New Mexico History Museum Set to Reopen, Announces Limited Capacity and Hours of Operation

February 8th, 2021

SANTA FE – If you have missed learning about the American West and the history of our state’s many cultures, then the New Mexico History Museum (NMHM) has some good news for you! The museum will reopen to the public on a sliding schedule beginning Thursday and Friday, Feb. 11 and Feb. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in accordance with COVID-safe practices and public health measures to protect the well-being of patrons. Visitation will be limited to a maximum of 75 people at any one time.

The following week, the museum will be open Wednesday through Friday, Feb. 17-19. And, beginning on Wednesday, Feb. 24, the museum will expand  public access to a regular schedule of Wednesday through Sunday. To confirm actual days of operation please visit the museum website at https://nmhistorymuseum.org/ 

Visitors will have access to several engaging exhibitions. “Looking Back: Reflecting on Collections,” presents a sample of the objects housed at the museum, many of which are seldom on public view. The exhibition illustrates how collecting interests have changed over time and raises a number of issues associated with acquisition practices.

Another temporary exhibit, “Working on the Railroad,” celebrates the people who built, operated, and maintained New Mexico’s railroads. Featuring historic photos, this exhibition brings to life the grit and dignity of these mostly invisible but essential workers.

Reopening will also offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy “Telling New Mexico: Stories from Then and Now,” which explores more than 400 years of New Mexico history. Other long-term exhibits showcase the 18th-century  Segesser Hide paintings, a bell from the battleship USS New Mexico, and food service items associated with The Fred Harvey Company.

The museum is located on the north side of the Santa Fe Plaza. $7 for New Mexico residents and $12 for non-residents. Free to NM residents on the first Sunday of each month. Children 16 and under are admitted free. Wednesday admission is free to New Mexico Seniors with ID. New Mexico foster families are admitted free.

The Speigelberg Shop at the New Mexico History Museum remains closed for in-person shopping, though customers can find this and other Museum of New Mexico Foundation shops online at https://shopmuseum.org/ 

The auditorium, library, photo archives, classrooms, Palace of the Governors, and Portal Artisans program remain closed. The public will not have access to coat checks, lockers, or backpack/purse storage, nor the use of rental equipment such as headsets, portable speakers, strollers, etc., unless required for ADA accessibility. Public programs, special events, and volunteer/docent activities will continue in virtual formats only. Reduced occupancy might result in a wait to gain entry. While queuing for entry, visitors should observe social distancing. Visitors will be required to wear a mask or multilayered face covering.

About the New Mexico History Museum
The New Mexico History Museum is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Board of Regents for the Museum of New Mexico. Programs and exhibits are supported by the Museum of New Mexico Foundation and its generous donors. NMHM is a statewide educational resource, landmark, and destination for everyone who wants to understand the diverse experiences of the people of New Mexico, the dynamics that have shaped our state, and the relationships that connect our region with the rest of the world.

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