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Membership FAQ

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Purchasing a Membership

Will membership expiration dates be extended due to the COVID-19 closure?

Memberships impacted during our temporary closure have been extended to fulfill our 12-month commitment to you. If you have any questions, please contact membership@sciencebuff.org or call 716.896.5200 x311.

How can I purchase a membership?

You can purchase a membership two ways: online or over the phone.

In order to purchase online, go to the Membership tab. From there, you can pick the membership that best suits you/your family’s needs by clicking the appropriate “Join or Renew Now” button. If you are renewing your membership, make sure you SIGN IN/REGISTER at the top right-hand corner of the website before putting anything in the cart.

I would like to buy a gift Membership for someone. How can I do this?

You can purchase a gift membership two ways: online or over the phone.

In order to purchase online, click here. After choosing the appropriate membership, make sure you check the box at the bottom of the page that says, “This membership is a gift.” A gift certificate will be emailed to the purchaser. Please allow 2-5 business days to receive the gift certificate.

If I want to upgrade to a higher membership level, do I have to wait until my current membership expires?

You do not have to wait until your membership expires to upgrade to a higher membership level. You can do this at any time by phone.

Do you offer military, student, or senior discounts on memberships?

We do offer military, student, and senior discounts on memberships purchased online or over the phone. 

Can I apply the costs of a Museum visit toward the cost of a membership?

Yes, you can apply up to $20 of the cost of your Museum visit towards a membership within 14 days of your visit.

When I buy a membership, when can I begin to use it?

When you buy a membership, it may be used instantly.

Digital or printed membership cards are available.

I have changed my mind and would like to receive a refund for my membership.

The Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences (BSNS) Memberships are non-refundable in whole or in part. Approved discounts can only be applied at the time of purchase. Memberships are not transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be applied to school visits.

Is a BMS Membership tax-deductible?

A membership is not tax-deductible. If a donation is made along-side a membership, however, that gift is tax-deductible.

Membership Cards

Where can I download my digital Membership Card?

Digital membership cards may be downloaded via the FREE eMembership Card app. See exact instructions here

We will only be mailing membership cards to households that specifically request them.

If I request a physical card, how long will it take to receive it?

The membership cards will take one week during our regular seasons. During holiday seasons, cards may take up to a month to receive. Please be advised that members must reserve admission in advance online.

Am I able to use my Membership without having the card?

You are able to use your Membership without having the physical card. Please make sure you SIGN IN/REGISTER as a member at the top right-hand corner of the website before putting anything in the cart.

Can Member children come without a parent?

Though membership cards state that there are children associated with them, the children are not technically members. The one/two adult(s) in the household are the main members and, therefore, need to be present with the children.

For a small fee, a membership can be upgraded to include Family PLUS, and a caregiver may come in the adult member’s place.

Can my friends and relatives use my Membership without me?

With a Family PLUS Membership, one unnamed adult can use the membership. 

Can my caregiver visit BMS with my children but without me?

A caregiver may only visit the Museum without you if have a Family PLUS membership. The Family Plus Membership will allow one individual to come in your place.

Member Benefits and Discounts

My child is coming with a school field trip. Is he/she able to use the Membership discount?

Unfortunately, membership discounts to not apply to school field trips.

Does my Buffalo Museum of Science Membership allow me to visit other museums for free or at a discounted rate?

Your Buffalo Museum of Science Membership will allow you to visit Science Museums and Centers throughout the World. The BMS is a part of the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) through their Passport Program. Please visit the ASTC link for more information on the benefits and a list of participants: http://www.astc.org/passport/

How can I stay in contact with the Museum?

You can stay in contact with the Museum by keeping all of your information up to date. Being a member, you will receive a bi-monthly program guide with upcoming events in the mail, and emails informing you of the latest Museum buzz. Make sure to also follow us on social media.

How can I receive my member discount when purchasing other items online?

When purchasing online, be sure to sign in at the top right hand corner of the screen. If you’ve never signed up for an event on our website before, you may need to register, which can also be located at the top right corner of the screen.

When registering or signing in, please be sure to use the e-mail address we have on file with your membership. You will also need to use the exact name you put on the card. If you need to update the e-mail on file or you are having trouble logging in after a few attempts, please give us a call at 716.896.5200.