Sharing the spirit and beauty of the West through art and artifacts, the Briscoe Western Art Museum brings vibrant history and stories to life—and is ready to do it in person again opening to the public on May 23.
Reopening Protocols
Under the current directives of The Governor’s Report to Open Texas, the Briscoe anticipates operating at 25 percent capacity upon reopening. The museum is hopeful it can play a part in the safe and strategic reopening of San Antonio museums and attractions. The museum’s reopening protocols include:
- Masks, Sanitizers and Cleaning
- All museum staff will wear masks onsite.
- Per the Reopen Texas guidelines, guests are not required to wear masks to enter the museum. However, in accordance with the City of San Antonio, masks are recommended.
- Additional hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout the museum.
- Museum staff will be continually monitoring and cleaning all public areas, including handrails, doorknobs, elevators, bathrooms.
- Safe Admission Purchases
- The museum’s visitor admissions desk will feature plexiglass shields to protect staff and visitors.
- Tickets may be purchased in advance online to limit in person interaction.
- Limiting Guest Capacity
- To safely welcome guests, the Briscoe will monitor attendance through ticket counts, limiting admission as necessary. Security personnel will also monitor galleries in person and by video to ensure social distancing guidelines are maintained. If the museum reaches capacity, guest traffic will be stopped until enough guests exit to safely allow further admissions.
- The Briscoe’s elevator, designed to assist with artwork and exhibition installation, offers a larger capacity than standard elevators. However, only one family will be allowed at a time.
- The Briscoe’s Museum Store has altered its floor plan will limit admission to ensure guest safety. A plexiglass shield will allow for safe transactions. Shoppers will be provided gloves upon entry, as well as safe glove disposal upon exit.
- Closed Interactive Displays
- Following the guidelines, all interactive media and displays will remain closed, including the museum’s touchscreens and audio devices. The museum’s theater will have limited seating and signage limiting viewing to one family at a time.
- The McNutt Sculpture Garden
- The museum’s beautiful outdoor courtyard featuring bronze sculptures depicting iconic figures of the American West will be open for guests to enjoy. Cleaning protocols have been implemented to ensure guest safety.
- The Jack Guenther Pavilion
- Per Reopen Texas guidelines, the Briscoe’s event space remains closed for public or private gatherings. Event planners may schedule a private tour for future event planning by contacting the Briscoe.
- The Briscoe San Antonio Library Portal
- As of now, all San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) locations are closed through May 19, including the Briscoe Portal.
In true Western hospitality, the Briscoe will feature a reopening special, offering half-off of general admission through Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25. And to thank the healthcare heroes who have worked tirelessly to keep the community safe and well, all healthcare workers receive free museum admission throughout the summer – just show your valid identification and enjoy the museum.
