Hubbry Logo
CuriOdysseyCuriOdysseyMain
Open search
CuriOdyssey
Community hub
CuriOdyssey
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
CuriOdyssey
CuriOdyssey
CuriOdyssey
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

CuriOdyssey is a science museum and zoo in San Mateo, California containing animals and interactive science exhibits. CuriOdyssey is home to nearly 100 rescued animals, most native to California, that cannot survive in the wild. CuriOdyssey's exhibits include a science playground where kids play with scientific phenomena.

Key Information

CuriOdyssey is a member of the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). CuriOdyssey also participates in the Museums for All program, offering free admission and reduced-cost membership to qualifying families.[5]

History

[edit]

CuriOdyssey was formerly Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education, and Coyote Point Museum. Located at 1651 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, it is part of the Coyote Point Recreation Area, which overlooks the San Francisco Bay.[6] The museum was founded in 1954 as the San Mateo County Junior Museum and was housed in a Quonset hut on the point.

It was renamed "Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education" in 1974, and the main museum building opened in 1981. In 1991, the museum opened its wildlife exhibits to show live animals that represented the ecosystems of San Mateo County.[7][1][8]

In July 2006, the museum made its $745,000 deficit public. In August, it announced the organization was considering two proposals to save the museum: one from "Campaign to Save Coyote Point Museum," and the other from the "11th Hour Project," which proposed to scrap the museum and build an education centre for global warming. In 30 days, the Campaign to Save Coyote Point Museum raised $540,247 in pledges from 776 donors, with an additional pledge from the TomKat Foundation of $500,000 over four years. In September 2006, they officially took over management of the museum.[2][9]

Rachel Meyer, formerly executive director of the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo and Chief Curator of Exhibits at the Exploratorium, was named the new executive director of CuriOdyssey (then Coyote Point Museum) on March 19, 2007.[10] With Meyer's arrival, the organization re-oriented to focus on young children, offering them direct, life-charting experiences with science and nature.

On January 15, 2011, Coyote Point Museum officially unveiled its new name, CuriOdyssey.[11]

CuriOdyssey installed two public art installations in 2013. The first, designed by Eric Maschwitz and mounted on the exterior of the building, consists of more than 200 pinwheels, illustrating the wind currents at Coyote Point. The second, created by Mark Brest van Kempen, consists of more than 100 weather vanes.[12]

Exhibits

[edit]

The museum delivers education programs, science exhibits, and wildlife viewing and interactions to give young visitors an introduction to the sciences and natural history of the San Francisco Bay Area.

  • Science Exhibits – 50+ hands-on science exhibits designed specifically for young visitors invite children and families to explore and experiment with natural phenomena including gravity, light, perception, lift and more.
  • Wildlife Habitats and Animal Ambassadors – 20 naturalistic habitats house nearly 100 non-releasable animals native to California,[13] including a bobcat, a river otter, Virginia opossum, snakes, golden eagles, gray fox, turtles, owls, western toad, turkey vultures, raccoons and others. Visitors can wind through a tunnel that lets them see into dens and interior enclosures, and then walk back around the outside to see how the animals live in the wild.[8] Weekend wildlife presentations introduce individuals to the 50 additional Animal Ambassadors that keepers present for young visitors to see and (sometimes) touch. These education animals include birds of prey, snakes, a blue-tongued skink and much else.
  • Aviary – 4,000 ft2 (370 m2) walk-through facility that houses over a dozen non-releasable, native California birds.[14]
  • Gardens – 1.3 acres (0.53 ha) of primarily native plants including a hummingbird garden and butterfly habitat.

Education

[edit]

The museum offers a range of hands-on programs designed for school and group educators in the sciences, as well as programs for the general public that help visitors explore, discover, and interact with nature and natural phenomena.[1] The CuriOdyssey Mobile Museum and Animal Ambassadors regularly visit public parks as well as schools and other sites by special arrangement.

