Note: The following is a news release from the National Museum of Industrial History.
The National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH) will open its doors free of charge on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, as part of Smithsonian magazine’s twelfth annual Museum Day Live! On this day only, participating museums across the United States emulate the spirit of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities, which offer free admission every day, and open their doors for free to those who download a Museum Day Live! ticket.
Credit: National Museum of Industrial History
Inclusive by design, the event represents Smithsonian’s commitment to make learning and the spread of knowledge accessible to everyone. Last year’s event drew over 200,000 participants, and this year’s event is expected to attract more museum-goers than ever before.
Set in the 100-year old former Bethlehem Steel Electric Repair Shop, the National Museum of Industrial History opened its doors to the public on Aug. 2, 2016. The Museum houses four galleries whose themes showcase stories of local industry and their global reach. Visitors will have a chance to explore the Lehigh Valley’s newest cultural attraction free of charge. Guided tours are available if reserved in advance for an additional fee. Reservations can be made by calling 610-694-6644.
“We are thrilled to be a part of Museum Day Live!,” said Amy Hollander, NMIH President & CEO. “Visitors will see over 200 unique artifacts, have a chance to listen to first-hand accounts of workers, entrepreneurs and activists and try their hand at a variety of interactives including lifting pig iron, carrying a bobbin board or taking a virtual hot air balloon ride.”
The Museum Day Live! ticket is available for download at Smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the Museum Day Live! ticket will gain free entrance for two at participating venues on Sept. 24, 2016. One ticket per household is permitted. For more information about Museum Day Live! 2016 and a full list of participating museums and cultural institutions, please visit Smithsonian.com/museumday.
The museum is located at 602 E. Second St., Bethlehem, Pa.
About the National Museum of Industrial History
A Smithsonian Affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. Restoring a 40,000-square- foot, 100-year-old former Bethlehem Steel facility on the largest private brownfield in America, the Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs and amazing history. For more information visit http://nmih.org or call 610-694-6644.