The Royal BC Museum (RBCM), is getting ready to welcome back the public, June 19, 2020. The museum has announced that it will be resuming operations and reopening in a thoughtful, phased way, informed by the advice of the public health authority and backed by science.
The Royal BC Museum is taking a phased approach to re-opening the galleries on the following dates:
- June 19: Wildlife Photographer of the Year and the second floor Natural History gallery.
- August 1: The First Peoples gallery.
- September 7: The Becoming BC gallery, will complete the full re-opening of the museum galleries.
Preparing the RBCM, is indeed a mammoth undertaking. The Museum staff have been working hard to ensure the safest conditions to prepare for staff and visitors to come through the doors.
When you do come through the doors you will notice some changes to your visit experience.
Only the Belleville Street entrance will be open to welcome guests, and doors will remain open during visiting hours to reduce touch points.
The museum will have revised hours of operation: Saturday to Tuesday and Thursday – 10am-6pm Friday 10am-8pm. The Museum will be closed to the public on Wednesdays to allow an extra day to clean and take care of the museum and collections without visitors in the galleries.
The 10am to 11:00am hour is reserved for seniors, vulnerable people and first responders to visit.
IMAX Victoria remains closed until the public health officer recommends reopening of theatres.
Information and ticketing desks are now protected by dividers to follow physical distancing guidelines. Look for and follow the posted information when you visit and respect the physical distancing measures in place. There will be signs and directions on new visitor pathways through the museum. These new pathways will allow for physical distancing and flow through the galleries. There is also new direction on using elevators, stairwells, washrooms and escalators. Follow the directions of staff and respect the spaces of other visitors to the museums.
Wearing a mask is recommended but the Museum is allowing staff and guests to make the choice to wear a face covering, and asks that everyone respect others’ decisions.
The Museum’s touchscreens and other interactives which require touch are in the process of being modified to find new ways to provide interactive experiences.
Visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca for more information on planning your next visit, our new hours and how our phased reopening will roll out.