Gardner Museum opens early for meditation

Zoom in: The museum offers a weekly pre-opening program that pairs guided meditation with limited-capacity gallery access.

• Weekday public hours begin at 11am, giving visitors a less crowded window in the galleries and Courtyard.
• "Morning at the Museum" runs Fridays from 10am to 11am, before the museum opens to the public.

Details: Tickets cost $30 for nonmembers and $24 for members.

• Each ticket includes a 15-minute meditation in Calderwood Hall, at 10:10am or 10:40am.
• The gift shop opens at 10:30am, and Café G at 11am.

Between the lines: The museum admits the hour is not necessarily quiet or low-sensory.

• Visitors may see conservators, horticulturists or school groups at work.

State of play: Tickets are limited and must be bought online in advance.