Free Museum Day Returns to St. Pete This Saturday, September 19th

Free Museum Day is back in downtown St. Petersburg this Saturday, September 19th, giving residents and visitors the chance to explore the city's museums with admission fully waived. The annual tradition, coordinated by the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, keeps alive a program originally started nationwide by the Smithsonian Institution, and St. Pete has continued it locally ever since.

New for 2026, Free Museum Day is expanding beyond museum walls. Visitors who show proof of admission to a participating museum can unlock exclusive offers at local restaurants, retailers, galleries, and other small businesses across downtown, encouraging a full day of exploring St. Pete's arts, culture, and local business community.

Participating Museums

• The Dalí Museum — No advance reservations required. Guests must present proof of Pinellas County residency upon arrival. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Note: the Dalí Dome is not included.)
• Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg — Advance online registration required. Valid ID showing Pinellas County residency required. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Imagine Museum — Free both Saturday and Sunday this year. Timed-entry registration required via Eventbrite. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• St. Petersburg Museum of History — No registration required. Pinellas County residency (with ID) required. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art — Advance registration required. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• The Florida Holocaust Museum — No registration required. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (last admission at 4 p.m.).
• FloridaRAMA — Advance tickets required. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• The Woodson African American Museum of Florida — No registration required, with family activities throughout the day. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center — No registration required. Located on the St. Pete Pier. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• The Morean Arts Center and Queer Asian Museum are free every day; no special registration needed for Free Museum Day.

Getting There

Downtown parking garages will be open to the public, and using public transportation is encouraged for a smoother experience. The SunRunner, the St. Petersburg Trolley Downtown Looper, and the Central Avenue Trolley all offer convenient options for getting around.

Whether you're revisiting a favorite or discovering somewhere new, Free Museum Day is a great excuse to spend a Saturday exploring everything downtown's arts and culture scene has to offer.