All three University of Nebraska State Museum locations will participate in the Blue Star Museums program for 2021.

Active-duty military personnel, including the National Guard and Reserves, as well as their families, will qualify for free admission to Morrill Hall in Lincoln, Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park near Royal, and Trailside Museum of Natural History in Crawford from Armed Forces Day, May 15, through Labor Day, Sept. 6.

“I look forward to honoring the service of our military families with free admission as part of the museum’s participation in the Blue Star program,” said Susan Weller, director of the NU State Museum.

The program is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, Department of Defense and museums across the United States. Active-duty military and their families may book advance tickets online or present a military ID at entrance to receive the free passes. A military ID will also be required at entry for those who purchase online tickets. Advance ticket purchase is encouraged to guarantee museum entry at desired times. Visitors to Ashfall Fossil Beds and Trailside Museum will still need to acquire a state park permit. The permits are available online from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Morrill Hall will also continue offering discounted tickets for veterans.

All three sites will follow recommended health guidelines regarding COVID-19 for the summer. Those wanting additional information on social-distancing procedures, exhibits, hours of operation or advance tickets should contact the respective location.

Morrill Hall information is available here or by calling 402-472-2637. Ashfall Fossil Beds information is available here or by calling 402-893-2000. Trailside Museum information is available here or by calling 308-665-2929.