A few Boston museums opened last week and it felt amazing to be back in the field reporting on the conditions. Because arts spaces are my natural habitat it really felt like a home coming, but most visitors were equally enthused to be back. If you’re comfortable visiting a museum, here’s what you need to know:
Timed Entry Ticketing
All the museums I checked out require tickets for a timed entry to be purchased in advance. This helps them maintain the lower capacity and social distancing inside the space. The timing is going to be pretty rigid so I would show up a little early for your designated entrance time to be safe.
One-Way Walking Paths
In the New England Aquarium the whole space is on a one-way track to minimize clumps of people. At other museums like the Isabella Stewart Gardner there are some smaller spaces that are specifically one way. This is a tool that’s being used all over, in grocery stores and other public space, so you’re probably used to it by now. But keep an eye out for directional signage.
Sanitizer & Hands Free Guides
Hand sanitizer is positioned around most spaces and all the museums are being cleaned on extra frequent schedules. Most places are also offering ways to experience the museum hands free. For example, the Gardner offers audio guides you can listen to on your phone via a QR code. The ICA Boston, like usual, has their curatorial text on the walls. These things will replace gallery tours and speaking engagements that would cause crowding.
Required Masks
Masks are required at all times in museums like in pretty much all indoor spaces in Boston. I suspect it’s just a matter of time before you can pick up your Degas printed mask in the gift shop!
One of the nice bonuses of the reduced capacity in museums right now is that visitors can have a more personal, intimate experience with the art. While touring the spaces I often found myself alone in galleries, something you would never experience on a busy summer day typically.
Are you ready for a museum trip? Let me know how it goes!