The Simcoe County Museum will temporarily close from November until the end of March to facilitate ongoing renovations as part of an expansion project. The full closure will save approximately 2 per cent of the project’s $16.6 million cost, allowing for quicker and more efficient construction.
The renovations are part of the Matthews Innovation and Transportation Gallery Project, which broke ground in October. The expansion will occur in three phases, with this first phase anticipated to finish in February 2026 and the entire project slated to be completed by 2030. The project will significantly expand gallery space, introduce an environmentally friendly zero-carbon design, and create new areas for curatorial functions and collections storage.
During the closure, the Museum will continue its operations through several initiatives:
- Outreach program: Staff will bring the Museum experience to classrooms around the County with dynamic, hands-on educational programs. These programs were carefully designed to continue to spark curiosity and inspire young minds. For more information or to book a program, please email education@simcoe.ca.
- Collections management: Staff will pack, re-house and document collections that are being moved as part of the renovations. They will also research, develop, and build two new major permanent exhibits: the People’s Gallery and the Innovation Gallery.
- Outdoor skate trail: The Museum’s outdoor skate trail will still operate this winter, weather permitting, with staff on-site to maintain the trail and supervise.
For more information and updates on the Museum throughout its closure, please visit museum.simcoe.ca.
