For families and individuals who hold an ACCESS or EBT card, exploring the rich cultural and educational resources of the United States has never been easier or more affordable. Thanks to the Museums for All initiative, cardholders can gain free or heavily reduced entry to more than 1,300 museums, gardens, zoos, theaters, and other cultural venues across the country. This program, developed in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Association of Children’s Museums, aims to make learning and cultural enrichment accessible to everyone, regardless of income.
How It Works
ACCESS and EBT cardholders simply need to present their card at participating venues to receive discounted admission. The discounts vary but typically allow cardholders and their families to enjoy entry for $3 or less per person. This initiative helps break down financial barriers, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from cultural and educational experiences.
Pennsylvania Highlights
Pennsylvania is home to a diverse array of participating venues. Here are a few notable locations:
- Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia): This iconic museum, known for its vast collection of art spanning centuries, offers reduced admission to ACCESS cardholders, allowing families to explore its masterpieces for just a few dollars.
- Please Touch Museum (Philadelphia): A favorite among families, this interactive children’s museum offers hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds. ACCESS cardholders can visit for a reduced rate, making it an affordable outing.
- Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh): This group includes four distinct museums: Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and The Andy Warhol Museum. Each offers discounted entry to cardholders, providing a wide range of educational experiences.
- The Franklin Institute (Philadelphia): A leading science museum, The Franklin Institute is famous for its interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. ACCESS cardholders can enjoy reduced admission to this science wonderland.
In South Central Pennsylvania, several venues participate in the Museums for All program, offering discounted admission to ACCESS and EBT cardholders. Here are some key locations:
- ZooAmerica (Hershey) - Explore North American wildlife at a reduced rate.
- The Hershey Story Museum (Hershey) - Discover the history of Milton Hershey and his chocolate empire.
- Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts (Harrisburg) - Enjoy hands-on science exhibits, an IMAX theater, and live performances.
- The State Museum of Pennsylvania (Harrisburg) - Learn about Pennsylvania’s history, art, and natural sciences.
- Susquehanna Art Museum (Harrisburg) - View contemporary art exhibitions and participate in educational programs.
These venues provide affordable access to cultural and educational experiences for families and individuals in the region.
Expanding Horizons
The Museums for All initiative goes beyond providing affordable entry; it encourages lifelong learning and helps families make the most of the cultural opportunities available in their communities. Whether you’re interested in art, science, history, or nature, there’s likely a participating venue near you. To find out more and locate participating venues in your area, visit museums4all.org.
This program is a testament to the belief that cultural experiences should be accessible to everyone. By taking advantage of this initiative, ACCESS and EBT cardholders can enrich their lives and the lives of their children through affordable and engaging experiences.
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Macaroni Kid Carlisle-Shippensburg-Boiling Springs is a is a free weekly newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in Carlisle, Shippensburg, and Boiling Springs. We gather together all kinds of local family events and activities each week, and add useful information about classes, family-focused businesses, book and product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. We proudly serve families in Carlisle, Shippensburg, Newville, Newburg, Boiling Springs, Mt. Holly Springs, Gardners, Orrstown and more.
