Residents in Florida now have more time to visit the Florida Museum of Natural History before it undergoes a significant closure for renovations. Originally set to close in January for a $20 million expansion, the closure has now been pushed back to March 24, 2025, with the museum expected to reopen in 2026 after the $30 million project is completed.

"We are excited to welcome visitors further into spring, staying open longer for the community to enjoy," said Kaitlin Gardiner, communications manager for the Florida Museum. "While the physical museum at Powell Hall will temporarily close after March 23, 2025, we look forward to bringing expanded engagement opportunities to audiences outside our walls for the duration of construction."

The full $30 million project budget has been restored by the University of Florida administration. The planned upgrades include an expanded entrance, a larger collectors shop, and new exhibition and learning spaces. The museum will also build a two-story, 6,000-square-foot structure on the west side of Powell Hall, which will house the Thompson Earth Systems Institute.

"A new, interactive exhibit space will focus on the Thompson Earth Systems Institute (TESI) and will help Floridians to become good stewards of the state’s natural heritage," said Gardiner.

In addition to the new exhibit space, the museum's lobby, front desk, and restrooms in the Central Gallery will be renovated. The Fossil Plant Garden will be integrated into the new space. All permanent exhibits, including the "Butterfly Rainforest," will remain open until March 23, 2025.

The museum's temporary closure will affect certain employees, including those in front-line visitor services, who will cease duties on March 24. However, employees whose roles are not tied to visitor services will continue, with temporary adjustments to their duties.

The museum's expansion is being designed by Ennead Architects, a New York City-based firm, with Gainesville’s Scorpio Construction acting as the general contractor.

The Florida Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.