Exploring local museums is one of the best ways to experience the culture of a destination. Museums offer meaningful opportunities for children to learn through hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive environments. While admission fees help support these important institutions, many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish access at certain times, making cultural experiences more accessible for families.
With a little planning, you can build your New York City itinerary around these free admission windows and enjoy world-class museums without stretching your budget.
If you are visiting New York City with children, there are several excellent options to consider.
Free Children’s Museums in New York City
Queens County Farm Museum
This historic working farm offers free general admission year-round, though select seasonal events may require tickets. Families can explore preserved farm buildings, visit livestock such as pigs, hens, and goats, and stroll through the orchard. In October, visitors can purchase fresh apples directly from the orchard.
Queens Botanical Garden
Admission is free during the off-season from November through March. The gardens are closed on Mondays. This peaceful space offers beautifully maintained landscapes and educational programming designed to connect children with nature.
American Museum of Natural History
This museum operates on a pay-what-you-wish model for general admission. While a suggested donation is posted, visitors may contribute any amount. The museum features renowned exhibits on dinosaurs, space, ocean life, and cultural history, making it a must-see for families.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Free admission is offered Thursdays from 2–6 p.m. The museum houses approximately 30,000 artifacts and objects, including live exhibits that encourage interactive learning. The “Totally Tots” area is specially designed for children under five.
Waterfront Museum and Showboat Barge
This historic wooden barge is docked near Fairway Market in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood. Admission is free Thursdays from 4–8 p.m. and Saturdays from 1–5 p.m. Visitors should confirm in advance, as certain performances or events may require tickets.
DiMenna Children’s History Museum
Located within the New-York Historical Society, this museum offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Fridays from 6–8 p.m. Designed for school-age children, it features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, rotating displays, and a dedicated children’s library.
Museum of the Moving Image
Children under three receive free admission, and general admission is free Fridays from 4–8 p.m. The museum houses the nation’s largest collection of moving-image artifacts and offers interactive exhibits focused on film, television, and digital media.
New York Hall of Science
Free admission is available Fridays from 2–5 p.m. and Sundays from 10–11 a.m. The museum features more than 450 hands-on exhibits focused on science and technology. Families should not miss the 60,000-square-foot outdoor Science Playground.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
Admission is free on the first Friday of each month from 5–8 p.m. The museum offers engaging exhibits, workshops, and interactive programs designed to spark creativity and curiosity in young visitors.
New York City offers a wide range of enriching museum experiences for families. By planning around free admission days and pay-what-you-wish hours, you can introduce your children to art, history, science, and culture while staying within budget.
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