The Museum campus—Lightcatcher galleries, Family Interactive Gallery (FIG) and Old City Hall—is open at full capacity. Museum hours of operation are Wednesdays – Sundays, Noon – 5pm. The Family Interactive Gallery (FIG) operating days are Wednesdays – Saturdays, 10am – 5pm and Sundays, Noon – 5pm. Visit our FIG page for more info.

The Museum Store inside the Lightcatcher building is open Wednesdays – Sundays, noon – 5pm.

Photo Archives are open Wednesday – Friday, 1 – 5pm.

Masks & face coverings: The Whatcom Museum strongly encourages visitors to wear masks, although they are no longer required, including at the FIG.

The Museum can provide a disposable mask for those who would like one.

In-person programs: The Museum has resumed in-person programs. We continue to encourage wearing masks.

If you feel unwell or have any symptoms of illness, please visit us another time. As a public gathering space, the health and safety of our community is our priority.

Thank you for your support and understanding during this time. We look forward to seeing you at the Museum!

Our Safety Protocols

We want to ensure you have an enjoyable, educational experience in the safest way possible. Here’s what you can expect when you visit our buildings. Guidelines are subject to change. For safety protocols specific to the Family Interactive Gallery (FIG) check out our “Plan Your Visit” page for more info.

  • Visitors are no longer required to wear masks, though we strongly encourage it.
  • The Museum can provide a disposable mask for those who would like one.
  • Sneeze guards have been installed at admission and check-in areas.
  • Admissions, store purchases, and other transactions have limited contact.
  • Hand-sanitizing stations are available throughout the Museum.
  • EPA-approved, non-toxic Force of Nature™ electrolysis cleaner is being used to disinfect hands-on interactives.
  • Fresh air is circulated frequently throughout buildings daily.
  • If you feel sick or have any symptoms of COVID-19, live with or care for someone who has been sick, please visit us at another time.

The Whatcom Museum has successfully met or exceeded the standards set by SanSee Safety Systems for excellence in operational safety and hygiene. Read the SanSee news release here. For more information about our Covid-19 protocols, please contact our general info line at 360.778.8930 or email info@whatcommuseum.org.

Art Bridges in black block letter font with blue semicircle above wordsSupport for our safety protocols generously provided by Art Bridges Bridge Ahead Initiative.

Museum From Home 

Experience some of the Museum from home.

Tips for reducing the spread of the virus

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for 20+ seconds.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Wear a face covering.
  • Stay away from other people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home to prevent spreading the infection to others. (Employees who are feeling ill are required to stay home).
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
  • Refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Washington State Department of Health for more recommendations.

COVID-19 Disclaimer

While the Whatcom Museum has implemented rigorous protocols to maintain a clean and safe environment, an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is a very contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and visitors with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. By visiting the Whatcom Museum you, and all members of your group, voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.