Frequently Asked Questions

To help you prepare for your visit, we have prepared this informational page to address frequently asked questions and concerns. If you have additional questions, please contact us.

Frequently Asked
Questions

What do I need to know about purchasing tickets?

We encourage visitors and members to reserve tickets online (even if you have a membership which allows you free admission).

Tickets are timed. Please arrive within 60 minutes after the beginning of your check-in time.

Can I buy tickets at the door?

If you are eligible for free admission through Museums for All, active military duty status, reciprocal admission, or UC Berkeley affiliation, you can get your ticket at the door.

If you are paying for a ticket, or are eligible for free admission through Membership, and arrive without a reservation, we cannot guarantee that we will have tickets available.

I am a member at another museum. Does this give me a discount when visiting The Lawrence?

We participate in two reciprocal admissions programs:

1. The ASTC Passport Program

2. The Association of Children’s Museum (ACM) Reciprocal Network

If you have a museum membership with ASTC Passport benefits, you can receive free admission (for 2 adults and children under
18 living in the same household)—if your home residence or the science center or museum that you belong to is more than 90 miles linear distance from The Lawrence. Proof of residence is required.

If you have a museum membership with ACM Reciprocal Network benefits, you can receive 50% off general admission to The Lawrence for up to six (6) people. The card holder must be present for discounted admission.

What should I do if I am not feeling well?

If you are not feeling well, please stay home. We are glad to exchange your tickets for another day if you have to cancel because of illness. 

What is The Lawrence doing to ensure the upkeep of safety and hygiene?
 

Exhibits and public spaces are sanitized regularly. We have hand sanitizer widely available and several places where guests can wash their hands. We’ve upgraded our air filtration to hospital-level quality. Please note our air system uses 100% outside air with no recirculation. (This also means if it’s cold outside, it’s cold inside, so dress for the weather!)

Will I need to wear a mask when I visit?

While masks are no longer required indoors, we strongly encourage all visitors to wear a mask to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Help us keep our youngest future scientists healthy!

Is the planetarium open?

Yes! Visit our moved and upgraded Planetarium with daily shows on the new dome!

Is the Animal Discovery Zone open?

The Animal Discovery Zone has limited hours. However, you can meet one of our Animal Ambassadors daily.

Is the 3D Theater open?

Yes! Find out what’s playing.

How crowded will The Lawrence be?

We are limiting capacity with timed ticket reservations, in order to maintain the health and safety of visitors and staff. 

Is the Discovery Store open? 

Yes, the Discovery Store will be open.

Is the Bay View Cafe open?

Our Bay View Cafe is currently closed. A limited selection of snacks and beverages will be available for purchase at the Discovery Store.

Are group sales or field trips packages available?

Yes, view our school programs which include field trips, science shows, and science festivals. Please contact lhsreg@berkeley.edu for more information.

Where can I find additional help onsite at The Lawrence?

Feel free to approach any staff member or head to the front desk for assistance.