We strive to ensure that everyone can enjoy and engage with our exhibits and experiences to the fullest. We understand the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, and have implemented various features to accommodate guests with different needs and preferences.
Accessibility Features
- Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces are conveniently located to the left in front of the main museum building, ensuring easy access for all visitors.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: A wheelchair is available for guest use, and our facilities, including the Research Headquarters video presentation and Bald Cypress Swamp boat, are designed with ample space to accommodate wheelchairs.
- Closed Captioning: All videos with voiceovers are closed captioned, ensuring that guests with hearing impairments can fully engage with our multimedia content.
- Seating: Seating is provided throughout the gallery spaces, allowing guests to take breaks and enjoy the exhibits at their own pace.
- Restrooms: Our restrooms are equipped with automated fixtures, including toilets, sinks, soap dispensers, and paper towel dispensers. Additionally, a handicapped-accessible family restroom is available in the Education Wing, with assistance provided upon request at the front desk.
- Delaware Community Foundation Respite Room: We understand that sensory overload can occur, so we offer a Respite Room located in the Regional Journey Gallery, near the Bald Cypress Swamp exhibit. This space provides a calming environment for guests who need a break from the lights, sounds, and crowds, and it is also available for nursing parents.
Visitation Information
- Peak Times: To help you plan your visit, please note that peak visitation times typically occur on Saturday mornings and certain weekdays, especially during school closure days and school tours. Quieter periods, particularly after 2 p.m. on weekdays, offer a more serene museum experience.
Service Animals
- Service Animals: We welcome service animals and service animals in training at the museum in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, guests are kindly requested not to bring any other live animals into the museum building. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
Sensory Considerations
- Glare Sensitivity: For guests experiencing difficulties with glare, consider sunglasses for indoor exhibits with higher levels of glare.
- Noise Levels: Tiled areas (such as the entrance area and Skylight Atrium) may produce higher levels of noise, particularly during peak visitation times. Guests experiencing difficulties with noise are encouraged to consider bringing earplugs for added comfort.
- Outdoor Areas: Our outdoor areas may vary in sensory stimulation levels depending on factors such as the season, time of day, and day of the week. We encourage guests to explore at their own comfort level.
- Sensory Map: This sensory map shows areas of low, medium and high stimulation.
- Social Story: Thanks to students from Salus University for creating this social story!
We are committed to continuously improving our accessibility features and ensuring that all guests have a memorable and enjoyable museum experience. If you have any questions or require assistance during your visit, please don’t hesitate to ask a staff member.
Sensory Friendly Sundays
Visit the events calendar for the next Sensory Friendly Sunday event.