Museums and their collections are priceless treasures--and sometimes it feels like you have to fork over all your own treasure just to buy an entrance ticket. For those who prefer to admire art, absorb culture, and learn about science and technology for nothing, Smithsonian Media is hosting their 6th annual Museum Day on Saturday, September 25th. Museums all over the country will be open to anyone who prints out a free Museum Day ticket. You can search for participating museums on the Smithsonian site and get some ideas from IgoUgo members.
Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn, NY
Brooklynite22 claims the Brooklyn Museum is easy to get to by subway and bus--it is!--and that it’s often overlooked by visitors to NYC. It shouldn’t be, because it’s one of the oldest and largest museums in the country and has one of the best Egyptian art and artifacts exhibits in the world. As an added bonus, it’s rarely as crowded as museums in Manhattan. If you’re there, don’t miss a chance to also see the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Getty Center in Los Angeles, CA
Who doesn’t love a cultural institution that’s also a great place to get lunch or a drink? Raj B. says the Getty is just that, as well as a first-rate art museum. While it’s usually what’s on the inside that counts for a museum, don’t miss the Tram ride and a walk around the grounds for amazing views of LA.
Littleton Historic Museum in Littleton, CO
This museum is mainly outdoors, and it showcases pioneer life in the 1800’s. Vickifunes counts it as one of her favorite historical representations in the U.S. and that her grandchildren love the interactive exhibits and the working farm.
Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center in Mystic, CT
Eve Carr lets us know that we shouldn’t be fooled by the serious name of this museum, because while it may be a first class research center, it’s also full of exciting lifelike displays and a realistic replica of a Pequot Village. Once you’re in Mystic, it's a short trip to the Submarine Force Museum, home of the nuclear sub U.S.S. Nautilus.
Boston Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, MA
This one is a big one and has the second largest collection in the U.S. after the Met--so it’s probably best viewed when you have more than two hours to spend--or have the chance to return. Jill-O-E says the MFA continually has fabulous temporary exhibits that feature mostly contemporary art. Its strong collections include American decorative art and painting and Japanese art, complete with a Japanese garden.
Guggenheim Museum in New York City, NY
Sadly, this sprial bastion of modern paintings, sculpture, and film--featured in araby's great photo above--is not participating in Museum Day, but every Saturday between 5:45 and 7:45 p.m., admission is “pay as you will.” That we can do!
More Museums on IgoUgo
London Museums
New York City Museums
Washinton, D.C. Museums
Dallas Museums
San Diego Museums