The Muse Knoxville will be closing its 'Muse at the Mall' location at West Town Mall in its current form after the mall's ownership announced Wednesday it would be closed for weeks to combat the spread of COVID-19.
The Muse said the satellite location is no longer sustainable due to the extended mall closure. However, it said plans are in the works with Simon Properties to reopen a larger, expanded children's museum space in the coming months.
"Today, in the midst of widespread economic uncertainty due to the spread of COVID-19, Muse Knoxville is announcing the closure of its West Town Mall location known as Muse at the Mall. Due to the ongoing and wide-reaching economic implications of COVID-19, this satellite museum space is not sustainable during an extended mall closure period with no earned revenue potential," the Muse announced.
West Town Mall is slated to remain closed until at least March 29.
The Chilhowee Park location has been temporarily closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.
'Muse at the Mall' opened as a concept at West Town Mall in April 2019 and incorporated STEAM education and collaborative play.
"Please know that our team is working hard to return to West Town Mall as soon as possible, in a space that is bigger and better than ever. We appreciate your patience, understanding and ongoing support of Knoxville’s children's museum," the Muse said.