Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Membership

Q: If I pay for admission to the Museum, can I use the cost of admission to help purchase a membership?

A: Yes, however you must bring the admission receipt to the Front Desk that same day.

Q: How many people, and who can receive free admission using my membership?

A: Memberships are intended one per family. Each membership (Two-, Four-, and Six-person) corresponds to the number of individuals who can visit the Museum for free at one time; children under 12 months of age are always free. Membership cards are given in duplicate in order to provide you with a backup. Cards cannot be used by two separate groups on the same day. The Museum allows members to bring guests or relatives; however, sharing memberships between families is prohibited.

Q: Where do members check-in?

A: All members must check-in at the Museum Front Desk before entering the Museum. Unless otherwise directed by a staff member or clearly-marked signage during an event day, you must enter the Museum via the Front Desk at the Entry Pavilion. Please have your membership card in-hand, count the total number of seniors, adults, children and infants in your group, then wait for the next available front desk staff person. Visitation statistics help us plan for exhibit usage and provide crucial information to our financial supporters. In addition, visitors entering or exiting from locations other than the Entry Pavilion (such as at the back gate or over a fence) compromises the Museum’s ability to ensure the safety of our site.

Q: Does my membership have reciprocity with other Museums?

A: Yes, if you have a Six-person membership or higher, which features the Association of Children’s Museum (ACM) stickers, you can enter 130 other Children’s Museums across the country, free of charge. This reciprocity is only good for participating ACM member Museums and a complete listing can always be found here. You'll also receive two free passes to Habitot in Berkeley, and the San Jose Children's Discovery Museum. Click here for more info.

Q: What happens if I lose my membership card or forget to bring it?

A: Replacement membership cards can be purchased for just $5. If you forget your card, the Front Desk will allow you to enter if they can locate you in the current listing of members; however you will be charged for a new set of cards if you forget to bring them a second time.