Top 5: Free Museums in Boston

Boston is a city rich in history and culture. If you want to experience more of Boston for less money, check out our list of the best free museums to visit in Boston.

Commonwealth Museum

The museum houses rare original documents related to the history of Boston including the Massachusetts Bay Charter, the Royal Charter and the Massachusetts Constitution. Open Monday–Friday, admission and parking are free.

The Museum of Bad Art

With a self-explanatory name, the museum is dedicated to the preservation, exhibition and celebration of bad art in all forms.

The Museum of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts is the oldest chartered military organization in the Western hemisphere. The Museum honors this history with a display of artifacts, uniforms and other memorabilia. It is open weekdays, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

USS Constitution Museum

Located in an old shipyard building in the Boston Navy Yard, the museum tells the story of the ship along with the people who designed, constructed and sailed her through its collections and interactive displays. Donations are suggested, but not required.

Waterworks Museum

Learn more about the city’s municipal water supply, one of the country’s first metropolitan water systems. Exhibitions cover engineering, architecture, social history and public health. The museum is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Honorable mention: Several museums offer free admission during select days and times including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Harvard Museum of Natural History and The Institute of Contemporary Art Boston.