look no more! The Cubs are hosting their first Wrigleyville Block Party this weekend and it sounds like fun. Check out details here http://bit.ly/mHSSE2
Have to give a shout out for Elmhurst’s little museums – all walking distance from the Metra train, ice cream, shops and food. (And no crowds!)
Here’s my infomercial:
Elmhurst Historical Museum has a free Toyland exhibit that explores the toys invented in Chicago. Every Tuesday, they have a craft for $2.
http://www.elmhurst.org/index.aspx?nid=620
There is also an Art Museum that has Free family activities are offered to all visitors with price of admission.
http://www.elmhurstartmuseum.org/
And my kids’ favorite is the Lizzadro “Rock Museum” that has free admission on Fridays. The gift shop is wonderful. One level is being rehabbed over the summer, but it’s right next to Wilder Park.
http://www.lizzadromuseum.org/index.html
Wednesday is Cool Cars night:
http://www.elmhurstcitycentre.com/sp/coolcars.html
I knew of the first one, in fact, we grabbed the very last one available to us for the Chicago Botanic Garden just a couple of days ago.
Thanks for sharing! I want to cram as much fun with the kids as possible these last couple of weeks, now that the heat wave seems to be breaking.