Mines Museum, home to one of Colorado’s two Goodwill moon rocks collected during the Apollo 17 mission, had its beginnings in 1874 with the collection of geologist, Arthur Lakes, and includes the historic Colorado State Mineral Collection created by the Bureau of Mines in the 1890’s. The museum serves as the state repository for Colorado’s mineral heritage and showcases the most extensive public collection of minerals from Colorado.
Discover Golden’s Hidden Gem
Attracting 30,000 visitors a year. Take in over 15,000 square feet of rocks, minerals, fossils and other fascinating Earth Science-related objects. Pass through our indoor cave and discover minerals that glow. Gaze at the sparkling Miss Colorado Crown containing over 600 gemstones and 21 diamonds. Transport yourself to Golden’s geologic past through our windows. Hike the Bob Weimer trail and visit authentic triceratops trackways. Marvel at our beautifully restored Irwin Hoffman mining murals.
Visit often. With more than 2,000 items currently on display and more than 40,000 total items in our collection, there will always be something new to see. We regularly rotate exhibits to provide fresh educational experiences and displays for our visitors to enjoy. Earn a free rock or mineral by participating in a family-friendly scavenger hunt and watch for changing themes!
OUR MISSION
We are committed to fostering an appreciation of the Earth, energy and the environment through exploration, engagement, and enlightenment.
OUR VISION
To be the leader in Earth Science exhibition and education, connecting the public to Mines and encouraging the pursuit of careers in STEM.
Geology Museum
Visit us
Admission: FREE
Regular Hours: Mon. – Sat. 9AM-4PM and Sun. 1PM-4PM
SCHEDULED SCHOOL GROUP DAY: Fridays – YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE, due to capacity restrictions.
CLOSED July 4th, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Location: Colorado School of Mines, General Research Lab (GRL) building,
1310 Maple St., Golden, CO 80401
Contact us
MANAGEMENT
Renata Lafler, Executive Director
rlafler@mines.edu
Samara Rhett, Operations Manager
srhett@mines.edu
COLLECTIONS
Ed Raines, Curator
eraines@mines.edu
DIVERSITY, INCLUSION & ACCESS
The Museum is committed to cultivating an inclusive culture that proactively welcomes, respects, and supports all community members, provides equitable access and promotes an open exchange of diverse ideas. LEARN MORE
