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USA · Free days out

Free days out with kids in the USA

From the Smithsonian to your local library’s museum pass, there are plenty of ways for American families to enjoy great days out for free. Here’s where to start.

Photo: Chris Nguyen on Unsplash

Scout the Fox

Scout’s tip

Scout’s US savings stack

Ask your local library first. Many lend free or discounted passes to nearby museums, zoos and aquariums, and few families know about them.

  • Museums on Us: first full weekend of every month
  • Museums for All: show an EBT card
  • Smithsonian museums are always free

Smithsonian museums

Most Smithsonian museums in Washington, DC are free, including the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. Some use free timed-entry passes at busy times. si.edu

Bank of America Museums on Us

On the first full weekend of every month, Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank cardholders get one free general admission at participating museums. Bring your card and photo ID. It covers the cardholder only, not guests. The next dates are 7–8 November and 5–6 December 2026. Find participating museums

Museums for All

Families receiving SNAP benefits can show an EBT card for free or reduced admission at hundreds of participating museums nationwide. museums4all.org

Library passes and park days

  • Library museum passes: many public libraries lend passes for local attractions.
  • National parks: the NPS publishes fee-free days each year. Fourth graders get a free Every Kid Outdoors pass.
  • State and city parks, beaches and playgrounds are free year-round.

Last updated: 14 October 2026

Frequently asked questions

When is Bank of America Museums on Us?
The first full weekend of every month. For late 2026, that’s 7–8 November and 5–6 December. Check Bank of America’s site in case dates change.
Are Smithsonian museums free?
Yes. Admission to most Smithsonian museums is free, though some require free timed-entry passes at busy times.

Where shall we go next?