COVID-19: Staying safe at the Science Museum of Minnesota

Is the museum open? 

Yes! The Science Museum is open. Tickets are available online, via phone or in-person during museum hours. Advance reservations are recommended and can be made at smm.org/tickets.  

Is the Omnitheater open?

Yes! The Omnitheater is also open. No food or drinks are allowed in the Omnitheater, however, you can enjoy them before or after your showing on level 6.

Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to visit?

While it is not required to visit, the Science Museum strongly encourages vaccination against COVID-19 for all who are eligible. Vaccines are an important public health tool and have proven to drastically decrease poor outcomes of COVID-19 infections.

What steps are you taking to keep staff and visitors safe while in the building? 

The health and safety of visitors, staff, and volunteers is the Science Museum’s top priority, and providing a safe place for people to explore, learn, and work is of paramount importance. Some of the safety practices we’ve implemented to keep our museum safe include:

  • Masks are welcomed and encouraged for all visitors;

  • Safe distancing reminders throughout the museum;

  • A state-of-the-art HVAC system and careful monitoring to ensure superior indoor air quality.

Are masks still required for visitors?

The Science Museum welcomes and encourages the use of face masks, regardless of vaccination status. 

In addition, we ask for your cooperation in adhering to our efforts to make all visits as safe as possible. Please follow safe distancing guidelines, wash hands frequently, and stay home if you’re not feeling well or have any COVID-19 symptoms. If you need to reschedule your visit, please contact us.

Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?

Advance tickets are not required, but recommended.

Is food service available?

Yes. Snacks can be purchased at the Explore Store on level five, and our partners at Ginkgo Coffee Bar and Deli will continue to operate their location in the Science Museum’s lobby. Visitors are also welcome to bring in personal food and drinks. We ask that all food and drink be consumed in a designated space on level 6.

What changes should I expect compared to pre-COVID visits? What steps are you taking to keep staff and visitors safe while in the building?

You’ll still be able to explore the dinosaurs, snap selfies with the giant astronaut, race against your favorite athletes in Sportsology, and much more. New practices include: 

  • Online payment and contactless payment in the Explore Store

  • More space between exhibit components to support social distancing, with any components that can’t be quickly or frequently disinfected removed.  

  • Wider walkways

  • Drinking fountains will be turned off and unavailable for use

  • Safety reminders throughout the premises

  • Limited entry to elevators and other enclosed spaces

Why should I become or stay a Member?

Members are an essential part of our community. We rely on your support to power so much of the science we do at the museum—including creating digital activities and educational resources and providing safe learning space and programs for students during the pandemic with programs like our Full STEM Ahead program. We hope you’ll also take advantage of your exclusive virtual Member benefits and events, Omnitheater extras, and content we’re creating just for Members. In addition, Members will have exclusive access to the museum from 9–10 a.m. every day the museum is open.

I’m not comfortable visiting the museum yet. What distance-learning services are you providing? 

We’re still dedicated to keeping you connected from a distance! Discover a world of resources online and on our social media. And anyone can subscribe to our newsletter for more science activities and stories.  

If your question is not on the list, please contact us; museum representatives are happy to assist you. Policies and procedures are subject to change based on public health best practices and recommendations from public health officials.