Boston Celebrates MLK Day With Free Museum and Zoo Access
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is one of those holidays that really encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be present.
Instead of treating it like just another day off, it’s a great opportunity to step out, learn something new, and connect with history and culture. Even better, many of the Boston-area museums that usually come with a hefty price tag are opening their doors for free this Monday, January 19.
Thanks to Joyraft, they've compiled five free things you can do around the Boston area this MLK Day. So, whether you’re flying solo, making it a family outing, or just looking for something different to do without spending a dime, check out these solid out-of-the-box options.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
This one’s a must, but plan ahead. The Gardner Museum is offering free admission on January 19, though reservations are required. Once you’re in, expect more than just wandering galleries. The day includes storytelling, conversations with community leaders, interactive art-making, and live music, making it feel more like an experience than just a museum visit.
ICA Boston
If contemporary art is your thing (or you’ve always wanted to check it out), MLK Day is the perfect excuse. The ICA is waiving admission for the day. There aren’t any special events tied to the holiday, but free access alone makes it worth the trip, especially if you’ve never been.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
The MFA is going all out with a full open house on MLK Day. Not only is admission free, but you’ll also have access to every exhibit, live programming, a job fair, and even music spun by DJ Slick Vick. It’s one of those “something for everyone” days, whether you’re an art lover or just curious.
Franklin Park Zoo & Stone Zoo
Not feeling museums? Or maybe you’ve got kids in tow? Both Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo are offering free admission for the day. Beyond seeing the animals, guests can attend educational talks and enjoy surprise animal encounters throughout the day — which is always a hit with little ones.
Peabody Essex Museum
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Rounding out the list is the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem. Bring friends or family and explore the exhibits for free, take part in guided tours, and even get hands-on with live art-making led by Salem-based artist Rahim Gray. It’s a great mix of creativity and culture.
READ MORE: This UMass Dartmouth Professor Wrote the Book on Martin Luther King’s Assassination
If you’ve got the day off, this is one of those rare Mondays where you can actually make the most of it. Learn something new, explore a museum you’ve been meaning to visit, and do it all without pulling out your wallet.
Additional reporting by Aubrey Rodrigues
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