Planning a trip to Santa Fe and eager to delve into the rich tapestry of the Southwest? The New Mexico History Museum, located in the heart of the city, offers an immersive journey through centuries of captivating stories. Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or a curious traveler, understanding the museum’s hours, admission fees, and special access opportunities is key to a seamless and enriching visit.
Plan Your Visit: Opening Hours and Schedules
To make the most of your time at the New Mexico History Museum, it’s essential to check their operating hours. They adjust their schedule seasonally, so planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on exploring the exhibits.
Winter Hours (November–April)
During the cooler months, the museum operates on the following schedule:
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm* |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
* Special First Friday Extended Hours: Keep in mind that on the first Friday of each month, the museum extends its hours until 7 pm, offering a fantastic opportunity for an evening visit.
Holiday Closures
Please note that the New Mexico History Museum observes closures on major holidays each year. Make sure to factor these into your travel plans:
- January 1st (New Year’s Day)
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Special Events: First Fridays
Don’t miss the First Friday of each month! The museum stays open until 7 pm, and best of all, admission is free from 5 pm to 7 pm. This is a perfect chance to experience the museum after work or enjoy a budget-friendly cultural evening in Santa Fe.
Admission Fees: Explore New Mexico History
The New Mexico History Museum offers affordable admission rates, making it accessible for everyone to explore the state’s vibrant past.
Standard Admission
- New Mexico Residents: $7
- Non-residents: $12
This modest fee grants you a full day to explore the museum’s diverse exhibitions and collections.
Group Rates
Traveling with a group of 10 or more? Take advantage of the discounted group rate:
- Group Rate (10+ people): $8 per person
Reservations are required for group visits and must be made at least 2 weeks in advance. To book your group visit, call (505) 476-5156 or reach out to their education department for assistance.
Unlock Free Admission Opportunities
The New Mexico History Museum is committed to making history accessible to all. They offer numerous opportunities to visit for free:
Free for All
- First Friday Evenings (May through October): Enjoy free admission for everyone from 5 pm to 7 pm during the extended summer hours on the first Friday of the month.
Free for New Mexico Residents
New Mexico residents enjoy several perks for free entry, celebrating local access to cultural heritage:
- Every Friday Evening (5–7 p.m., May through October): During seasonal extended hours, NM residents get free admission every Friday evening.
- First Sunday of Each Month: NM residents receive free admission all day on the first Sunday of every month. Remember to bring a valid New Mexico ID to verify residency.
- Wednesdays for NM Senior Citizens: New Mexico senior citizens aged 60 and older enjoy free admission every Wednesday.
- NM Foster Parents and Foster Children: Free admission is provided to NM foster parents and foster children.
Free for Educational and Community Groups
- School Groups: The museum provides free admission for school groups (students and accompanying adults) with reservations made at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Education department for details and scheduling.
- Children 16 and Under: Admission is always free for children aged 16 and under, making it a fantastic family-friendly destination.
Membership and Military Benefits
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Museum of New Mexico Foundation Members: Members of the Museum of New Mexico Foundation receive free admission. Consider becoming a member to support the museum and enjoy year-round benefits! Visit museumfoundation.org for membership details.
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Blue Star Museum Program for Armed Forces: The New Mexico History Museum participates in the Blue Star Museum Program, offering free admission to active military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day. This includes:
- Currently serving U.S. Military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard
- Active Duty and Reservists, National Guardsman (regardless of status)
- U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps
- Up to five family members
Free Online Explorations
- Virtual Exhibitions: Explore the museum’s current and past exhibitions from the comfort of your home with free online virtual tours! Visit nmhistorymuseum.org/exhibitions/virtual-tours to start your virtual journey.
Culture Pass Savings
- New Mexico Culture Pass: Looking for even more cultural experiences in New Mexico? Check out the Culture Pass, which offers discounted admission to multiple Department of Cultural Affairs museums and state-wide attractions. Find more information at nmculture.org/visit/culturepass.
By understanding the hours, admission options, and free entry opportunities, you can plan your visit to the New Mexico History Museum effectively and immerse yourself in the captivating history of New Mexico. Don’t miss the chance to explore this Santa Fe gem!