[edit]
  • CuriOdyssey Indoor Science Exhibits
    CuriOdyssey Indoor Science Exhibits
  • Entrance to CuriOdyssey
    Entrance to CuriOdyssey
  • Colorful Science for Kids
    Colorful Science for Kids

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

CuriOdyssey

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
CuriOdyssey is a nonprofit science museum and wildlife center located in San Mateo, California, dedicated to fostering through interactive exhibits and encounters with native animals. Founded in 1953 as the San Mateo County Junior Museum, it was renamed CuriOdyssey in 2011 to better reflect its emphasis on and . Situated within the Coyote Point Recreation Area, the center provides habitats for approximately 70 rescued native California animals representing about 40 species, allowing visitors to observe animals up close in naturalistic settings. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits focused on , biology, and , designed to engage children and families in . These exhibits encourage experimentation with real scientific concepts, such as , energy, and , in a playful yet educational environment. CuriOdyssey serves over 100,000 visitors annually, primarily schoolchildren and families, through programs that promote and . Its history traces back to the establishment of the original in a modest Quonset hut structure, evolving over decades into a modern facility that integrates and scientific education. As a key community resource in the San Francisco Bay Area, CuriOdyssey continues to expand its offerings, including specialized educational programs and conservation efforts for local wildlife.

History

Founding and Early Development

CuriOdyssey was founded in 1953 as the San Mateo County Junior Museum by the San Francisco Junior League, with its initial operations housed in a modest Quonset hut located on a knoll at Coyote Point Recreation Area in San Mateo, California. This early setup marked the beginning of an institution dedicated to fostering curiosity and learning among young visitors through accessible educational experiences. From its inception, the museum emphasized for children, aiming to connect them with the natural world through and explorations of local ecosystems. In 1974, it underwent a significant to become the Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education, which underscored its growing commitment to environmental themes and . This period saw the museum's evolution from a basic into a more structured educational center focused on practical, experiential engagement with nature. A major milestone in the museum's early development occurred in 1981 with the construction and opening of its main building, which included an 8,000-square-foot permanent exhibition space in the Environmental Hall, along with classrooms, a resource library, and a theater. These facilities enabled expanded programming centered on local ecosystems, featuring that encouraged visitors to interact directly with and natural history. The new structure represented a substantial growth from the original Quonset hut, solidifying the museum's role as a key venue for in the region.

Renaming to CuriOdyssey

In 2011, the Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education underwent a significant , officially changing its name to CuriOdyssey on January 15 to better align with its evolving mission of fostering curiosity-driven, hands-on science education for young children and families. This renaming was part of broader revitalization efforts led by Executive Director Rachel Meyer, who had been appointed in April 2007 and shifted the institution's focus from adult-oriented environmental exhibits to interactive science experiences designed to spark wonder in . The new name, a blend of "curious" and "odyssey," was developed internally by the 's graphic artist and tested positively with members and local audiences, reflecting a desire to move away from the perceived stuffiness of the term "museum" and emphasize an adventurous journey of discovery. Under Meyer's leadership, the enabled investments in . Following the renaming, CuriOdyssey experienced notable early impacts on visitor engagement and programming, with annual attendance rising by about 20 percent since 2008 to approximately 90,000 visitors by 2011, driven by new interactive exhibits, , and upgraded animal encounters. Over the subsequent decade, this shift catalyzed further growth, including a doubling of the exhibit collection to 48 works and expanded educational programs serving thousands of children annually through and . These changes enhanced the museum's appeal as a dynamic destination for families, reinforcing its commitment to in science and nature.

