Summer is here, and the Blue Star Museum program is happening again!
What Is It?
The Blue Star Museum program offers military families free admission to over 2,000 museums around the country. Participating organizations cover a huge range of subjects, including art, history, children's, horticultural, aquatic, country, aviation, culture, industrial and government museums. Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and participating museums. This is the seventh summer of the Blue Star Museums program.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible patrons include currently serving active duty, National Guard, reservists, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps members, and NOAA Commissioned Corps members, and their respective families. Eligible persons need to have a military common access card or a dependent ID card. An eligible person may bring up to five family members, defined as a spouse, child, aunt, uncle, or grandparents. The active duty member does not have to be present.
When Does The Program Run?
The program runs from Memorial Day, Monday, 30 May 2016 through Labor Day, Monday, 5 September 2014. Individual museum hours will vary by location, and not all museums are open seven days a week. Check with the individual museum for more details on opening days and times.
What Museums Participate?
All kinds of museums participate in this program. An interactive map can be found at the National Endowment for the Arts Blue Star Museums webpage. I've spent some time searching the list and the results aren't super-surprising: some areas, usually larger areas, have a variety of museums, and there are some broad swaths of the country that don't have much at all.
What's Not Included?
Special exhibits and touring displays may not be included in the Blue Star Museums program. Check with the individual museum for details on things that may not be included in the base admission price.
The Blue Star Museums program is a great way to enjoy some family fun without spending a bundle. Check the lists to see what museums are near you or places you might travel.
For more Blue Star discounts for military families, visit the Military.com Discount Center.
