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COVID-19 Safety Measures

Information for a Safe and Healthy Visit

We are excited to have you visit us! Your health and safety are a priority.

Top Things to Know

• As of March 23, visitors are no longer required to present proof of vaccination.
• We strongly encourage the use of a mask, especially where physical distancing is not feasible.
• To assist in physical distancing and planning, refer to the capacity counters at the entrance to each gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has the museum removed its requirement for the wearing of masks?

• Since the start of the pandemic two years ago, the museum has followed health and safety directives from public health authorities to ensure a safe environment for both visitors and staff.
• As of March 23, following Government of Ontario guidelines, a mask is not required to visit the museum; however, we strongly encourage wearing a mask, especially where physical distancing is not feasible.
• The museum will continue to be guided by public-health authorities and the Federal Government for modifications to our safety measures.

Before You Visit

• If you feel ill, are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or have travelled outside the country in the past 14 days, please stay home.
• Tickets must be purchased in advance, online.
• Admission is time-ticketed. Entry times are spaced in 15-minute increments.
• Download a floor plan (PDF). Printed plans are not available on site.

What You Can Expect During Your Visit

Health and Safety

• As much as possible, respect physical distancing (2-metre separation) for those not in your social bubble.
• Hand sanitizers are placed throughout the museum.
• The frequency of rigorous cleaning has been increased across the museum.
• We strongly encourage the use of a mask, especially where physical distancing is not feasible.

Moving Around the Museum

• Space on elevators is limited, so we encourage use of stairs as much as possible.
• There are capacity counters at the entrance to each gallery.

Galleries

• All of our permanent galleries are open.
• Most interactive areas are open, with the exception of the Extinction Theatre (Fossil Gallery).
• The theatre is closed.
• The live-butterflies exhibition is closed for the foreseeable future.

Food and Refreshments

• You may bring a water bottle. We have a bottle-refill water station in the Nature Café. Water fountains are turned off.
• Food and drink may be consumed inside the designated eating areas.
• Nature Café is closed, but vending machines offer beverages and snacks.

Amenities

• Strollers are not available for loan at this time.
• Wheelchairs are available by request.
• Personal strollers are permitted, but we encourage you to park your stroller in the designated zone upon entry and walk with children and toddlers when possible in order to avoid the wait for the elevator.
• The museum has unsupervised racks where you can hang your coat.
• Lockers and ATM kiosks (bank machines) are not available at this time.

Information for Members

• Members are required to reserve tickets online before visiting. You must get your tickets in advance.
• Proof of membership will be required at the time of entry.
• About membership.