Family Visitor Information
In the Museum
Igniting curiosity and discovering new ideas with the whole family.
Third Saturday for Families
Join us every third Saturday from 1 – 4 pm for a family-friendly art-making activity. General admission is always FREE on the third Saturday of the month.
Tips for Your Visit
Museum Manners
- Help us protect the art and ensure an enjoyable and safe visit for all. We appreciate your cooperation with these simple guidelines:
- Check backpacks, large bags, and umbrellas at the welcome desk. Groups are encouraged to leave large bags at home, school, or on the bus.
- Please walk and use respectful voices in the galleries.
- Look but don’t touch, oil from your fingers can damage the artwork.
- No food, drink, or gum is permitted in the galleries.
- Pencils only please (no pens).
Accessibility
The UMFA welcomes all visitors and strives to be accessible to everyone. Visit the Accessibility page for more information about available accommodations.
Trailhead, Basecamp, and Lookout
Need a break? Comfy seating and charging stations are available at the Trailhead, Basecamp, and Lookout conversation areas.
Audio Guide
Check out our free audio guide to discover more about the art on view.
Photography, Sketching in the Museum, and FAQ
Please visit our Policies and FAQ page for our most up-to-date policies and frequently asked questions.
Family Backpacks
Check out a free family backpack at the UMFA welcome desk to experience the Museum in a whole new way. Make the traditional, adult-oriented galleries more fun and accessible for your family. Each backpack contains hands-on and close-looking activities focused on individual art objects and the cultures they represent. Family backpacks provide a more compelling array of hands-on materials and multisensory activities than traditional paper and pencil family guides.
The packs are designed for families with children ages 4–12 and can be checked out at the welcome desk free of charge with Museum admission. See different backpack themes and their contents below.
Make The Most Of Your Visit
ACME Lab
Located in the UMFA Emma Eccles Jones Education Center, ACME Lab is an exhibition space for art experimentation and exploration. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to ask questions, make connections across disciplines, and engage with art in new ways. The Lab promotes collaboration between museum and community through active participation—providing an avenue for mutual learning, discovery, and understanding.
Family-Friendly Workshops and Classes
Bring the whole family and enjoy fun, engaging experiences for all ages. From creative activities to interactive programs, our events are designed to inspire curiosity and connection through art. Whether you’re exploring together or trying something new, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Self-Guided and Guided Tours
Explore the galleries with docent-led tours or download a self-guide for your visit to gain a deeper understanding of your favorite artworks on view.
Thank You to our Family Backpack Sponsors
Major support provided by †Hugh and Kathie Zumbro.
