Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum is a great place to learn about the ancient cultures that once inhabited the Mesa Verde region. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, and visitors can also take part in ranger-led programs and hikes. One of the highlights of the museum is the "Living History" program, which gives visitors a taste of what life was like for the Ancient Puebloans who once called this place home. In addition to all of the great things to see and do at the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, it is also just a short drive from some of Colorado's most scenic attractions. Visitors can explore the Mesa Verde National Park, go whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, or take a scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains.

The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum is located in southwestern Colorado, near the town of Cortez. The museum is situated on a mesa top that overlooks the Mesa Verde National Park. The museum was founded in 1955, and its collections include artifacts from the Mesa Verde region, as well as from other parts of the Southwest. The museum's collections reflect the rich history of the area, which includes the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in the Mesa Verde region for more than 700 years. The Ancestral Pueblo people were a peaceful and agricultural society, and their way of life is reflected in the artifacts on display at the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. The museum's collections are an important record of the Ancestral Pueblo people and their culture, and they provide insight into the history of southwestern Colorado.

The best time to visit the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum in Montezuma County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for exploring the museum's outdoor exhibits. 

1. The museum is located on Chapin Mesa, so be prepared for a bit of a hike to get there. 
2. Many of the exhibits are outside, so dress appropriately for the weather conditions. 
3. The museum is kid-friendly and there are plenty of activities to keep them occupied.
4. Don’t forget to take some time to look at the gift shop. The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum has some great items for sale, including books, jewelry, and pottery. 
5. Start your visit with a stop at the museum's intro film. This will give you some background on the cultures that are represented at the museum.

1. This is one of the main features of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a National Historic Landmark since 1987.
2. The museum is situated on Chapin Mesa on the Spruce Tree Loop, near Spruce Tree Canyon. The canyon rim behind the building offers a view of Spruce Tree House, one of the largest and best preserved cliff dwellings in the park.
3. The museum has a collection of more than 12,000 artifacts. 
4. The museum is named after William Chapin, an archaeologist who worked in the area in the early 1900s. 
5. The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans who once called Mesa Verde home.

Around 2 to 4 hours is enough to explore this beautiful area. 

To reach the museum, take Highway 160 west from Cortez for about 10 miles. Then turn south onto Highways 491/42 and travel about 3 miles. The museum is located on the left side of the road. Visitors can also take a shuttle bus from the Mesa Verde Visitor Center. 

The entrance fee is $3 per eprson.

The museum is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.