Please make sure to check for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.
Las Cruces, NM 88001-1272
US • Physical
Las Cruces, NM 88004
US • Mailing
Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The museums are closed on all federal holidays.
This museum is about looking and understanding – looking up to the stars, looking out to the desert, and looking down to see ancient fossils. There are three primary permanent exhibits:
Desert Life, Light and Space, Permian Trackways
Animal Encounters: 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10 a.m.
Learn all about the diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert and beyond as you explore the different families of animals with an up-close look at some of the Nature Center’s resident species.
Animal Feedings: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Saturdays of each month, 11 a.m.
It’s time for brunch in the Nature Center! Watch and learn how and what different species of animals eat at this live animal feeding.
No Animal Feedings on August 10
Saturday Family Science: First Saturday of each month, 11:30 a.m.
Bring your curiosity and your family to the museum for a hands-on investigation. Work as a team to explore a new topic each month.
Super Scientists: Saturdays as listed, 10 a.m. to Noon
Pow! Snap! Boom! Stop in the Museum of Nature and Science Saturday mornings to become a Super Scientist! Conquer a new science challenge each week at this drop-in activity for all ages.
Pre-K Programs (ages 0 to 5): Thursdays, 9 a.m.
Every Thursday, preschool children and their families engage with science through hands-on explorations, arts and crafts, story time, and occasional short field trips to our local parks.
Grandma Mona’s Science Storytime, Planeteers, Dinosaur Train, Nature Kids
STEAMpunk: Third Saturday of each month, 11:30 a.m.
Discover the stories behind science’s greatest rebels and explore the modern-day applications of their research through hands-on explorations and discussions.
Teen Science Café: Third Thursday of each month October through April (no December) 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Teen-organized science for…teens! Team up with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) experts for monthly discussions, hands-on activities, and a chance to chat with our guest scientists. For more information, or if you are a teen who would like to get involved with the Teen Advisory Group, email Stephanie Hawkins.
Active Galaxy Lecture Series: 3rd Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.
New Mexico is a powerhouse of scientific research and innovation. Join local scientists at the epicenter of these discoveries as they lead discussions at the museum.
Science Café: First Tuesday of each month, 5:30 p.m., October – April (No meeting January, 2020)
Science is for everyone. Join the Museum of Nature and Science and Sigma Xi: The Scientific Research Society at the monthly Science Café for face to face, open discussion with local scientists about current topics in a social atmosphere. Call the museum for details on topic and speaker.
