Summertime is a period looked forward to by school-age children across the country. For some lucky military children, it will also mean moving to explore a new location and an opportunity to check out some new museums along the way. Thanks to the Blue Star Museums program, military children can explore these new places for free.
The Blue Star Museums program is a joint initiative with Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts. In collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America, it offers free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including the National Guard and Reserve.
The 2024 Blue Star Museums program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024. While the museum list grows throughout the summer as museums apply to participate, the 2024 Map is available online for planning purposes. There are a variety of museums to choose from across the country—here are some favorites.
The San Diego Automotive Museum
This museum will be a hit with anyone in your family who enjoys cars or history, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage and classic automobiles. Located in historic Balboa park, the museum offers fascinating journey through the evolution of automotive design, technology, and culture. For example, did you know there was a car that you could change a tire while it was operating? Interested in motorcycles? What about inspecting cars heralding the Downton Abbey era? This museum has it all!
Stafford Air and Space Museum
Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, the museum is a captivating destination that celebrates the history and innovation of aviation and space exploration. Named after astronaut and Weatherford native Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the museum features a remarkable collection of aircraft, spacecraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore displays showcasing the achievements of pioneers in aviation and space travel, including the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Kids of all ages can sit in aircraft, pulling levers and pushing buttons pretending fly. The kids room allows for safe exploration and learning through dress up and imaginative play. The Stafford Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of all ages.
The Washington Heritage Museums
The Washington Heritage Museums include five locations in Fredericksburg, Virginia: the Mary Washington House, the Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary, St. James’ House and the Mary Washington Monument. The Washington Heritage Museums offer a captivating journey through America’s past that is not to be missed. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop features talks on the medical practices of the 18th century. Explore the childhood home of George Washington’s mother at the Mary Washington House or learn about the 18th century hospitality at the Rising Sun Tavern. These museums highlight the colonial history that shaped the founding of our country.
The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum
Housed at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee, The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum features one of the largest private collections of memorabilia on Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. Check out the original Emancipation Proclamation, one of only five surviving copies signed by Lincoln, original manuscripts and rare photographs. Whether you’re a history buff, a student of politics, or simply curious about Lincoln’s enduring legacy, a visit to this museum is sure to be both informative and inspiring.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
In Bellevue, Washington, this children’s museum features over 20 hands-on exhibits to engage children ages toddler to older age. From the water play area in the Water Gallery to the outdoor garden to the ThinkTank area, to the Bellevue Mercantile, where they can role-play as shopkeepers and customers in a mini-marketplace, children will love exploring this museum all while learning (and don’t even know it!)
From history museums, to learning about space to cars to children’s museums – the Blue Star Museums program has it all! Which museum do you recommend? Which one are looking forward to checking out this year?