Financial Challenges and Management Changes

In 2006, the Coyote Point Museum faced a severe financial crisis, announcing a deficit of $745,000 for the ended June 30, 2005, on revenue of $1.3 million, which led to threats of closure and sparked widespread community concern. This shortfall, compounded by ongoing operating deficits and leadership instability, prompted the museum's board to consider drastic measures, including potential shutdown, as rumors of closure circulated in July 2006. Two competing proposals emerged to address the crisis: the Campaign to Save Coyote Point Museum, a community-driven initiative led by former museum officials, and the 11th Hour Project's plan to transform the site into a global warming education center. The Campaign to Save Coyote Point Museum raised $540,247 in pledges from 776 donors in just 30 days, surpassing its initial $300,000 goal, and secured an additional $500,000 pledge over four years from the TomKat Foundation to stabilize operations and preserve the museum's focus on local . In contrast, the 11th Hour Project, backed by environmental philanthropist , proposed a complete overhaul but ultimately withdrew its bid in August 2006 amid opposition from local supporters who favored maintaining the existing wildlife and science exhibits. The museum's board unanimously approved the Campaign's takeover in September 2006, ousting the previous leadership and installing a new board to oversee management and financial recovery. Under the new management, Rachel Meyer was appointed executive director in April 2007, bringing experience from roles at the and the Palo Alto Junior Museum to help stabilize operations and guide the institution through its recovery. Meyer's leadership focused on addressing the financial strain by enhancing fundraising, updating exhibits, and fostering community partnerships, which laid the groundwork for the museum's eventual rebranding to CuriOdyssey in 2011. This revival effort not only averted closure but also positioned the museum for long-term sustainability as a nonprofit science and wildlife center.

Recent Expansions and Initiatives

In recent years, CuriOdyssey has focused on expanding access to and enhancing visitor experiences through targeted initiatives. In , the organization welcomed nearly 181,000 visitors, reflecting significant growth in attendance. This increase was supported by new seasonal exhibits, including Kinetic Creations and Puzzling Perceptions, which introduced interactive elements to engage families in scientific exploration. A key development in 2024 was the launch of the Nature Story Loop and Environmental Education Garden during the summer. The Nature Story Loop features a trail of storybook signs that guide children through narrative-based learning about nature, while the Environmental Education Garden offers an engaging experience for families to connect with the natural world. These additions complement CuriOdyssey's outdoor spaces and emphasize curiosity-driven environmental education. To promote inclusivity, CuriOdyssey expanded its Museums for All program in July 2023 by eliminating the $1 ticket fee and $35 annual membership fee, along with broadening eligibility criteria for low-income families. This change has enabled free admission for 7,286 individuals and free memberships for 1,568 families in , resulting in one in ten visitors participating as Museums for All members and fostering greater diversity in attendance. The FY24 Impact Report underscores CuriOdyssey's commitment to equitable access, highlighting the provision of 3,264 scholarships to support learners from diverse backgrounds and serving over 85,000 children through science programs, museum visits, and camps. Additionally, initiatives like Sensory Sundays accommodated 1,338 neurodivergent guests, further broadening participation. These efforts align with post-2018 enhancements, such as the 2021 opening of the Whooosh! physics playground as part of the campus expansion.

