There are so many great attractions in Lake and McHenry Counties, and even more just a short drive into Chicago. For families with more than one child, you can easily spend $50-100 on admission to some of these great attractions. At that price they become special occasions that only happen once in a while.

Did you know there’s a way you can see many of these attractions for FREE? Yes there are the Free Days that many provide, but those tend to be very crowded with lots of others trying to save money too! Now you can get general admission (or other discounts) to dozens of those attractions with just your library card.

We are huge fans of the Museum Adventure Pass. This program allows you to check out passes to attractions from your local library. It’s really as easy as it sounds.We’ve used it many times and are always surprised at how easy it is! If you have never used it before this winter is a great time to give it a try!

How to use the Museum Adventure Pass:

1. First, decide where you want to go. Then check the listing at Museum Adventure Pass — it includes big Chicago attractions like Brookfield Zoo as well as Lake County attractions such as the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Other popular destinations are the Illinois Railway Museum, and the Legoland Discovery Center. Many regional and historical museums are also included.
TIP: Being flexible is a big help! We usually pick a day and plan to go to one of several locations, wherever there is a pass available

2. Head to your library with your library card in hand! To see if you library participates check the library list (I took a quick look and it seems like most of the Lake County area libraries do participate). There are a limited number of passes per library and are on a first come first serve basis. You may check out one pass per family and it’s good for seven days. Admission offers vary per location, some are for free admission for two people (Brookfield Zoo) and some offer buy one, get one admission (Illinois Railway Museum) or simply a discount.

3. Head out to the location and have a great time.

It really is that easy! We have checked out the Brookfield Zoo pass several times, as well the passes for the Morton Arboretum and the Botanic Gardens. I usually call ahead to the library to find out how many passes (if any) are left. If they are checked out, I ask when they are due again. With just a little bit of planning we have been able to save a bundle and enjoy outings that would otherwise probably not have happened. Just another reason to love your local library!

Have you heard of the Museum Adventure Pass? Have you used it? Where did you go?

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