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Good news for Milwaukee families: kids 12 and under now receive free admission to the Milwaukee Art Museum year-round, thanks to a generous $3.54 million endowment from an anonymous donor.
This gift ensures that future generations of children can explore world-class art, hands-on programs, and creative play spaces at no cost. Whether you visit often or haven’t been in a while, here’s what this means for your family — plus everything you can enjoy during your visit.
Looking for even more free ways to explore Milwaukee’s vibrant art and culture? Check out our Free Milwaukee Museums for a full list of museums offering no-cost admission.
Why Kids Are Now Free at MAM
The new endowment was created to permanently cover the cost of admission for kids 12 and under. The anonymous donor shared that many of their favorite childhood memories happened inside MAM — and hoped this gift would help local families create the same kind of moments.
Free admission includes not just museum entry, but access to beloved youth and family programs that spark creativity all year long.
Family Programs Included with Admission
The Milwaukee Art Museum offers some of the city’s best hands-on art programs for kids. Here’s what families can enjoy:
Kohl’s Family Sundays
Semi-annual celebrations with hands-on stations, performances, and themed activities.
Play Date with Art
A monthly program designed for toddlers and preschoolers to explore art through play and creativity.
Story Time in the Galleries
Weekly storytelling that brings art to life for young listeners.
ArtPacks, SketchPacks & Family Guides
Pick up free tools at the front desk to help kids engage with the galleries in a fun, interactive way.
Kohl’s Art Studio (Weekends Only)
Drop in for hands-on art projects inspired by current exhibitions — perfect for a low-key family morning.
Winter Break & Seasonal Fun
If you’re visiting during December, keep an eye out for the museum’s Winter Break activities. These special programs make the museum an easy family outing during the holidays.
Plan Your Visit
📍 Milwaukee Art Museum
700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI
Open year-round
Kids 12 and under: FREE
Adults and teens 13+: regular admission rates apply
To plan your visit and learn more about kid-friendly programs, head to MAM’s website.
Related Guides
Make the most of your visit with these helpful resources:
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
