Frequently Asked Questions about Guided Tours
How do we request a tour?
Please complete a tour request form at least three weeks in advance of your requested date.
How much do guided tours cost?
Scheduled K-12 tour groups are not charged admission. An activity fee of $25 may be collected for groups of 60 or less, and $50 of groups with more than 60 students. Cost is subject to change for special exhibitions. Teachers and aides are also admitted free.
When do we pay for the tour?
You may pay your fees ahead of time via invoice or on the day of the tour at the front desk.
When should we arrive?
Please plan to arrive five minutes before your scheduled tour so that you will have time to check in at the Museum Admission Desk before your tour starts, use the bathroom and hang up coats.
How many chaperones do I need?
School groups should be accompanied by one adult chaperone for every 10 students. Chaperones are asked to remain with the group at all times. It is the responsibility of chaperones to maintain orderly student conduct and assist the docents on tours. Please divide students into small, chaperoned groups prior to your arrival. To help facilitate interaction between the docents and students, please provide name tags (first name only) for everyone.
How long do tours last?
Most adult and student tours are 60-90 minutes in length.
Does the Museum have lunch facilities?
Regrettably, the Museum does not have a cafe. Please make arrangements in advance if you wish to eat packed lunches in the museum sculpture court.
Where do the buses go when we arrive?
Buses may drop off students in front of the Museum and park in Northwestern Michigan College's Cherry Lot free of charge.
Is there some place to store items we brought on the trip?
Backpacks, umbrellas, bags and other large items are not permitted in the galleries; we recommend that you leave these items on the bus but coat rooms are available for tour groups.
What if our group is delayed and we miss our tour time?
Tours arriving 20 minutes late or more will automatically be canceled. The volunteer guides arrange their schedules to accommodate each visit. If your group will arrive late or you must cancel the tour, please contact the Museum at (231) 995-1055 as soon as possible. It may be possible to reschedule or provide an abbreviated version of your tour.
May the tour leader preview the exhibition(s) prior to the visit?
Because some artworks may be concerned with issues of social, political, or religious nature not previously discussed in the classroom or among family members, instructors are invited to preview any exhibition before the scheduled tour. Instructors and parents are encouraged to contact the Museum's education staff at (231) 995-1029 with any questions or concerns they may have about the tours
Can tours accommodate students with special needs?
Yes. All programs at the Dennos Museum Center strive to be as accessible as possible. Please discuss any special accommodations with staff and docents when scheduling your tour.
