McWane is back July 8—what you need know before you go

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Play the world’s largest guitar at McWane Science Center. Photo by Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

Break out the beakers science fans. McWane Science Center reopens its doors on Wednesday, July 8. From updated safety measures to cool exhibits, here’s what to expect when you visit. Buy tickets now and keep reading for a chance to win a family 4-pack of general admission tickets.

Health and Safety Are No. 1

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Hand sanitation stations are located around McWane for quick, easy hand sanitizing. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

McWane Science Center‘s number one priority is keeping employees and guests healthy and safe. They’ve gone above and beyond to work with with top medical experts and followed recommendations by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to create a robust cleaning and disinfecting system.

Here are some of the many safety precautions McWane Science Center is taking to keep you and yours safe:

  • You’ll find hand sanitizing stations throughout to keep germs at bay.
  • You can expect clean and fully-stocked restrooms throughout the day. 
  • They’ll be disinfecting high-touch surfaces frequently throughout your visit.
  • Nightly deep-cleaning will push the reset button for the next day. 
  • You’ll find McWane Center employees throughout the facility helping visitors comply with social distancing guidelines.

Bring masks for the whole ‘fam: they’re required

Mcwane Science Center 3 1 McWane is back July 8—what you need know before you go
Learn how the xylophone works. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

Before venturing to McWane Science Center, be sure to bring along those face masks—they are required during your visit. Here’s a look at who does and does not require a mask: 

  • All visitors age 8 and older are required to wear masks.
  • Children between the ages of 3 and 7 are encouraged to wear masks.
  • Masks are not recommended for children under the age of 3.

The 411 on Itty Bitty Magic City

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Itty Bitty Magic City is ready for your return on Aug. 5, 2020. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

While McWane Science Center reopens to the general public, you’ll have to wait a bit longer for Itty Bitty Magic City to reopen. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, August 5 for the big reopening of this crowd favorite.

I know, it’s so hard to wait. But McWane Science Center only has you and your little ones’ best interests at heart. McWane Science Center recognizes that toddlers and preschoolers need to be able to to explore freely and it’s not possible just yet to do so under safe social distancing guidelines. Besides, the rest of McWane Science Center will be open and filled with lots of learning activities for the smaller set to enjoy to enjoy. 

Exhibits and More

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Check out celebrity guitars at GUITAR: The Instrument that Rocked the World exhibit. Photo by Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

From creating huge bubbles to learning about marine life, there is so much to discover at McWane Science Center

If you love music, you’ll be blown away by GUITAR: The Instrument that Rocked the World—a touring exhibit that has been exciting and engaging music fans since its launch in 2011. 

The exhibit originally opened at McWane Science Center in January, not long before the COVID-19 pandemic took off. Happily, the exhibit has scored a longer stay so you still have time to check it out. And believe me, it’s totally worth your while.

Mcwane Science Center 5 McWane is back July 8—what you need know before you go
GUITAR: The Instrument that Rocked the World. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

At 4,000 square feet, GUITAR is a fully-immersive exhibition that explores everything from the instrument’s history and education to the science of creating sound with wood and steel. 

It also features the 43.5 foot long Gibson Flying V—the world’s largest playable guitar. Yes, you can absolutely play it!

Learn more about the exhibit.

Attend a Show at the IMAX Theatre

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Seats have been blocked off for social distancing. Photo by Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

Have you missed watching movies on the big screen? On Wednesday, July 8, McWane Science Center’s IMAX theatre will be back in action! Next up on its enormous screen is America’s Musical Journey. This film will take you on a tour of America’s musical history and the places where it all began. You’ll explore the sounds and spirit that bring our diverse country together. 

While the Cafe at McWane Science Center will continue to remain temporarily closed, the concession stand will be open. So grab some popcorn, cold drinks and other light snacks to enjoy during the show. 

IMAX tickets are available at McWane Science Center and online. Buy now

Win Tickets!

Want to win tickets to McWane Science Center? Well throw some confetti, because we’re giving away a family four-pack of general admission tickets to one lucky winner. Tune in to @bhamnow on Instagram July 6-8 for a chance to win.

Plan Your Visit

Birmingham, McWane Science Center, guitars, guitar exhibits
Safety signs are strategically placed to ensure social distancing. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

Now that you know all the details about McWane Science Center’s grand reopening on July 8, it’s time to plan your visit during their new hours—Wednesday-Friday from 9AM-5PM, Saturday from 10AM-5PM and Sunday from Noon-5PM. Buy your tickets now

Follow McWane Science Center on their website, Facebook and Instagram. And when you visit, tag us on social @bhamnow and let us know how it went.

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