New Bedford Whaling Museum Plans for Reopening
June 30, 2020
Welcoming visitors back in July
On Thursday, July 9, 2020, the New Bedford Whaling Museum plans to reopen its doors to visitors after being closed since mid-March. The first two weeks of its opening will be reserved for members only and the Museum plans to open up to the entire public on July 23.
The team has also been preparing its campus to welcome back visitors for a re-imagined museum experience. The hours of operation will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday only. Masks are mandatory for admittance and adherence to social distancing.
In addition to around-the-clock cleaning and disinfecting routines, the Museum has installed UV air purification systems throughout the building, which reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria in the air and on surfaces.
A newly designed path through the Museum has been designed to allow the most space possible for visitors to social distance throughout their visit. Structural changes to the Museum’s entrance and exit are complete, and protective plexiglass shields have been installed at key locations. Hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the Museum as well.
“As a place that ignites learning and welcomes the community, we are eager to play our role in this particular moment when we all need to feel a little bit of normalcy,” said Amanda D. McMullen, President and CEO. “Because of the significant financial impact that COVID has had on our community, during our re-opening phase we have decided to offer admission to the Museum on a pay-what-you-can model, ensuring that everyone can have the opportunity to take a break and enjoy our galleries.”
The Museum has instituted a timed, online reservation system to reduce the traffic flow and time spent in line, and the maximum capacity is set at 125 people (25% of its total capacity).
Though the campus has been closed to the public, the staff has been busy creating digital activities and hosting virtual programs that will continue into the foreseeable future.
The Museum is monitoring the public health data available, as well as following the guidance set forth by state and local leaders, and it will open its doors when it is both safe and recommended to do so. Therefore, reopening dates may shift dependent on the information made available.
Contact
Evan England
Managing Director, NAIL[PR]
eengland@nailpr.cc
(401) 753-5588
About the New Bedford Whaling Museum
The New Bedford Whaling Museum ignites learning through explorations of art, history, science and culture rooted in the stories of people, the region and an international seaport. The cornerstone of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in the heart of the city’s historic downtown. The Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for Whaling Museum members and children ages three and under; adults $19, seniors (65+) $17, students (19+) $12, child and youth $9. For more information visit www.whalingmuseum.org.
