Port Discovery's membership policies

ACM's reciprocal participants

About Memberships
Port Discovery’s Membership is an option for families who would like to take advantage of the most economical way to visit Port Discovery all year long. Members have the option of choosing a plan that gives unlimited admission for two, four, or six people. Each additional person added to the plan is $25.

How do I become a member?
Click here to enroll online or sign up at the Port Discovery Box Office during your next visit and receive your membership on the spot. (Please note that memberships cannot be purchased in the Members Express line.) You can also become a member by calling 410.864.2667.

When does my Membership arrive if purchased online or by phone?
It takes a minimum of 3 - 10 business days for delivery of your card. Should you wish to visit the museum before receiving your welcome package, bring your photo ID and the Box Office will welcome you for a great visit!

Does my Membership start immediately or by calendar year?
Membership starts on the date of purchase and will expire the following year at the end of the month of purchase. Example: A Membership purchased on 7/16/11 will begin on the date of purchase and expires 7/31/12.

How often can I visit with as a Member?
Membership to Port Discovery allows you and your family unlimited visits to the museum for an entire year. Please note that during special events, tickets may be needed to attend the event. Be sure to visit the Special Events schedule for more information.

How many membership cards do I receive?
One membership card is issued per membership.

Do my children receive membership cards?
No. Only one card is issued per membership.

What is an authorized cardholder?
Cardholders are adults, 18 or older, who are authorized by the person purchasing the membership to use the membership.

How do I renew my membership automatically?
Automatic renewal is no longer available. Please call 410.864.2667 for more information.
 
What is an ACM reciprocal membership?
A reciprocal membership with the Association of Children’s Museums (available with the Family Plus level) allows you to visit over 200 other participating children’s museums around the country for free. For a list of ACM museums, please click here. Each museum has a unique admission policy. Please contact the museum you will be visiting to find out more information. Free admission offer is valid through March 31, 2013.*
  • Port Discovery welcomes ACM members everyday the Museum is open to the public.
  • Visiting members must provide proof of a current reciprocal membership to gain entry.
  • One adult named on the card, must be present at the time of entry. Up to three additional guests may accompany the adult cardholder into the Museum.

*Effective April 1, 2013, the ACM reciprocal membership program will change to the ACM Reciprocal Network.  The admission policiy will change from free admission for 4 people to 50% off general admission for 6 people. This change in policy is the decision of the Association of Children's Museums.


Will my caretaker be able to bring my children to the Museum?
Cardholders may not temporarily authorize the use of their membership to nannies, au pairs, daycares, guardians, or any other adults without prior authorization from the membership office.

If you would like your caretaker to use your membership as an escort for your family members, it is crucial that your caretaker's name be added to your membership card. The Family Plus offers the option for additional authorized members to be listed on the card. Please visit the Museum's Box Office or contact the Development Office at 410.864.2667 to upgrade your Membership today.
 
May I loan my membership card to my mother, sister, neighbor, etc?
No. Membership cards are non transferable. Only the cardholders listed on the card and in the Museum’s database are permitted to use the membership.

How much does it cost to upgrade an existing membership, and does my expiration date change depending on how much time I have left on my current pass?

The cost of an upgrade is:
  • $30 when upgrading from a Family to Family Plus (6 Person)
  • $50 when upgrading from the Family Plus to Family Fan
  • $80 when upgrading from the Family to Family Fan
Your membership expiration date remains the same upon upgrading to another membership level.

What should I do if I lose my membership card?
In case of a misplaced membership card, there is a minimal replacement fee of $5. Please stop by the Museum's Box Office or contact the Development Office at 410.864.2667.

Is there a separate line for Member entry?
The last register at the box office is for Member express entry. It is only for current members to obtain wristbands.
 
The first two registers are for general admission the third register is to purchase or renew a membership.
 
Do you validate parking?
Harbor Park Garage, adjacent to the Museum at the corner of Lombard Street and Market Place offers discounted parking on the weekends for Port Discovery members and guests. Parking is validated at the Box Office on Saturday and Sunday.
Validated parking is $7.00 and is valid until 6 p.m.
 
If I am not a member, can I apply the cost of general admission towards a membership?
Many new guests like to "try" the Museum before purchasing a membership. The purchase of general admission can be applied toward membership only on the day of purchase and only one a one-to-one exchange. Only tickets from one receipt/transaction can be applied to a membership. For example, if a visitor purchases five (5) tickets to the Museum and then would like to apply the purchase to Family membership only the cost of four (4) ticket may be applied. The box office closes 30 minutes before the Museum closes.
 
Are food and drinks permitted inside the Museum?
Food and drinks are not permitted inside the Museum exhibits. There is a designated eating area which you may eat your lunch or snacks. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no access to refrigerators or microwave.  

Is the Museum Stroller Accessible?
Strollers are welcome. There are designated strolling parking areas throughout the Museum for your convenience.

Are there restrooms on each floor?
Restrooms are located on every floor. The closest to the box office are inside, to the left, all the way back (by StudioWorkshop).


Wonders of Water