National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

"This place was awesome! The museum staff were very friendly in explaining their particular exhibits and answering questions. Some of the interactive were broken (a lot of the electric generator based ones) or seemingly not too related to nuclear science but still cool nonetheless. There was probably more history than science but it was still very insightful and cool for me as someone who's a bit more into science. There's also a playground and some benches in the back behind the museum and this would definitely be cool for a school field trip. The gift shop had some fun science items for kids too"

"Neat museum. Lots of interesting details. I appreciate their website being accurate regarding open status with the current government shutdown 💻. 🧬 💣 🥼 🚀 🌎 🔭⚗️🔬🧫 ✈️ 🛩️ 👨🏾‍🔬 The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, established in 1969, offers a compelling journey through the story of the Atomic Age—from the earliest research in nuclear development to today’s peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Visitors are invited to explore how nuclear science continues to shape our world. Through a dynamic mix of permanent and rotating exhibits, the museum showcases the diverse uses of nuclear science across history, industry, medicine, and energy. It also honors the pioneers whose work has defined the field, presenting their stories in engaging and accessible ways. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and an institution accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the museum upholds the highest standards of excellence in education, preservation, and public engagement. 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.” 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. Important Notice Regarding Government Shutdown: We Are Open. Please note that this will not affect operations at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum will remain open to the public and continue to operate under its regular schedule of 8 am to 5 pm. GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN WILL NOT IMPACT OPERATIONS AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NUCLEAR SCIENCE & HISTORY Albuquerque, NM — The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History remains fully open and operational during the federal government shutdown. As a privately regulated 501(c)(3) nonprofit, governed by a Board of Trustees, the museum is therefore unaffected by federal closures. Founded in 1969, the museum offers a compelling journey through the Atomic Age—from early nuclear research to today’s peaceful applications. Through permanent and rotating exhibits, it explores the impact of nuclear science on history, industry, medicine, and energy, while honoring the pioneers who have shaped the field. The museum is proud to be a Smithsonian Affiliate and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education, preservation, and public engagement. Importantly, the museum is also congressionally chartered, a designation granted by the U.S. Congress to recognize institutions of national significance and public service. While this charter affirms the museum’s vital role in preserving and interpreting nuclear history, it does not imply federal ownership or funding of the museum. The museum operates independently, ensuring uninterrupted access to its exhibits and programs. We welcome all visitors to experience the museum’s offerings as usual."

"We were visiting family in Albuquerque and decided to visit the nuclear museum since this is history from this area. The displays go into the discovery of nuclear fission and the development o the atom bomb during world war 2. A lot of information on the use of nuclear energy and great actual planes and missiles. Well worth the visit"

"We truly enjoyed our visit to the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History. The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, with powerful storytelling that weaves together scientific,historical, and social perspectives. I especially appreciated learning about the intense uranium prospecting and mining in the Southwest- something I knew little about before. The Manhattan Project exhibits are engaging, and I particularly loved the story on ‘Oppie and Groves’. The outdoor displays of planes and bombers are impressive, and the gift shop has unique finds. I would have gladly given this place five stars, but I felt there could have been a bit more representation of the many women who contributed to the field. I did notice the acknowledgment of Marie Curie, but perhaps because I spent just over an hour, I may have missed mentions of brilliant figures such as Leona Woods Libby or a nod to Lise Meitner. Including more of their stories would only make the narrative richer, and more complete. I wish I had an entire day to explore every corner of this museum - there is so much to take in, and it’s absolutely worth a visit."

"Comprehensive history and current status of nuclear energy. I was impressed by the availability of kid's interactive displays. We learned some things we never knew. We read almost everything and visited the outdoor exhibits; we spent about 2 hours. The staff and admissions and the gift shop were very nice. Check out their selection of books in the gift shop."