SPENCER — Visitors to the N.C. Transportation Museum will pay for admission starting July 1, when the state budget approved today mandates the museum begin its transition to a self-funded operation.
“The museum stands at a crossroad that may offer opportunities to continue its growth and maintain its valuable contribution to the region,” Elizabeth Smith, the museum’s executive director, said in a press release.
The museum will continue to be part of the Department of Cultural Resources, Division of State Historic Sites and Properties and will be run by the museum director with the assistance of division leadership. The museum staff will continue to be state employees. The most obvious change to the public will be the implementation of an admission charge to visit the site.
Admission fees will be $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and active military and $6 for children 3-12, all of which include the popular on-site train ride. Children 2 and under can always visit the museum and ride the train at no charge.