This is a paid piece from Washington Pavilion Management, Inc.

Simplified: There's more to a Washington Pavilion membership than meets the eye – from exclusive discounts at museums worldwide to cafe discounts. Here's why a membership is a good buy not only for your family, but for the broader arts community.

Why it matters

  • Pavilion memberships can pay for themselves in only a few visits to the Kirby Science Discovery Center or the eight galleries at the Visual Arts Center. That's three floors of art, science and numerous hands-on learning opportunities for all ages.
"It's a great place for our kids to burn some energy while also learning about science, art, and engineering," said Samantha Sarks, Pavilion member and mother of two.
  • Members also get access to a variety of additional perks, including free or discounted admission at more than 400 museums worldwide through the Association of Science-Technology Centers Passport Program.
  • Beyond the museum and gallery access, membership is also a way to show support for the Pavilion's work to integrate art and science into the daily lives of Sioux Falls residents. Members help the Pavilion bring events like Ag Day and the Sidewalk Arts Festival, as well as ongoing educational programming including the Spotlight Theatre Company.
"All of our supporters, from a single membership to a family of nine, contribute to our overall affect on the community and what we have to offer," said LuAnn Wolfe, business development and sales manager.

Tell me more about memberships

Parent Matthew Orstad said when his three kids were younger, they spent so much time at the Pavilion that his youngest son even made it onto the marketing materials.

"He was plastered all over the building – even on the elevator," Orstad said.

Now teenagers, Orstad said the kids don't go as often to the science center, but his family keeps their pavilion membership both because they enjoy supporting the arts and for access to the ASTC Passport Program.

  • The family was able to get deeply discounted access to a couple of museums in Chicago – saving nearly $200 overall.

In addition to the passport program, member benefits include:

  • Unlimited, year-long access to the Kirby Science Discovery Center and Visual Arts Center,
  • Discounted movie tickets at the Wells Fargo CineDome and Sweetman Planetarium (or the option to add on unlimited films to your membership),
  • Access to exclusive member appreciation events monthly from January to August,
  • Early access to tickets for the Broadway Performance Series,
  • 10% off purchases at the The WP Café, Parlour and the Alcove retail store in the Steel District.

How can I sign up?

Memberships start at $49.99 per year, and include options for individuals, couples and families.

You can explore membership options here and get signed up today.