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Science North reopens to the public July 18, but with many new pandemic safety precautions

Weekend-only ticketed sessions to be offered 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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R.L. Beattie Public School student Henry Xiong checks out one of the new exhibits on Science North's fourth floor in February 2019. (File)

Science North will be officially reopening to the public this weekend as part of Stage Three in Ontario’s post-pandemic economic recovery, but with many safety precautions due to the pandemic.

For the remainder of July, the space will be open to the public on weekends only for two timed and ticketed sessions from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for a maximum of 300 people per session. 

Stringent safety protocols have been introduced to accommodate stage one of this reopening, as stated in a press release, along with new experiences and demonstrations that allow for physical distancing between Bluecoats and visitors. 

As part of these protocols, all guests above the age of two and staff that "serve" will be required to wear a face mask. 

Residents are advised that a number of these tickets have already been donated to front-line workers, however, as a show of appreciation for their efforts during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The public reopening of Science North is welcomed news and proof that following the directions and advice of our Medical Officer of Health, including the use of a face covering, will allow us to resume more activities in the community,” said Mayor Brian Bigger. 

“I want to thank all of the Bluecoats at Science North for their hard work these past few months to stay engaged with the community and in preparation for a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.”

The decision to reopen was made following four member-only attendance days on July 4, 5, 11, and 12, that Science North said got “great” feedback and allowed the organization to further enhance the visitor experience. 

“Ontario offers the world in one province, and Science North is not only one of our great tourist attractions, it is a valued cultural institution - one that welcomes people of all ages into the wonderful world of science,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries in a press release. 

“As we move forward with reopening the province, I encourage everyone to safely explore Science North’s interactive exhibits and celebrate our heritage, ingenuity, and pride of people and place.”

Science North will also be continuing to provide online programming offered over the past four months, to keep audiences engaged and informed of relevant and engaging science-related content. 

Dynamic Earth will remain closed until further notice, but guests are welcome on-site to visit the Big Nickel free of charge. 

Find more information on the science centre and any changes to its hours of operation or program offerings at sciencenorth.ca or through the Science North Facebook page


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