Looking for fun, educational outings the whole family can enjoy without breaking the bank? This week’s Friday Fav is one of our absolute favorite family hacks—free passes to museums, attractions, gardens, and more from your local library!
Families in McHenry County have access to two incredible programs:
🌟 Museum Adventure Pass
🌟 Explore More Illinois
With a valid library card, you can explore amazing experiences for free or at a discounted rate. It’s a fantastic way to mix learning and play without spending a dime!
🖼️ Museum Adventure Pass
The Museum Adventure Pass program gives you access to free or discounted admission to over 20 Chicagoland attractions.
🎟️ How It Works:
- Free or reduced admission to local museums and cultural destinations
- One pass per family per loan period (usually 7 days)
- First-come, first-served—check availability at your library
To see if your local library participates, check here:
👉 Museum Adventure Pass Participating Libraries
🧭 Explore More Illinois
Explore More Illinois is another incredible library perk—offering digital passes to museums, theaters, gardens, zoos, and more through an easy-to-use online system.
🎟️ How It Works:
- Log in with your library card at: https://exploremore.quipugroup.net/
- Browse available passes by date or destination
- Reserve and print your pass instantly
This program includes:
- Discovery Center Museum
- Peoria Riverfront Museum
- Elgin History Museum
- Tickets for sporting events, performances, and more!
📚 McHenry County Libraries That Offer Passes
Here are some McHenry County libraries offering access to both programs:
| Library | Museum Pass Info |
|---|---|
| Cary Area Public Library | Pass Info |
| Crystal Lake Public Library | Pass Info |
| McHenry Public Library District | Explore More Illinois Pass Info Museum Adventure Pass Info |
| Huntley Area Public Library | Explore More Illinois Pass Info Museum Adventure Pass Info |
Not sure if your library participates?
🔍 Search all Museum Adventure Pass libraries
🔍 Search all Explore More Illinois libraries
💡 Family Tips for Making the Most of Free Passes
- ✅ Plan ahead. Weekends and holidays fill up fast—reserve early.
- 🧺 Pair with a picnic or a nearby playground for a full day out.
- 📸 Capture the memories! Snap a photo at each location and build a summer adventure scrapbook.
- 📆 Make it a tradition. Choose one weekend a month to explore somewhere new.
Whether you want to discover local history, stroll through a botanical garden, or spend the day at a hands-on museum, Museum Adventure Pass and Explore More Illinois make it easy—and FREE—for families to enjoy quality time together.
Start planning your next outing today, and don’t forget to tag us in your adventures!
