How We Save Hundreds on Museum Visits Using the ASTC Reciprocal Program
If your family loves traveling, museums, science centers, and hands-on learning, the ASTC Reciprocal Program might be the best travel hack you’re not using yet. We’ve saved hundreds of dollars on admission while traveling simply by carrying one museum membership card, and it’s become a must-have anytime we plan a trip to a new city.
If you’ve ever looked at museum ticket prices for a family and felt your budget instantly disappear, this program is going to change the way you travel.
What Is the ASTC Reciprocal Program?
ASTC stands for the Association of Science and Technology Centers, and their reciprocal program allows families to receive free or discounted admission to hundreds of science centers and children’s museums across the United States (and even some internationally!).
When you purchase a membership to a participating museum near your home, that membership includes reciprocal benefits at other ASTC museums when you travel.
In short: pay for a membership at one museum, visit many, many more for free (or a huge discount).
How the ASTC Reciprocal Program Works
Here’s the simple version:
You purchase a family or household membership at a local ASTC-participating museum. When you visit another ASTC participating museum in a different city or state, you present your membership card (and photo ID) and receive free general admission for your family.
Most museums allow reciprocal entry for:
- 2 adults
- 2 children
Each museum sets its own rules, so it’s always smart to check ahead of time, but we’ve had fantastic success using this program across multiple states.
Why ASTC Is a Game Changer for Family Travel
Museum tickets add up fast, especially in big cities. The ASTC program has allowed us to say “yes” to museums we might have otherwise skipped.
Here are just a few ways we’ve benefited:
- Free admission to major science museums while traveling
- Less pressure to “see everything” since we didn’t pay per ticket
- Built-in educational stops on road trips
- More flexibility when plans change
On our recent Chicago trip alone, the ASTC program covered admission to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry, and the Field Museum, saving us over $300.
How to Find an ASTC Museum Near You
Start by visiting the ASTC Travel Passport Program website and searching for participating museums by state or city. Chances are, there’s a science center, children’s museum, or discovery center within driving distance of you.
When choosing a home museum, look for:
- A family membership option
- Unlimited visits
- ASTC reciprocal benefits included
Even if the museum is an hour away, the membership can pay for itself in just one trip.
Important Rules to Know Before You Go
While the ASTC program is incredibly generous, there are a few key rules to keep in mind:
- Distance rule: Many museums won’t honor reciprocal admission if you live within 90 miles of them.
- Special exhibits: Reciprocal admission usually covers general admission only.
- Guest limits: Each museum sets its own family size and guest policies, so make sure to review before your visit.
- Always check ahead: Policies can change, especially during peak seasons.
A quick check on the ASTC website or a phone call before your visit can save surprises at the door.
Is the ASTC Reciprocal Program Worth It?
For families who:
- Travel even once or twice a year
- Love museums and educational attractions
- Want budget-friendly ways to explore new cities
The answer is 100% yes.
Between road trips, weekend getaways, and longer vacations, the ASTC program has easily paid for itself many times over for our family, and it’s something I recommend to anyone traveling with kids.
How We Use ASTC When Planning Trips
Now, one of the first things I do when planning a trip is head to the ASTC Passport Program Website and search for participating museums in the state we will be visiting.
If there’s one nearby, it immediately gets added to our itinerary. It’s one of the easiest ways to add meaningful, educational experiences without blowing our budget, and it’s perfect to fill in a 2-3 hours hole in our itinerary knowing we don’t have to stay all day to “get our money worth”.
Planning a Family Trip?
You’ll see ASTC museums mentioned throughout my itineraries, including our Chicago trip, where this program saved us big time.
If you travel with kids and love stretching your budget without sacrificing experiences, the ASTC Reciprocal Program is a must.
