The Smithsonian Institution is scheduled to reopen four of its museums on Friday, September 18, after remaining closed for months because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The museums, which have been shut down since March, will work at a limited capacity and with a schedule of reduced days and hours.
They also have introduced a number of new safety measures to prevent possible exposure to the infectious disease, including the requirement of wearing face coverings for those aged six and older.
These locations will reopen with new health and safety measures, including face coverings and limited capacity for social distancing.
Our @NationalZoo, @airandspace's Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia, and @SIGardens have also reopened. All other Smithsonian museums remain closed. pic.twitter.com/be4xCKbJ6X
— Smithsonian (@smithsonian) September 14, 2020
The National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall will be open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday, between 11 am and 4 pm.
The National Portrait Gallery will be operating from 11:30 am to 7 pm, Wednesday through Sunday, as well as the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
The Renwick Gallery is going to accept guests from 10 am to 5:30 pm, Wednesday through Sunday.
Anyone planning to visit one of the four museums must book free time-entry passes, either online or via phone ( 1-800-514-3849), ahead of their arrival. This will help visitors be better able to maintain social distancing.
In addition, the Smithsonian Institution has placed hand-sanitizing stations throughout its facilities and asks people to wash and sanitize their hands frequently during their visit.
Visitors are also encouraged to limit the number of their personal belongings and bags they carry around with them, because they will take time to be thoroughly searched.