National Monument · New Mexico
Aztec Ruins National Monument
Aztec Ruins has some of the best-preserved Chacoan structures of its kind. Learn more about the ancestral Pueblo people in the park's museum and explore the Aztec West great house to see exceptionally advanced architecture, original wooden beams, and a restored Great Kiva. Aztec Ruins is a deeply sacred place to many Indigenous peoples across the American Southwest. Please visit with respect.
Things to do
- Arts and Culture
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Hiking
- Front-Country Hiking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Park Film
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
Weather & when to go
Summer High temperatures range between 80°F and 99°F degrees with a few days over 100°F. Afternoon thunderstorms usually cool things down in late July and August. Fall Usually pleasant, with mild days and crisp nights. Winter Daytime temperatures range between 20°F and 50°F with cold nights that can reach 0°F. Snow is periodic, but accumulations are typically only 1-2 inches. Spring Weather is especially unpredictable: it can be windy, cold, and wet, or still, warm, and dry.
Operating hours
Hours
Aztec Ruins National Monument is open to the public from 7:00am-5:00pm, which includes the parking areas, archeological sites, picnic areas, and trails. The visitor center is open from 9:00am-5:00pm daily. The monument and visitor center close on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Days. Unless there is a public program scheduled, there is no after-hours access. Vehicles are not permitted to be left in the parking lot after closing.
FAQ
- Is Aztec Ruins National Monument free to visit?
- Aztec Ruins National Monument does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Aztec Ruins National Monument?
- Aztec Ruins National Monument is open to the public from 7:00am-5:00pm, which includes the parking areas, archeological sites, picnic areas, and trails. The visitor center is open from 9:00am-5:00pm daily. The monument and visitor center close on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Days. Unless there is a public pr…
- Do I need a reservation for Aztec Ruins National Monument?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Aztec Ruins National Monument. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.