The National WWII Museum shows its appreciation for the service and sacrifices of all active servicemembers, retirees, and veterans of the US military—as well as their families—with free or discounted admission throughout the year, annual commemorations and events, and special initiatives like the Blue Star Museums Program. Check out some of our offerings for military members and families below:
Free & Discounted Admission
Blue Star Museums Program
Annually from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day
Each summer, the Museum partners with the Blue Star Museums Network to offer free admission to the nation’s current military personnel and their families. The free admission program is available for active-duty members of the US Armed Forces—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force—as well as members of the Reserves, National Guard, US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and NOAA Commissioned Corps.
Military Discounts on Admission
Offered year-round
The Museum offers a discount of $10 off general admission for active servicemembers, retirees, and veterans of the US military, as well as their spouses. WWII veterans and one companion are offered free Museum admission. The Museum also offers free admission to active servicemembers in uniform—including US and international servicemembers.
Anniversaries & Commemorations
Military Birthdays
Annually throughout the year
The Museum marks the anniversaries of the founding of each branch of the US Armed Forces with free admission for active-duty and reserve members, retirees, and veterans of the respective branch.
Army: June 14 | Coast Guard: August 4 | Air Force: September 18 | Navy: October 13 | Marine Corps: November 10 | National Guard: December 13 | Space Force: December 20
Armed Forces Day
Third Saturday in May
The Museum’s annual Armed Forces Day Commemoration recognizes servicemembers, both past and present, in all branches of the US military. To mark the occasion, the Museum offers free admission for active servicemembers, retirees, and veterans of the US military.
Veterans Day
November 11
The Museum’s annual Veterans Day Commemoration honors those who have selflessly served our country and whose sacrifices we must never forget. To mark the occasion, the Museum offers free admission for veterans of the US military.
Family and Military Appreciation Block Party
Saturday after Veterans Day (November 14, 2026)
Civilian and military families across the New Orleans and Gulf Coast community are invited to the Museum’s annual Family and Military Appreciation Block Party! Spend the day exploring our campus, enjoying live entertainment and family-friendly activities, and learning more about our special exhibits.