fbpx Skip to main content

Accessibility

MUSEUM HOURS:
Loading...

Our commitment to accessibility

The Buffalo Museum of Science welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its programs and services accessible to everyone. Please view a compiled list of our available accommodations and additional accessibility information below.

For general accessibility inquiries during museum operating hours, please contact our Guest Support Specialist, Benjamin Jankowski, at 716-896-5200 (x323).

The Buffalo Museum of Science’s Diversity and Equity Work Group would like to hear from you! We recognize that we cannot do this work without the support of our community, and we ask that anyone who feels comfortable sharing their perspectives reach out to us at [email protected].

KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certification
  • The Buffalo Museum of Science is a proud partner of KultureCity—the nation’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities. Collectively, we have put together a social story to help families prepare for a visit to the Museum. Guests can sign out a sensory bag at admissions during their visit free in exchange for a license held at admissions while you explore. Bags must be returned to admissions at the end of each visit. Bags include: noise-reducing headphones, weighted lap pad, fidgets, and verbal cue cards. Click here to view our Social Story.

Upcoming Accessible Events:

October 2024
No event found!
Load More

Accommodations for groups

Groups requiring accommodations can visit the museum for $5 per individual, and up to 10 necessary chaperones for free. For groups of less than ten, please see a guest services team member at admissions. For larger groups contact Guest Services Specialist, Benjamin Jankowski, at 716-896-5200 (x323).

Bathroom accommodations

Changing tables can be found in the first-floor bathrooms, in the Comfort Room outside of SensERIE, and 3rd floor bathrooms near In Motion.

Two gender neutral bathrooms are on the first floor in the coat room and the 3rd floor near In Motion.

View Museum map

Busy times

Large groups generally visit the Museum between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call our Guest Services Specialist, Benjamin Jankowski, at 716-896-5200 (x323) if you would like to check if there is a group scheduled prior to your visit.

We offer extended hours (4 p.m. – 9 p.m.) on Wednesdays in October through May which are usually lightly attended.

Elevator access

There are two elevators available. The South elevator in the atrium goes to the 3rd floor, while the North elevator by the auditorium goes up to the 4th floor.

For rooftop access, use the separate elevator located on the 4th floor. (This elevator is limited to those who are unable to use the stairs; all others are asked to take the stairs if physically able.)

View Museum map

Medical assistance

If medical assistance is needed or in case of a safety concern, please contact a guest services or security team member, or visit the admissions desk on the first floor for assistance. In case of emergency, call 911.

Outside food policy

Outside food is welcome; please keep food to designated dining areas. Seating for dining is available on on the Museum balcony on the 2nd floor or the designated dining areas on the map below.

Vending Machines and a water filling station can be found next to Stanley’s Shop in the atrium. Additional stations are located on the 1st floor outside of auditorium and 3rd floor In Motion.

View Museum map

Parking

Museum parking is located on side of building facing Humboldt Parkway with accessible parking spaces available closer to the entrance.

Personal care attendants

Those attending the Museum with a personal care attendant may contact Guest Support Specialist, Benjamin Jankowski, at 716-896-5200 (x323) for additional admission information.

Public transportation options

The following NFTA bus routes are available for transportation to the Buffalo Museum of Science:

  • 12 – Utica & Humboldt Pkwy.
  • 22 – Best St. & West Parade Ave
  • 23 – Fillmore & N. Parade
  • 24 – Genesee St. & Herman St.

Ready to plan your trip? Use the NFTA Trip Planner.

Seating and quiet areas

Seating is available throughout the museum. Our Comfort Room is located on the first floor outside of SensERIE and houses a changing table, sink, seating for nursing, adjustable lighting and quiet play activities.

Sensory Nights

The Museum is proud to offer quarterly Sensory Nights with limited exhibit and sounds to provide a comfortable and fun evening of learning and exploration. View upcoming Sensory Night events on our Events calendar.

Service animal policy

In accordance with ADA regulations, the museum welcomes service animals that are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities. Pets and comfort animals are restricted. The following guidelines apply to service animals on our premises:

  • Definition of Service Animal: A service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to perform specific tasks or work directly related to the person’s disability. Service animals do not include pets or animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support.
  • Control of the Service Animal: The service animal must be under the control of its handler at all times. This includes keeping the animal on a leash, harness, or tether.
  • Behavior and Conduct: Service animals must be well-behaved and not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others. If a service animal exhibits behavior such as uncontrolled barking, growling, or running away from the handler, the museum reserves the right to request the removal of the service animal from the premises.

Wheelchairs and strollers

Free wheelchairs and strollers are available for use during your Museum visit on a first-come, first-served basis. They are located near the coatroom across from Stanley’s Shop on the first floor.