Cleveland Museum of Natural History's Grand Opening of $150 Million Transformation Set for December

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History Credit: DLR Group

Mark your calendars, and get ready to indulge in an immersive journey through the new Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

With more than 375,000 square feet of reimagined spaces thanks to a $150-million transformation and expansion project, the museum has plenty of new offerings that will finally debut to the public from Dec. 13 through Dec. 15 with a weekend full of events.

The renovated space includes brand-new exhibits, immersive experiences and innovative programs that will explore our “ever-changing world – from ancient Ohio to the farthest reaches of the Solar System,” according to the CMNH website.

Kick off the grand-opening on Dec 13 at the EPOCH party as internationally renowned DJ Mick spins electrifying classic hip-hop beats. Tickets are going for $35 and will include VIP after-hour access, late-night bites and craft cocktails. You must be 21 and up to join. Get ready for a night of pure magic, savor, delicious food and dancing.

Following the kickoff on Dec. 14 is Member Preview Day. All CMNH members will have all-day access. Staff will be on site throughout the exhibits to answer questions and share insights about the collections.

Then finally on Dec. 15, the public grand-opening takes place. Enjoy a full day of exploration as you make your way through new galleries that tell the story of life on Earth. Some new galleries include the Evolving Life Wing, Larry Sears and Sally Zlotnick Sears Dynamic Earth Wing, and Ames Family Curiosity Center.

Tickets to visit the museum on or after Dec. 15 will be available for full price at the door. After the museum’s grand opening, the museum will feature the new exhibits, immersive experiences in a renovated space. Ticket prices will reflect this enhanced access.

To learn more about the CMNH’s grand opening, visit cmnh.org.

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