Bell Museum reopens July 16 for members, July 23 for public

The Bell Museum at the University of Minnesota is opening up again after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This Thursday through Sunday, the Bell Museum will open to members. Starting on July 23, the museum will be open to the public.

"With approval from public health and University officials, the Bell Museum will take a measured approach to reopening, with safety being the highest priority for visitors and staff members. The museum will continually evaluate safety measures and seek feedback from staff and visitors, and make adjustments as necessary," the U of M said Monday.

Some adjustments on Thursday, July 16 will feature:

• Limited days and hours of operation: Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Attendance will be limited to 25% of the building’s capacity at any single time to encourage physical distancing allow ample space for every visitor.
• Require advance reservations of tickets for timed entry to the museum.
• To maintain safe physical distancing, the Planetarium will not be open during the initial phase of reopening.
• All visitors over 2 years old must wear a face covering that covers the mouth and nose. If a visitor has a medical condition or disability that prevents this, reasonable accommodations will be provided.
• Enhanced cleaning throughout the exhibit spaces and Touch & See for a safe visit.

The Bell Museum brings together science, art and the environment with a unique Minnesota perspective and features high-tech exhibits, famous wildlife dioramas and outdoor learning experiences.

“As Minnesota’s natural history museum, the Bell Museum serves a unique role in our community and state,” said Denise Young, executive director of the Bell Museum.“We exist to educate and inspire people about the natural world and, in this challenging and stressful time, we can offer a safe place to escape and reflect, enjoying the beauty of nature. We hope our visitors will enjoy the change of scenery from months of being limited to our homes. Museums are great places to have fun, learn together, and make new memories, and the Bell Museum is excited and ready to reopen.”

To purchase tickets, click here or call 612-626-9660, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To access waived admission programs, such as explore passes, waived admission for Indigenous peoples and other discounts, passes or offers, please call the number listed in advance to your visit.