Fermilab Grounds Opens To Public After 2-Year COVID-19 Hiatus

BATAVIA, IL — For the first time in two years starting Monday, Fermilab grounds are reopened for the public to visit and enjoy. The lab has been closed since 2020 as a precaution due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As before the pandemic hit, visitors can once again enjoy the outdoors and partake in a number of activities around the U.S. Department of Energy’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, located off Kirk Road.

Visitors can pay a visit to the bison herd that grazes the lab's fields, walk, hike and run around the interpretive trails. Cross-country skiing, rollerskating, bike riding, bird watching, photography and painting are all possible and encouraged at Fermilab. When there, guests are required to stay within designated public areas and comply with site rules.

While the outdoor possibilities are seemingly endless at the facility, a few things are not allowed: using drones, walking dogs, and going fishing and ice skating are not currently allowed, officials said.

The Lederman Science Center has also officially reopened, allowing visitors to interact with science exhibits and participate in education and public engagement programs. The space is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

To access the site, visitors 18 and older, including those coming to go for a walk or a bike ride, are asked to show a photo ID. Once checked in, guests will be given a red sticker that must be visible while at Fermilab, officials said.

Before visiting Fermilab, keep in mind what COVID-19 protocols the facility has in place.

• Fermilab encourages visitors to bring a face mask when visiting the lab. Masks will only be required in certain designated spaces.
• Due to low transmission rates, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is not required to enter indoor areas. Either is required if transmission levels reach medium or high.