Georgia family outings · Updated October 6, 2026
Before buying museum tickets for fall break, check your library. A borrowed pass could cover four admissions—or six at the Carlos Museum.
The important detail is what the pass includes. Free museum entry does not automatically include a show, a special exhibit or every member of a larger family.
- Up to six guests: check the Michael C. Carlos Museum pass.
- Technology and art: the Mimms Museum pass covers four general admissions.
- Puppetry: choose four museum admissions or the separate All-Inclusive discount.
- Outdoor day: a library ParkPass covers parking, not all activity fees.
- Before setting a date: confirm that your library has the pass available.
Which museum pass should you try first?
| Destination | Pass benefit | Check before going |
|---|---|---|
| Carlos Museum Atlanta | Up to six general admissions | Special exhibits, programs and audio tours are excluded. |
| Mimms Museum Roswell | Four general admissions | Special events and exhibits are excluded. |
| Center for Puppetry Arts Atlanta | Four museum admissions or 25% off an All-Inclusive ticket | The free museum option does not include a performance. |
These benefits are listed in the Georgia Experience Pass guide; DeKalb's pass directory also lists the Carlos and Mimms options. Check availability with your own library system.
How to borrow a pass without a wasted trip
- Choose the experience. Decide whether the kids want galleries, technology or a puppet performance.
- Call your branch or check its catalog. Confirm card eligibility, current availability and where to collect the pass.
- Check the attraction's rules. Ask about reservations, age-based tickets, excluded events and parking.
- Collect the pass before promising the outing. A catalog listing does not guarantee an available copy.
- Save the return date. Bring the required pass, identification and any reservation confirmation.
The state guide sets a once-per-six-months borrowing limit for each pass per person or family. The museum passes covered here generally have a seven-day loan, one renewal and no holds. Follow your branch's instructions.
Want the puppet show? Book the right option
Museum-only and All-Inclusive are different visits. For the library All-Inclusive discount, call 404-873-3391, mention code LIBRARY, and present the borrowed pass on the performance date. The state guide recommends calling at least 48 hours ahead; this offer is not redeemed through online sales.
Ask which Family Series performance fits your child's age and what arrival time leaves enough room for the museum and workshop. Do not purchase full-price tickets first and assume the discount can be added afterward.
If you choose the museum, the collections include Jim Henson characters and puppetry from around the world. Give children one thing to investigate: how does their favorite character move?
Make a short museum visit feel worthwhile
You do not need to see every gallery. Try a simple three-part mission: find something surprising, sketch a favorite object, then let each child explain one discovery on the way home.
- At Carlos: ask about the free SmARTy Pack activity bags available to check out on Level One.
- At Mimms: plan around the posted Wednesday–Sunday, noon–5 p.m. hours; last entry is 45 minutes before closing.
- With younger children: leave a little energy for the journey home instead of adding one more gallery.
See Carlos Museum visitor information and Mimms hours and visit details for updates.
What “free admission” still leaves to budget
Use this quick total before choosing your museum:
A pass reduces one part of the day. The nearest suitable outing may be the better deal, even if one guest needs a ticket.
Decide on lunch before you leave. Do not rely on every museum having a cafeteria, and check food rules before packing snacks for inside the galleries.
Prefer fresh air? Ask about a ParkPass
The library ParkPass hangtag covers eligible state-park parking. A historic-site pass is a separate admission benefit. Ask which items you need, and check fees for tours, rentals, programs or special events.
Use the Amicalola Falls family route guide to choose between easier waterfall access and a stair-heavy hike.
Did September's museum promotion end?
Yes. SWAPtember ran September 1–30, 2026. It offered benefits to participating members, including membership discounts and some admission offers. It was not a universal free museum ticket. The library Experience Pass program is separate.