Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in New Mexico? These are the ones:
1San Miguel Mission
Santa Fe, NMSan 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. 2Georgia O'keeffe Museum
Santa Fe, NMThe 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. 3Loretto Chapel
Santa Fe, NMThe 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. 4Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Nageezi, NMSince 1980, Chaco Canyon has been recognized as a National Historical Park of the USA under the name Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Further, in 1987, it was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, acknowledging its global cultural significance. This recognition has helped preserve and protect the site for future generations to appreciate and learn from. 5The Albuquerque Museum of Art & History
Albuquerque, NMThe 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. 6Palace of the Governors
Santa Fe, NMThe 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. 7Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Albuquerque, NMThe 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. 8Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Mountainair, NMThe Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, located near Mountainair in the U.S. state of New Mexico, is a complex of three Spanish missions. These missions were constructed between 1622 and 1635, and once served as a thriving hub for the Native American trade communities of Tiwa and Tompiro language-speaking Pueblo people. Today, the monument stands as a beautiful reminder of the earliest contact between Pueblo Indians and Spanish Colonials. 9El Morro National Monument
Ramah, NMEl Morro National Monument is a significant historical site located in Cibola County, New Mexico, United States. This monument is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. It is a part of the U.S. national monuments, making it a significant landmark in the country. 10Bandelier National Monument
Los Alamos, NMThe Bandelier National Monument is a unique combination of a memorial and a nature reserve. It is located in the northern part of New Mexico, USA, and spans an impressive area of approximately 136 km². This vast expanse of land offers a diverse range of landscapes and natural features, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. 11Museum of Indian Arts & Culture
Santa Fe, NMThe 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. 12Bradbury Science Museum
Los Alamos, NMThe 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. 13E.E. Fogelson Visitor Center - Pecos National Historical Park
Pecos, NMThe Pecos National Historical Park is a significant historical site located in New Mexico, approximately 27 km east of Santa Fe. This park is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the past. 14Fort Union National Monument
Watrous, NMThe Fort Union National Monument preserves the second of three forts that were constructed on the site starting in 1851, as well as the ruins of the third fort. Visitors can also see a network of ruts from the Mountain and Cimarron Branches of the old Santa Fe Trail, providing a glimpse into the historical transportation routes of the area. 15New Mexico History Museum
Santa Fe, NMThe 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. 16International UFO Museum and Research Center
Roswell, NMThe International UFO Museum And Research Center is situated in the downtown district of Roswell, New Mexico, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and theories surrounding UFO incidents. 17National Hispanic Cultural Center
Albuquerque, NMThe 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. 18Ernie Pyle Public Library
Albuquerque, NMThe Ernie Pyle House/Library, located at 900 Girard Boulevard, SE in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a historic site that was once the home of renowned war correspondent Ernie Pyle. Pyle lived in the house from 1940 until his death in 1945 during World War II. This location offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of the most influential war correspondents of the 20th century. 19Los Alamos History Museum
Los Alamos, NMThe 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. 20El Rancho De Las Golondrinas
La Cienega, NMEl 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. 21Blumenschein Home & Museum
Taos, NMThe Ernest L. Blumenschein House, located at 222 Ledoux Street in Taos, New Mexico, serves as a historic house museum and art gallery. This location was once the home of the renowned painter Ernest L. Blumenschein, a co-founder of the Taos Society of Artists and one of the 'Taos Six'. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965, further cementing its importance in the art and history of the region. 22Coronado Historic Site
Bernalillo, NMThe Coronado Historic Site is a significant part of the Museum of New Mexico system, governed by the State. It is the Tiwa pueblo of Kuaua, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the past. This site is an integral part of New Mexico's history and culture, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the Tiwa pueblo of Kuaua. 23Lincoln Historic Site
Lincoln, NMThe Lincoln Historic District is a significant area that covers the community of Lincoln, New Mexico. This district was recognized for its historical importance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. This recognition highlights the district's historical significance and its preservation efforts. 24Roswell Museum
Roswell, NMThe Roswell Museum showcases exhibits that delve into the art and history of the American Southwest. It also houses the Robert H. Goddard laboratory, providing a unique insight into the work of this pioneering scientist. 25Hacienda de los Martinez
Taos, NMThe Martinez Hacienda, also known as Hacienda de los Martinez, is a significant historical site in Taos County, New Mexico. Built during the Spanish colonial era, it now serves as a living museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This hacienda offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of the Spanish colonial period. 26Albuquerque Museum
Albuquerque, NMThe 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, contributing to a variety of programs and initiatives. 27Alamogordo Museum of History
Alamogordo, NMThe 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. 28New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum
Las Cruces, NMThe 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. 29Villa Philmonte
Cimarron, NMThe Villa Philmonte is a significant ranch home situated just outside of Cimarron, New Mexico. It is located on the Philmont Scout Ranch, which is owned by the Boy Scouts of America. This location offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for visitors. 30National Scouting Museum
Cimarron, NMThe National Scouting Museum, the official museum of the Boy Scouts of America, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1959. It has moved several times, with its current location being at the Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. This location offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the Boy Scouts of America. 31Deming Luna Mimbres Museum
Deming, NMThe 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. 32Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Angel Fire, NMThe Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a significant national monument that was established to honor the veterans of the Vietnam War. It is conveniently located near United States Highway 64 in Angel Fire, New Mexico. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling through the area. 33Maxwell Museum of Anthropology
Albuquerque, NMThe 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. 34Philmont Scout Ranch
Cimarron, NMThe 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. 35Holocaust & Intolerance Museum of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NMThe 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. 36McBride Museum
Roswell, NMInteresting museum concentrating on the history of New Mexico Military Institute and achievements of its graduates. 37Historical Center For Southeast New Mexico
Roswell, NMFascinating local historical museum featuring many insights into the past. Lots of artifacts and items connected with the area. 38Kit Carson Historic Museum
Taos, NMThe 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. 39Western New Mexico University Museum
Silver City, NMFleming 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. 40Aztec Ruins National Monument Visitor Center
Aztec, NMThe 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. 41Belen Harvey House Museum
Belen, NM 42Gallup Cultural Center
Gallup, NMThe 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. 43The Gadsen Museum
Mesilla, NMThis private museum established in 1931 owns numerous interesting Native American artifacts, Civil War items and more! 44Museum - Salmon Ruins
Lee Acres, NMSalmon 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. 45The Carrizozo Heritage Museum & Visitor Center
Carrizozo, NMA museum with exhibits on the local history of our diverse cultures - Indian, Spanish, and European immigrants, ranchers, and railroaders. 46Artesia Historical Museum and Art Center
Artesia, NM 47Millicent Rogers Museum
Taos Pueblo, NMThe 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. 48The Raton Museum
Raton, NM 49Poeh Cultural Center
Pojoaque, NMThe 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. 50Telephone Museum of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 51Blackwater Draw Site and Museum
Clovis, NMThe 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. 52Bent House Museum
Taos, NMThe 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. 53War Eagles Air Museum
Santa Teresa, NMThe 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. 54Bond House Museum
Española, NM- 55
Chase Ranch
Cimarron, NMFollowing the death of Gretchen Sammis, the great-granddaughter of Manly and Theresa Chase, ownership of the ranch was transferred to the Chase Ranch Foundation. Gretchen had established this foundation with the aim of preserving the 11,000-acre ranch and the heritage of her family. This change in ownership ensures the continued preservation of the ranch's historical and cultural significance. - 56
Lordsburg Hidalgo County Museum
Lordsburg, NMThe Lordsburg Hidalgo County Museum is situated in the city of Lordsburg, New Mexico. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the region. - 57
Billy the Kid Museum
Fort Sumner, NMA perfectly informative museum focused on one of the biggest and most known renegades of the old West. - 58
The Wheels Museum
Albuquerque, NM - 59
Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village
Farmington, NMInteresting museum focusing not only on Aztec culture and history, but also taking into account early colonization and pioneering. - 60
New Mexico Military Museum
Santa Fe, NM - 61
El Museo Cultural De Santa Fe
Santa Fe, NM - 62
Kit Carson Museum
Cimarron, NM - 63
Aztec Mill Museum
Cimarron, NM - 64
Roosevelt County Historical Museum
Portales, NM - 65
Silver City Museum
Silver City, NMThis lovely little museum placed in a reconstructed mansion deals with the history and culture of the Southwest. - 66
Florence Hawley Ellis Museum of Anthropology
Abiquiu, NM - 67
City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection
Las Vegas, NM - 68
Moriarty Historical Society and Museum
Moriarty, NM - 69
Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village
Aztec, NM - 70
Billy The Kid Scenic Byway Visitor Center
Ruidoso Downs, NM - 71
Hamilton Military Museum at Veterans Memorial Park
Truth Or Consequences, NM - 72
Geronimo Springs Museum
Truth or Consequences, NM - 73
Sky City Cultural Center & Haak'u Museum
Acoma Pueblo, NM - 74
Folsom Museum
Folsom, NM - 75
A:shiwi A:wan Museum and Heritage Center
Zuni, NMThe A:shiwi A:wan Museum and Heritage Center is situated in Zuni, New Mexico, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Zuni tribe's history and culture. - 76
Picuris Pueblo
Picuris Pueblo, NM - 77
The Cleveland Roller Mill Museum
Mora, NMThis noteworthy historical attraction features exhibits focusing on local history and culture. - 78
Pinos Altos Museum
Pinos Altos, NM - 79
Los Lunas Museum of Heritage & Arts
Los Lunas, NM - 80
Western Heritage Museum and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame
Hobbs, NMThe Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame is located near Hobbs, New Mexico. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and heritage of the area. - 81
Tucumcari Historical Museum
Tucumcari, NM - 82
Hubbard Museum of the American West
Ruidoso, NM - 83
Casasola Museum
Mesilla, NMAn amazing collection of photographs from the history of the US and Mexico relations. Get to know it in an interesting way! - 84
Pioneer Store Museum
Winston, NM