New Mexico Mining Museum Tour — Grants, New Mexico

Discover the New Mexico Mining Museum Tour in New Mexico

Located in Grants, New Mexico, along historic Route 66, the New Mexico Mining Museum Tour offers visitors a deep dive into the state’s rich uranium and hard-rock mining history. This museum experience recreates underground mining conditions and highlights the tools, technology, and personal stories that shaped the “Uranium Capital of the World.”

Guests explore immersive exhibits, mining equipment displays, and a simulated underground mine section that demonstrates how miners worked beneath the surface.

Why it’s special: The New Mexico Mining Museum Tour includes a recreated underground uranium mine walkthrough, providing one of the most immersive mining heritage experiences in the Southwest.

History & Story of the New Mexico Mining Museum

During the mid-20th century, Grants, New Mexico became a central hub of uranium mining in the United States. The uranium boom brought economic growth, jobs, and national strategic importance to the region.

The New Mexico Mining Museum was established to preserve this legacy and educate visitors about the mining industry’s impact on local communities, technology, and environmental awareness. Today, it serves as both a historical archive and an educational destination.

What You’ll See & Do on the New Mexico Mining Museum Tour

• Walk through a recreated underground uranium mine
• View authentic mining equipment and safety gear
• Learn about uranium extraction and processing
• Explore exhibits on mining geology and mineral identification
• Discover personal stories from Grants-area miners

Hands-On Elements: Visitors may enter and walk through the simulated mine tunnel exhibit; equipment operation is for display only.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography is permitted throughout museum exhibits and the underground simulation area.

Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop offering mining-themed souvenirs, rocks and minerals, educational books, and Route 66 memorabilia.

Pricing of the New Mexico Mining Museum Tour

Adult price: $8 per adult

Discounted admission may be available for seniors, youth, and military.

Visiting information

Duration: 60–90 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome; underground exhibit may feel confined for some visitors

Accessibility: Partially accessible; underground simulation includes uneven surfaces

Working Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sunday Closed

No reservations required for individual visitors.

Nearby

• El Malpais National Monument
• El Morro National Monument
• Historic Route 66 in Grants

FAQs About Visiting the New Mexico Mining Museum Tour

Is the underground mine exhibit real?
It is a realistic simulation designed to replicate an actual uranium mine environment, providing an educational underground experience.

Why was Grants called the “Uranium Capital of the World”?
During the mid-1900s uranium boom, the region produced large quantities of uranium for national energy and defense programs.

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The exhibits are educational and family-friendly, though some younger visitors may find the underground section dimly lit.

Are actual mining tools on display?
Yes. Authentic mining equipment, helmets, drills, and safety gear are part of the museum’s collection.

Is the museum located near other natural attractions?
Yes. It is conveniently located near El Malpais and El Morro National Monuments, making it a good stop on a scenic Southwest road trip.