The Library’s Museum Pass program allows library patrons to visit various cultural institutions around the State of Indiana free of charge. The passes provide free admission and many other benefits. All passes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Museum Passes check out for three (3) days. Contact the library for more information or to check availability.
Eiteljorg Museum
The Eiteljorg collects and preserves high-quality Western art and Native American art and cultural objects. In addition to a renowned permanent collection, they host a wide variety of traveling exhibits and events.
The museum is located in the White River State Park cultural district in downtown Indianapolis, and is convenient to numerous other attractions, including the Indiana State Museum and the Canal Walk.
The library's pass provides free admission for up to 2 adults and their children.
Indiana Historical Society
Since 1830, the Indiana Historical Society has been Indiana's StorytellerTM, connecting people to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing the state's history. The IHS maintains the nation's premier research library and archives on the history of Indiana and the Old Northwest and presents a unique set of visitor experiences called the Indiana Experience.
Each pass provides free admission to the Eugene and Marilyn Glick History Center for two adults and four children, free parking, and discounts at the Basile History Market and the Stardust Cafe.
Indiana Medical History Museum
The Indiana Medical History Museum is located on the grounds of the former Central State Hospital on the near west side of Indianapolis. The heart of the museum is the Old Pathology Building, the oldest surviving pathology facility in the nation. Take a tour of this two-story building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Indiana Medical History Museum pass provides free general admission for one adult and a guest. The museum is open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and requires advance registration. To schedule your free tour, click here.
Indiana State Historic Sites
12 historic locations around the state
Plan a road trip to visit one of Indiana’s historic sites! From a 19th-century utopian community on the banks of the Ohio River to the scenic lakeside cabin of one of Indiana’s most beloved authors, the perfect day trip is just a hop, skip and jump away.
Indiana State Museum
Located in White River State Park in Downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum is the place to explore Indiana’s past, present and future — from mastodons and dire wolves to contemporary art by some of Indiana’s best artists. The Museum's permanent galleries highlight the rich history and culture of our state, and the special exhibits feature outstanding interactive experiences that are fun and educational for the whole family.
Passes provide for four complimentary general admissions to the Indiana State Museum. Parking in the White River State Parking Garage is validated at the flat rate of $5. Patrons are requested to complete a survey of their experience after utilizing this pass.
Potawatomi Zoo
The Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana. It houses nearly 400 animals, from zebras and giraffes to red pandas and dart frogs. The zoo features the Potawatomi Zoo Express Train, an Endangered Species Carousel, and more.
The zoo's season generally runs from April to October. It is also open on select dates during the winter. Visit their website to learn more.
This pass provides admission for 2 adults and 6 dependents under the age of 18. Note that services beyond admission such as the train and carousel are not covered by the pass. The library card holder must present a photo ID to be admitted.
Ruthmere Mansion
Located in Elkhart, Indiana, the Ruthmere is a three-story mansion that was previously the residence of Albert and Elizabeth Beardsley. The campus includes the Ruthmere Mansion and the Havilah Beardsley House. Guided tours are available.
The History Museum and Oliver Mansion
First organized in 1867, The History Museum is the second oldest historical society in Indiana. The site includes: The Oliver Mansion or Copshaholm, the 38-room mansion that was once home to local industrialist J.D. Oliver Worker’s Home, reflecting a Polish immigrant family in the 1930s. It is also the repository for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League collection.
The Museum also includes the Kidsfirst Children’s Museum, which engages children’s imaginations by recreating history through hands-on exhibits. The History Museum is adjacent to the Studebaker National Museum.
This pass includes free admission, house tours, and a 10% discount in the Museum Store.
The Studebaker National Museum
Built in 2005, the Museum houses a display and interpretation of Studebaker vehicles along with related industrial artifacts. The Collection also includes seven objects designated as “National Treasures” including the carriage Abraham Lincoln rode to Ford’s Theatre the night of his assassination, and a carriage used by the Marquis de Lafayette during his farewell tour of United States in 1824. The Studebaker Museum is adjacent to the History Museum.
This pass includes free admission and 10% discount in the Museum Store.
Wellfield Botanic Gardens
Open year-round, Wellfield Botanic Gardens features over 20 themed garden areas, including a Children’s Garden and a Japanese “Island Garden.” Exploration of the gardens is completed on foot. Educational and recreational programming is offered, and a unique Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights experience is the feature of the holiday season.
The museum is located on 36 acres that include 18 acres of lakes, streams, waterfalls, and other water features. Guests can take photographs for personal use, but please read their photography policy.
The library’s pass provides free admission for four adults and four children.