Exhibits and Attractions

Indoor Science Exhibits

CuriOdyssey features over 50 interactive exhibits indoors and outdoors that encourage hands-on exploration of scientific principles, with a significant portion dedicated to designed for . These exhibits, developed in-house, emphasize through play, allowing children and families to experiment with in a . Following the 2011 renaming to CuriOdyssey, the museum revitalized its focus on , leading to the creation of innovative indoor galleries that align with its mission of . A key indoor space is the ViewPoint exhibition in the Bay Gallery, comprising 15 hands-on exhibits that explore scientific phenomena related to and the local environment, such as how shifting viewpoints alter perceptions of texture, , and through . Visitors engage with these displays to observe and manipulate elements, promoting critical thinking and a in the Bay Area. This gallery exemplifies the post-2011 evolution, with exhibits built specifically to integrate art and science for immersive, age-appropriate learning. Other notable indoor exhibits demonstrate like , pressure, and lift. For instance, the Wind Tube exhibit allows children to launch foam blocks into tubes to explore loft, , and airflow dynamics, turning abstract principles into tangible play experiences. Similarly, the Kinetic Creations temporary exhibition features interactive elements such as colorful balls racing through tubes to illustrate air pressure and that visitors activate to observe whimsical physics in motion, including cascading glass marbles forming . These designs prioritize accessibility and fun, ensuring that exploration sparks natural curiosity without formal instruction. and perception are highlighted in exhibits like IlluminOdyssey, an immersive installation in Redwood Hall where visitors interact with glowing phenomena to learn about , , , and through activities such as painting with light on or dancing with shadows. This exhibit, part of ongoing developments post-2011, transforms the space into a luminous forest, blending science education with artistic elements to engage all ages in conceptual understanding. Overall, CuriOdyssey's indoor science exhibits evolve continuously to maintain relevance, with in-house innovations ensuring they remain focused on interactive, curiosity-fueled discovery of physics fundamentals like , light, and lift.

Wildlife Habitats and Encounters

CuriOdyssey features 20 naturalistic wildlife exhibits designed to mimic the native environments of , housing nearly 100 non-releasable animals rescued from that could not be . These habitats focus on ground-based and , providing spacious enclosures that prioritize the animals' physical and behavioral needs while allowing visitors to observe natural activities such as , climbing, and social interactions. The wildlife exhibits were introduced in 1991 to showcase live animals representing the diverse of San Mateo County and broader regions, transforming the museum into a center for through direct observation. Prior to this development, the institution emphasized , but the addition of these outdoor habitats enabled that highlight local and conservation challenges. Today, visitors traverse winding paths around the enclosures, gaining insights into wild animal behaviors like a diving or a stalking prey, all within thoughtfully landscaped settings that blend seamlessly with the surrounding Coyote Point Recreation Area. Encounters in these habitats emphasize ethical viewing, with elevated platforms and shaded overlooks that minimize disturbance to the animals while fostering for families. Daily and feeding demonstrations, such as those for at noon, provide narrated insights into each species' story and , enhancing visitor understanding without direct contact. This setup not only educates on native wildlife like and but also underscores the importance of for non-releasable individuals.

Aviary and Gardens

The Aviary at CuriOdyssey is a 4,000-square-foot walk-through enclosure that serves as a habitat for approximately two dozen non-releasable native birds. Designed as a serene park-like space featuring a waterfall and pond, it provides visitors with benches for close observation and bird-watching, allowing families to appreciate these rescued animals in a naturalistic setting. Surrounding the are the 1.3-acre themed gardens, which primarily feature to create supportive environments for . These gardens include dedicated spaces such as a hummingbird garden and a , where visitors can observe interactions among , birds, insects, and native species like . The layout emphasizes , with plants selected to attract and sustain these animals while demonstrating principles of in a context. These outdoor spaces play a key role in by facilitating about and . They enable participants, particularly school groups, to explore topics such as plant adaptations, conservation, and directly in the gardens and , aligning with to foster curiosity about native habitats. Maintenance of the and gardens involves ongoing efforts to support conservation goals, including the integration of more to bolster insect and animal populations while minimizing . Funding from memberships and institutional resources ensures the upkeep of these areas, preserving their educational and ecological value for visitors. This approach not only sustains the habitats for resident birds and but also models for in the region.

Outdoor Adventure Areas

CuriOdyssey's Outdoor Adventure Areas feature the Whooosh! Physics-in-Action Playground, a 4,000-square-foot inclusive play space designed to encourage exploration of scientific concepts through physical activity. This expansive outdoor area includes slides, spinning elements, swings, and a dedicated tot lot, all set within a natural grove that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Visitors can engage with principles of , , and simply by playing, making it an ideal spot for in an open-air setting. The playground is directly connected to the broader Coyote Point Recreation Area, enhancing its appeal as a destination for family outings amid natural landscapes. Designed by the Magical Bridge Foundation, Whooosh! represents the first collaboration of its kind between a zoo-museum institution and a playground design organization, emphasizing and innovation. This partnership ensures the space removes physical and social barriers, far exceeding standard industry guidelines for . Safety is a core priority in the playground's construction, featuring a spongy yet solid ground surface that minimizes injury risks from falls while accommodating wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The design supports family play for visitors of all abilities, with equipment that promotes group interaction and individual discovery in a secure, supervised outdoor setting. Adjacent to CuriOdyssey's gardens, the area blends adventure with natural exploration, open during regular museum hours every day.

