
Borax Museum Death Valley
Step back in time at the Borax Museum, exploring Death Valley's rich mining history with iconic wagons and antique machinery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the desert heat

Borax Museum Death Valley
Best Time
Escape the desert heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Borax Museum, exploring Death Valley's rich mining history with iconic wagons and antique machinery.
"A quick, free stop with fascinating outdoor exhibits showcasing Death Valley's mining past."

Free Outdoor Exhibits
Even if the museum is closed, the outdoor displays of mining equipment are free and fascinating! :camerawithflash:
Grab a Handout
Numbered displays outside match a handout inside. Ask at the gift shop for details! :pagefacingup:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Borax Wagons
Outside the Museum
See the iconic 20-mule team wagons that hauled borax out of Death Valley. A true symbol of the region's mining past.

Mining Equipment Displays
Outside the Museum
Explore a fascinating collection of antique tractors, trains, and mining machinery used in the early days.

Rock and Gem Displays
Inside the Museum
Admire beautiful and intriguing rock and gem specimens, showcasing the geological wonders of Death Valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Fuel Up Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Outdoor Exhibits
Even if the museum is closed, the outdoor displays of mining equipment are free and fascinating! :camerawithflash:
Grab a Handout
Numbered displays outside match a handout inside. Ask at the gift shop for details! :pagefacingup:
Quick Stop Gem
A short visit (30 mins) is perfect for history buffs, but don't expect to spend hours. :stopwatch:
Hydrate and Refuel
Bring plenty of water and snacks. Gas and treats are pricey inside the park. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Outdoor Exhibits
Even if the museum is closed, the outdoor displays of mining equipment are free and fascinating! :camerawithflash:
Grab a Handout
Numbered displays outside match a handout inside. Ask at the gift shop for details! :pagefacingup:
Quick Stop Gem
A short visit (30 mins) is perfect for history buffs, but don't expect to spend hours. :stopwatch:
Hydrate and Refuel
Bring plenty of water and snacks. Gas and treats are pricey inside the park. :water_wave:
Oldest Structure
This museum is housed in the oldest building in Death Valley National Park! :building_construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Borax Museum a worthwhile and interesting stop, especially for its free outdoor exhibits showcasing historic mining equipment and the iconic 20-mule team wagons. While the indoor museum offers beautiful rock and gem displays, some find it a bit small for an extended visit. The high prices for gas and food in Death Valley are a common point of concern for many.
"Interesting collection of old machines outside. Inside the museum the rock and gem displays are beautiful. The best value thing to do you'll find at the Ranch in death valley. Wasn't impressed with the rest of the property."
Marcell Office (Mark)
"Something to do in Death Valley. The displays outdoors were free and easily accessible. They did have a small cabin that was locked to the public. Yes, a short stop unless you have great interest in old mining equipment.
This is right at the ranch, next to the spring fed pool. Easy access to parking.
Ice cream in the shop was $7 per cone & gas was $7 per gallon in town. Fill up before you come!"
L K
"This review is only based on the static displays outside of the museum since it was closed when we visited. There are a lot of vehicles and equipment on display. Each item is numbered which matches the handout that can be found on the back wall of the museum building. Very interesting..."
John Tamagawa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Borax Museum is located in Furnace Creek, within Death Valley National Park. It's situated at The Ranch at Death Valley. If you're driving, follow signs for Furnace Creek. Parking is available nearby.
The drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your starting point and traffic. The Borax Museum is a central point within the park.
For a day trip, focus on key areas like Furnace Creek (where the Borax Museum is), Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Artist's Drive. Plan your route to minimize driving time.
Currently, there are no public shuttle services operating within Death Valley National Park. You'll need your own vehicle to get around.
Roads within Death Valley National Park, including those leading to Furnace Creek, are generally well-maintained paved roads. However, always check for any temporary closures or advisories before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Borax Museum itself is free to enter. However, there is an entrance fee for Death Valley National Park, which is typically per vehicle.
The museum's operating hours can vary seasonally and may be limited. It's best to check the official Death Valley National Park website or inquire at The Ranch at Death Valley for the most current hours.
Yes, the outdoor displays of mining equipment are accessible even when the museum building is closed. These are free to view.
No, the outdoor exhibits featuring historic mining equipment are free to explore.
