Discover the cultures, histories, and stories that make New Mexico unique at the New Mexico History Museum on the Santa Fe Plaza. 

Spend Your Day at the New Mexico History Museum

A draw for local residents and tourists alike, the museum offers something for everyone. Through exhibitions, collections, and historic structures, the museum aims to bring people together. 

The expansive array of exhibitions at the museum introduces visitors to a range of topics, communities, and cultures. On long-term display, Telling New Mexico: Stories from Then and Now highlights more than 500 years of history. Travel through time, understanding the realities of the many people who lived here: Native Americans, Spanish settlers, Mexican citizens, Santa Fe Trail riders, fur trappers, outlaws, Buffalo Soldiers, railroad workers, miners, scientists, hippies, artists, and photographers. Rotating exhibitions shed light on the fun, fascinating, and sometimes little-known parts of New Mexico’s history. 

Thousands of Years of Exhibits

One of the museum’s most recognizable structures is the Palace of the Governors. Dating back to 1610, the Palace of the Governors is the oldest public building in continues use constructed by European settlers. In recognition of its historical significance, the Palace has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is also recognized as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Today, visitors can enjoy the hundreds of years of history in the walls of the Palace by exploring its variety of exhibitions, visiting the Palace Press, as well as meeting the artists who are part of the Native American Artisans Portal Program. 

The museum also serves as a hub for education and research. Visitors of all ages have access to programming and events year-round. The Fray Angélico Chávez History Library and the Palace of the Governors Photo Archives also provide access to more than a million historic photos and documents. The museum also launched its own digital collection which expands access to popular collections of photos related to Gustave Baumann, Fred Harvey, and Edgar L. Hewett.

Walk the museum’s galleries and see how the past brings the present to life. The museum is a destination for anyone who wants to learn and also understand the diverse histories and unique dynamics that have shaped New Mexico. 

Story Provided by New Mexico History Museum
Featured Photo by Wes Cunning
Museum Photography by Tira Howard

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