Animals at CuriOdyssey

Native California Wildlife

serves as a sanctuary for nearly 100 rescued animals, the majority of which are native to and deemed non-releasable due to injuries, human imprinting, or orphaning that prevent their survival in the wild. These animals highlight conservation challenges in , such as , , and , while showcasing to the state's diverse landscapes from to mountainous regions. Among the , the bobcat (Lynx rufus) exemplifies a resilient predator adapted to California's varied terrains, including forests, , and mountains, where it dens in rocky crevices or thickets for concealment. Caro, the resident male bobcat, was rescued as a kitten after surviving pneumonia and became human-imprinted during , rendering him non-releasable; bobcats face conservation pressures from due to , though they are listed as globally but regulated under Appendix II to curb illegal trade. River otters , native to California's rivers, lakes, and , demonstrate remarkable aquatic adaptations with webbed feet, a rudder-like tail, and the ability to seal nostrils and ears underwater for efficient swimming in murky waters. The otter at CuriOdyssey was orphaned and human-raised, leading to imprinting that prohibits release; while not endangered in , populations have declined in some areas due to pollution and , with the species protected under . The , unique among canids for its tree-climbing ability suited to 's brushy hillsides and forested areas below 3,000 meters, uses agility to escape predators and access prey in arboreal habitats. The resident gray fox suffered a severe leg fracture in the wild, making it non-releasable; competition from introduced red foxes has impacted California populations, contributing to localized declines despite no . Raccoons (Procyon lotor), highly adaptable to California's urban-suburban interfaces, , and , forage with dexterous paws that enable manipulation of food in damp environments. CuriOdyssey's raccoons include a female after being hand-fed under a porch and males, all due to human dependency; though not , they face high mortality from and , with over four million harvested annually across . Birds at include adapted to California's , such as the , which inhabits and like for rodent hunting, using exceptional to capture prey in darkness. One barn owl was a former pet that became imprinted, while the other was ; both are , with rodenticides posing a major threat despite status and protection under the . The (Bubo virginianus), versatile across California's , forests, and city parks, boasts powerful talons and silent flight for ambushing prey in varied terrains. The resident female lost half her left wing in an apparent , preventing release; protected by the , it faces no special but contends with . (Cathartes aura), key in California's open plains, , and forests, rely on keen olfaction to locate from high soaring flights, aiding ecosystem cleanup in and . CuriOdyssey's vultures include one with a poorly healed wing fracture and another with from youth, both non-releasable; while not , they share threats with the . , of California's mountainous canyons, , and , use powerful dives to hunt , with to and . The resident eagle, Ishta, suffered eye blindness and injuries from a car strike, making her ; federally protected under the , and electrocutions threaten populations. and represent 's herpetofauna, with the western toad () burrowing in loose soils near desert streams and for moisture retention in the state's . Donated specimens at CuriOdyssey are non-releasable due to captive origins; as a gardener's ally consuming pests, it faces declines from , though specific status details are limited. Snakes like the , widespread in California's , , and , mimic by tail vibration and hissing to deter threats in rodent-abundant agricultural zones. Residents were donated or abandoned pets, non-releasable due to ; not endangered, they provide vital amid . (), semi-aquatic inhabitants of California's ponds, marshes, and streams, bask on logs and hibernate in northern waters while remaining active year-round in southern regions. CuriOdyssey's turtles were donated after cohabitation with non-natives or unknown origins, preventing release; classified as a species of special concern by , populations have vanished in some areas due to . These resident animals, occasionally featured briefly in presentation programs, underscore CuriOdyssey's role in educating about 's biodiversity conservation.

