Visit

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History was established in 1969 as an intriguing place to learn the story of the Atomic Age, from early research of nuclear development through today’s peaceful uses of nuclear technology. Visitors can explore how nuclear science continues to influence our world. Through permanent and changing exhibits and displays, the museum strives to present the diverse applications of nuclear science in the past, present, and future, along with the stories of the field’s pioneers.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is a Smithsonian Affiliate and is accredited through the American Alliance of Museums.

Brief History

The creation of the Museum in 1969 was the result of a six-year effort to establish a museum to tell the story of the base and the development of nuclear weapons. The Museum was located on Kirtland Air Force Base. In 1973, the museum's name was changed to the National Atomic Museum to reflect the growing national and international audience and the fact that it was the only public museum that preserved the nuclear industry's history. The Museum closed its doors at the Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico on September 11, 2001, due to heightened security measures. The National Atomic Museum was in its rented Old Town location from May 11, 2002, to February 7, 2009; the Museum re-opened in its current location in southeast Albuquerque in April 2009, renamed The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.

Mission

The Museum’s mission is “to serve as America’s resource for nuclear history and science. The Museum presents exhibits and quality educational programs that convey the diversity of individuals and events that shape the historical and technical context of the nuclear age.”

Partnership with the Atomic Heritage Foundation

With an agreement signed on June 24, 2019, the Atomic Heritage Foundation and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History forged a new partnership to preserve the history of the Manhattan Project and the Atomic Age. This significant agreement ensures the Atomic Heritage Foundation’s extensive collection of oral histories (Voices of the Manhattan Project), interpretive vignettes (Ranger in Your Pocket), and articles about the Manhattan Project and its legacy will remain available to the public for the foreseeable future.

Hours/Admission/Map

Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.


Adults 18-59 - $22
Seniors 60+ - $20
Youth 6-17 - $20
Veterans - $12
Active Military (and dependents) - $12
Children under age 5 are free
Group Tours - Click here

New Mexico resident admission prices require A valid photo ID with a resident address.

We recommend purchasing admissions within the same week they are to be used, but you will not be turned away if your visit takes place after the one-week timeframe.

Purchase Museum Admission


Ticket pricing fluctuates during periods of high demand. Our website has the most up-to-date ticket pricing.


SAFETY & SECURITY

Visitation policies at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History are designed to protect visitors and staff and secure and preserve the collections and facilities entrusted in our care. Violation of these guidelines could result in removal from the Museum.

Firearm Policy The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is on federal property. The Museum restricts visitors from carrying firearms and weapons while on Museum property. Weapons include, but are not limited to, guns, knives, swords, explosives, and any chemical whose purpose is to cause harm to another person.

Acknowledgment of Risks: The Museum's nine-acre exhibit area, Heritage Park, is outdoors; visitors should watch their step on uneven surfaces, pathways, and loose gravel.


National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
601 Eubank Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

Phone: 505-245-2137

Museum Store: 505-245-2137 ext.106
Administrative Offices: 505-245-2137 ext. 103
Group Tours: 505-245-2137 ext. 103