Background

Otero Museum Association: A Glimpse into Otero County's Past

Explore Otero County's rich history through engaging exhibits at the Otero Museum Association in La Junta, Colorado.

4.8

The Otero Museum Association in La Junta, Colorado, preserves and showcases the history of Otero County from 1875 through World War II. Exhibits depict various aspects of life in the Arkansas Valley, including transportation, agriculture, and military history. Highlights include a railroad collection, an original Overland Stagecoach, and a furnished Sciumbato House and Grocery Store.

A brief summary to Otero Museum Association

  • Monday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Tuesday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Wednesday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Friday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow one to two hours for a comprehensive guided tour of the seven-building museum complex.
  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for information on special events or off-season tour availability.
  • Visit during the week for a more personal experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From La Junta City Park, head west on 3rd Street for about 0.5 miles. The Otero Museum Association will be on your right at 706 W 3rd St. There is no fee for walking.

  • Public Transport

    If you are near the La Junta Public Library, catch the local bus service heading west towards 3rd Street. Get off at the stop closest to 3rd and Colorado Avenue. Walk west on 3rd Street for about 0.2 miles. The Otero Museum Association will be located on your right at 706 W 3rd St. Single fares are approximately $1.25.

  • Driving

    The Otero Museum Association is located at 706 W 3rd St in La Junta. From Otero Junior College, head west on US-50, then turn right onto CO-109 N/CO-194 N/3rd Street. Continue on 3rd Street; the museum will be on your left. Parking is available on site. There is no fee for parking.

Unlock the Best of Otero Museum Association

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Otero Museum Association

The Otero Museum Association, established in 1984, is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Otero County in southeastern Colorado. The museum's collection, which began with artifacts donated by the Otero County Historical Society and supplemented by thousands of items from local residents, primarily covers the period from 1875 to the end of World War II. The museum's exhibits offer insight into how residents of the area lived and conducted business during that time. Displays illustrate transportation, military, postal service, agriculture, business, and schools. The museum's railroad collection focuses on the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad and the Kansas Pacific Railroad, featuring a 1939 Plymouth switch engine and an AT&SF boxcar. Inside, visitors can explore a complete telegraph office, period railroad uniforms, and a collection of railroad artifacts. Kids can even push a button to sound an 1897 steam locomotive whistle. Outside the main building, the Sciumbato House and Grocery Store, listed on the National Historic Register, depicts life in the early 1900s. The museum also features collections related to the La Junta Army Air Base and Training Site, and the community's wartime efforts. Admission includes a guided tour led by a knowledgeable volunteer.

Popular Experiences near Otero Museum Association

Popular Hotels near Otero Museum Association

Select Currency