Membership Questions
and Answers - FAQs
Q: Can I renew or purchase a membership online?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot process memberships online at this time. Please download the membership form and bring it with you when you visit one of our museums or mail, fax (757-393-5228) or call (757-393-8983 ext 23) or you can purchase a membership at one of our museum admission desks.
Q: When will I receive my membership cards?
A: Within 2 to 3 weeks from the date of purchase. The cards will be mailed to the address provided. If you join or renew in person, you will be given your card at the time of purchase.
Q: How do I sign my children up for the Andalo’s Birthday Club?
A: If you included your children’s information on the birthday club form then, nothing further is needed. Otherwise, ask for the form at the admission desks, email vannoyk@portsmouthva.gov or call 757-393-8983 x23. Please include children’s names, addresses, and birthdates (mm/dd/yy).
Q: Can I visit before I get my card or if I have lost my card?
A: Yes, please bring your photo ID to the admission desks to verify your membership.
Q: How do I change my address?
A: In person at the admission desks, by calling 757-393-8983 ext 23 or by email.
Q: Do you reciprocate with other museums & cultural centers?
A: Yes, we participate in the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) and the North American Reciprocal Museums which gives Portsmouth Museums “Stargazer” and “Visionary” level members free and/or discounted admission to over 700 participating museums worldwide. There are specific restrictions to this program. Check out the ACM listing and NARM listing. (Please note that ACM will be changing the benefits for the reciprocal program April 1, 2013 from free admission to 50% off general admission at participating museums)
Q: How do I sign-up to receive the newsletter?
A: If you included your email on your membership application nothing further is needed. Otherwise, send an email to sign up.
Q: Can I upgrade my membership?
A: At any point during your membership year, you can upgrade your membership by paying the difference. Keep in mind that your current expiration date does not change. If your membership expires on 12/31/2013 and you upgrade on 12/1/2013, then your membership will still expire on 12/31/2013. The alternative would be to renew early at the new level & pay the full price for the next year.
Q: How many people does an “Enthusiast Plus 3” level membership cover?
A: Enthusiast Plus 3 covers a total of 4 people, children under 2 years of age do not count towards the total.
Q: What if I have a family of five or more?
A: Our Visionary membership level covers a total of 6 people. Also, you can add additional people to each membership level at a cost of $20 per person.
Q: Can I send my nanny or the children’s grandparents with my membership card?
A: In order for a nanny or grandparent to use the membership card their name must be on the membership. Enthusiasts levels and above allow for up to three adults to be named on the membership, those are the ONLY three adult individuals who are permitted to use the membership card for entry.
Q: Can I transfer my membership to someone else?
A: No, memberships are non-transferable and are valid only for the persons whose names appear on the card.
Q: I would like to change or remove a name listed on my membership, how do I make the change?
A: Contact the membership coordinator 757-393-8983 ext 23 or email or let the person at the admission desks know the information that you would like to change.
Q: Can I lend my membership card to a friend or family member?
A: No, the member whose name is on the card must be present. Photo ID is required.
Q: Can I send someone in my place if I can’t go?
A: No, the member is the cardholder and must be present.
Q: Can I bring someone in place of a spouse that is not attending?
A: Yes, as long as one of the members listed on the card is present.
Q: Why do I have to show my photo ID to visit the CMVA?
A: To prevent misuse and fraud. We want to protect our members should their cards be lost or stolen.
Q: Do you offer a military or senior discount?
A: Yes, please visit the admission desks with a valid photo ID to receive 10% off a membership.
Q: If I already have a membership do I get a discount on gift memberships?
A: Yes, current members receive 10% off on gift membership purchases.
Q: We are moving to another state, can I receive a refund?
A: No, memberships are non-refundable. Keep in mind that you may be able to use your membership card at other museums that participate in the ACM or NARM Reciprocal programs. Check out the listings here ACM or NARM.
Q: I have a specific question, who do I ask?
A: Please email our Membership Coordinator or call 757-393-8983 ext 23.
Q: What museums are included with my memberships?
A: Members receive admission to the Children’s Museum of Virginia, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center (formerly the Courthouse Galleries), Winter Wonderland (open November 23-December 31), Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, and the Lightship Portsmouth.
Q: Do I receive discounts in the museum shops if I am a member?
A: Yes members receive discounts in all of our museum shops, discount rates depend upon membership level.
Q: How do I get a replacement for a lost card?
A: Contact the Membership Coordinator or inform the admissions desk. Replacement cards can be purchased for $1.
Q: Can I have a card for each named member?
A: Our policy is to only issue one card per membership.
