Top 100 best museums in New Mexico

San Miguel Mission, also known as San Miguel Chapel, is a historic Catholic church located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This 17th-century structure is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the United States, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and religious traditions of the region.

The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is a tribute to the artistic legacy of Georgia O'Keeffe, her life, and her contributions to American modernism. The museum aims to engage the public in understanding and appreciating her work and the era in which she created it. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in O'Keeffe's world, exploring her art, her personal history, and the broader context of American modernism.

Roswell. UFO. Rings a bell? Well, after you visit this obscure but interesting museum, you will know better.

The Loretto Chapel, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is renowned for its spiral staircase. This remarkable piece of carpentry is a unique feature that sets the chapel apart. The staircase, which is twenty feet high and makes two complete revolutions to reach the triforium, was constructed without nails and is held together by wooden pegs. The staircase was not originally attached to the wall, but in 1887, the outer spiral was attached to a pillar and a railing was added.

Meow Wolf is an American company that specializes in art and entertainment. They are primarily known for their large-scale immersive art installations that provide a unique and engaging experience for visitors. In addition to these installations, Meow Wolf also produces a variety of online content, creates music videos, and organizes art and music festivals. This diverse range of activities makes Meow Wolf a dynamic and innovative player in the art and entertainment industry.

The Albuquerque Museum, previously known as the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, is a public institution dedicated to art and history located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This museum is a significant cultural and educational hub in the city, focusing on the preservation of the art of the American Southwest and the history of Albuquerque and the Middle Rio Grande Valley of New Mexico.

The New Mexico Museum of Space History, located in Alamogordo, New Mexico, is a museum and planetarium complex dedicated to the exploration and understanding of space flight and the Space Age. The museum houses a variety of artifacts and displays that provide insight into the history and advancements of space exploration.

The Palace of the Governors, located on Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a historic adobe structure. It was built in the Territorial Style of Pueblo architecture, which is a unique blend of Native American and Spanish architectural elements. This style is characterized by its use of adobe (sun-dried mud bricks) in construction, flat roofs, and rounded edges. The Palace's architecture is a testament to the rich cultural history of the region.

SITE Santa Fe, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to contemporary arts. Since its establishment in 1995, it has been a platform for showcasing contemporary art, hosting numerous exhibitions and biennials. The organization is known for its commitment to presenting works by artists from around the world, while also supporting local New Mexico talent.

The American International Rattlesnake Museum is an animal conservation museum situated in the heart of Old Town Albuquerque, New Mexico. This location is not only convenient for tourists but also adds a unique charm to the museum experience.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, situated in Albuquerque, is a unique institution that is owned and operated by the 19 Indian Pueblos of New Mexico. This center is dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of Pueblo Indian Culture, History, and Art, providing visitors with an authentic and comprehensive understanding of the Pueblo people.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, previously known as the National Atomic Museum, is a national hub for nuclear science information. It was established by the United States Congress under Public Law 102-190 and is situated in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The museum serves as a significant source of information on nuclear history and science in the United States.

The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is a unique institution that focuses on the global history, science, and art of all forms of ballooning and lighter-than-air flight. This includes everything from hot air balloons to dirigibles and other types of airships. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of these flight forms, their scientific principles, and the artistry involved in their design and operation.

The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a dedicated space for the display and preservation of Native American art and culture. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of Native American communities.

Founded by Florence Dibell Bartlett and opened to the public in 1953, the Museum of International Folk Art is home to the world's largest collection of international folk art. The museum's collection comprises more than 135,000 artifacts, providing a comprehensive insight into various cultures and traditions from around the world.

The Bradbury Science Museum is a key public facility of the Los Alamos National Laboratory. It is conveniently located at 1350 Central Avenue in Los Alamos, New Mexico. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.

The Taos Art Museum is situated in the Nicolai Fechin House in Taos, New Mexico. This historic house was once the residence of the renowned Russian artist Nicolai Fechin, his wife Alexandra, and their daughter Eya. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life and works of Fechin within the very walls where he lived and created his art.

The New Mexico History Museum, located in Santa Fe, is a significant part of the state-run Museum of New Mexico system. This system is managed by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, ensuring the preservation and promotion of the state's cultural heritage. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of New Mexico's rich history, making it a valuable destination for tourists interested in understanding the state's past.

The Tinkertown Museum, located in Sandia Park, New Mexico, is a unique folk art museum. It was established by the artist Ross Ward, who dedicated his life to creating the intricate pieces that are now on display. The museum showcases a variety of Ward's works, providing a glimpse into his creative process and artistic vision.

The National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) is a dedicated institution located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Its primary focus is on Hispanic culture, arts, and humanities. The center provides a platform for the exploration and celebration of Hispanic culture and its influence on the world.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, located near Old Town Albuquerque, is a renowned institution dedicated to the exploration and preservation of natural history and science. Founded in 1986, the museum operates as a public revenue facility of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, offering a wealth of knowledge and insight into the natural world and the scientific phenomena that shape it.

