Bank of America recently announced its 2014 Museums on Us initiative, which permits its cardholders, including those who have Merrill Lynch-branded plastic, to gain free access to 150 cultural venues in 89 cities across 30 states. The offer applies only on the first full weekend of every month, and those taking advantage of it must present a Bank of America debit or credit card, along with a valid photo ID. They should then receive one free admission, although not to fundraisers, special exhibitions or other ticketed events.

Existing participating venues include Houston Zoo, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. These are joined for the first time this year by 11 new venues, including Pérez Art Museum in Miami and the International Center of Photography in New York City. A full list of all the participating institutions can be accessed through http://museums.bankofamerica.com/.

Credit cards offer more

Bank of America is just one of many credit card companies that offer exclusive privileges to some or all of their customers. For example, Chase last month offered holders of certain cards perks at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, including express access to hard-to-get tickets, a special festival concierge service and passes to a party celebrating the premiere of “Infinitely Polar Bear,” where they rubbed shoulders with the cast and other VIPs.

If you’re unsure whether your plastic provides similar privileges and deals, it’s time to check your issuers’ websites.

Published 02/05/14