Bloomington-Normal- We are excited to announce the McLean County Museum of History and Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center will reopen to the public at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 1.
In preparation for reopening with guidance from State, City, and public health authorities, the Museum will reopen with new operating hours, adhering to standard health and safety measures, including social distancing throughout the facility and the wearing of masks.
The Museum will be prepared to deliver physical and continued digital experiences for all audiences. In preparing for reopening, the Museum has prioritized protecting the health and safety of its staff, volunteers, and visitors. New Museum safety protocols include:
- The Museum, in accordance with the Restore Illinois Phased Plan for reopening and following Illinois State Mandates, requires any individual over the age of 2 to wear a face covering while inside our building. If you are unable to do so for any reason, you can still engage with the Museum by accessing our online resources at www.mchistory.org.
- If you are exhibiting any symptoms or have a temperature above 100.4 degrees, please https://www.mchistory.org/visit do not visit the Museum. A checklist of symptoms will be provided at the Visitor Center desk upon entry.
- Physical distancing of at least six feet is required inside the building when possible. Please follow directional flow arrows and floor markers throughout the building. Please visit: https://www.mchistory.org/visit for more details.
The Museum will be monitored by staff. Each exhibit will be limited to a maximum of 10 guests, and no more than 20 guests will be allowed to occupy the building at one time. Mondays and Wednesdays are reserved for patrons and/or groups who wish to schedule visits in advance. Should you wish to make a reservation on either of these days, please email education@mchistory.org or call 309-827-0428.
All visitors to the Library and Archives will be strongly encouraged to make appointments. Appointments will be available between 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. during regular Museum hours. To visit the Museum’s Library and Archives, please email library@mchistory.org or call 309-827-0428 for a separate appointment.
The Discovery Room (located on the third floor) will remain closed until further notice.
Note: We reserve the right to update these plans based on a shift in health guidelines and/or to improve our practice based on experience.
The Museum shut its doors on March 14, 2020. During this global pandemic, with its staggering human loss and economic costs, the Museum has continued its work and mission of service to the community. Digital offerings during the pandemic have included Live stream programs, and a COVID –19 Remembrance. The Museum will introduce additional digital content and onsite programming in the coming months to serve the public, educators, and learners.
The Museum is back improved, and we are eager to offer visitors a safe and enjoyable experience with exhibits, Visitors Center and gift shop, new restrooms, new lighting in the rotunda and historic Courtroom and new Farmers’ Market programming on the Museum Square.
Admission: Free – Children & Students with ID Free – Tuesday and Saturday during Farmer’s Market (8:30 – noon) $5 – Adults $4 – Age 65+
MUSEUM HOURS: Monday & Wednesday 9am to 5pm Exhibits Open by Reservation Only Tuesday 9am to 8pm Exhibits Open to Public Thursday thru Saturday 9am to 5pm Exhibits Open to Public Library/Archives: Appointments
