the New CMVA
Children’s Museum of Virginia Renovation and Expansion Project
When you are in Portsmouth visiting Andalo's Clubhouse, stroll down High Street to see the progress that is being made on the Children's Museum of Virginia. The mall area as well as most of the first and second floors have been demolished. Work has begun on the roof and the exterior of the building on High Street. Before you know it you will see work beginning on the new entrance.
Here's a 5-minute video about the New Children's Museum of Virginia:
Please be patient with us as we continue our work on this wonderful renovation and expansion project. The possibilities are still endless at our satellite location, Andalo's Clubhouse, and at the Courthouse Galleries. The two sites are working together to provide a variety of family activities for one low price. Opening in March 5 is a new exhibit Trains and Transportation featuring a working model train layout featuring items from the Lancaster Antique Train and Toy Collection. A locomotive bell, rear backup light from a steam engine, lanterns, psitons and many rare trains and accessories will delight visitors of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Will the museum be larger?
A: Yes, we are adding approximately 12,000 square feet.
Q: How long will the project take?
A: Approximately 16-18 months
Q: What will be new?
A: Essentially everything! The first floor is geared to 0-6 year-olds and focuses on role-play in a town environment. The second floor has been developed around three themes: Science, the Environment and Art.
Q: What will the operating hours of Andalo’s Clubhouse?
A: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sunday, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The Courthouse Galleries will have their hours extended to coincide with those of Andalo’s Clubhouse. Both museums will be closed on Mondays, except Monday holidays.
Q: During the renovation, will you still offer birthday parties?
A: Yes we will at Andalo’s Clubhouse.
Q: The museum has always offered a variety of events; such as Chinese New Year, will those still be offered?
A: Yes, but we will be incorporating the other sites into these events for even more fun and activities.
Q: Will the museum still offer education programs for schools?
A: Yes, we will continue to offer education programs on-site as well as through our new outreach program. For information on the outreach program, contact the Education Department at 757-393-5258, ext. 18.
Q: Will Winter Wonderland still be held at the Courthouse Galleries?
A: Yes, it will. The exhibit will be previewed during the Olde Towne Business Association’s Annual Arts and Antiques Open House on November 26, 2010. The exhibit will then open for the season on Friday, November 26 and close December 31.
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