Christmas vacation was a great opportunity for families to spend time together and explore the great state of Arizona. Phoenicians, especially, are fortunate to be able to leave this fascinating (and warm) city and travel to Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon or visit the peace and tranquility of Sedona. Another perk of living in Phoenix is that the Culture Pass which allows two people to visit museums, zoos, and other locations free.
What is the Culture Pass? The program is a partnership between the Phoenix metro public libraries and area museums. The Culture Pass gives cardholders free admission for 2 people at participating organizations when you "check-out" the admission at your library.
Many in the valley are unaware of this benefit of holding a library card. Not only is the library card free, the pass is free, and a day full of laughter and enjoyment comes at minimal cost for the family. A couple of great ways to maximize the potential of the culture pass is:
- Husbands, wives, and or children all have their own library cards and check out multiple passes. This saves the cost for a family
- When using the passes, use them for the most expensive individuals and pay cash for the cheaper ones. ex: Two culture passes cover two adults. Then, pay cash for children.
These passes are good for only seven days, so check them out when you are sure you can use them. Any Phoenix Public Library will have some, but they fly off the shelves quicker at various locations. The pass will cover admission to the venue, but not to special events/exhibits. Some participating organizations may have a few select dates when the pass cannot be used. Restrictions will be listed on both the program and the venue websites.
This Examiner's recommendation? For the Phoenix Zoo and Children's Museum, arrive at the library prior to opening and get the passes early. Otherwise, you may miss out on these free passes to some costly locations. Don't miss out on this fabulous chance to show your kids the culture and beauty of Phoenix.
The following museums may be 'checked out' with the Culture Pass:
- Arizona Historical Society Museum at Papago Park
- Arizona Museum of Natural History
- Arizona Science Center
- Cave Creek Museum - (Open October thru May)
- Children's Museum of Phoenix - (Closed on Mondays)
- Deer Valley Rock Art Center
- Desert Botanical Garden
- Desert Caballeros Western Museum
- Phoenix Art Museum
- Phoenix Zoo - (Culture Passes not valid for ZooLights admission)
- Pueblo Grande Museum
- Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Many museums offer free days throughout the year:
- Arizona Historical Society Museum at Papago Park
First Saturday of the month, 10 am to 4 pm - Arizona Museum of Natural History
First Sunday of the month, noon to 5 pm - Children's Museum of Phoenix
First Friday of the month, 5 to 9 pm - Desert Botanical Garden
Second Tuesday of the month, 1 to 8 pm - Phoenix Art Museum
Wednesdays, 3 to 9 pm
First Friday of the month, 6 to 10 pm - Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Thursdays, 10 am to 8 pm
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