If you’re looking for free museum days in Omaha, you’re in luck. My hometown offers several opportunities to explore its rich cultural and historical attractions without spending a penny. In this post, I’ll guide you through the best opportunities to visit Omaha’s museums for free. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or science geek, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to uncover how to make the most of these free museum days in Omaha, ensuring a cost-effective yet enriching experience.
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Omaha’s museums offer unique opportunities to explore art, history, and culture without any cost on specific event days. Most free days coincide with national holidays or events.
Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, The Durham Museum offers free admission during regular museum hours. In addition to viewing permanent and temporary exhibits, in 2024, visitors can take part in special activities, contribute to a community art project, watch a screening of the King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. MLK Day is held the third Monday in January.
Museum Day, a unique event connected with Smithsonian magazine usually held in mid-September, is another fantastic opportunity for free museum visits in Omaha. On this day, both The Durham Museum and El Museo Latino at 4701 S. 25th St. participate in the nationwide event. Museum Day enables visitors to explore these museums without an admission fee, but you’ll need to download a pass from the Smithsonian Museum Day website first.
NOTE: Museum Day was paused in 2023, and it is currently unknown if it will resume in 2024.
Several museums offer free admission on Veterans Day. The Durham Museum offers free admission to veterans and their families on the federal holiday. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum offers free admission to all military members. Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11.
During the Holiday Lights Festival, typically the first Sunday in December, both the Omaha Children’s Museum at 500 S. 20th St. and The Durham Museum at 801 S. 10th St. welcome visitors for free as part of the Family Festival. This festive event allows families to enjoy experiences at these museums and other downtown Omaha attractions at no charge.
Museum locations:
- El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St.
- Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St.
- Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, 28210 W. Park Highway, Ashland, Neb.
- The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St.
For more ideas for exploring Omaha on a budget, check out these stories:
