Exciting Changes Ahead for the Florida Museum of Natural History

Big things are happening at the Florida Museum of Natural History! Starting Monday, March 24, 2025, the museum’s main exhibit space at Powell Hall will temporarily close for an exciting expansion project that promises to transform the visitor experience. While it’s always tough to see a favorite spot close its doors, this closure comes with a silver lining. When the museum reopens in 2026, it will feature state-of-the-art spaces, updated exhibits, and a fresh, modern look.

Why Is the Museum Closing?

This temporary closure is all about safety and efficiency. With extensive renovations planned – including the demolition of parts of the building’s front entrance to make room for new spaces – it wouldn’t be feasible to provide safe access to visitors during construction. By shutting down completely, the museum can significantly shorten the project timeline, meaning we’ll all get to experience the new and improved museum even sooner.

The museum originally planned to begin construction in early 2025 but postponed the start date after additional funding allowed for more ambitious improvements. The reconfirmed expansion plan now includes a second addition to Powell Hall, making the wait even more worthwhile.

What’s Changing?

The roughly 6,000 square-foot addition will focus on creating engaging and interactive new spaces while enhancing visitor amenities. Some of the highlights include:

• New Thompson Earth Systems Institute Exhibit: A hands-on exploration of the connections between air, water, land, and life on Earth.
• Modernized Classrooms for educational programming
• Expanded Collector’s Shop with exciting new merchandise options
• Renovated lobby, restrooms, and guest services, including a sleek, modern facade
• A beautiful new seating area for outdoor visitors

Behind the scenes, the project will also create offices and workspaces for museum staff and University of Florida programs like the Thompson Earth Systems Institute. While some outdoor areas, such as the Florida Wildflower Garden Path, will be inaccessible early on, the museum’s other facilities—including the Research and Collections buildings like the famed McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity—will remain active, but are not open to the public.

What About the Exhibits?

Several beloved permanent exhibits, including the Butterfly Rainforest, Florida Fossils, and Discovery Zone, will remain in place and receive some much-needed TLC during the closure. Temporary exhibits have already begun receiving upgrades, with new lighting, flooring, and energy-efficient technologies getting installed to create a better experience for future displays.

Though the doors to Powell Hall will close, the museum’s work won’t stop. The staff will continue taking care of live animals, butterflies, and plants in exhibits like the Butterfly Rainforest behind the scenes. Additionally, the museum plans to offer pop-up exhibitions, wildlife-friendly plant sales, and outreach programs to stay connected with the community throughout the construction period.

What Does This Mean for Museum Members?

If you’re a Florida Museum member, don’t worry—your benefits remain intact! Perks like discounts on programs, exclusive member events, and free admission to the Randell Research Center and Calusa Heritage Trail in Pineland, Florida, will continue uninterrupted. Plus, you can take pride in knowing your membership helps support this exciting transformation and the museum’s broader mission.

Volunteers and Staff

The museum’s volunteer program will also adapt during this time. People serving in research-based roles will continue their work, while those tied to public exhibits will explore new opportunities. A big shoutout to the museum’s hardworking team for making these transitions as smooth as possible!

Countdown to Transformation

The last day to visit Powell Hall before it closes is Sunday, March 23, 2025, so mark your calendars! Now is the perfect time to enjoy the exhibits one last time before they return in all their renewed glory.

The Florida Museum of Natural History has always been a place of wonder, education, and community. Its ambitious expansion promises to ensure it remains that way for generations to come. Be sure to keep an eye on the museum’s calendar for updates and local events during the closure. We might not be able to visit Powell Hall for a while, but the museum’s mission to inspire and educate will continue in exciting new ways!

Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to experience the all-new Florida Museum in 2026!