Artesian Alliance members Chehaw Park & Zoo, the Flint RiverQuarium, and Thronateeska Heritage Center are joining museums nationwide to participate in the return of the Blue Star Museums program this summer. The program provides free admission to our nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day (May 20) through Labor Day (Sept. 4). 

“Our Artesian Alliance attractions are excited about participating once again in the Blue Star Museum Program,” said Tommy Gregors, director of the Artesian Alliance. “It is our privilege to say “Thank you’ to active service members and their families, and recognize the positive impact the military has on our community. We hope these families have the opportunity to explore our attractions with their loved ones and create lasting memories.”

Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America offering free admission to the nation’s currently-serving military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve.

“We thank the 2023 Blue Star Museums who invite military personnel and their families to experience the many wonders they have to offer, whether it’s a glimpse into the past, an encounter with awe-inspiring art, or a moment of discovery,” said Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD, chair of the National Endowment for the Arts. “The Artesian Alliance is helping to enrich the lives of military families and build meaningful connections between our nation’s military and their local community.”

Blue Star Museums Program began in an effort to improve the quality of life for active duty military families, with a special focus on the approximately two million children who have had at least one parent deployed since 2001. The program offers families a chance to visit museums this summer when many will have limited resources and time together.

The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard as well as Active Duty and Reservists, National Guardsman (regardless of status), U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), or DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum. Visit arts.gov/bluestarmuseums for a complete list of participating organizations.