Explora is a science center situated in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is conveniently located near Old Town Albuquerque, making it easily accessible for tourists. The center's name is derived from the Spanish verb 'explorar', which translates to 'explore' in English.

The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, situated in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a dedicated space for the exploration and appreciation of Native American arts. Founded in 1937, the museum offers a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities, with a particular focus on Navajo art and culture.

Something between museum and a jewelry shop. Here you can learn more about turquoise through an interesting exhibition.

The Los Alamos Historical Museum is situated in the historic Guest House, which is adjacent to the Fuller Lodge. This was part of the Los Alamos Ranch School and was a preferred place for General Leslie Groves to stay during the Manhattan Project. This connection to a significant period in history adds a unique layer to the museum's appeal.

Alameda Park Zoo, situated in Alamogordo, New Mexico, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest zoos in the Southwestern United States, having been established in 1898. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the zoo, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both wildlife and history.

El Rancho de las Golondrinas, a historic rancho and now a living history museum, is strategically located on what was once the Camino Real, the Royal Road that extended from Mexico City to Santa Fe. The ranch provided goods for trade and was a place where the caravans that plied the road would stop on their journey coming from or going to Santa Fe. It was a paraje, an official rest stop for travelers, and was even mentioned by the great colonial military leader and governor, Don Juan Bautista de Anza, when he stopped here with his expeditionary force in 1780.

The University of New Mexico Art Museum, located at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, is a significant cultural institution in the region. It offers a diverse range of art collections, making it a worthwhile destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Unser Racing Museum, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a non-profit institution dedicated to celebrating the achievements of the Unser family, a native auto racing family of New Mexico. The museum showcases the legacy of multiple generations of Unsers, providing visitors with a unique insight into the family's contribution to auto racing.

The Toy Train Depot in Alamogordo, New Mexico, is more than just a toy store. It is also a railway museum that showcases scale models of train locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars. This unique combination of a toy store and museum offers a fascinating insight into the world of trains, making it an interesting destination for both children and adults.

The Tularosa Basin Museum of History, previously known as the Tularosa Basin Historical Society Museum, is a history museum located in Alamogordo, New Mexico. The museum houses a vast collection of historical photographs, documents, and relics from Otero County. This collection provides a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of the region, making it a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the past of Otero County and New Mexico.

The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a 47-acre interactive museum that provides a comprehensive overview of the state's 3,000-year history of farming and ranching. This museum offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to delve into the rich agricultural history of New Mexico.

The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum, formerly known as the Deming Armory, is a historic site located at 301 South Silver Avenue in Deming, Luna County, New Mexico. This building, which was originally constructed as a National Guard armory, has a rich history dating back to 1915. It was added to the New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties in 1978 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

The New Mexico Museum of Art, located at 107 West Palace Avenue, is a state-run institution in Santa Fe. It is conveniently situated just a block away from the historic Santa Fe Plaza. This location makes it an accessible destination for tourists exploring the city's rich cultural and historical sites.

The Roswell Museum, established in 1936, is situated in the city of Roswell, New Mexico, in the United States. This museum is a significant cultural institution that has been serving the community and visitors for decades, offering a deep dive into the art and history of the region.

The ABQ BioPark, also known as the Albuquerque Biological Park, is an environmental museum situated in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This unique location offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about various aspects of the environment and its inhabitants.

The ABQ BioPark Aquarium showcases a diverse range of saltwater species from the Gulf of Mexico and the South Pacific. These species come from various habitats such as the surf zone, shallow waters, coral reefs, the open ocean, and the deep ocean. This variety provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of marine life in these regions.

The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology is situated on the University of New Mexico campus in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This museum is dedicated to the study of anthropology and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the human cultural experience through various exhibits and collections.

The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as AMoCA, is a renowned American art museum situated in Roswell, New Mexico. Established in 1994, the museum has been a significant cultural landmark in the region, attracting art enthusiasts from all over the world.

The Philmont Scout Ranch is a vast ranch located near Cimarron, New Mexico, in the United States. It is nestled in the wilderness of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the northern Rocky Mountains. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region, with its diverse flora and fauna.

Wildlife West Nature Park is a unique combination of a nature park, enhanced zoo, and entertainment venue. It is spread across 122 acres in Edgewood, New Mexico, United States. The park is home to numerous species of non-releasable animals in their native habitats, and also provides natural habitat for free roaming and migrant species.

