Discover the Fascinating Borax Museum in Furnace Creek
Explore the rich history of borax mining and discover the unique stories of Death Valley at the Borax Museum in Furnace Creek.
A brief summary to Borax Museum Furnace Creek
- Death Valley National Park, Date Grove Rd, Furnace Creek, California, 92328, US
- +1800-236-7916
The Borax Museum, located in Furnace Creek, is a hidden gem within Death Valley National Park that beckons history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This charming museum is dedicated to the legacy of borax mining, which played a crucial role in the development of the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by informative displays that illustrate the history of borax extraction, including the infamous '20-Mule Team' wagons used to transport the mineral across the rugged terrain. Along with these captivating exhibits, the museum features a variety of authentic artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide deeper insights into the lives of those who worked in the mines and the challenges they faced in this extreme environment. Beyond the exhibits, the museum also offers an opportunity to understand the broader context of life in Death Valley, including its geological and ecological significance. The Borax Museum is not just a place to learn; it is a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit in one of the harshest climates on Earth. Visitors to the museum can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the well-curated displays and may even find themselves captivated by the stories of the past that resonate within its walls. The museum's location in Furnace Creek makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Death Valley, providing a perfect blend of education and adventure. With its fascinating exhibits and engaging atmosphere, the Borax Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to appreciate the history and culture of this remarkable area.
Local tips
- Check the museum's hours before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.
- Take your time to read the informative plaques; they provide great insights into the exhibits.
- Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions in Death Valley for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving within Death Valley National Park, head towards Furnace Creek. From the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, take the main road (CA-190) east. After approximately 1 mile, turn right onto Date Grove Road. The Borax Museum is located at the end of Date Grove Road, on the left side. There is no entrance fee specifically for the museum, but note that there is a park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Public Transportation
Currently, there are limited public transportation options available within Death Valley National Park. If you are relying on public transit, it is advisable to check the latest schedules for any shuttle services that may operate from nearby towns such as Pahrump or Las Vegas. If you reach Furnace Creek via a shuttle, the drop-off point will likely be near the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. From there, you can walk to the Borax Museum by heading east on CA-190 and then turning right onto Date Grove Road. It's about a 1-mile walk from the Visitor Center to the museum.
Attractions Nearby to Borax Museum Furnace Creek
- Last Kind Words Saloon
- Furnace Creek Stables
- Furnace Creek Visitor Center
- Furnace Creek Campground
- Death Valley 49ers Gateway
- Texas Spring
- Harmony Borax Works
- Golden Canyon
- Golden Canyon Trailhead
- Red Cathedral
- Manly Beacon
- Zabriskie Point
- Desolation Canyon Trailhead
- Twenty Mule Team Canyon
- Death Valley Wilderness
Landmarks nearby to Borax Museum Furnace Creek
- Ice Cream Parlor, Ranch at Death Valley
- The Oasis at Death Valley
- The Ranch at Death Valley
- Furnace Creek Airport
- Harmony Borax Works Historical Marker
- Mustard Canyon
- Old Stovepipe Wells
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
- Toll Road Restaurant
- Stovepipe Wells General Store
- Death Valley Junction Historic District
- Titus Canyon, end of Red Pass
- Grandstand
- Dublin Gulch
- Scotty's Castle