New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM
Dinosaur skeletons, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits draw visitors to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, near Albuquerque’s Old Town Plaza. Its offerings have all-ages appeal, and the museum is of particular local interest as it highlights discoveries made right in New Mexico, such as a skull of a sub-species of the Tyrannosaurus rex.
You can learn about the natural history of the southwest during a visit to this museum, which also features a naturalist center and a replica of an Ice Age cave. Along with the displays on dinosaurs and fossils in the permanent collection, rotating exhibitions, planetarium shows, and 3D films are other strong draws for families, who generally spend half a day here. Special events, such as night-sky telescope viewing and lectures on local wildlife, are sometimes available, so check the schedule beforehand to maximize a visit.
This museum is a must-see for families seeking educational experiences.
Check the calendar for showtimes at the planetarium and the Verus Research DynaTheater ahead of your visit.
The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance on Lincoln Avenue and all levels are accessible by elevator.
Visitors may want to consider purchasing a Culture Pass, which offers entry to several museums and historic sites in New Mexico.
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is located at 1801 Mountain Road NW. Many visitors walk there while exploring Old Town Albuquerque, but if you’re driving, a parking lot is available on 18th Street, along with metered street parking and public lots near the Old Town. Public transportation by bus, including the Albuquerque Rapid Transit Red Line, also serves the Old Town area.
The museum is open Wednesday to Monday, and closed on Tuesdays. Choose a weekday over a weekend, if possible, for a quieter experience. The best time of year to visit Albuquerque is during April–June or September–November; expect extreme heat during the summer months. This museum is closed on some holidays, so check the schedule for details.
In addition to this museum, Albuquerque has plenty of things to do for kids. Adventurous youngsters may want to go for a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway, while those obsessed with animals may prefer to visit the ABQ BioPark Aquarium or the ABQ Biopark Zoo. Cliff’s Amusement Park offers rides, while the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History offers an educational experience for older kids interested in science.
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