The Petroglyph National Monument is a significant landmark located along New Mexico's West Mesa. This volcanic escarpment, made of basalt, provides a stunning view of the western horizon of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Established on June 27, 1990, the monument is managed by the National Park Service and the city of Albuquerque. It's a unique destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum, located in Albuquerque, was established in 2001 by Holocaust survivor Werner Gellert and his wife, Frances Gellert. The museum's mission is to educate visitors about the Holocaust, other genocides, and various forms of bullying that have impacted people globally. This information provides a historical context for the museum and its founders, which may be of interest to visitors.

Interesting museum concentrating on the history of New Mexico Military Institute and achievements of its graduates.

The Kit Carson House, located at 113 Kit Carson Road in central Taos, New Mexico, is a historic house museum. This location is significant as it was the home of the renowned frontiersman Kit Carson from 1843 until his death. The house is a prime example of Spanish Colonial architecture and is now owned by the local Masonic fraternity. It serves as a museum dedicated to the life and exploits of Kit Carson.

The Harwood Museum of Art is a significant cultural institution located in Taos, in Taos County, New Mexico. This American museum offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of art collections and exhibitions, providing a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Fleming Hall, located on the campus of Western New Mexico University in Silver City, New Mexico, is a historic building that holds significant value. It's a part of the university's rich history and offers a glimpse into the past.

The Aztec Ruins National Monument, located in the northwestern part of New Mexico, is a cultural historical site that protects several well-preserved ruins of early Pueblos. Contrary to what the name suggests, the Pueblos were not built by the Aztecs, but were mistakenly named after them. Early settlers believed, recalling stories of the conquest of Mexico, that they had been built by the Aztecs.

The city of Gallup renovated the building in 1996 to serve as the Gallup Cultural Center, which is operated by the Southwest Indian Foundation. Besides being a passenger waiting area, the building also houses the Gallup Visitor Center, which moved to the station in 2004. This makes it a central point for visitors to the city.

This private museum established in 1931 owns numerous interesting Native American artifacts, Civil War items and more!

Salmon Pueblo, also known as Salmon Ruins, is a significant archaeological site that represents the Chaco-Canyon culture. It is located near Bloomfield in New Mexico. This site offers a unique insight into the indigenous cultures of the North American Southwest, particularly the Ancestral Puebloans who built and inhabited this settlement.

The Millicent Rogers Museum, located in Taos, New Mexico, is an art museum that was established in 1956. The museum was founded by the family of Millicent Rogers, a passionate collector and patron of the arts. The museum houses a large collection of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo-American art, with a specific emphasis on pieces from northern New Mexico and Taos.

The Poeh Museum is situated in the town of Pojoaque, New Mexico. It is conveniently located off U.S. Route 84, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum is in close proximity to Pojoaque Pueblo's Cities of Gold Casino and Hotel, providing additional entertainment options for tourists. Furthermore, it is only about 16 miles away from the city of Santa Fe, allowing visitors to explore more of New Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

The Blackwater Draw National Historic Landmark is home to a significant archaeological site, first recognized in 1929. The site underwent its first large-scale excavation in 1932, and since then, it has yielded a wealth of artifacts and remains from various time periods. Visitors to the site can gain a deep understanding of the region's history and the people who once inhabited it.

Fascinating local historical museum featuring many insights into the past. Lots of artifacts and items connected with the area.

The Governor Bent House in Taos is a significant historical site as it was the home of Governor Charles Bent, who served as the first United States territorial governor of New Mexico. This location offers a unique insight into the early American history of the region and the life of one of its key figures.

The War Eagles Air Museum is a unique destination for those interested in aerospace and automotive history. Located at the Doña Ana County International Jetport in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, the museum offers a variety of exhibits that showcase the evolution of aviation and automotive technology. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of warbirds and other historical aircraft, as well as a selection of vintage cars.

Although this zoo can not boast with how huge it is, it is well-maintained and able to fulfill all the needs of an average zoo visitor.

Museum totally dedicated to children. Great opportunity to be educated in a fun way. Lots of interactive exhibits.

A perfectly informative museum focused on one of the biggest and most known renegades of the old West.

The US Southwest Soaring Museum, situated at 918 E US Route 66 in Moriarty, New Mexico, is an aviation museum with a specific focus on the history of gliding in the western United States. This unique museum offers visitors an in-depth look into the evolution and development of gliding, providing a rich historical context for this fascinating aspect of aviation.

Small but wonderful, that's what this zoo surely is. Take a nice walk through this lovely place.

The Museum of Southwestern Biology boasts a diverse collection of vascular plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. These specimens originate from various regions, including the American West, Central and South America, and other parts of the world, offering a comprehensive view of biodiversity.

Interesting museum focusing not only on Aztec culture and history, but also taking into account early colonization and pioneering.

Located on the "Museum Hill" like many other museums, this one offers a peek on the days of Spanish colonial era.

This lovely little museum placed in a reconstructed mansion deals with the history and culture of the Southwest.