Entrance passes can be purchased at the park's entrance stations or online through the official National Park Service website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the history of borax mining in Death Valley, featuring exhibits on the 20-mule team, mining equipment, and beautiful rock and gem displays. The outdoor area has antique machinery.
A visit to the Borax Museum is typically a short stop, around 30 minutes to an hour, especially if you explore the outdoor exhibits thoroughly.
Yes, children often enjoy seeing the large mining equipment outside and the interesting rock and gem displays inside.
Restroom facilities are generally available at The Ranch at Death Valley, which is adjacent to the museum.
The Borax Museum is located at The Ranch at Death Valley, near the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, spring-fed pool, and golf course. Other nearby attractions include Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Ranch at Death Valley offers dining options, including a restaurant and a cafe. However, be prepared for higher prices.
Food and drinks within Death Valley National Park, including at The Ranch, can be quite expensive. Ice cream cones have been noted at $7. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water.
While there may not be designated picnic tables directly at the museum, you can find picnic areas within Death Valley National Park. It's a great way to save money on food.
There is a general store at The Ranch at Death Valley that sells some groceries and convenience items, but selection may be limited and prices are high.
The most budget-friendly approach is to pack a cooler with sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water from outside the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic 20-mule team wagons, the vintage mining equipment, and the unique desert landscape surrounding the museum. The historic building itself is also photogenic.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that can enhance the textures of the mining equipment and the desert scenery. Early mornings are also good to avoid harsh midday sun.
Try capturing the scale of the wagons and machinery. Shots that include the vast desert backdrop can also be very striking.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can be useful for capturing details on the equipment. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always good practice to check for any posted restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit to the Borax Museum with other family-friendly spots in Furnace Creek, such as the spring-fed pool at The Ranch or a short drive to the colorful Artist's Palette. The outdoor exhibits are free and accessible, making it an easy addition to any family itinerary. Just be mindful of the desert heat and plan your visit accordingly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (fall or spring) for more comfortable temperatures and potentially fewer crowds, which can sometimes influence pricing on accommodations if you're staying overnight. The museum is a relatively quick visit, so you can maximize your time exploring other free natural wonders in the park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to explore the rock and gem displays inside for close-up shots of geological wonders. While the museum is a compact site, its historical significance and visual appeal make it a worthwhile stop for photographers. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for the expansive desert views and a telephoto lens for details on the machinery. Always be mindful of the intense desert sun and protect your gear.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Borax Mining
Prospectors like Aaron and Rosie Winters are credited with discovering borax in the late 1800s. A San Francisco businessman then developed the industry, and a popular television show later cemented the 20-mule team's image in American culture. The museum itself is housed in the oldest structure in Death Valley National Park, built in 1883 by F.M. 'Borax' Smith, the founder of the Pacific Coast Borax Company. Originally serving as an office, bunkhouse, and ore checking station in Twenty Mule Team Canyon, its relocation to Furnace Creek preserved a vital piece of history.
Today, visitors can explore the outdoor exhibits featuring a collection of antique mining equipment, tractors, and even a train. These static displays, often accompanied by informative handouts, offer a tangible connection to the labor-intensive mining operations of the past. Inside, the museum presents rock and gem displays that highlight the geological diversity of Death Valley, providing a broader context to the region's mineral wealth.
Navigating Death Valley's Extremes
Beyond the heat, preparation is key for any trip to Death Valley. The remoteness of the park means services are limited and often expensive. Visitors are strongly encouraged to fill up their gas tanks and pack ample water and snacks before entering the park. Prices for essentials like gas and even simple items like ice cream can be significantly inflated within the park boundaries. This foresight ensures a more comfortable and budget-friendly experience, allowing you to focus on the historical and natural wonders.
When exploring the outdoor exhibits of the Borax Museum, remember that you're often exposed to the elements. Wear appropriate sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, and stay hydrated. While the museum building offers a respite from the heat, the surrounding landscape is a constant reminder of the desert's power.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit