We’ve found over 100 EBT discounts in MA! From Williamstown to Mashpee, your MA food stamps card can get you some incredible deals. We’ll show you how to get discounts on everything from Amazon Prime to zoo admission!
8 Things You Need to Know
For several years, I’ve been researching food stamps and related topics. I’ve discovered that there are a few critical things people don’t understand about these discounts (and the benefits in general).
- Apply for Massachusetts EBT online on the goBevernment website. This is the fastest and easiest way to apply for food benefits.
- Know what you can buy. Most people don’t know that they can buy seeds, plants and some gift baskets with EBT. We’ve got all the info, straight from the USDA!
- Shop smart. You may be able to get more food for your money at farmer’s markets and You-Pick Strawberry Fields!
- You may be eligible for more food stamps than you are getting. Many people are getting less than they should because they don’t get credit for all their deductions.
- You may be able to get cash back from your food stamps card legally by using rewarded shopping apps. One of our readers earned an additional $437.84 in cash just by shopping with her food stamps card!
- You can use your MA card in other states! In addition to getting EBT discounts in MA, you can also get EBT discounts in other states. Check each of our state lists to see what you get.
- You can shop at Costco, Farmer’s Markets and more! There are many unconventional retailers and shops that accept EBT benefits. Some even include special programs! For example, many Farmers Markets offer a double-up program that will give you twice as much produce as you pay for! Did you know about this?
- You can buy fruit trees and plants. For many years, I thought all food stamps could buy was groceries… and I was wrong! Here’s a fully fact-checked list of seven surprising things you can buy with EBT.
Statewide EBT Discounts in MA
No matter where you live in Massachusetts, you may be eligible for these incredible freebies and deals.
50% off Amazon Prime
If you get food stamps or Medicaid, you can qualify for 50% off Amazon Prime! You’ll receive free two-day shipping on your Amazon orders and you’ll also enjoy access to FREE streaming services! Get it now.
$5 Bluebikes Membership
Bluebikes offers $5 per month or $50 per year membership for people with food stamps. With this membership, you’ll get unlimited 60 minute rides! This is definitely one of the best and most unique EBT discounts in MA. Sign up here.
$5 Internet
We’ve found almost a dozen low-cost internet programs for low income households. Our list includes providers like Comcast, CenturyLink, AT&T and more! Plans start at just $5 per month (and all are $20/mo or less)!
FREE Cell Phones & Service
Cell phones can be expensive. Fortunately, if you have food stamps, you’re probably also eligible for FREE smartphones and FREE monthly cell service from these providers!
FREE Computers
Several organizations offer free and low-cost computers for low income families. If you get food stamps, you may qualify for a free computer as well!
YMCA Discounts
If you have a local YMCA organization, inquire about low income discounts! Most YMCAs around the country offer low income memberships and scholarships for families who can’t afford the standard prices.
Other Discounts
If you’ve looking for EBT discounts in MA, you may also qualify for these deals!
- DPA Grants & More Help For First-Time Homebuyers
- Free Legal Aid
- Property Tax Exemptions
- Student loan forgiveness (and reduced payments)
- Summer meals for kids
- Tax help
- Utility assistance
- Free pet food, veterinary care grants and more

How to Get Free Admission with EBT Cards in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has more EBT discounts than almost any other state (except maybe California). This list seems to get longer and longer, so we’ve decided to organize it by region, and then alphabetically by city and venue.
Before we begin, though, there are a few things you need to know.
There are two main programs that organize EBT discounts in MA. The EBT Card to Culture program is an amazing Massachusetts partnership that only benefits MA food stamps cardholders. The nationwide Museums for All program provides admission for everyone with EBT cards from all 50 states, so we’ve used green titles for these museums.
Out-of-state EBT cards can be used at certain venues. Any organization with a green title has been identified as a Museums for All participant or an organization that accepts EBT cards from any state. If you’re just visiting and have an out-of-state card, be sure to look for the green headings.
You cannot pay for admission with your EBT card. It is important to remember that you cannot pay for admission with your MA food stamps card. You will show the EBT card to receive the discount but you will need to pay the remaining admission price, if any, in cash or with a credit/debit card.
Statewide
I’ll admit that this list is much harder to organize than it used to be. Some of these free admission programs have experienced explosive growth over the last few years and there are a lot of organizations in our list!
When we fact-checked this list recently, we discovered that EBT Card to Culture organizes their list by region. We usually sort by county, but we thought this structure may be more helpful to our readers. We’re always open to your feedback, though, so if you’d like to see this list laid out differently just let us know.
Regardless, these organizations offer free or discounted admission around the state!
Historic New England – $2 each
Historic New England operates 15 historic locations across Massachusetts. These 15 locations are all offering EBT discounts in MA through both Museums for All and EBT Card to Culture.
- Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House (Gloucester)
- Codman Estate (Lincoln)
- Coffin House (Newbury)
- Cogswell’s Grant (Essex)
- Eustis Estate Museum (Milton)
- Gedney House (Salem)
- Gropius House (Lincoln)
- Lyman Estate (Waltham)
- Lyman Estate Greenhouses (Waltham)
- Otis House (Boston)
- Phillips House (Salem)
- Quincy House (Quincy)
- Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm (Newbury)
- Swett-Ilsley House (Newbury)
- Winslow Crocker House (Yarmouth Port)
Massachusetts Audubon – FREE
The Massachusetts Audubon has generously made their wildlife sanctuaries, centers and museums available free for guests (up to four people) with an MA food stamps card.
- Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (Easthampton)
- Blue Hills Trailside Museum (Milton)
- Boston Nature Center (Mattapan)
- Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center & Wildlife Sanctuary (Worcester)
- Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary (Natick)
- Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary (Marshfield)
- Drumlin Farm (Lincoln)
- Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary (Gloucester)
- Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary (Edgartown)
- Habitat Education Center & Wildlife Sanctuary (Belmont)
- Ipswitch River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield)
- Joppa Flats Education Center (Newburyport)
- Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary (Sharon)
- Museum of American Bird Art (Canton)
- North River Wildlife Sanctuary (Marshfield)
- Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary (Attleboro)
- Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Lenox)
- Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary (Norfolk)
- Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary (Plymouth)
- Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary (Princeton)
- Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (Wellfleet)
Boston Region
The Greater Boston Region is home to many of the EBT discounts in MA!
Blue Hills Trailside Museum (Milton) – FREE
Up to four people can visit free with an EBT card!
Boston Athenaeum (Boston) – $2 per adult
This offer includes WIC cardholders! If you have either EBT or WiC, you can get $2 admission to the Boston Athenaeum for each member of your household. Children 12 and under are always free. Tours may have an additional cost.
Boston By Foot (Boston) – $1 per person
Join a walking tour for just $1 per person! All virtual events are free, but you will need to enter the first six digits of your EBT card as your coupon code when reserving your tickets.
Boston Children’s Museum (Boston) – $2 per person
The Boston Children’s Museum offers one of the most popular EBT discounts in MA! If you have WIC or EBT in any state, you can get admission for just $2 per person.
Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation (Waltham) – 20% Off
You can get discounted admission with a food stamps card. Present your card to save 20% on museum admission. But remember that there are no on-site parking spots!
Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate (Boston) – $2 per person
The Institute includes exhibits, programs, and educational experiences for guests of all ages. This discount is valid for up to four people per EBT card.
Franklin Park Zoo (Boston) – $4 per person
Present your Massachusetts EBT or WIC card to receive the discounted rate for up to 5 people. This excellent offer is only valid for MA residents! If you prefer, you have the option to purchase an annual family membership for just $40, which will provide unlimited admission for up to two named adults and four children.
Gore Place (Waltham) – $5 each
Explore three centuries worth of history on 50 acres. Gore Place includes mansion tours, an outdoor play space, Tot Time farm, Take a Walk backpack activities and so much more. Two adults can visit for $5 each and two children can visit for free with each EBT card.
Harvard Art Museums (Cambridge) – FREE
The Harvard Art Museums host several interesting collections, including Roman Domestic Art, Near-Eastern Bronzes and more! Up to six people can receive free admission with each MA food stamps card.
Harvard Museums of Science & Culture (Cambridge) – FREE
The Museums include the Harvard Semitic Museum, the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology and the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments. Admission is free for up to six guests per EBT card.
Historic Newton (Newton) – $2-$4 per person
Historic Newton offers EBT discounts in MA! The discounts are valid at two museums, the Jackson Homestead Museum and the Durant-Kendrick House. With a MA food stamps card, you can visit one museum for $2 or both for $4!
ICA/Boston (Institute of Contemporary Art (Boston)) – FREE
The ICA hosts a variety of modern art exhibitions, including music, dance, film, tours and teen programming. One adult can visit free per card. Youths 17 or under are also free.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (Boston) – $2 per person
A rich, historic art collection awaits inside the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, drawings, manuscripts, rare books, letters and photographs. Items from ancient Rome, Medieval Europe, Renaissance Italy, the Islamic world and so much more are viewable here.
This discount is valid for up to 4 adults. Guests under 18 are always free. This location is also a Blue Star Museum… and if your name is Isabella, you can register for free lifetime admission!
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum (Boston) – $4 per person
Explore the exhibits, materials, free educational programs, performing arts series and more at the JFK Presidential Library for just $4 per person (up to 4 people). Children 12 and under are always free!
King’s Chapel Historic Site (Boston) – FREE
Explore the history of King’s Chapel and it’s 300+ year history. Admission is always free with a suggested donation. However, MA food stamps cardholders can get guided tour tickets for just $2 per person for up to five people!
Massachusetts Historical Society (Boston) – FREE
Although the library and exhibitions are always free, visitors with MA food stamps cards can participate in public programs for free also! As long as there is space available and you register in advance, you won’t have to pay the registration fee.
Metropolitan Waterworks Museum Inc (Boston) – FREE
Discover the country’s first metropolitan water systems through exhibitions and engaging programs! Admission is free. Guided tours are also free.
MIT List Visual Arts Center (Cambridge) – FREE
Located on the MIT campus, this contemporary art center offers free exhibitions and programs.
MIT Museum (Cambridge) – FREE
The MIT museum is free for the EBT cardholder and up to three family members.
Museum of Fine Arts (Boston) – $3 per person
This location is also a Blue Star Museum. The Museum of Fine Arts provides this EBT discount for up to 4 adults (visitors under 18 are always free!)
Museum of Science (Boston) – FREE
Explore the world of science and technology absolutely free at Boston’s Museum of Science. With constantly evolving exhibits and programs, the museum features a butterfly garden, summer courses, live presentations and so much more.
Nantucket Lightship – $3 or less per person
The Nantucket Lightship is being rebuilt for the next few years. During that time, it is open for public tours. Tours are available on Saturdays between May and October.
New England Aquarium (Boston) – $5 per person
If you’ve got EBT or WIC, you get $5 tickets to the New England Aquarium for up to four guests. This is not valid with any other offers or discounts. It also doesn’t include whale watches, the Simons IMAX theater, or other paid upgrades.
Old North Church and Historic Site (Boston) – FREE
Explore the Church with a guided tour! With your EBT card, you can receive free tickets for the cardholder and two additional guests, for all regularly scheduled tours (subject to availability, of course).
Old South Meeting House (Boston) – $1 per person
Visit the Old South Meeting House, where the Boston Tea Party began in 1773! With an EBT or WIC card, you can visit for just $1 per adult!
Paul Revere House (Boston) – $1 per person
The Paul Revere House participates in the EBT Card to Culture program and provides $1 admission to guests with an EBT card.
Rose Kennedy Greenway Carousel (Boston) – FREE
This venue offers up to four free carousel tickets when you show your EBT card.
Royall House and Slave Quarters (Medford) – $2 per person
This property once belonged to the family that owned the most slaves in all of Massachusetts. The Slave Quarters is the only remaining such structure in the northern United States. See relics from this painful history for just $2 per person.
Shirley-Eustis House Association (Roxbury) – FREE & 20% Discount
An individual or family with an EBT card can get free admission to all regularly scheduled summer tours and also receive a 20% discount on all scheduled events.
Stone Zoo (Stoneham) – $4 per person
This zoo is 26 acres of fun! Up to four people can receive the discount per EBT card. Or for $40, get a year-long Family Membership that will allow free entry to the Stone Zoo and Franklin Park Zoo, as well as provide discounts on food and gift purchases. For more details on purchasing this membership, click here.
The Old State House Museum (Boston) – FREE
Visit the birthplace of the American Revolution! With a MA food stamps card, your visit will be completely free.
The Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library – $2 per adult, children free
Go to the library, if for no other reason than the world-famous Mapparium. This three-story, stained-glass globe is absolutely stunning. You can visit for $2 per adult. Children under age 18 are free.
The Sports Museum (Boston) – $3 per adult
The Sports Museum welcomes adults for $3 each. Children ages 18 and under are free! Just show your valid EBT card.
USS Constitution Museum (Charlestown) – FREE
The USS Constitution Museum is operated separately than the actual USS Constitution ship. In the museum, you can engage with hands-on exhibits to discover what it’s like to be a sailor. Donations are encouraged but not required.
Discounted Workshops, Classes and More
Some of the most generous EBT discounts in MA come from these organizations, which invite low income individuals and families to participate at a fraction of the usual cost.
- Apollinaire Theatre Play Lab (Chelsea) offers discounts of $40 per class (ballet, dance theater, etc) but scholarships are offered for those who need them.
- Boston City Singers (Dorchester) invites low income youth (4-18 years) to join their program for $50 per semester (Sept-May). Additional discounts may be available.
- Brookline Arts Center (Brookline) offers financial aid.
- BSA Foundation (Boston) welcomes low income families to their Family Design Day youth workshops for just $2 per person.
- Community Music Center of Boston offers financial aid for private lessons, early childhood classes, ensembles, summer day programs and more!
- Fort Point Arts Community (Boston) offers gallery space, year-round programming, and an art lending program for free.
- Handel and Haydn Society offers full tuition scholarships to the H+H Youth Choruses for families with EBT or Medicaid in any state.
- MudFlat Pottery School Inc. (Somerville) offers financial aid for lessons.
- New Art Center (Newtonville) offers financial aid for classes, workshops and special offers. The exhibitions, receptions and open houses are free.
- Rehearsal For Life offers tuition assistance for their freelance programs.
- Somerville Media Center (Somerville) offers a 50% Discount on annual memberships and certification workshops!
- Studio 550 (Cambridge) offers discounted rates on their workshops.
- Unbound Visual Arts (Various Locations) offers free memberships for artists and art enthusiasts.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
There are many organizations that offer EBT discounts in MA for low income people who can’t afford regular admission. Many of these organizations require you to reserve your tickets online, in person, or over the phone in advance. Be sure to contact the organization or venue in advance to arrange your tickets.
For example, Blue Man Group (Boston) invites low income guests with MA food stamps to visit for just $30 per person. You can only buy four tickets per card and this can only be redeemed ONCE per household. To reserve your tickets, enter the code C2C online.
- A Far Cry ($5 each, no ticket limits)
- Abilities Dance Boston ($5 each, limit 4)
- American Repertory Theater ($5 each, limit 4)
- ArtsEmerson ($10 each, limit 8)
- Ashmont Hill Chamber Music ($3 each)
- Back Bay Chorale ($5 each, limit 4)
- Blue Man Group ($30 each, limit 4)
- Boston Ballet ($30 each)
- Boston Baroque ($5 each)
- Boston Camerata ($5 each, limit 2)
- Boston Center for the Arts ($10 each)
- Boston Chamber Music Society ($8 each, limit 4, students are FREE)
- Boston Chorale Ensemble (FREE)
- Boston Early Music Festival (FREE, limit 2)
- Boston Jewish Film ($2 discount, limit 2)
- Boston Landmarks Orchestra (FREE, no limit)
- Boston Lyric Opera ($25 each, limit 5, coupon code BLOEBT)
- Boston Modern Orchestra Project (10% discount, coupon code is first 6 digits of EBT card)
- Boston Musica Viva (FREE, limit 4)
- Boston Philharmonic Orchestra (FREE for 4, 50% off for more tickets)
- Boston Symphony Orchestra ($10 adults and $5 for kids, limit 8 per season)
- Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra (FREE)
- Cambridge Symphony Orchestra ($5 per adult, FREE for 16 and under)
- Cantana Singers Inc. ($5 each, no limit, coupon code EBT1920)
- Cantilena Inc. ($5 each, limit 2, free for senior card holders)
- Central Square Theater ($5 each, limit 4)
- Chameleon Arts Ensemble of Boston (FREE, limit 4)
- Chorus Pro Musica (FREE)
- Commonwealth Chorale (FREE, limit 4)
- Commonwealth Shakespeare Company (4 FREE tickets and rental chairs for shows on the Common, and $5 tickets)
- Convivium Musicum (FREE, limit 5)
- Coolidge Corner Theater Foundation ($3 each)
- Coro Allegro ($5 each, limit 4, coupon code COROEBT)
- Emmanuel Music (FREE, limit 4)
- Entropy Theater ($5 each, coupon code is first 6 digits of the EBT card)
- Flat Earth Theatre ($4 each for mainstage performances)
- From the Top (FREE, limit 4)
- Global Arts Live (20% discount, coupon code is first six digits of EBT card)
- Greater Boston Stage Company ($3 each, limit 6)
- Handel and Haydn Society ($2 each, limit 4, coupon code HHEBT or HHCARE)
- Huntington Theatre Company ($20 each)
- Jewish Arts Collaborative (50% off ticketed events)
- Longwood Symphony Orchestra (Limit 4 FREE, discount code EBT)
- Lorelei Ensemble ($5 each, limit 4, coupon code LEEBT)
- Lyric Stage Company of Boston ($10 each)
- Me2 Classical Music for Mental Health (FREE)
- Metropolitan Chorale (FREE)
- MetWinds Metropolitan Wind Symphony ($2 adults, $1 children)
- Moonbox Productions ($5 each, limit 2)
- Music at Marsh Chapel (FREE)
- Musicians of the Old Post Road ($5 each, limit 2)
- New England Philharmonic (FREE, limit 4)
- New Repertory Theater (FREE, limit 2 adults and 2 children per production)
- Puppet Showplace Theater ($3 each, coupon code Card2Culture)
- SpeakEasy Stage Company ($6 each)
- Studio 550 (discounts)
- The Brattle Theater (FREE, limit 2 adults and 4 children)
- The Chamber Orchestra of Boston ($5 each, limit 4)
- The Dorothy and Charles Monesian Center for the Arts (FREE, limit 4)
- The Spectrum Singers (FREE)
- Urbanity Dance ($5 each, limit 4)
- Wheelock Family Theatre at Boston University ($10 each, limit 4)
- White Snake Projects (FREE, limit 4)
- Zamir Chorale of Boston (FREE, limit 2)
Central Region
There are many EBT Discounts in MA’s Central Region!
ArtsWorcester (Worcester) – FREE
ArtsWorcester features 300 artists in 20 exhibitions across three venues. The gallery is open and free for everyone.
EcoTarium (Worcester) – $2 per person
Explore the animals and the exciting EcoTarium exhibits for just $2 per person, up to 4 people per card! Admission must be paid in cash, as checks and credit cards are not allowed under this program.
Fitchburg Art Museum (Fitchburg) – $2 per person
This museum welcomes guests with EBT cards for just $2 per person.
Museum of Russian Icons (Clinton) – $2 per person
More than 1,000 Russian icons and artifacts are on display here, making this the largest collection of its kind on our continent. View 600 years of history, including important paintings and more. A complimentary audio tour is included in admission, if you would like to use it. Visitors who are under age 3 are always free. Up to 4 people can receive the discount with an EBT card.
Old Sturbridge Village (Sturbridge) – $3 per person
Step into a rural New England Town authentic to 1830! Old Sturbridge Village is the largest outdoor history museum in the Northeast, with over 40 original buildings across 200 acres. Authentic costumed historians and heritage farm animals are on-site. Visit for just $3 per person with your MA food stamps card (up to 4 people per card)!
Preservation Worcester (Worcester) – $0-$20 per person
Depending on the event, admission ranges from $0 to $20 per person with an EBT card. You will need to call (508) 754-8760 for specifics.
Tower Hill Botanic Garden (Boylston) – $2 per person
Wander 16 gardens over 130 acres at the headquarters of the Worcester County Horticultural Society (WCHS). It is the third oldest horticultural society in the United States. Children under age 6 are always free. There is a limit of 4 discounts per EBT card.
Worcester Art Museum (Worcester) – FREE
The art museum features an extensive collection, classes for all ages and special exhibitions. Children under 3 are free. They also offer free admission to anyone with food stamps, WIC or ConnectorCare cards. Special program ticket prices may apply for Flora in Winter.
Worcester Historical Museum – $2 per person
The historical museum features a gallery, artifacts and a rotating display of special exhibits, such as “Take a Bite Out of History.” Nearby Salisbury Mansion is also a part of the museum and is Worcester’s only historic house museum.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
These organizations offer EBT discounts in MA. Their offerings include concerts, plays, performances, film screenings and more.
- Arts Transcending Borders ($5 each, limit 4)
- Hopkinton Center for the Arts (FREE, limit 4, enter code WelcomeCC)
- The Center at Eagle Hill ($10 each, limit 4, code: 1st six digits of EBT Card Number)
- The Hanover Theatre ($8 each, limit 4)
- Worcester Chamber Music Society ($5 each)
Metrowest Region
There are many discounts in this area as well!
Concord Museum (Concord) – $2 per person
The Concord Museum features Revolutionary War artifacts, ancient Native American stone tools, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study, Henry David Thoreau’s bed, period rooms and more. Up to four people can visit for just $2 per person with a MA food stamps card!
Davis Museum at Wellesley College (Wellesley) – FREE
The Davis is a fine art museum with collections that span global history. It’s always free to everyone, but since they’re included in the EBT Card to Culture program, though, I wanted to include them here also.
DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum (Lincoln) – $1 per person
DeCordova features a sculpture park, exhibits and engaging interactive activities. With a valid MA food stamps card, you can visit for just $1 per person!
The Discovery Museum (Acton) – $1 per person
Pay just $1 per person for up to 6 people. The Discovery Museums include The Children’s Discovery Museum and The Science Discovery Museum.
Griffin Museum of Photography (Winchester) – FREE
Exhibitions are free for up to five household members when you present a valid EBT or WIC card. Free admission does not include any programs, however.
Lexington Historical Society (Lexington) – $2 each
The Lexington Historical Society provides admission for just $2 each to up to five people per EBT card. Children under age 16 are always free.
Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House – $3 per person
Through the Museums for All program, the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House offers a discounted admission for guests with EBT cards. You can get up to four tickets per EBT card.
Gardens at Elm Bank (Wellesley) – FREE
Two adults and all children under the age of 12 can visit the Gardens at Elm Bank free of charge with their MA food stamps card!
Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History (Weston) – FREE
Children get a packet of stamps for free, when they visit this museum about the history of stamps and the postal system. Admission is free.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
These organizations offer EBT discounts in MA. Their offerings include concerts, plays, performances, film screenings and more.
- Belmont World Film (50% off, limit 4, discount code: 1SUFGW34BRDI1PY)
- Juventas New Music Ensemble ($1 each, limit 4)
- Radius Ensemble (FREE, limit 2)
- Wellesley Symphony Orchestra (FREE, must be reserved online, enter 1st 6 digits of EBT card number)
Northeast Region
There are many EBT Discounts in MA’s Northeast Region!
Addison Gallery of American Art (Andover) – FREE
Visit the Addison Gallery of American Art completely FREE with your EBT card! As an EBT Card to Culture program participant, Addison Gallery provides all of its programs free to EBT cardholders.
Andover Center for History & Culture (Andover) – MEMBER RATE
Although admission to exhibits and house tours is always free, guests with EBT cards can also enjoy member discounts on all public programs. Just show the EBT card at the door or use the coupon code Card_Culture on their website.
Backyard Growers (Gloucester) – 50% discount
The Backyard Growers have portable multi-use felt Grow Bags that can be used to grow your own veggies. If you have an EBT, WIC or ConnectorCare card, you can get a 50% discount on multiple sizes! Use the code MCCEBT on their website and show your card when you pick them up.
Cape Ann Museum (Gloucester) – FREE
The Cape Ann Museum features collections, exhibits and events focused on the art, history and culture of the local area. Children ages 18 and under are always free. Admission is free for families with MA food stamps, too!
Historic Beverly (Beverly) – FREE
Historic Beverly includes the Balch House, Cabot House and Hale Farm. Exhibits, collections, lectures and other events are also available. With a food stamps card, you can get free admission for up to four people. Free admission includes regular programs, as well.
Lynn Museum (Lynn) – $2 per adult
The Lynn Museum showcases Lynn’s history through exhibits, crafts, photographs and other collections. The museum offers $2 admission for adults. Children under 18 are free.
Marblehead Museum (Marblehead) – FREE
Although the GAR and Frost Gallery are always free, the Marblehead Museum also offers free admission to the Jeremiah Lee Mansion for families with EBT cards.
Maritime Gloucester (Gloucester) – FREE
I love it when we find EBT discounts in MA that are free. This working waterfront museum features a Sea Pocket Aquarium, Gorton’s Seafoods Gallery, Marine Research Laboratory, Sanctuary Exhibit and more. With your MA food stamps card, you’ll get free admission to the standing exhibits (including any drop-in programs).
North Shore Children’s Museum (Peabody) – $3 per person
The North Shore Children’s Museum is designed for children between the ages of 2 and 10 years old. Up to four guests can visit for just $3 per person with an EBT card.
Peabody Essex Museum (Salem) – FREE
Save up to $80 on your trip to Peabody Essex Museum! Admission is typically $20 each, but 4 adults can be admitted free with an EBT card. Children are always free!
Wenham Museum – $3 or less per person
The Wenham Museum features activities and events for people of all ages and interests. In addition to their fascinating exhibits, they also feature fun events including an upcoming meet-and-great with a Boston-area chef and their annual Lego train festival.
Discounted Workshops, Classes and More
Some of the most generous EBT discounts in MA come from these organizations, which invite low income individuals and families to participate at a fraction of the usual cost.
- Izizwe Dance Studio (Lawrence) offers 50% off monthly tuition for families with EBT, WIC or ConnectorCare cards. This discount is valid for up to two members of the immediate family.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
These organizations offer performance and festival discounts.
- Andover Choral Society ($5 each, limit 4)
- Cabot Performing Arts Center ($5 each, limit 4)
- Firehouse Center for the Arts (50% discount, limit 4)
- Gloucester Stage Company ($5 each, limit 4)
- Indian Hill Music (50% discount)
- Izizwe Dance Studio (FREE, limit 2)
- Merrimack Repertory Theatre ($15 each, limit 4)
- Newburyport Chamber Music Festival ($10 each)
- Rockport Music (50% off, limit 4, coupon code MCCEBT)
Southeast Region
There are many EBT Discounts in MA’s Southeast Region!
Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary (Westport) – FREE
This wildlife sanctuary is always free, but they are also listed as a Card to Culture member.
Battleship Cove (Fall River) – $3 or less per person
As America’s Fleet Museum, Battleship Cove is home to five National Historic Landmark US Naval Ships and Official Veterans Memorials. As a Museums for All member, you can visit for $3 or less per person.
Cape Cod Children’s Museum (Mashpee) – $2 per person
The Cape Cod Children’s Museum welcomes EBT cardholders to explore their castle, diner, post office, tree house, pirate ship, gravity wall, and so much more for just $2 per person (up to 4 people).
Cape Cod Maritime Museum – FREE
EBT cardholders from any state can receive four free admissions when you show your EBT card and a state-issued photo ID at the admissions desk. You should expect to spend about an hour at the museum, which showcases the rich maritime history of the Cape Cod region.
Center for Coastal Studies (Provincetown) – FREE
The Center for Coastal Studies is a research facility that focuses on whale research, animal entanglement response, marine geology, water quality and more. You can visit the exhibits, events, lectures, field walks and SEA Space Marine Discovery Center free with your MA food stamps card
Children’s Museum of Easton (North Easton) – $2 per person
Children up to age 8 will love the Children’s Museum of Easton! Located in the Old Fire Station, the museum provides three floors of engaging hands-on experiences and interactive exhibits for kids. Only 4 people can receive this discount per EBT card.
Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River (Fall River) – $3 per person
Children love the fun, hands-on exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River! Exhibits include World of Water, LEGO Room, Education Station, Violet’s Music Room, Dino Dig, Circle Room, All About Colors, Transportation Room and more! Four people can receive this discount with each EBT card.
Cultural Center of Cape Cod (South Yarmouth) – FREE
The Cultural Center is an arts and community center and has classes and exhibits in visual, literary, and performing arts.
Duxbury Rural and Historical Society (Dusbury) – FREE
Unlike many other EBT discounts in MA, this venue does not limit their admission discount to a specific number of people. Your entire immediate family can visit free with an EBT, WIC or ConnectorCare card. This is valid for the King Caesar House and/or Bradford House Museum.
Fuller Craft Museum (Brockton) – $2 per person
The craft museum’s collections and exhibits include ceramics, glass, fiber, metal, wood and outdoor sculptures. They provide discounted admission of just $2 per person with an EBT card (up to four people)!
Heritage Museums & Gardens (Sandwich) – FREE
Explore 100 acres of family fun at the Heritage Museums & Gardens! Three galleries and expansive gardens are available for your viewing pleasure. You’ll find a vintage carousel that still runs, a collection of American Folk Art, classic automobiles and many travelling exhibits.
Martha’s Vineyard Museum (Vineyard Haven) – FREE
The museum showcases the history, heritage and diversity of the Island. The museum showcases rotating exhibitions and permanent collections.
New Bedford Art Museum (New Bedford) – FREE
Two adults and three children can receive free admission to the New Bedford Art Museum with an EBT card.
New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center (New Bedford) – FREE
This museum offers free admission for low income families.
New Bedford Whaling Museum (New Bedford) – $3 or less per person
Explore the world of whales and whaling at this coastal whaling museum. You can admire five whale skeletons, the world’s largest ship model and America’s longest painting for just $3 per person, up to 6 people per MA food stamps card!
Provincetown Art Association and Museum (Provincetown) – FREE
If you have MA food stamps, show your card at the front desk to receive 50% off admission to PAAM! The usual admission rate is $10, so MA food stamps recipients get in for just $5 each.
Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum (New Bedford) – FREE
Built by shipwrights for a whaling merchant, the RJD House and Garden Museum features marvelous architecture and a full city block of gardens. Visit for free with your MA food stamps card, good for up to four family members!
South Shore Art Center (Cohasset) – FREE
The South Shore Art Center has made all of their on-site galleries free and open to the public.
Discounted Workshops, Classes and More
These generous organizations will allow you to take classes and attend programs for a fraction of the usual cost.
- Truro Center for the Arts at Castle Hill (Truro) offers 50% discounts to any EBT cardholder who would like to take a class.
- Wellfleet Preservation Hall (Wellfleet) offers free access to classes and events to people with food stamps. Use the promo code FREE-EBT online or over the phone to claim the discount.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
These organizations offer EBT discounts in MA. Their offerings include concerts, plays, performances, film screenings and more.
- Arts Foundation of Cape Cod (FREE, limit 4)
- Cape Symphony (FREE, limit 4)
- Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse ($20 each, limit 2)
- Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra ($10 off, limit 4, coupon code EBT10)
- Walpole Footlighters Inc. ($5 each, limit 4)
- Waters Edge Cinema ($5 each)
- Your Theater Inc. ($5 per adult, under 15 is free)
- Zeiterion Performing Arts Center ($5 each, limit 4)
Western Region
There are many EBT Discounts in MA’s Northeast Region!
Amherst Cinema (Amherst) – FREE
The Amherst Cinema offers a free individual or dual Silver Membership to those who have MA food stamps cards. According to their website, this membership includes exclusive ticket discounts for your household, up to 6 free popcorns or sodas every year, free admission on your birthday and more.
Beneski Museum of Natural History (Amherst) – FREE
This museum recently joined Museums for all! They have more than 1,700 specimens on display across three floors of exhibits.
Berkshire Museum (Pittsfield) – FREE
Two adults and two children can receive free admission with an MA food stamps card and photo ID. This discount only applies during regular hours and cannot be used for special events. You can also get a free pass for two adults and two children from the local library!
Berkshire County Historical Society at Herman Melville’s Arrowhead (Pittsfield) – FREE
Up to four family members can enjoy the Arrowhead tour for free with a valid EBT card.
Chesterwood (Stockbridge) – FREE (+ FREE PARKING)
Chesterwood is composed of the country home, studio and gardens of American sculptor Daniel Chester French, who created the Lincoln statue for the Lincoln Memorial in DC. There are exhibits and collections available on-site. The parking passes are free for EBT cardholders! Make online reservations by using the promo code EBT and adding the first six digits of your EBT card number in the “Comments” section at checkout.
Clark Art Institute (Williamstown) – FREE
The Clark has a generous FREE admission policy for EBT cardholders. Kids (under 18 years) and students with ID are always free.
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – FREE
Explore an entire museum dedicated to picture books and picture-book illustrations! This museum is named after children’s illustrator Eric Carle, the beloved creator of more than 70 picture books.
Hancock Shaker Village (Pittsfield) – FREE
If you have MA food stamps, you can bring two adults and any children in your household (ages 17 and under) to the Hancock Shaker Village for free!
Historic Deerfield (Deerfield) – 50% Discount
Spend a day in Old New England in this 18th century colonial village. Historic Deerfield includes multiple historic homes, properties and collections. With this EBT discount in MA, you’ll receive a 50% discount on admission!
MASS MoCA (North Adams) – $2 per adult
Designed to showcase today’s most evocative art, MASS MoCA features sculpture, dance, film, photography, theater, and more. Visit for just $2 per adult (accompanying children are free) with your MA food stamps card!
Norman Rockwell Museum (Stockbridge) – FREE
In 1973, artist Norman Rockwell gave his entire personal collection to the museum so that it could be preserved. The 367 pieces of art include large-scale oil paintings such as Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas, the Marriage License and more. Up to four people may receive free admission with an EBT card. Children under 18 are always free.
Smith College Museum of Art (Northampton) – FREE
Visit the exhibition galleries and see the permanent collection of Smith College Museum of Art for free!
Springfield Museums (Springfield) – $3 per person
Visit Springfield Museums for just $3 per person, up to 2 adults and four children, per MA food stamps card! They showcase “art, history, science and Seuss.”
The Children’s Museum of Holyoke (Holyoke) – $3 per person
If you’ve got kids, this will be one of their favorite EBT discounts in MA. Climb, play and explore at the Children’s Museum of Holyoke. Parents and children are encouraged to play together as they explore the Curvy Climber, Curvy Crawler, Water Table, Vet Clinic, Frozen Shadow Room, Imagination Playground and so much more. Up to four people can receive the discounted rate per EBT card.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art (Amherst) – FREE
Get free admission for four people with your EBT card!
The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home (Lenox) – FREE
Experience the vibrant cultural center that evolved from Edith Wharton’s humanitarian legacy. It’s free for you and 3 other adults with your MA food stamps card! Children are always free.
Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum (Lenox) – FREE
With an EBT card, two adults and all children in their party can get free access to this mansion and museum.
Wistariahurst Museum (Holyoke) – FREE
Families with EBT cards can get free admission during regular open hours.
Discounted Workshops, Classes and More
Some of the most generous EBT discounts in MA come from these organizations, which invite low income individuals and families to participate at a fraction of the usual cost.
- Berkshire Pulse (Great Barrington) offers 50% discounts on Performing Arts Enrollments and Community Classes for families with MA food stamps.
- Flying Cloud Institute (Great Barrington) offers financial aid for families with food stamps. Tuition varies.
- Hitchcock Center for the Environment (Amherst) has a sliding scale for fees. With EBT, families qualify for Tier D, which is 50% less than what it costs to run the program.
- IS183 Art School of the Berkshires (Stockbridge) offers 50% off tuition for adult studio art classes and automatic financial aid for Young Artist Programs when you have an EBT card.
- Meadowedge Art (Bernardston) offers $10 off their visual arts classes for children.
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Berkshire Community College offers a discounted annual membership and two free courses per semester. They honor this discount with out-of-state EBT cards as well.
- The Performance Project offers free access to their workshops for EBT cardholders, and discounts on performance tickets.
Discounted Concerts, Plays, Screenings and Performances
These organizations offer EBT discounts in MA. Their offerings include concerts, plays, performances, film screenings and more.
- Aston Magna Music Festival ($2 each)
- Barrington Stage Company ($5 each, limit 4)
- Berkshire Theatre Group ($5 each, limit 2, additional fees waived)
- Chester Theatre Company ($10 each, limit 4)
- Eggtooth Productions (FREE, limit 2)
- Images Cinema ($5 each, 12 and under FREE)
- Jacob’s Pillow ($10 each, limit 4)
- Ko Theater Works ($10 each, limit 2)
- Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center (FREE, limit 4)
- North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival ($5 each, FREE for children 12 and under)
- Northampton Arts Council (FREE)
- Northampton Community Music Center (20% discount)
- Shakespeare & Company Inc. ($5 each, limit 4, use code EBT)
- Springfield Symphony Orchestra (FREE)
- The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (FREE)
- The Performance Project ($3-$5 each)
- Williamstown Theatre Festival ($20 each, limit 2)
SNAP Food Programs in Massachusetts
Massachusettes offers an array of food programs for SNAP holders. They offer their Healthy Incentives Program, the Double Up Food Bucks program, and will offer their Resuarants Meals Program in 2022.