Animal Ambassador Program

The Animal Ambassador Program at CuriOdyssey features a collection of non-releasable wildlife animals that serve as educational representatives, distinct from those in permanent exhibits, to foster public understanding of native species and conservation. These ambassadors include examples such as like the and , including , and other species like and domestic ferrets, selected for their ability to engage audiences effectively during interactions. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing these animals to "put a face on the environment" through direct encounters that highlight natural behaviors and ecological roles. Animal Ambassadors participate in presentations and demonstrations at the museum, such as daily "Animals in Action" sessions held at 12 PM, 1 PM, and 2 PM, where visitors can observe , walks, or training sessions designed to stimulate the animals' . These on-site events, which occur every day including weekends, enable to showcase the animals' personalities and educate audiences on topics like and , often involving travel through the museum's building or gardens for added engagement. Beyond the museum, the program extends to off-site visits, where ambassadors are brought to schools and organizations across San Mateo County for tailored that deliver hands-on science and directly to participants. Training and welfare protocols for Animal Ambassadors are guided by CuriOdyssey's accreditation from the , ensuring high standards of care that prioritize lifelong support for non-releasable animals due to injuries or imprinting. Keepers provide individualized diet plans, including varied foods like meats, fish, insects, and produce tailored to each species, while —such as walks around the grounds, interactions with objects to mimic , or access to outdoor enclosures like the 300-square-foot weathering yard for —promote physical and mental well-being. Selection for the program involves assessing an animal's suitability for public interaction, with ongoing monitoring to ensure stress-free participation in educational activities.

Education and Outreach

Educational Programs for Schools

CuriOdyssey offers a range of school programs designed to align with STEM curricula for students in preschool through 6th grade, emphasizing that integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts with real-world applications. These programs include interactive workshops and guided field trips that encourage , such as experiments in physics, biology, and environmental science, tailored to meet adopted by California. For instance, school groups can participate in sessions on topics like and , fostering critical thinking and among young learners. In addition to on-site visits, CuriOdyssey provides mobile outreach initiatives, including Mobile Science Workshops and Animal Ambassador presentations delivered directly to schools. The Animal Ambassador program features rescued native animals, such as owls and snakes, brought to classrooms for live educational encounters that highlight and ecology, making abstract STEM concepts more engaging and accessible. These off-site services allow schools, particularly those in underserved areas, to incorporate without the need for travel. To promote equitable access, CuriOdyssey awarded 3,264 scholarships in , enabling low-income students to participate in these programs at no cost and ensuring that educational opportunities are available to a diverse range of learners. Overall, these demonstrate the institution's commitment to broadening STEM education beyond its physical location.

Public Programs and Community Engagement

CuriOdyssey offers a variety of public programs designed to engage families and community members through interactive science and wildlife experiences. Daily animal presentations feature activities such as and feedings, as well as "Animals in Action" sessions where visitors can observe animal keepers conducting , walks, and training with rescued native animals. These presentations provide opportunities for the public to learn about animal behaviors and in an informal setting. Additionally, family-oriented weekend workshops introduce participants to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) concepts through hands-on experiments, such as owl-pellet dissections and guided nature hikes, fostering curiosity and environmental awareness among children and adults. To enhance accessibility for underserved communities, CuriOdyssey participates in the Museums for All initiative, which provides free admission and Membership for All options to qualifying low-income families, thereby removing financial barriers to and promoting inclusive public participation. This program aligns with the museum's mission to make learning available to all, with efforts to expand access noted in recent years. Community engagement is further strengthened through special events, including the annual "Night at the Museum" benefit gala, which in 2025 supported science education initiatives through fundraising and celebratory gatherings. Outreach efforts extend via the Animal Ambassador Program, where select non-exhibit animals participate in public education programs, bringing hands-on wildlife encounters to broader audiences. These initiatives aim to connect local communities with and inspire conservation actions in everyday settings. By focusing on informal, accessible interactions, CuriOdyssey's public programs cultivate a sense of wonder and responsibility toward the natural world among diverse participants.

