coronavirus

Smithsonian Set to Reopen Four More Museums

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The Smithsonian will reopen four more museums to the public on Friday, Sep. 18.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum will reopen with new coronavirus prevention measures. 

The museums will have reduced hours of operation and visitors will need to reserve free timed-entry passes online.

The Smithsonian shared the following safety measures on its website:

  • If you're sick or feel unwell, stay home.
  • Visitors ages six and older must wear face coverings over their noses and mouths. Visitors ages 2-6 are also recommended to wear a face covering. Face coverings or masks with exhalation valves are not permitted. Face coverings may be removed while eating or drinking in designated spaces.
  • Groups larger than six are prohibited.
  • Visitors must keep a safe social distance of six feet or more between households or groups at all times. Social-distancing signage and directions will be placed throughout the museums.
  • Visitors should wash and sanitize their hands frequently. Hand-sanitizing stations will be available throughout the museums.

The Smithsonian reopened its first locations — the National Zoo and the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia — in July. The Smithsonian's gardens also reopened to the public on Aug. 17.

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