National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
- Museum
- In Albuquerque, New Mexico
- 0.4 mi from Route 66
This nuclear science and history museum in Albuquerque, NM, serves as the nation's repository for nuclear science and weapons materials, a role set by Congress. Once called the National Atomic Museum, it traces its roots to 1969. It stands inside Sandia Science and Technology Park, close to Sandia National Laboratories and Kirtland Air Force Base, and it tells the story of the nuclear age in a way that works for families too.
What it is
The museum sets out to be the country's main place to learn about the history and science of the nuclear age. Its exhibits and education programs cover both the technical background and the wide range of people and events that shaped the era. Expect a serious, detailed look at a subject that changed the modern world, presented for general visitors as well as for specialists.
Its setting fits the subject. The museum sits in a science and technology park beside Sandia National Laboratories and near Kirtland Air Force Base.
A bit of history
The museum dates from 1969 and was known for many years as the National Atomic Museum. Its national role comes from Public Law 102-190, passed by the 102nd Congress, which chartered it as the official home for materials on nuclear science and weapons. Although it uses an Albuquerque mailing address, the site actually lies in unincorporated Bernalillo County, just outside the city limit.
Visiting tips
Allow two hours or more. There is parking, there are restrooms on site, the building is wheelchair accessible, and it is suitable for children. Admission is not free.
Two Route 66 motor courts are close by: the La Puerta Lodge about 0.6 miles away and the Luna Lodge about 0.9 miles. Both are best seen from the street, and a slow drive past them pairs well with a museum visit at this end of Central Avenue.
Practical info
- Address
- 601 Eubank Boulevard Southeast, Albuquerque, NM 87123
- Phone
- +1 505-845-6670
- Website
- nuclearmuseum.org
- Hours
- Daily 9–5
- On site & nearby
Sources: OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) · Wikidata · official site — may be outdated. Suggest a fix
Where to eat nearby
All diners on Route 66 →
On the map
Full mapNational Museum of Nuclear Science & History with the 6 closest stops and places to eat (fork and knife). Tap a marker for details.
Tap a dot to see that stop here.
Nearby stops
All of New Mexico
0.6 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
0.9 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
1.9 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
2.8 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
3.6 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
4.0 mi from National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
Questions
What was the museum called before?
It was formerly the National Atomic Museum.
Where exactly is the museum?
Inside Sandia Science and Technology Park, near Sandia National Laboratories and Kirtland Air Force Base. It has an Albuquerque address but lies in unincorporated Bernalillo County.
Is the museum good for children?
It is listed as suitable for children and has parking, restrooms and wheelchair access.
Own or run National Museum of Nuclear Science & History? Send us a photo or a correction.