Photo: Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop
Photo: Manlio Tribioli
Photo: Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop
Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop
★4.7(1,004 reviews)$Museum
🕑 45 minutes to 1 hour👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children and tweens particularly enjoy the educational aspect and the thrill of seeing venomous snakes safely behind glass. Younger children may be frightened by the reptiles, though brave preschoolers who love animals often find it exciting.🧡 Saved by 30 families
About
This compact but captivating museum in Albuquerque's Old Town houses the world's largest collection of live rattlesnakes, plus other fascinating reptiles. Kids get an up-close look at over 30 species of rattlers in safe, well-designed habitats while learning about these misunderstood creatures through engaging educational displays that make science come alive.
Highlights
- ✓Seeing over 30 different rattlesnake species from around the world in one place
- ✓Learning fascinating facts about snake behavior and venom from informative displays
- ✓The Gila monster and other non-rattlesnake reptiles that add variety
- ✓Conservation education that helps kids understand why these creatures matter
- ✓Browsing the unique gift shop filled with snake-themed treasures
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday afternoons for the smallest crowds and more one-on-one time with knowledgeable staff who love answering kids' questions
- 2.The museum is small,only about 2,400 square feet,so it's perfect for a quick educational stop while exploring Old Town
- 3.Check if feeding time is scheduled during your visit for the most active reptile viewing
- 4.The gift shop has excellent rattlesnake-themed souvenirs that make great educational mementos without breaking the bank
- 5.Parking in Old Town can be tricky; arrive early or use the free lot on the north side of the plaza and enjoy a short walk
Best Time to Visit
Visit Tuesday through Thursday between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM for the quietest experience. Weekends get busier with tourists exploring Old Town. The cooler months (October-April) are ideal for combining this with comfortable Old Town exploration.
What to Know
Admission is very affordable (around $5 for adults, less for children). The museum is small and located in historic Old Town, where street parking can be limited but several free lots are within walking distance.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Indoor venue makes it perfect for hot summer days or winter visits when outdoor activities aren't appealing.
Nearby Eats
Church Street Café (New Mexican food with a kids menu) and Sawmill Market (food hall with multiple options) are both family-friendly and within easy walking distance in Old Town.
More Activities Near Old Town
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Bike In Coffee is a delightful urban farm and garden space tucked into Old Town Albuquerque where kids can get their hands dirty learning about sustainable agriculture. This budget-friendly gem combines a cozy café atmosphere with hands-on educational programs that teach children where their food comes from, making it perfect for families who want both a learning experience and a relaxing coffee break.
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Old Town Plaza
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Old Town Plaza is a charming historic gathering space perfect for families looking to combine culture, play, and people-watching. With its shaded gazebo, beautifully landscaped grounds, and safe open areas for kids to roam, this central plaza offers a relaxed atmosphere where children can enjoy street performers and explore while parents soak in the Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant local culture.
Restaurant
Golden Crown Panaderia
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Golden Crown Panaderia is a beloved Old Town treasure where families can enjoy authentic wood-fired pizza alongside fresh-baked New Mexican treats. Kids love watching pizzas go into the adobe oven while parents appreciate the relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere and budget-friendly prices that make this a local favorite rather than a tourist trap.