County Museum announces soft opening of the Hall of Biodiversity

*Sneak peek of the new collection of animals to be on display at the soft opening in the Hall of Biodiversity.*

The San Bernardino County Museum is thrilled to announce the soft opening of its highly anticipated Hall of Biodiversity. Following a temporary two-week closure, the museum will unveil these groundbreaking new exhibits on March 22 at 11 a.m.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this exhibit space to life,” said Curator of Integrated Biology Dr. Mackenzie Kirchner-Smith. “The soft opening will offer an exclusive first look at the space, where guests can experience our new exhibits and immersive displays showcasing the beauty and complexity of biodiversity across our region.”

“The Hall of Biodiversity is part of the museum’s ongoing commitment to environmental education and its mission to foster a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world,” said Museum Director David Myers. Through this exhibit, the museum aims to spark curiosity, inspire conservation efforts, and encourage sustainable practices in daily life.”

In celebration of the new exhibits, the San Bernardino County Museum Foundation will offer a special promotional giveaway at the soft opening event.

“The first 100 San Bernardino County Museum Foundation and Kids Club members in attendance will receive an exclusive branded squishy polar bear stress reliever as a token to commemorate the return of the elusive polar bear from the museum’s collections,” said San Bernardino County Museum Foundation Executive Director Brandon Mulder.

This is a limited time offer, so be sure to arrive early to secure your giveaway. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something special! Not a member already? No problem! Visit our membership website now to register or become a member at the opening.

The San Bernardino County Museum is located at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (child ages 6 to 12). Children five and under are admitted free. Parking is free and the museum is accessible to people with disabilities. For more information, please visit museum.sbcounty.gov or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors.

Additional County Update News – March 20, 2025