For many families, any outing can be pricey once you factor in tickets for everyone, parking, and food. If you're looking for some affordable fun, consider visiting one of the area's many museums. Did you know that many museums in the area offer FREE admission on the first Thursday of every month? As more museums are opening back up, Free First Thursdays are back, offering you complimentary admission to some of Seattle's best museums. Take advantage of this program and visit a new museum every month in 2022!
| MOHAI: Free First Thursday Rediscover history and get immersed in the lives and stories that made the Pacific Northwest the unique place it is today. MOHAI tells Seattle’s story through exhibits and interactives. True Northwest: The Seattle Journey examines the trials and successes of Seattle’s colorful, sometimes bumpy trek from wilderness to world city. The Bezos Center for Innovation investigates Seattle’s role as a nexus of big ideas and new directions. Admission is free on the first Thursday of the month from 5-8pm, excluding special exhibits. |  Photo Credit: Wendy Malloy, MOHAI |
Seattle Art Museum: Free First Thursday
Located downtown, one block from Pike Place Market, global art collections, temporary installations, and special exhibitions from around the world bridge cultures and centuries. Enjoy free admission every first Thursday of the month.
| The Burke Museum: Free First Thursday With working labs you can see into, one-of-a-kind objects all around you, and galleries filled with curiosity and conversation, at the Burke, you see—and feel—a world alive. The Burke Museum is located on the University of Washington campus in Seattle with a focus on dinosaurs, fossils, Northwest Native art, plant and animal collections, and cultural pieces from across the globe. Visit early and take a stroll around the UW campus, or hop into another Free First Thursday option- the Henry Art Gallery. |  Photo Credit: Arianna Gervasio |
Henry Art Gallery: Free First Thursday
The Henry is internationally recognized for bold and challenging exhibitions, for pushing the boundaries of contemporary art and culture, and for being the first to premiere new works by established and emerging artists. Through individual experiences with art, we inspire visitors to upend their expectations and discover surprising connections.
| National Nordic Museum: Free First Thursday The National Nordic Museum shares Nordic culture, values, and ideas with people of all ages and backgrounds to create connections, generate dialogue, and inspire new perspectives. Free admission on the first Thursday of every month includes admission to all permanent galleries. |  Courtesy of the the National Nordic Museum |
Coast Guard Museum Northwest: Free Every Day
Featuring thousands of Coast Guard items including ship parts, uniforms on display, photos, and slides, the Coast Guard Museum Northwest is completely free to visit. This volunteer-run museum is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to individuals, families, schools, and scouting groups.
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This list will be updated periodically as COVID-19 restrictions change and spaces close, open, or add services.
