Unlocking Knowledge: A Guide to Student Discounts and Admission Options at the Museum of Science

Museums are invaluable resources for education and inspiration, offering immersive experiences that bring learning to life. The Museum of Science provides a wide array of exhibits and programs designed to engage visitors of all ages. Understanding the various admission options and discounts available, including student discounts, can make these enriching experiences more accessible. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of admission prices, discount programs, and other essential information for planning a visit to the Museum of Science.

General Admission Prices and Recommendations

The standard admission prices for the Museum of Science are as follows:

Adults: $33
Children (ages 3 - 11): $28
Seniors: $29
Children under 3: Free

It is highly recommended to reserve or purchase tickets in advance of your visit. This can be done online or by calling Science Central at 617-723-2500. Reserving tickets ahead of time helps to skip the line and ensures a smoother entry process.

Membership Benefits

Becoming a member of the Museum of Science offers several advantages, including free admission to the Exhibit Halls. Members do not need to reserve Exhibit Halls tickets in advance and can proceed directly to the entrance with their membership card. To take full advantage of membership benefits online, ensure you are logged into your membership account.

Discount Programs

The Museum of Science is committed to making its resources accessible to a wide range of audiences through various discount programs. Here are some key programs to be aware of:

Blue Star Museums

The Blue Star Museums program, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, provides free exhibit admission for active duty military personnel and up to five family members. This program is typically available through Labor Day.

Museums for All

Museums for All is a cooperative initiative between the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). It offers a $3 exhibit admission for individuals in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Additional Discounts

In addition to the above programs, the Museum of Science offers discounts for educators, veterans, and first responders. The museum also honors a variety of reciprocal programs. For a comprehensive list of admission discounts and details, it is recommended to visit the museum's official website.

Discounts at Other Museums

It's worth noting that other science museums also offer discounts and special programs. For example, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute, offers innovative programs for learners of all ages. The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Chicago provides free admission to active-duty military, veterans, Illinois POWs, Chicago firefighters & police officers, and Illinois teachers (Pre-K through 12th grade). Additionally, the Perot Museum in Dallas offers discounts through CityPASS® tickets, saving visitors up to 51% on admission.

Illinois Free Days at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Illinois residents can take advantage of free General Admission days at the Griffin MSI on select dates. To claim this offer, present valid proof of Illinois residency. Upcoming dates for free admission include:

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February 2026: 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26
April 2026: 19
June 2026: 4, 19

It's important to note that these dates are subject to change, and the offer is limited to six children (under 18) per one accompanying adult.

Chicago Resident Discounts at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

City of Chicago residents can receive a discount on General Admission: $9 off for adults and $5 off for children (ages 3-11).

Free Admission for Specific Groups at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) extends free General Admission to several groups:

United States military active-duty personnel and veterans: Requires a valid occupational/military status I.D.
Illinois POWs
Chicago firefighters & Chicago police officers
Illinois teachers (Pre-K through 12th grade)

These individuals can also receive $4 off U-505 On-Board Tour tickets.

Museums for All Program at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

The Museums for All program offers free General Admission to individuals and families, regardless of state residency. Present an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card or a Women, Infants and Children (WIC) card, along with a photo ID, to receive free General Admission tickets for up to two adults and up to six children (under 18).

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ASTC Reciprocal Membership at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Members of an Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) institution located more than 90 miles from Griffin MSI are eligible for free General Admission for up to two adults and two children under 18 who reside in the same household (also at least 90 miles from Griffin MSI).

Additional Discounts at the Houston Museum of Science

The Houston Museum of Science also offers various discounts:

Seniors, Military members, Teachers, First Responders: Discount applies only to the qualified individual and requires a valid ID.
Patients Receiving Treatment at TMC: A discount is available for patients receiving treatment at any hospital in the Texas Medical Center.
Corporate Sponsorships: Check with your organization’s Human Resources department to see if you are eligible for discounted tickets as part of a corporate sponsorship.
EBT/WIC/Lonestar/SNAP Participants: Discounted tickets are available for participants in these programs.
Bank of America Cardholders: The “Museums on Us” program allows one free ticket per cardholder to Permanent Exhibitions during the first full weekend of each month.

Card to Culture Program

The Museum of Science participates in the Card to Culture program, extending discounts to EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare health plan insurance cardholders. EBT and WIC cardholders can receive up to 4 free Exhibit Halls admissions per day. ConnectorCare cardholders receive free Exhibit Halls admission for themselves.

Enhancing Your Museum Visit

To make the most of your visit, consider the following:

Time Allocation: The average guest spends about 2-3 hours exploring the Museum. Ensure you have enough time to enjoy the exhibits before closing.
Dining Options: The Museum Café offers a variety of fresh meals and snacks, highlighting local ingredients.
Museum Shop: Stop by the Museum Shop to pick up a memento or a gift.
Additional Experiences: Consider purchasing tickets for special exhibits, tours, and shows to deepen your experience.

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