Though many city and state run museums are still closed due to Covid-19, there are a handful of museums open in Austin – like the Bullock and The Thinkery. However, if the admission price for those is a bit much for you at this time, here are five museums that are free for kids – and if you time it right, a few can be free for you too!
Kids Get In Free At These Museums Open In Austin
The Contemporary Austin at Laguna Gloria
The Contemporary Austin at laguna Gloria is now open to the public with advance tickets required.
Location: 3809 West 35th Street
Hours and Admission: Laguna Gloria is open Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with advanced ticket reservations. While adult tickets are $10, children under 18, Military, and essential workers are FREE. Both Contemporary Austin locations are free for all visitors on Thursdays.
Blanton Museum of Art
Located on the University of Texas campus, The Blanton Museum is open though reservations are required.
Location: 200 East MLK Boulevard
Hours and Admission: Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m., and closed on Monday and Tuesdays. Adults are $12, ages 13 to 21 are $5, while children 12 and under are always FREE. Military ID holders and teachers with valid ID also get free admission. The museum is FREE for all on Thursdays. Advance online timed tickets are still required. Free Thursday tickets are first come, first served, and are released with the week’s tickets on the Friday before the week begins.
Mexic-Arte Museum
Mexic-Arte Museum is open to visitors of all ages who want to learn about contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture that promotes dialogue and helps to develop understanding.
Location: 419 Congress Avenue
Hours and Admission: Open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. While not technically free for kids, admission is $1 for ages 12 and under. Plus, tours are free on Sundays.
UMLAUF
Reservations are required and The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden is currently open and accepting 75 visitors at a time. The indoor gallery is still closed but is available for private rentals.
Location: 605 Azie Morton Road
Hours and Admission: Open Thursday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults are $7, ages 13 through 17 are $1, and children 12 and under, active military and veterans are free.
Williamson Museum
If you’re willing to take a drive up to Georgetown, the whole family can visit The Williamson Museum for FREE!
Location: 716 S Austin Ave, Georgetown.
Hours and Admission: Wednesday through Friday from 12 to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. FREE!
If you’re looking to make a virtual trip to a museum instead, check out all THESE PLACES you can go!
