Museum of Natural History & Science Suspends Free Admission on First Sunday

October 1st, 2020

ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science has announced the temporary cancellation of free admission for state residents on the first Sunday of the month, beginning on October 4, 2020.  

This decision was made so that guests to the Museum can enjoy accessible areas of the museum in a safe manner while continuing to practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. 

“We have been thrilled to see so many of our visitors return to the Museum. In fact, we have been close to reaching capacity on several occasions,” said Executive Director Margie Marino. “And while we regret that we have to suspend free admission on First Sunday, the potential for long lines to gain entry into the Museum and extended wait times to view our most popular attractions put the health and safety of visitors and staff at risk. Providing a safe and enjoyable environment is our highest priority.” 

Like all state museums and most state historic sites, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science reopened to visitors on September 24, after a nearly six-month closure due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Occupancy inside the museum remains limited to 25% of normal capacity, as is specified in the state’s current Public Health Order. 

Located just north of Old Town, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, closed on Monday and Tuesday. State residents age 60 and older receive free admission into the Museum on Wednesdays. Visitors may purchase tickets online at http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/ 

The New Mexico CulturePass, which allows one visit to each state museum and historic site while active, has been extended by six months past its expiration date. Memberships sold through the private New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation are valid six months past their original expiration date.

About the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science 
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Board of Trustees of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science. Programs and exhibits are supported by the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation. The mission of the Natural History & Science Museum is to interpret the distinctive natural and scientific heritage of our state through collections, research, exhibits, and programs designed to ignite a passion for lifelong learning. There are exhibitions, programs, and workshops in Geoscience, bioscience, and space science.  

###