1. Introduction
Discover the vibrant cultural scene of Brooklyn through its numerous museums, many of which offer free admission on select days. This guide provides an overview of the best options for exploring Brooklyn’s museums without spending a dime.
2. Brooklyn Museums That Are Always Free
- The Old Stone House: Located at 336 3rd Street, this historic house in Park Slope played a vital role in Brooklyn’s history during the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can explore their interactive exhibits showcasing the battle. Notably, The Old Stone House was also the original clubhouse for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Operating hours are Friday from 3-6 pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, or by appointment.
- Lefferts Historic House: This 18th-century house in Prospect Park welcomes visitors without an entry fee. Open Thursday through Sunday and on holidays from 12-5 pm, visitors can explore period rooms, a working garden, and engage in interactive activities like butter churning and candle making. A suggested donation of three dollars is appreciated. The house is situated on Flatbush Avenue at Ocean Avenue.
- BLDG 92: Experience the Industrial Revolution at BLDG 92 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This museum, free to the public, is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm, located at 63 Flushing Avenue.
- The Harbor Defense Museum: Explore Brooklyn’s military history at this small museum on Fort Hamilton’s army base. Visitors can see exhibits that focus on the history of Fort Hamilton and New York City’s harbor defenses, including a historical Cannon Walk. The museum is a great spot for families, especially those with kids interested in military equipment. The address is US Army Garrison Fort Hamilton, 101st St. & Fort Hamilton Pkwy., Brooklyn, NY 11252.
3. Brooklyn Museums That Are Free on Tuesdays
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Guests can enjoy the stunning bloom of roses and the renowned cherry tree collection at this garden, offering hours of outdoor enjoyment. Admission is free on all weekdays from mid-November through February.
4. Brooklyn Museums That Are Free on Wednesdays
- New York Transit Museum: Situated in a vintage 1936 subway station in Brooklyn Heights, this museum reveals the history of public transportation. Admission is free for seniors on Wednesdays.
5. Brooklyn Museums That Are Free on Fridays
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The garden offers free admission for seniors on Fridays. Throughout weekdays from mid-November to February, entry is complimentary.
6. Brooklyn Museums That Are Free on Saturdays
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Enjoy free entry from 10 am to 12 pm on Saturdays.
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum: This museum hosts a delightful range of exhibits, a rooftop terrace, and over 27,000 objects, offering free “early bird” admission before 11 am on the second weekend of each month.
- Brooklyn Museum: On the first Saturday of each month, the museum hosts a special free event from 5 pm to 11 pm with live music, dance performances, movie screenings, arts & crafts, guided tours, and more.
7. Brooklyn Museums That Are Free on Sundays
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum: This museum also offers free “early bird” admission before 11 am on the second weekend of every month.
Edited by Alison Lowenstein
