Every month, several museums in Orlando open their doors at no cost, welcoming residents of all ages and backgrounds who want to explore art, history, and science.
These free museum days, offered by major institutions including the Orange County Regional History Center, Orlando Museum of Art, Mennello Museum of American Art, and Orlando Science Center and supported by programs like Museums for All, Bank of America’s Museums on Us, and the Orange County Library System’s Local Wanderer initiative, are breaking down barriers to cultural access.
“These programs help us broaden our audience base and offer opportunities for families and individuals who may not have come otherwise,” Azela Santana, Executive Director for the History Center said. “We see ourselves as a museum for everyone of all ages and backgrounds.”
For the Orange County Library System (OCLS) , that mission of accessibility aligns closely with its core values.
“The library’s whole point is to provide information and access to everyone, regardless of background or income level,” Jenn Schock, Development Manager at OCLS said. “This program basically lets people check out these experiences—just like they check out books or DVDs.”
The initiative includes a diverse group of partners and beneficiaries: college students, families on fixed incomes, retirees, and first-time visitors.
According to Data USA, as of 2023, approximately 13% of Orange County residents or roughly 183,000 people, live below the poverty line. And according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Orange County had 46,398 children under 18 living in poverty in 2023—equal to about 14.8% of the youth population.
Ana Soto, 60, a first-time visitor to the Orlando Museum of Art, shared,“It was peaceful and inspiring; honestly, it made me feel like I belonged. If I had known about free days, I probably would’ve come much sooner.”
Schock noted that demand for Local Wanderer passes—which are free cultural passes provided by the OCLS that allow cardholders to check out admission to local museums and arts venues—is incredibly high. “Very rarely are passes left over,” she said and added that last year, the library’s free ticket program helped over 11,000 people access museums and performances, experiences that would have otherwise cost more than $145,000 collectively.
Orlando is also home to a large college student population. According to both UCF and Valencia enrollment reports, over 69,000 students were enrolled at UCF in Fall 2024 and Valencia College serves more than 49,000.
“It’s a fun way for students to explore Orlando too,” Schock said. “Even if you don’t use your library card for books, you can use it for a free date night or outing with friends.”
FREEBIES: WHAT & WHEN
- Orange County Regional History Center: Free Third Thursdays from 5–9 p.m., plus holiday and special event days. Santana noted these evening hours are crucial for working families or individuals who can’t attend during the day.
- Orlando Museum of Art: “Access for All” program offers free admission and extended evening hours on select dates with support from SunRail encouraging public transit riders to visit the museum on those dates for free.
- Mennello Museum: Second Sundays – “Free Family Funday”
- Museums for All: Provide weekend and SNAP-based access at participating institutions on their website.
- Museums on Us: Bank of America offers our cardholders free general admission – during the first full weekend of every month – to cultural institutions across the United States.
WHERE:
Historic and cultural venues across downtown Orlando, Winter Park, and Apopka including exhibitions inside the History Center itself, which recently expanded with a community-sourced exhibit showcasing 150 years of Orlando history. You can visit the OCLS website to see which venues are participating.
WHY:
Santana emphasized that cost, even something like parking, can be enough to deter visitors. “Parking can add $10 to a $40 family experience. That’s unreachable for some families,” she said, explaining why partnerships like the libraries are vital.
She also highlighted non-financial barriers, “Access isn’t only financial—it’s abilities. That’s why we offer early, quiet ‘Sensory Sundays’ for families with sensory challenges.”
Schock echoed that sentiment, “If someone has never had the chance to go to a ballet, a museum, or see live jazz, they may never think it’s for them. Programs like this show them it is.” She added, “It’s not just about exposure, it’s about belonging.”
HOW:
The History Center collaborates with the City of Orlando’s Community Redevelopment Agency, OCLS, the Wells’Built Museum, and virtual platforms to share historic content with schools and remote audiences. The library also promotes programs through its app, social media, and newsletter. Anyone with a library card in Orange County can reserve up to two free passes per month via the OCLS app or website.
“Libraries have to go beyond our walls,” Schock said. “We’re meeting people where they are and connecting them to what’s out there.”
Santana summed it up saying, “Building trust in the community helps us share their stories and grows our collection. We want Orlando residents to see themselves in their history.”
