From ancient adobe ruins to interactive science centers and Old West agriculture, Las Cruces, New Mexico offers a rich lineup of museums that bring history, art, science, and culture to life.

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend activity or a visitor eager to explore the region’s heritage, these museums are must-see stops across the city and surrounding area. Here’s your guide to the best museum and historical site experiences in Las Cruces.

Credit: Museum of Nature and Science (City of Las Cruces)

Museum of Nature & Science

📍 411 N. Main St, Las Cruces, NM

Great for curious minds of all ages, this interactive museum explores the natural world through exhibits on prehistoric animals, New Mexico’s native wildlife, and space science. Highlights include fossilized trackways, live reptiles, and educational programming for kids and adults alike.

Branigan Cultural Center

📍 501 N. Main St, Las Cruces, NM

This community-focused museum highlights the rich cultural diversity of southern New Mexico. Exhibits range from local history and anthropology to rotating art installations and educational displays on local wildlife. The center also offers classes, events, and free admission year-round.

Las Cruces Museum of Art

📍 411 N. Main St, Las Cruces, NM

Located alongside the Museum of Nature & Science, this art museum features rotating contemporary exhibits, community-driven programming, and art studio classes for all ages. Recent exhibits have included sculpture, photography, and large-scale installations.

New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum

📍 4100 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM

Get hands-on with New Mexico’s agricultural legacy at this expansive museum covering 4,000 years of farming and ranching in the region. From working livestock pens and antique wagons to dairy exhibits and a greenhouse, this museum is fun and educational for the entire family. Don’t miss the gift shop for local pistachios, wine, and treats.

Credit: Fort Selden Historic Site by New Mexico Historic Sites

Fort Selden Historic Site

📍 1280 Fort Selden Rd, Radium Springs, NM

Step back in time at this historic military site just north of Las Cruces. Built in the late 1800s and originally home to Buffalo Soldiers and frontier families, the fort is also located on land first inhabited by Native American farmers around 400 A.D. Wander through the adobe ruins and explore the visitor center’s photographs, artifacts, and stories of the people who once lived here.

Las Cruces Railroad Museum

📍 351 N. Mesilla St, Las Cruces, NM

Housed in a historic depot, this museum captures the history and significance of the railroad in shaping Las Cruces. See miniature train models, historical railroad artifacts, and participate in family-friendly events throughout the year.

Discover the Story of Las Cruces

Whether you’re exploring the ruins of a frontier fort, learning about space and science, or admiring regional artwork, Las Cruces’ museums offer a window into the people, places, and stories that shape southern New Mexico. Free or low-cost admission, engaging exhibits, and unique regional focus make these museums essential stops on any Las Cruces itinerary.