Metro Detroit offers a variety of museums for families to enjoy all year long. As much as we love going back in time and getting hands on with science exhibits, museums can put a dent in your family budget.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of free admission days to take advantage of throughout the year. As much as I love free things to do with kids in metro Detroit, you must be prepared for big crowds! I suggest arriving early and checking ahead if you can reserve your free ticket online to avoid lines.
Here’s a complete calendar of free museum days you can enjoy in 2024. Note: Free admission days may change, so it’s always best to check ahead before heading out!
This article was recently updated on Sept. 16, 2024 by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her adding the latest free admission days for metro Detroit museums. Questions? Please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.
Free admission days metro Detroit
Cranbrook Institute of Science
- October 2024: 4
- November 2024: 1
- December 2024: 1
Cranbrook Institute of Science visitors can enjoy free admission on the first Friday of each month through December 2024. On the third Thursday of every month, visitors can enjoy free admission to Cranbrook Institute of Science from 5-8 p.m. and Cranbrook Art museum from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Detroit Historical Museum
- October 2024: 13
- November 2024: 10
- December 2024: 8
- January 2025: 12
In honor of their new exhibit, Kresge at 100, visitors can enjoy free admission on opening day (May 4) and on the second Sunday of every month.
Detroit Institute of Arts
- Always free for Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County residents
The DIA also offers free admission for kids ages 5 and under. Plan your family day out with our DIA guide.
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Kids ages 6 and under are always free.
Museum of the Natural History at University of Michigan
- Always free
The museum offers free admission all year round. Donations are appreciated.
More Free Museum Admission Opportunities
Bank of America Free Days
Have a Bank of America card? Simply present your card on the first full weekend of each month and get free admission to various metro Detroit museums. One per cardholder, so it won’t be free for the entire family (unless each of your children has a credit card), but a free adult admission is nothing to sneeze at.
Michigan Activity Pass
Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) connects Michigan library card holders with free or discounted access to their favorite museums, attractions, parks and campgrounds.
Museums For All Initiative
A fun day out at the museum isn’t always super fun for your wallet. Through Museums for All, families that receive food assistance can take advantage of free or significantly discounted admission for up to four people when they present their SNAP EBT card. With plenty of participating museums in Michigan, there’s no shortage of exciting discoveries to be had.
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