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Did you know The Children's Museum has joined forces with other local museums and cultural institutions to make fun family learning more accessible through a program called Access Pass? You probably did. Here's 10 things you probably didn't know about Access Pass:
1. You can enroll and renew online.
Enrollment and renewal are easier than ever! You can now enroll in Access Pass or renew your current card online on the Access Pass website by submitting the online application and uploading the necessary documents. If you prefer to enroll or renew in person, you can still do that at any of the Access Pass attractions (except the Indiana Repertory Theatre and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum).
2. Access Pass attractions are located across the state.
Your Access Pass card can take you all across the state of Indiana. With the Access Pass, you can visit 10 attractions in Indianapolis, as well as WonderLab in Bloomington and The Children’s Museum of Terre Haute. Additionally, your Access Pass card gets you $2 admission at 11 historic sites in the state through the Indiana State Museum.
3. You’ll find something for everyone.
Thanks to the wide variety of attractions available to Access Pass holders, you’re sure to find something fun for everyone in your family. Each of the Access Pass attractions offers a large breadth of programming great for all ages and interests. The Eiteljorg, which is known for its incredible collection of American Indian and Western art, also has the R.B. Annis Western Family Experience, where families can engage in hands-on learning and activities.
4. Access Pass cardholders can get additional discounts.
Some of the Access Pass partners offer additional discounts along with $2 admission, stretching your dollar even farther. At the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, you also receive 10 percent off in the food court and discounts on Starpoint Camp. Conner Prairie gives a 10 percent discount in the Conner Prairie Store and the NCAA Hall of Champions offers a 25 percent discount in their museum gift shop.
5. Kids with sensory sensitivities are welcome.
Public spaces can be overwhelming to some guests, so several of the Access Pass attractions have created quiet spaces and sensory-friendly hours. Conner Prairie sets sensory-friendly hours from 10 a.m. to noon on the first Sunday of the month. You’ll also find quiet areas throughout the museum with sensory kits.
6. Reserve Access Pass tickets are available online.
Several of the Access Pass attractions (The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indiana Historical Society, Newfields, and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum) have set up online systems for Access Pass cardholders to reserve advance tickets. You can still get your tickets at the box office at the other attractions.
7. Access Pass has a monthly newsletter.
Once you sign up for the Access Pass, you’ll automatically receive the monthly Access Pass e-newsletter, with information about all the attractions including new exhibits, upcoming activities, and special programming. You can also sign up to receive the e-newsletter on the Access Pass website.
8. Online programming is also available.
Access Pass cardholders can also experience the attractions without leaving home. Every Access Pass attraction has online programming available that includes educational activities, videos and print-outs, and just-for-fun games. Explore Rhythm! Discovery Center’s online collection of percussion instruments, immerse yourself in the world of theatre with acting and storytelling with IRT, and dive into science with virtual workshops at WonderLab.
9. Access Pass is just one of several community programs.
The Access Pass program is part of the Community Initiatives outreach at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. The Community Initiatives program also includes the Neighborhood Club, providing free memberships at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis to the residents of the six surrounding neighborhoods.
10. The Access Pass website has all the information you need.
If you have a question about qualifying for the program, how to enroll, or what’s all included with your Access Pass, check out the website. You’ll find the online enrollment portal, a FAQs document, list and links of all participating attractions, and more.
Enroll today
Qualifying Indiana residents can enroll in the Access Pass program with just a few easy steps. Click here to begin the process.
