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Levels of Membership

Demonstrate your support of the Smithsonian by joining Smithsonian Associates—and begin enjoying your benefits today!Review the membership benefits terms and conditions

Most Smithsonian Associates programs are currently streamed live.
Some in-person membership benefits may be on temporary hold during this time and will resume once we return to in-person programs.
Select a membership level:
  • Members-Only Ticket Priority before programs go on sale to the public (some exclusions apply)
  • Purchase one ticket per program at the discounted member price (savings up to 35%)
  • Subscription to the monthly Smithsonian Associates program guide
  • Access to members-only programs, including the popular annual Breakfast at the Zoo
  • Access to two complimentary tours of exhibitions throughout the year
  • Access to free Associates events as available (notification sent via email)
  • 10% discount at SmithsonianStore.com and at select Smithsonian museum restaurants
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Purchase up to four tickets per program at the discounted member price (savings up to 35%)
  • Priority consideration for waitlisted programs including study tours (some exclusions apply)
  • Recognition on the Smithsonian Associates website
Promoter – $100
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Purchase up to six tickets per program at the discounted member price (savings up to 35%)
  • Smithsonian magazine delivered to your home
  • Member discounts on Art Collectors Program fine-art prints
  • 20% discount at SmithsonianStore.com during special Member Days sales
Advocate – $175
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Advance digital copy of the monthly Smithsonian Associates program guide
  • Two complimentary tickets to one exclusive after-hours Mingle at the Museum event
  • VIP access, activities, and seating at the popular annual Breakfast at the Zoo
Contributor – $300
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Advance ticket purchasing by phone for high-demand programs, including Smithsonian Summer Camp
  • Invitation for two to a Smithsonian Insider event during the year
  • No handling fees on phone purchases
  • Recognition in the Smithsonian Associates program guide annual donor list and on the annual donor plaque at our headquarters on the National Mall
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Advanced ticket purchasing to select headliner events
  • Complimentary invitation for two to an exclusive Meeting the Masters reception
  • Eligibility to participate in special travel programs sponsored by Smithsonian Journeys
  • Complimentary tickets for two to a lecture or performance (value equal to $30 per ticket or less)
  • Copy of the Smithsonian’s annual report
Sponsor – $1,000
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Complimentary VIP tickets for two and a parking pass for Breakfast at the Zoo
  • Reserved seating at most Smithsonian Associates programs
  • Invitations to backstage meet-and-greets at select Smithsonian Associates programs
  • Advanced ticket purchasing for embassy programs and receptions
  • Dedicated concierge phone line for inquiries and tickets
Partner – $2,500
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Invitation for two to the prestigious Annual Smithsonian Weekend
  • An exclusive behind-the-scenes tour with a docent
  • Recognition in the Smithsonian’s annual report
Benefactor – $5,000
All the preceding benefits, plus:
  • Recognition as a sponsor of a selected Smithsonian Associates program
  • Complimentary VIP tickets for six and two parking passes for Breakfast at the Zoo
  • Priority seating at all Smithsonian Associates programs
  • Additional 20% discount on member prices for Art Collectors Program fine-arts prints

Refer to IRS Publication 526 for clarification of tax implications.

Free ticket terms and restrictions:
If your membership benefits include free tickets, then to redeem your free ticket value call Customer Service at (202) 633-3030 (Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET). Value of ticket(s) cannot be applied to Studio Arts Classes, in-person tours or programs that have a book included in the program price. Value of the offer does not apply to previous purchases, membership dues, or gift certificates.