Restaurants Meals Program
Massachusetts’s is currently launching its new Restaurants Meals Program in 2022. This program will allow seniors over 60, people who are homeless, and those with disabilities to buy hot meals at participating restaurants with their SNAP cards.
The program is currently accepting applications from new restaurants through August 31, 2022 that want to participate in the program. The program should be available to customers sometime in late 2022.
We will keep you updated on this as we learn more.
Boston Double Up Food Bucks
The Double Up Food Bucks program in Boston is a little different than some of the other programs around the country. You don’t exactly get double the items for whatever you buy, but you do get 50% off of fresh fruits and vegetables when you use your EBT card at participating store locations. You can receive a daily discount of between $5 and $10 when you take advantage of this program.
Here is a list of participating stores:
- Aguasvivas Market
- 926 Morton Street, Mattapan, MA 02126.
- Bella”s Market
- 75 Maverick Square, East Boston, MA, 02128.
- Carniceria Lecumbreria 1A
- 9 Meridian Street, East Boston, MA 02128.
- El Valle De La Sultana Market
- 121 Bennington Street, Boston, MA 02128.
- F&T Davey’s Supermarket
- 438 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA 02119.
- La Union Market and Butchery
- 105 Chelsea Street, East Boston, MA 02128.
Here are the neighborhoods of stores the also participate:
- East Boston
- Roxbury
- Dorchester
- Mattapan
- Jamaica Plain
Here are a few partner stores:
- Daily Table – Dorchester
- 450 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02124.
- Daily Table – Roxbury
- 2201 Washington Street, Roxbury, MA 02119.
Massachusetts Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)
Massachusetts’ Healthy Incentives Program is a program that aims to give you back when you make healthy buying choices by purchasing local fruits and vegetables from HIP farm vendors. Depending on your family size, you can get either $40, $60, $80 back per month for your purchases.
There is no special sign-up process for this program. Once you have your SNAP card, you can start earning immediately. The only thing that is good to watch is your SNAP balance. If you SNAP balance is at zero, you won’t be able to use your HIP money until you have more SNAP dollars on your card.
Like the Double Up Food Bucks and Restaurant Meals Programs, HIP is only available at certain locations and every location has there own process for HIP. It says on the wedsite that typical grocery and convenience stores usually don’t participate.
Here are the types of stores that do:
- Mobile Markets
- Community supported Agriculture (CSA) farm share programs
- Farmers’ Markets
- Farm Markets
To learn more, check out this list of participating locations!
Jess
Sunday 27th of November 2022
The summer list is great but is there a similar list for the colder weather months ? I’m specifically looking in MA .
Catherine Marucci
Sunday 27th of November 2022
Hi Jess. Many of the discounts are available all year.
Tatyana
Thursday 24th of January 2019
Thank you for this information. It is so nice to be able to visit museums and to educate our children at affordable price. Is there any discounted program for theatrical or musical events? It would be very nice to have some options like a discounted tickets to Boston Symphony Hall, Boston Opera House e.t.c. where the regular tickets prices are around $200. There is no way for low income family to spend over $500 for event just to introduce their children to the cultural life.
Riley Thomson
Saturday 2nd of February 2019
Tatyana, You're welcome! Have you read this article yet for FREE concert tickets and more? I hope this helps. -Riley
Renee
Saturday 25th of August 2018
I would love if they put in the Salem Witch Museum. I've never been and would love to be able to go.
Nicole Thelin
Thursday 30th of August 2018
Hi, Renee! I've tweeted them to ask if they would consider offering a discount. We update this list at least once a month, so be sure to check back during the first week of each month for updates.
Linda Badillo
Friday 27th of July 2018
I am a single mother of 3 and I have been very depressed since I cannot afford any activities. This post gives me hope, I spotted the music program , my daughter will benefit of this. Thank you so much for sharing
Nicole Thelin
Friday 27th of July 2018
I'm so glad we could help! If you're looking for even more fun ideas, this post has information about $1 movies, free bowling and more! https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cheap-summer-fun/ =D
B
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
Massachusetts DTA recently sent out a letter & info-graph about HIP (Healthy Incentives Program) for SNAP/food stamp recipients. Earn SNAP money for every dollar spent on fresh produce at participating farmers markets, farm stands, mobile markets & CSA farm shares. Households of 1-2 people up to $40 monthly, 3-5 $60, 6+ $80. Along with hearing/seeing Cash & Food balances on the EBT account, SNAP recipients are told how many HIP dollars they've earned. I'm not sure if it will present as a separate payment option, as well. The program runs through March 31, 2020.
It will be interesting to see if farmers markets offering dollar matching will participate. Or how many towns will have vendors that sign-up.
B
Friday 1st of June 2018
"The Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) is active again. Funding has allowed us to restart the program through the end of June 2018." - From Mass.gov
https://www.mass.gov/alerts/hip-is-active-again#795456 https://www.mass.gov/service-details/healthy-incentives-program-hip
Junie
Thursday 17th of May 2018
HIP fruit and vegetable program has stopped for now - ran out of funds. Great way to support local farms and put fresh vegetables and fruit into low-income homes, Farmer markets are pricey, so this benefitted both parties.
Nicole
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
This is AMAZING! Thank you so much for telling me about this - I'm going to look into it right now! =D