How long is a membership valid?
Membership is valid for one full year from the date of purchase or renewal.
What are the different membership levels and costs?
Click here to view membership levels and costs.
When I apply for membership how long will it take to receive my membership card and passes?
You will receive your membership packet including the card and passes within 15 business days of joining or renewing your membership.
Does each member receive a membeship card?
Our Star and Pulsar level memberships receive one card. Our Supernova and Galaxy memberships receive two cards. Additional or lost cards may be requested for a small fee.
When can members visit the Museum?
The Science Museum of Virginia is open Monday–Saturday 9:30 am–5 pm and Sunday 11:30 am–5 pm Eastern Time. The Museum is closed Mondays after Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
What are the benefits of being a member?
As a member you enjoy one year of free unlimited admission to the Science Museum of Virginia, the Virginia Aviation Museum and the Danville Science Center along with 300 ASTC museums worldwide. Your membership benefits also include:
• Free and discounted IMAX®DOME passes
• Free guest passes (exhibits only)
• Discounts on purchases in our gift shop
• Discounts on the Museum's most popular classes and programs
• Invitations to special events
• Reserved Parking (first come first serve)
As a member can I purchase discounted IMAX® tickets online?
Members can purchase discounted IMAX® tickets through our website after setting up an online account. To set up an account, email us at tickets@smv.org to receive a username and password. Please allow 24 business hours for this process. Discounted IMAX® tickets may also be purchased via phone by calling us at 804.864.1400 or at Guest Services.
Can membership and passes be used for school field trips?
Groups visiting the Museum participate in special labs, demonstrations and focused educational activities. Member passes and discounts do not apply to these educational programs.
If you are applying online your membership is not automatically active and cards and passes may not be available the same or next day. If applying online please allow 24 business hours for your membership to become active. If you are applying on the weekend, please allow to the next business day. If you would like to receive your passes the day of your visit, we suggest applying in person.
Am I able to use my IMAX® and guest passes over the one year of membership?
IMAX® and guest passes can only be used once. When you have used your IMAX® passes, as a member you are able to purchase IMAX® passes at a discounted price. Discounted exhibit pricing is not available for members’ guests.
The Science Museum of Virginia is an accredited member of the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC). Museum members receive free or discounted general admission to our network of over 300 member museums all over the world. Be sure to pack your membership card for your next vacation! Please contact the museum/science center prior to your visit to confirm admittance requirements which may vary with each location. Please note that any museum within 90 miles of us does not offer member benefits.
Do I need to accompany my guests who use the passes?
No, you do not have to accompany the guests who use your guest passes.
Can a friend or family member use my membership card?
No, a friend or family member cannot use your membership card. Please allow them to use your guest passes.
May I bring a guest who is not a member to a members only event?
Your guest may use a guest pass to attend a members only event.
If I want to become a member after my visit to the Museum is the price of admission applied towards the cost of membership?
Yes, you may apply the cost of admission towards your membership. This offer is valid until two weeks after your visit. Please bring your admission tickets and receipt to Guest Services and they will be happy to assist you.
Why did the chicken cross the road?
The popular answer is to get to the other side. Actually the chicken was not even aware a road was there. The chicken was just wandering aimlessly looking for food.
Are there any discounted membership levels?
Currently we do not have any discounted membership levels. However, we do offer free admission to all active duty military personnel with a current and valid ID. We also offer free admission to actively employed, licensed and/or certified state of Virginia public or private school teachers or principals.
May I purchase a membership as a gift?
Yes, you may purchase a membership as a gift. Just click on the membership level you would like to give to complete your purchase.
May I purchase a membership for my business or employees?
The Science Museum of Virginia welcomes your corporate support. To learn more about corporate benefits contact our Director of Corporate Relations, Chris Hockman at chockman@smv.org or phone at 804.864.1545.
Does the Museum honor donation requests for membership?
Yes, the Museum will consider donation requests for membership from nonprofit and charitable organizations. Please contact Sales and Information at 804-864-1400.
Is my membership tax deductible?
A portion of your membership may be tax deductible.
| Membership Level | Tax Deductible Amount |
| Star | $16.00 |
| Pulsar | $26.00 |
| Supernova | $21.00 |
| Galaxy | $3.00 |
| Galaxy Premium | $383.00 |
How do I make changes to my membership, such as add or change my family members, my address, my phone, etc?
For your convenience we have three ways to make changes, additions, or updates to your information:
- E-mail membership@smv.org
- Call 804.864.1449
- Visit support.smv.org (You must create a user name and password. Please allow 24 business hours for a response.)
How do I replace a lost or stolen membership card?
You may replace your lost or stolen membership card by contacting the Museum at membership@smv.org or by calling 804.864.1449. Please allow 15 business days to receive your new card.
