FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
and GENERAL INFORMATION
What are the Museum’s hours of operation, and how long will they be in effect? Is the Museum ever closed?
9:00 A.M. – 11:45 AM and 1:15 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. until further notice.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The Museum is closed annually on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Where is the Museum located?
We are located at 221 High Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704
Is there plenty of parking?
Convenient parking is located close by at the County Parking Garage which is directly behind the museum. Parking is $1 per hour Monday through Friday and free on weekends and holidays.
How much is the cost of admission, and what does it include?
We are offering a special reopening rate of $8.00 per person for all visitors for the month of June only. Museums for All will still be in effect but no other discounts will be offered at this time.
Are tickets timed entry?
Yes. All visitors will have to register in advance for tickets online at ChildrensMuseumVirginia.com
Will members also have to reserve timed tickets?
Yes, all members are required to register in advance for tickets online at ChildrensMuseumVirginia.com
What are the best ages for the Museum?
1 – 8 years old
Can adults without children visit the Museum?
Out of courtesy to our visiting families and to maintain a high standard of safety for our groups and general visitors, the Children’s Museum of Virginia asks all unaccompanied adults to leave a driver’s license or government-issued photo ID at the admission desk while exploring the museum.
Are walk-ins permitted?
We ask everyone to purchase a ticket on-line. If there are tickets available when as individual walks in, they will be able to purchase them on-site. To assure that tickets are available, please purchase on-line.
Is it okay to take pictures or videos?
Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, except where noted. Flash photography, video equipment, and tripods are not permitted by visitors. Photography must not be disruptive to other visitors or block exhibits and hallways
INFANTS AND TODDLERS
What spaces are available for infants and toddlers?
The first floor is designed for children 5 and under. Toddler Tracks, the Fire Engine and Happy Paws are very popular with infants and toddlers.
Where can I nurse my baby?
We have a private nursing area on the first floor.
Is stroller parking available?
The Museum has a small coatroom where strollers can be parked.
ACCESSIBILITY
Is the Museum available for individuals with disabilities?
The Children’s Museum is accessible for people with abilities. For more information see our Accessibility and Inclusivity resources at https://childrensmuseumvirginia.com/accessibility-inclusivity/
Are service dogs permitted?
Yes
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Will visitors be able to explore all of the exhibits?
Due to the nature of our hands-on experience some of our exhibits have been modified, and others are not available at this time, however, we have many upgraded and new exhibits for you to explore.
What if my child can’t wear a mask due to a medical condition or sensory processing condition?
We know that there are children and adults who have special needs or circumstances that make it difficult to follow our mask policy which is why our CMVA Team is ready to work with families to make sure their visit is a positive one. If you child has a medical condition or sensory processing issues that prevent them from wearing a mask, please let us know.
GROUP ADMISSIONS
Does the Museum offer birthday parties?
Yes. Presently we are not booking birthday parties. We hope to do so by mid-July. Check our website or contact Mitch Newman at 757-393-5258, Ext. 44 or via newmanm@portsmouthva.gov.
Do you offer field trips?
Yes. Visit our website for field trip information.
Can I bring a large group?
Groups must make a reservation through Mitch Newman at newman@portsmouthva.gov or at 757-393-5258. We will not be taking groups until mid-July.
FOOD
What food options are available?
There are many restaurants within walking distance from the Museum. There is a small ice cream shop, Scoops, located in the mall area at the Museum.
May I bring my own food?
Food is not permitted inside the Museum.
MEMBERSHIP
How do I become a new member or renew my membership?
To purchase or renew a membership, you can visit the museum and a front desk staff member can help you, call 757.393.8983, or purchase a membership online. If you are renewing online, you will need your subscription ID number. If you need your subscription ID number, it is listed on your membership card, you can call the museum at 757.393.8983, or email the membership coordinator at ian.francis@portsmouthva.gov.
Will my membership be extended because the museum was closed?
Currently, the museum will extend membership based on the duration in which the museum was closed. We will be updating it based on the amount of time that was left on your membership, and on your original expiration date.
Will I be able to redeem a gift certificate that was purchased for me?
The museum will honor gift certificates that were purchased and the recipient was unable to redeem them because the museum was closed.
Do I have to reserve tickets online to visit the museum?
Currently, anyone who visits the museum, whether they have membership or not, is required to reserve tickets online to visit the museum. (add link to tickets here)
Are gift memberships available?
Yes. Please contact our membership coordinator, Ian Francis, at ian.francis@portsmouthva.gov