Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
Explore Ancestral Puebloan culture and discover ancient ruins at this archaeological museum and visitor center in Dolores, Colorado.
The Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum in Dolores, Colorado, serves as the headquarters for the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and is the premier archaeological museum in southwest Colorado. It offers a deep dive into the Ancestral Puebloan culture and other Native American cultures of the Four Corners region.
A brief summary to Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
- 27501 CO-184, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, US
- +1970-882-5600
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to allow ample time to explore both the indoor exhibits and the outdoor trails to the Dominguez and Escalante Pueblos.
- Check the museum's schedule for ranger-guided programs, special events, and cultural demonstrations.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking the outdoor trails, especially during warmer months.
- Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for free admission if you plan to visit other national parks and monuments.
- Pick up a transportation map at the visitor center to navigate the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and stay on designated routes.
Getting There
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Driving
The Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum is located at 27501 CO-184, Dolores, CO 81323. From Dolores, head east on CO-184; the visitor center will be on your left. From Cortez, take US-491 N to CO-184 E in Dolores. Continue on CO-184 for approximately 7 miles. Parking is available in the paved lot at the visitor center. There are about 50 parking spaces, including accessible spaces. Parking is free.
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Walking
If you are staying in Dolores, you can walk to the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum. Head east on CO-184. The visitor center is approximately 3 miles from the center of Dolores and will be on your left. The walk may take around an hour.
Discover more about Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
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