At Explore More, our mission is to engage ALL young minds through interactive, multi-sensory learning experiences—promoting a greater understanding of themselves and their world. We welcome visitors of all abilities and needs, and make every effort to remove potential barriers to inclusion in museum spaces, programs, and events.

ACCESS PROGRAMS

  • Play without boundaries: Explore More offers low sensory experiences for children with autism, learning differences, and other sensory or communication needs. See dates, times and details HERE.

  • General programming: Museum events and programs are open to children of all abilities and needs. We understand, however, that “open” does not equal accessible in every situation. We are happy to work with patrons to accommodate individual needs when possible. Please contact info@iexploremore.com with any questions or concerns regarding barriers in upcoming programming.

Accessiblity in and around the museum

  • Wheelchair and stroller accessibility: The entire museum building is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with elevator service to all floors. There are wheelchair accessible restrooms located on all Museum floors. A single-use restroom can be found at the front of the museum building on the first floor. Due to space constraints, some exhibits may present limited maneuvering capabilities.

  • Parking: The Museum does not have dedicated parking available, but limited, accessible parking is located across the street (on Main and Newman). There is also a loading/unloading curbside area near the Museum entrance that may be used for short-term drop-off and pick-up as needed.

  • Adaptive art supplies and sensory bags are available for use during your Museum visit. Please inquire at the front desk and one of our team members will be happy to assist.

Additional resources to enhance your visit

  • Prepare for your visit! Click HERE to view a social story about visiting Explore More so you and your child will know what to expect and how to best navigate your experience.

  • Avoid busy times + skip the lines! The museum is a popular family destination and can become crowded and noisy at times. Use our advance online registration option so check-in can be extra quick.

  • Field Trips: We enjoy hosting student field trip groups during the year and know that coming at these times may be overwhelming for some visiting children. Please note that field trips are never scheduled for Fridays or Saturdays and that all field trips are completed by 2 PM each day. If you want to check the daily schedule before heading to the Museum, feel free to give us a call at 540-442-8900 or email info@iexploremore.com. Afternoons after 2 PM are generally quiet (with the exception of days when schools are not in session).

  • Need a break? The museum has no dedicated quiet zones, but if you and your child need a quieter spot to take a break from stimulation, please ask a staff member, and we’ll help you find the best location. 

  • Sensory Bags are now available! The museum offers a limited number of sensory bags that include sound reducing earplugs, fidget toys, visual timers, sunglasses, and a weighted vest/lap blanket.

Financial ACCESS

It is our goal to ensure that every child has access to the Museum’s rich learning environment. While we currently offer the lowest admission fee of all Children’s Museums in Virginia, we realize that this may still present a financial barrier for some families. We are happy to offer a variety of sponsored access programs, generously sponsored by the Harrisonburg Kiwanis Club and a grant from the City of Harrisonburg.

  • First Friday Free: We’re open on the first Friday of each month from 5 - 7 PM. There with special art activities and no admission fee thanks to Harrisonburg Kiwanis Club.

  • Museums for All: Admission fee is $2.50 per person for families with SNAP EBT cards and valid ID. Learn more about this program HERE.

  • Family Scholarships: If you are interested in applying for a scholarship to assist with membership or museum programs, you can download and complete the application HERE.

 

WE WELCOME YOUR FEEDBACK!
Please let us know how we can make the Museum experience more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming. Pursuing equity and inclusion not only reflects our commitment to serving all families but is also an important practice which benefits the entire community. YOU are important to us!