Youth and families

Let your curiosity guide you on an adventure through art from all over the world! The Worcester Art Museum welcomes art lovers of all ages and is proud to give free admission to all children and teens ages 17 and under.

The Museum provides a safe and comfortable environment for kids and families to explore, experience, and learn about art in new and fun ways. Talk, play, and draw together. Get some tips on ways to look at art. Relax and enjoy on your own, or discover all the exciting programs and events we have planned to inspire you!

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In the galleries

Arms and armor presentations

Learn all about different kinds of arms and armor, from Roman soldiers to medieval knights, in these interactive presentations.

Location: Lancaster Room
When:
Check our calendar

Art carts

Draw pictures, touch materials, and discover the answers to your questions with these hands-on activities.

Location: Throughout the Museum
When:
Check our calendar

Touch stations

Learn what happens if you touch art made of wood, metal, stone, or other materials.

Location: Throughout the Museum

Scavenger hunts

Our interactive ccavenger hunts and family guides will help kids and families explore our galleries in fun and engaging ways.

Pick up a scavenger hunt or family guide at the welcome desk.

Community days

Every spring and fall, the Museum welcomes all for a free day of art-making, story time, musical performances, demonstrations, and more!

When: Check our calendar

Food and drink

Families and visitors of all ages can visit the café located in the Renaissance Court. Enjoy a variety of coffee-based drinks, pastries, snacks, and lunch offerings.

When: Open during regular Museum hours (service ends 30 minutes before closing)


Classes and workshops

Youth and adult classes

The Museum offers classes for all ages and has scholarships available for those who need financial assistance.

School vacation weeks

There’s always something to do when school is not in session, with the Museum offering classes and workshops for children ages 3–17.


Experiencing art with kids

Kids are extraordinarily equipped to connect with art. You don’t need an art history degree to guide a child through the Worcester Art Museum. Here are some tips to experience art together.

When you’re looking at art with children, ask them:

  • What do you see? Do you like it? Why or why not?
  • How does the artwork make you feel? Describe your feelings in colors.
  • Search for shapes, colors, or animals. How many can you find?
  • Can you find art with nothing in it except colors, shapes, lines, textures? That’s called abstract art. Can you draw an abstract artwork?
  • Sit near your favorite artwork and draw what you see and feel. Share your drawing with us!
  • Read books together in the galleries. Or bring your own favorite book, find a comfy seat, and enjoy. (We have lots of great books in the shop—have a look!)
  • Act out stories in the art, or write your own story inspired by an artwork. Share your story with us!
  • Take a picture with your favorite artwork and send it to us!
  • Take a break! Sit on a bench or visit our Higgins Education Wing. It is a great place to unwind with kid-friendly activities like drawing, playing games, or having a snack.
  • And, remember, you can always come back!

Need a break?

The museum provides a variety of spaces for kids and families to take a break, have a snack, or tend to the needs of their children.

  • Breastfeeding and bottle feeding are permitted throughout the Museum. Baby changing stations are available in the 1st floor and 2nd floor restrooms.
  • Learn more about areas for snacks and where to purchase food and drinks.