The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington, participates in several programs that offer free and discounted admission to various groups, including federal employees, military personnel, students, and low-income residents. These initiatives are designed to increase accessibility to the museum’s exhibitions, artist demonstrations, and educational programs. The museum is located at 1801 Dock Street, Tacoma, WA 98402, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Regular admission for adults is $18.
Blue Star Museums Program
One of the primary ways active-duty military personnel and their families receive free admission is through the Blue Star Museums program. This is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and museums across the United States. The program offers free admission to the nation's active-duty military personnel and their families, which includes members of the National Guard and Reserve.
The Blue Star Museums program typically runs from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day each year. To receive free admission, eligible individuals must present valid military identification. The Museum of Glass has confirmed its participation in this program, noting that it is a way to thank military families for their service and share America's museums with them.
In addition to the summer program, the Museum of Glass hosts a specific Veterans Day Celebration. On November 15, the museum offers free admission all day for veterans, active-duty military, and their families. This event includes a color guard ceremony, guest speakers, and the awarding of certificates and commemorative glass coins to honor participants of the Hot Shop Heroes program.
Library Museum Passes
Residents of Pierce County and Tacoma can access free admission through local library systems. Both the Pierce County Library System and the Tacoma Public Libraries offer an Art Access Pass. This pass grants free admission to the Museum of Glass and other local museums. Passes are limited in availability, and interested individuals should check with their local library branch for more information on how to obtain one.
The Tacoma Public Library also provides a Museum and Local Attraction Pass, which is valid for free admission to the Museum of Glass. This pass is part of the library's effort to provide cultural access to its patrons.
Third Thursday Free Admission
The Museum of Glass offers free general admission on the Third Thursday of each month. This promotion is available during special evening hours from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This program allows visitors to explore the museum's collections and watch Hot Shop Demonstrations at no cost during these specific hours.
Student Admission Programs
Several free admission programs are available for students: * Tacoma High School Students: In partnership with Tacoma Public Schools and School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SOTA) faculty, all Tacoma high school students receive free admission to the Museum of Glass with a valid student ID. * College Students: College students receive free admission to the museum each Sunday with a valid student ID. * Science of Art Curriculum: The museum partners with Tacoma Public Schools to offer a Science of Art curriculum to every 6th grader in the district. This program includes classroom visits by museum educators followed by a free visit to the museum where students learn in the Hot Shop, galleries, and education studio.
Discounted and Low-Income Access
The Museum of Glass offers reduced admission rates for specific groups. Through the Museums for All initiative, individuals presenting an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card can receive reduced admission of $1 per person or $2 per family.
Additionally, the museum offers a "Chrome & Glass" pass in partnership with LeMay - America’s Car Museum. This pass grants admission to both museums at a discounted rate of $38. The pass may be purchased at each museum's admissions desk and includes a 10% off store coupon for both locations.
Other Access Initiatives
The Museum of Glass is committed to community engagement and accessibility through various other programs: * Mobile Hot Shop: The museum operates a Mobile Hot Shop that visits underserved neighborhoods in Tacoma, bringing glassblowing demonstrations and activities directly to the community. * Hot Shop Heroes: This program offers glassblowing classes for injured veterans and active-duty military personnel. * Accessibility Programs: The museum offers Low Vision Tours and aims to have one exhibition always devoted to an underrepresented group to encourage a sense of belonging. * Livestreaming: Glassblowing in the Hot Shop is livestreamed every day for free, allowing visitors around the world to view the process.
Conclusion
The Museum of Glass provides a variety of free and discounted admission options for federal employees, military personnel, students, library patrons, and low-income residents. These programs include the Blue Star Museums program for active-duty military families, library museum passes, free admission days for students and the general public, and reduced rates for EBT cardholders. The museum also engages in community outreach through educational programs and mobile demonstrations. Visitors should check the museum's official website or contact local libraries for the most current information on pass availability and program dates.