Facilities and Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

CuriOdyssey is situated at 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo, 94401, within the 3-acre site of the Coyote Point Recreation Area, offering stunning views across San Francisco Bay from Oakland to the city itself. The facility is easily accessible from , with on-site parking available, including designated accessible spots adjacent to the building for visitors with DMV-issued disability placards. The museum emphasizes through various accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible paths, including a ramp at the front entrance and compatibility with mobility devices in exhibits like the Physics in Action playground. include , sensory stimulation devices available at the front desk, and a dedicated for guests needing a break from intense lighting or in certain exhibits. access is supported via and , making it reachable for those without personal vehicles, though visitors are advised to check schedules for routes to the Coyote Point area. CuriOdyssey operates daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM, serving approximately 180,000 visitors annually (as of FY2024) through these hands-on educational experiences. As part of the larger Coyote Point Recreation Area, it integrates seamlessly with surrounding amenities, allowing visitors to extend their trip by exploring the Bay Trail for hiking and biking or enjoying the park's broader recreational offerings like picnicking and waterfront views.

Memberships and Admission

CuriOdyssey offers general admission tickets to its science museum and wildlife center, with pricing structured to accommodate various visitor categories. Adults aged 18 to 61 pay $27.95, while children aged 18 months to 17 years, students with valid ID, and seniors aged 62 and older pay $23.95; infants under 18 months enter free of charge. Additionally, a $6 vehicle entrance fee applies at Coyote Point Recreation Area, though members receive free parking with a valid pass. Through the Museums for All program, CuriOdyssey provides free admission for up to four individuals per day to qualifying low-income families presenting photo ID and proof of participation in programs such as , SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, or . In July 2023, the museum expanded this initiative by eliminating the previous $1 ticket fee and $35 annual membership fee, making access fully free and enhancing equity in science education for underserved communities. Eligible families can also apply for a complimentary Membership for All, which includes two named cardholders and admission for up to six people per day, along with standard membership perks, subject to annual renewal and income verification thresholds (e.g., $123,100 for a household of four). Membership at CuriOdyssey supports the nonprofit's operations as a organization, providing sustained funding for educational programs, , and facility maintenance while fostering . Annual memberships are available in tiered levels tailored for individuals and families: the Discover level at $145 admits two people per day; Create at $195 admits four; Imagine at $295 admits seven (with options for naming children as members); and Lead at $695 admits twelve, including exclusive benefits like personal tours and donor events. These family-oriented packages offer unlimited free admission during operating hours, with portions of fees applicable from single-visit tickets toward upgrading to membership on the same day. A key benefit of membership is reciprocal access to over 500 science centers and worldwide through networks like the , , and ROAM, allowing discounted or free entry at participating institutions upon presentation of a valid membership card. This perk encourages broader exploration of STEM and wildlife experiences, while membership revenue directly contributes to CuriOdyssey's mission of curiosity-driven learning for approximately 200,000 annual visitors.

