1. WHAT ARE THE MUSEUM’S OPENING HOURS?
During the regular season, from Labour Day to June 23, the museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer season, from June 24 to Labour Day, the museum is open 7 days a week to offer visitors an enriching experience. Whether you’d like to explore our fascinating exhibits, take part in interactive activities or enjoy our educational programs, our team is here to welcome you and provide you with a memorable experience.
Please note that we are also open on pedagogical days and during spring break.
2. WHAT TYPES OF EXHIBITIONS ARE ON OFFER AT THE MUSEUM?
We present two permanent exhibitions: AlterAnima, an unusual encounter with naturalized animals, and Terra Mutantès, a multi-sensory show that lets you discover the planet’s transformation over the last 400 million years. We also offer four temporary exhibitions a year on different scientific themes, as well as a wide range of family-oriented activities.
3. HOW MUCH DOES ADMISSION TO THE MUSEUM COST?
We invite you to consult the Schedule and rates page on our website for detailed information on the various rates.
4. IS ADMISSION TO THE MUSEUM FREE ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH?
We are pleased to offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month. This is a special opportunity to encourage cultural discovery, and to allow a wider public to enjoy our exhibitions and activities without paying admission.
This initiative launched by the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications aims to make culture more accessible and attractive by facilitating access to museum institutions once a month.
Please note that reservations are not required prior to your visit.
5. HOW CAN I BECOME A MEMBER OF THE MUSEUM, AND WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP?
To become a member, fill in the form and return it to us with your payment. You can also sign up directly at the museum reception desk.
Becoming a member of the Musée means enjoying a range of special benefits for an entire year, including unlimited access during Spring Break!
Here are just some of the privileges :
Unlimited access during spring break;
Free access to all exhibition halls and other special activities;
10% discount at the Museum boutique and at the Maison de l’eau boutique (not applicable on food and beverages);
Free access to all science interpretation sites that are members of the Canadian Association of Science Centres (certain conditions apply).
Examples: Montréal Science Centre, Musée Armand-Frappier, etc.
6. DOES THE MUSEUM HAVE A RESTAURANT OR CAFÉ?
The museum does not have a restaurant or café as such. However, there is a dining area where you can relax and enjoy your lunch. Healthy snacks are also on sale at reception. A nice coffee machine is also available for customers. These options are ideal for those looking for a light meal during their visit to the museum.
If you prefer a more complete culinary experience, don’t hesitate to ask about the restaurants or cafés located near the museum. Our team will be delighted to recommend nearby options to suit your preferences and needs.
7. IS THE MUSEUM ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE WITH REDUCED MOBILITY?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. We have taken steps to make our facility welcoming and convenient for all our visitors. Ramps and elevators are available to facilitate movement between the different levels of the museum.
In addition, we are pleased to offer free wheelchair hire for those who need one during their visit. Wheelchairs can be requested at the museum reception desk, and our staff will be happy to provide information and assistance.
8. ARE THERE GUIDED TOURS OR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS?
Yes, we offer guided tours and educational programs specially designed for schools. Our aim is to provide students with an immersive and enriching museum experience that complements their school curriculum.
Our guided tours give students the opportunity to explore our exhibits interactively and learn more about a variety of nature and science-related topics. Our experienced guides accompany them throughout the visit, sharing interesting information and answering their questions.
What’s more, we’ve developed a comprehensive educational program, in line with school curricula, to offer teachers resources and activities adapted to different grade levels. These programs can be customized to meet the specific needs of school groups.
For more information on our program, please consult our educational brochure.
9. IS THERE PARKING CLOSE TO THE MUSEUM AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Yes, there is free visitor parking close to the museum. You can park at your leisure and enjoy your visit without worrying about parking fees.
If our parking lot is full, it’s also possible to park in front of the museum, but you’ll have to pay the fee.
10. DOES THE MUSEUM HAVE A STORE?
Yes, there’s a store where you can find a variety of products. Discover items such as books, educational toys, collectibles, jewelry and many other products related to our various exhibits. Enjoy our delicious, healthy snacks available for purchase in the boutique.
11. CAN I RENT A ROOM OR SPACE AT THE MUSEUM FOR A PRIVATE EVENT?
Since the pandemic, we have mainly reserved our rooms for partners and activities directly related to our mission.
However, we are open to examining special requests and assessing the feasibility of your private event. We encourage you to contact us by e-mail at [email protected]. Please provide us with details of your event, including the nature of the event, the desired date, the number of participants and any other relevant information. Our team will evaluate your request and get back to you as soon as possible.
12. IS IT POSSIBLE TO TAKE PHOTOS OR VIDEOS INSIDE THE MUSEUM?
Yes, you are allowed to take photos or videos inside the museum. However, please note that there are some restrictions on the use of flash, particularly in the AlterAnima exhibition.
With regard to the Terra Mutantès exhibition, we regret to inform you that photography or video recording is not permitted in this section of the museum.
If you have any doubts about whether or not you can take photos or videos in a particular area of the museum, please consult the information panels or our staff.
13. ARE ALL EXHIBITS BILINGUAL?
Yes, all our exhibits are bilingual. Whether you’re a French or English speaker, we make sure you can fully appreciate and understand the content and messages of our exhibits.