Minnesota Historical Society Increases Access to History in 2024

Focus on accessibility includes free opportunities to visit museums and sites statewide 

ST. PAUL, Minn (May 2, 2024) – To increase access to Minnesota history, the Minnesota Historical Society is launching multiple programs that will provide opportunities to visit MNHS sites across the state at no cost. These offerings align with the organization’s ongoing mission to create powerful engagement with history for all Minnesotans.

Free Thursday Nights at the Minnesota History Center

Beginning on Thursday, May 2, and continuing weekly throughout 2024, visitors will receive free admission to the Minnesota History Center on Thursday evenings from 4 pm–8 pm. Free Thursday nights in May are courtesy of the Donaldson Company. Starting in June, free Thursday evening admission will be made possible by the State of Minnesota's Legacy Amendment, through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008, and our generous donors and members.

During Thursday visits, Guests can experience a variety of world-class exhibits, including Our Home: Native Minnesota, Reframing Our Stories, Minnesota’s Greatest Generation, Weather Permitting, Then Now Wow, and special exhibits like The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz (open through June 9). Information about free Thursday nights will be posted on mnhs.org/events.

Free Days Network Wide 

At the Minnesota History Center and across the MNHS statewide network of sites and museums, there will be additional opportunities to visit without cost. Beginning in June, MNHS will offer one free admission day per season. This offer applies to all open sites.

Included dates: 

• June 22, 2024 
• Sept 21, 2024
• Jan 11, 2025
• April 26, 2025

Museums for All Program

Through Museums for All, qualifying individuals and families will receive free admission to MNHS sites all year. Museums for All provides free or reduced admission to more than 1200 museums throughout the US for those receiving food assistance.

Follow MNHS social media channels and events pages for details and updates. 

About the Minnesota Historical Society

The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.