Old Town Museums





 

Old Town Albuquerque is hands down one of my favorite places to go to. It is hard to believe that it is older than the country, considered to be Albuquerque’s first neighborhood, and that it is still around today. In between all the souvenir shops, and restaurants there plenty of areas throughout the plaza that are also dedicated to the history of it. While most people see the replica howitzers, and the five flag poles, there are other areas as well. On a recent trip while exploring I discovered two museums that I promptly visited. 

San Felipe de Neri: While the San Felipe de Neri Church is one of the many reasons people go to Old Town there is much more to it. In the back of the gift shop lies a small museum dedicated to the church. Even though it is small it is full of historical artifacts from the church. The walls are lined with all the various vestments that the priests have worn, but the main reason to walk around is to see the historical bell, and organ. The bell dates to the early 1890s and at one point was used in the east tower, however the weight of it being two tons was causing damage to the tower. It was ultimately replaced but is still preserved. In addition, the pump organ dating back to 1872 was purchased for only $112 from a company in St. Louis. While this is a small room, it is worth seeking out. To be able to see what a historical building is already, and then be able to see preserved artifacts from the church is the exact reason why I love Albuquerque. This city is all about preserving its history and educating people. This museum is a prime example of that. 

International Rattlesnake Museum: Where else can you see the world’s largest collection of rattlesnakes, scorpions, or spiders? The only way to describe this museum is just fun. When you first walk in you are face to face with a massive rattlesnake statue, as part of the gift shop. But make your way to the counter, pay the admission, and you will be allowed in the back room where you will find yourself surrounded by rattlesnakes at every turn. On top of how fun this is to walk around, I was also amazed at how many different species of rattlesnakes there are. They were also very active on the day I went and slithering around their exhibits. As if having rattlesnakes is not enough there are also exhibits featuring various spiders, and scorpions. This museum can take as long as you want to get through it. It can be a quick walk, or more time consuming depending on how much you want to stop and read about the various species. There are also non animal exhibits that are about reptiles with great photography. But the best reason to go to the Rattlesnake Museum? Your ticket for admission doubles as a certificate of bravery. Both fun, and educational I was very glad I made the trip to the Rattlesnake Museum. It is a place I will make sure to take people to and would gladly go to again. 

 It seems like the more I go to Old Town the more I discover with each visit. I had been there multiple times, and only recently did I discover these great museums. It serves as a great reminder to always look around when in a great area to make new discoveries. These two museums serve as a great example of places that are easily missed. I highly recommend taking the time to see these two museums when in Old Town next time you’re exploring. 

To see photos of my adventures follow my Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me using #thenmtx
To support my adventures check out www.patreon.com/thenmtx


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