Nature & natural history museums in New Mexico

Since 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.

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.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, nestled in the Guadalupe Mountains in southeast New Mexico, spans an impressive 189 km. The park is home to 83 separate caves, with the most renowned being the Carlsbad Cavern. This vast network of natural formations offers a unique opportunity for exploration and discovery.

El 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.

The 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.

The 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.

The Rio Grande Zoo, which was established in 1927, is a significant part of the Albuquerque Biological Park. Spanning 64 acres, the zoo is situated in Albuquerque and offers a unique experience for visitors. It is an integral part of the city's cultural and recreational landscape.

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.

The Rio Grande Botanic Garden, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a sprawling 8-hectare botanical garden and conservatory. It is situated next to the iconic Rio Grande and is managed by the New Mexico BioPark Society. The garden is a part of the Albuquerque Biological Park and is home to a wide variety of plant species, making it a great place for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.

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.

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is a vast 1500 acre botanical garden, zoo, and greenhouse situated in Carlsbad, New Mexico. It is managed by the New Mexico State Parks Division and has been a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 2002. The park is located near the U.S. Route 285 on the northern border of Carlsbad, at an elevation of 3,200 feet, overlooking the Ocotillo Hills with views of the city and the Pecos River.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

This interesting museum located quite near the entrance to the Rockhound State Park focuses mostly on geology.

Owned by an experienced farmer, this ranch has multiple purposes - a farm, a wildlife preservation and a tourist attraction, of course.