When you’re charting your course through the captivating Old Town Albuquerque, make sure to set your sights on a truly unique destination: the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop. This isn’t your average museum; it’s an immersive experience where you can encounter a diverse collection of rescued rattlesnakes and delve into fascinating exhibits that bridge popular culture with these misunderstood reptiles. Our visit was an absolute highlight, and we’re confident you’ll find it just as enthralling!
Entrance to the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Exploring Old Town Albuquerque: A Cultural Gem
Old Town Albuquerque is a must-visit, and that’s true even if the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop wasn’t part of the equation. This historic heart of Albuquerque pulsates with New Mexican culture at every turn.
Wandering through Old Town, you’ll be spoiled for choice with dining options. From traditional New Mexican cuisine to contemporary flavors, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique shopping experiences Old Town has to offer. You’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to Native American art and souvenirs.
Stepping into Old Town is like stepping back in time. Its historic architecture and charming plazas evoke a sense of another era, perfectly justifying its name.
The area is a vibrant hub for local artists and craftspeople. You’ll encounter a rich tapestry of creativity in their wares, reflecting the unique spirit of New Mexico.
We parked near the San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church, a stunning historic landmark that has stood for over 300 years. This church itself holds a museum and gift shop, hinting at the area’s rich cultural offerings.
While we admired the church from the outside, our main objective was clear – rattlesnakes! However, if you have more time, exploring the church’s interior and its own museum could be an enriching addition to your Old Town visit.
Even the grounds around the church offer intriguing details, like this carving in a tree, showcasing the artistic touches found throughout Old Town.
Unveiling the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop Experience
Navigating Old Town Albuquerque, despite its relatively compact size, can be a bit tricky. Even with GPS, we initially had a slight detour finding the Rattlesnake Museum. For those heading there, it’s located just south of the central Old Town Plaza, with its entrance oriented inward, towards the plaza rather than directly facing the street.
Planning your visit requires noting their unique operating hours. Currently, the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop is closed on Mondays, and during spring, they are also closed on Sundays. When open, their hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It’s wise to double-check their website or call ahead, especially if your time in Albuquerque is limited, to ensure a smooth visit.
Right at the entrance, you’re greeted by an outdoor enclosure housing rescued turtles. These turtles, as the sign explains, are either former pets or exotic species, adding an unexpected welcoming committee before you even step inside.
Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the gift shop. You can browse and purchase items here without needing to pay admission to the museum itself. This makes it a great stop for unique souvenirs even if you’re short on time.
Naturally, we picked up a magnet as a memento, and Jeff couldn’t resist a fun t-shirt – perfect for sparking conversations back home.
For those venturing into the museum (which we highly recommend!), you purchase your tickets at the gift shop counter. The entrance to the museum exhibits is through a doorway conveniently located within the gift shop.
Stepping into the museum, you are immediately immersed in the world of rattlesnakes. Exhibits showcase a fascinating array of species, each in carefully designed habitats.
It’s important to remember that all the rattlesnakes here are rescued animals, unable to survive in the wild. The museum plays a vital role in conservation and education, offering a sanctuary for these creatures.
Our daughter, Kristin, was utterly captivated by the museum, revisiting exhibits multiple times. It’s an engaging and educational experience that is particularly appealing for children and families.
Beyond the live rattlesnakes, the museum features unique displays honoring rattlesnakes in popular culture. One such exhibit pays tribute to the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, showcasing items related to his work with wildlife.
As a fan of Craig Ferguson, I was amused to spot his rattlesnake mug amongst the collection of rattlesnake-themed memorabilia.
The museum also features culturally significant artifacts, like these rattlesnake Kachina dolls, highlighting the reptile’s role in different cultures and traditions.
As a fun conclusion to your museum visit, you receive a “certificate of bravery” – a lighthearted souvenir to commemorate your encounter with these fascinating creatures.
Our time at the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop was genuinely enjoyable and memorable. Coupled with exploring the charming shops and ambiance of Old Town Albuquerque, it makes for a fantastic outing. Just keep in mind that Old Town tends to wind down in the early evening, with shops and attractions closing between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
If Albuquerque, New Mexico is on your travel itinerary, make sure to allocate time for both Old Town and the Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop. It’s an experience that stays with you, offering unique memories and a newfound appreciation for rattlesnakes. It’s certainly a road trip highlight for our family!
