Milwaukee Public Museum: Free or Discounted Admission Guide

The dinosaurs: An iconic attraction at the Milwaukee Public Museum

Planning a family adventure to the Milwaukee Public Museum? Don't let ticket prices keep you from exploring one of Milwaukee's most beloved cultural treasures. Here's your complete guide to saving money while creating unforgettable memories.

The Milwaukee Public Museum has been inspiring wonder and curiosity since 1882, and today it continues that tradition with numerous ways for families to visit for free or at a significant discount. Whether you're a North Shore resident looking for an educational weekend activity or planning a special outing with the kids, these money-saving opportunities make the museum accessible to everyone.

Always Free

Little Ones Explore for Free

The best news for families with young children? Kids 3 and under always get free admission – no special tickets or reservations needed. This makes the museum an excellent choice for families with toddlers who want to start building those early cultural experiences.

Membership = Unlimited Free Visits

If you're planning to visit more than once this year, an MPM membership is your smartest investment. Even the basic Dual membership at $85 pays for itself quickly and includes:

• Unlimited free admission to permanent exhibits and the Daniel M. Soref Planetarium

• $5 Giant Film tickets (instead of regular price)

• $5 parking at MacArthur Square garage

• 10% discount on museum shop purchases

• Exclusive member events and early weekend access

Pro tip for North Shore families: Higher-tier memberships unlock reciprocal admission to hundreds of museums nationwide – perfect for summer vacation adventures!

Monthly Free Days You Can Count On

Kohl's Thank You Thursdays

Mark your calendar for the first Thursday of every month – that's when Kohl's sponsors completely free admission for everyone. Here's what you need to know:

• Reserve your free tickets online up to one week in advance

• Group visits aren't allowed on these popular days

• Perfect for spontaneous family outings or meeting up with friends

Special Family Celebrations

Mother's Day & Father's Day Free Admission

The museum recognizes all types of caregivers with one free adult admission per family group on both Mother's Day and Father's Day. Simply call (414) 278-2728 to reserve your spot – it's their way of celebrating the important adults in children's lives.

Programs for Budget-Conscious Families

Museums for All (SNAP/EBT Program)

Families receiving SNAP benefits can visit for just $3 per person (kids 3 and under remain free) by showing an EBT card at the admissions counter. The card serves as ID, but you'll pay the discounted rate with cash or credit card. This program accepts EBT cards from any state, making it accessible for visiting families too.

Milwaukee County Resident Discount

As North Shore residents, you automatically qualify for a special discount on admission when purchasing tickets – the savings are applied automatically at checkout when you buy online.

Student and Military Savings

Active military personnel and college students pay just $21 for admission (compared to regular adult pricing) when showing valid ID at the admissions counter.

Planning Group Adventures

School Field Trips

Planning an educational adventure for your child's class or homeschool group? Milwaukee County schools get free student admission from September through November, while other schools can access discounted rates starting at $8 per student for qualifying schools.

Family Group Outings

Organizing a birthday party or extended family gathering? Groups of 10 or more receive discounted rates:

• Adults: $21

• Teens (14-17): $20

• Seniors (65+): $17

• Youth (4-13): $15

Important: Group visits require advance booking and prepayment at least two weeks ahead, and aren't permitted on Kohl's Thank You Thursdays.

Smart Visiting Tips for North Shore Families

Plan Ahead for Popular Programs

• Kohl's Thank You Thursday tickets can be reserved one week in advance – set a monthly reminder!

• Group visits and school field trips require two weeks advance notice

• Holiday free admission days (Mother's/Father's Day) need phone reservations

Check Current Exhibits

The museum is preparing for its exciting move to a new facility in 2027, which means some exhibits may have modified hours or temporary closures. Always check their website before visiting to confirm what's open.

Make the Most of Your Visit

• Parking validation brings garage parking down to $5 for members

• The museum shop offers member discounts – great for educational souvenirs

• Consider timing your visit during less crowded weekday hours for a more relaxed experience

Contact Information

• General Information: (414) 278-2728

• Membership Questions: (414) 278-6170

• Email: communications@mpm.edu

With children 3 and under always free, monthly free admission days, resident discounts, and affordable membership options, there's never been a better time to make the Milwaukee Public Museum part of your family's regular adventures. Whether you're exploring the famous "Streets of Old Milwaukee," marveling at dinosaurs in "The Third Planet," or catching a show at the Planetarium, these savings opportunities ensure that cost won't stand between your family and discovery.

The museum's commitment to accessibility means every North Shore family can afford to create those magical moments of wonder and learning that make childhood special. Start planning your next museum adventure today – your kids (and your wallet) will thank you!

Ready to start exploring? Visit the Milwaukee Public Museum's website to check current hours, reserve your Kohl's Thank You Thursday tickets, or learn more about membership benefits. Adventure awaits just a short drive from the North Shore!