Your public library may offer free or discounted tickets to local museums.
I'm not sure that there are any such thing as free tickets but try searching Groupon or similar sites
U can always call and ask about discounts
You don't pay for the parking if you get a street parking nearby. Also, if i am not wrong exhibition floor is free. You have to pay for the ticket if you go to any of the show or theater. Cafeteria is super expensive.
Last time I was there I saw that people had parked on the street that you enter the lot from. Presumably this was to avoid parking charges.
No idea about free tickets. But keep in mind they will charge you for parking in addition to tickets
The cheapest way I know of is to get a membership at a small science museum elsewhere - almost all science museums inn the country reciprocate (and I know this one does)...
Thanks! Your answer is awaiting moderation.