References

  1. https://curiodyssey.org/about/
  2. https://curiodyssey.org/about/mission-and-values/
  3. https://curiodyssey.org/about/history/
  4. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/
  5. https://curiodyssey.org/
  6. https://curiodyssey.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/History.pdf
  7. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/coyote-point-museum-becomes-curiodyssey-113391889.html
  8. https://curiodyssey.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Leadership-Team-Biographies.pdf
  9. https://www.mercurynews.com/2011/01/12/curious-new-name-highlights-changes-at-coyote-point-museum/
  10. https://curiodyssey.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/CuriOdyssey-Fact-Sheet.pdf
  11. https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2006/08/24/options-dwindle-for-coyote-point-museum/
  12. https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2006/08/03/museum-open-for-now/
  13. https://www.almanacnews.com/news/2006/09/13/new-life-for-coyote-point-museum/
  14. https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/SAN-MATEO-11th-Hour-backs-off-plan-for-Coyote-2513146.php
  15. https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/SAN-MATEO-Coyote-Point-Museum-group-wins-2552943.php
  16. https://www.smdailyjournal.com/news/local/coyote-point-museum-board-ousted/article_2d4f66c6-42de-57b0-88eb-f1bc4214bfb2.html
  17. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/fy24-curiodyssey-impact-report-highlights/
  18. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/presenting-two-new-experiences-at-curiodyssey/
  19. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/celebrating-one-year-of-an-expanded-museums-for-all-program/
  20. https://www.almanacnews.com/ae/2023/07/03/san-mateos-curiodyssey-reopens-with-new-building-and-exhibit/
  21. https://curiodyssey.org/about/publications/learning-through-play/
  22. https://curiodyssey.org/exhibits/
  23. https://curiodyssey.org/exhibits/viewpoint/
  24. https://curiodyssey.org/exhibits/kinetics/
  25. https://curiodyssey.org/exhibits-events/illuminodyssey/
  26. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/animal-exhibits/
  27. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/
  28. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/birds/
  29. https://curiodyssey.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/AdventuresinScience2012-2013.pdf
  30. https://curiodyssey.org/about/green-business-practices/
  31. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/whooosh-a-physics-in-action-playground/
  32. https://www.marinmommies.com/play-observe-wonder-enjoy-curiodyssey-science-playground-and-zoo
  33. https://www.magicalbridge.org/curiodyssey-playground
  34. https://www.smdailyjournal.com/news/local/san-mateos-curiodyssey-opens-new-playground/article_490ae47e-6915-11ec-86dd-af5b5dca3d90.html
  35. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/5-tips-for-an-accessible-visit-to-curiodyssey/
  36. https://curiodyssey.org/visit/hours-admission/
  37. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/mammals/bobcat/
  38. https://www.fishwildlife.org/application/files/6215/1388/9531/bobcatwebsite.pdf
  39. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/mammals/river-otter/
  40. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/mammals/gray-fox/
  41. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/mammals/raccoon/
  42. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/birds/barn-owl/
  43. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/birds/great-horned-owl/
  44. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/birds/turkey-vulture/
  45. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/birds/golden-eagle/
  46. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/amphibians/western-toad/
  47. https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/CSC
  48. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/reptiles/gopher-snake/
  49. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/our-animals/reptiles/western-pond-turtle/
  50. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/animal-presentations/
  51. https://curiodyssey.org/schools-groups/science-workshops/
  52. https://curiodyssey.org/animals/animal-care/
  53. https://www.aza.org/inst-status
  54. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/how-do-animals-come-to-live-at-curiodyssey/
  55. https://curiodyssey.org/schools-groups/schools-groups-faq/
  56. https://curiodyssey.org/series/weekend-workshops/
  57. https://curiodyssey.org/visit/museums-for-all/
  58. https://www.instagram.com/p/DKdvFQDuRQY/
  59. https://curiodyssey.org/get-involved/sponsor-an-animal/
  60. https://curiodyssey.org/visit/directions/
  61. https://www.srgnc.com/curiodyssey
  62. https://curiodyssey.org/visit/accessibility-and-inclusion/
  63. https://saturdaysmiles.com/2018/01/07/curiodyssey/
  64. https://curiodyssey.org/blog/broadening-access-to-curiodyssey-through-an-expanded-museums-for-all-program/
  65. https://curiodyssey.org/membership/membership-for-all-application/
  66. https://curiodyssey.org/membership/compare-membership-levels/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.