Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour

Easy

3.3

(29)

hikers

Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour

Q: How long does the Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour take?

The walking tour is designed to be an easy exploration of historical sites. While the komoot route covers about 2.35 km (1.46 miles), guided tours typically last between one and two hours, allowing ample time to visit the various landmarks and absorb the history.

Q: What is the terrain like on this walking tour?

The tour primarily covers the compact and walkable downtown area of Los Alamos. You'll be on established paths and sidewalks. While the walking itself is easy, be aware that Los Alamos is at a high altitude, with the historic post office at 7,320 feet (2,231 meters).

Q: What historical sites and landmarks can I see along the route?

This walking tour takes you through significant historical sites related to the Manhattan Project and earlier history. You'll encounter places like Ashley Pond Park , The Los Alamos History Museum , Bathtub Row (where project leaders like J. Robert Oppenheimer lived), and the Oppenheimer House . You can also explore the Ancestral Pueblo Dwelling and the Romero Cabin , and the Bradbury Science Museum .

Q: Is the Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the outdoor areas of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park and on public sidewalks in Los Alamos, provided they are kept on a leash. Please be mindful of local regulations and clean up after your pet. Some indoor museum exhibits may not allow pets, so check with individual establishments.

Q: Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park?

No, there is no entrance fee or permit required to visit the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The park consists of various sites spread throughout the town, many of which are publicly accessible. However, some individual museums or attractions along the route may have their own operating hours or admission fees.

Q: Where can I park for the walking tour?

Parking is available in various public lots throughout downtown Los Alamos, close to the historical sites. You can often find parking near the Los Alamos History Museum or Ashley Pond Park, which are central starting points for the tour. For more detailed information, you can check the official National Park Service website for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park at nps.gov .

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Los Alamos for this walking tour?

The walking tour can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking. Summer can be warm but is often tempered by the high altitude. Winter can bring snow, which adds a unique atmosphere, but be prepared for colder temperatures. Always check the local weather forecast before your visit.

Q: Does this walking tour intersect with other trails?

Yes, this route primarily follows sections of the local Urban Trail , which connects many of the historical sites and amenities within the town of Los Alamos.

Q: Is the walking tour suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The tour is rated as easy, with minimal elevation change and established paths, making it very accessible for families. The historical significance and interactive elements at museums like the Bradbury Science Museum can be engaging for children and adults alike.

Q: Are there amenities like cafes or restrooms available along the route?

Yes, as the tour is located within the downtown area of Los Alamos, you'll find various amenities. There are cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms conveniently located near many of the historical sites. The Los Alamos town center provides all necessary services for visitors.

00:36

2.35km

10m

Hiking

Explore the historic heart of Los Alamos on a gentle walking tour, tracing the footsteps of scientists from the Manhattan Project era. This easy route covers 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 28 feet (9 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. You can expect to complete the entire experience in about 36 minutes, immersing yourself in a unique blend of history and scenery.

When planning your visit, remember that Los Alamos is at a high altitude, so be mindful of the elevation. The walking tour focuses on the compact downtown area, with most historical sites conveniently located within a 10 to 15-minute walk of each other. Parking is generally available in the downtown area, making it straightforward to access the starting point for your historical exploration.

This route offers a deep dive into the secret city's past, showcasing historically significant buildings like those on Bathtub Row, where project leaders resided. Beyond the wartime narrative, the trail also touches on older stories, including ancestral Pueblo dwellings and homesteader cabins, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pajarito Plateau's mesas and canyons.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

428 m

Ashley Pond Park

Highlight • Historical Site

Ashley Pond Park, situated within the Manhattan Project National Historic Park, holds significant historical value in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Named after the founder of the Los Alamos Ranch School, Ashley Pond, the park was a focal point during the Manhattan Project (1943-1947). It housed military facilities and played a crucial role in scientific research. Today, the park is a peaceful space with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, and features memorials and interpretive signs commemorating the Manhattan Project's scientific and historical contributions. There is also the Ice House, which stands as a memorial to the Los Alamos Ranch School days and Project Y, on the southern bank of the pond.

Tip by

1.06 km

The Los Alamos History Museum

Highlight • Historical Site

The Los Alamos History Museum, managed by the Los Alamos Historical Society, is in the oldest continually occupied structure in downtown Los Alamos. The building was initially built as an infirmary in 1918 and later served as a guest cottage for the Los Alamos Ranch School. During the Manhattan Project, it hosted General Leslie R. Groves. Now an award-winning museum, it offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's history, featuring exhibits on geology, anthropology, the Ranch School, and the Manhattan Project. Visitors can enjoy guided tours offering insights from ancient Puebloan ruins to the homestead-era Romero cabin (both located across from the museum) through 20th-century physics giants. Tickets are available for guided tours, with reservations recommended due to popularity. The museum itself is self-guided, and special programs are available for kids. Additionally, during the summer and fall, daily guided tours are available Monday–Friday at 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., with a Saturday tour at 11:00 a.m. The Winter Tour Schedule starting Nov. 6, 2023, includes one tour per day at 11:00 a.m., Monday-Saturday.

Tip by

1.17 km

Bathtub Row

Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site

In wartime Los Alamos, the scarcity of houses with amenities like bathtubs made them a luxury reserved for the highest-ranking Manhattan Project leaders. Originally constructed by the Los Alamos Ranch School, these well-built homes on what became known as Bathtub Row were initially intended for faculty and special events. When the Manhattan Project acquired the school property, figures such as Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer and Hans Bethe made these houses their homes. In contrast to the hastily constructed, amenity-limited housing for most project workers, Bathtub Row became synonymous with privilege, as its homes were among the few with coveted bathtubs, earning the street its unique nickname.

Tip by

1.32 km

Oppenheimer House

Highlight • Historical Site

The Oppenheimer House, part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos, New Mexico, holds historical significance as the former residence of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientific director of the Manhattan Project. Built in 1940, Oppenheimer with his wife Kitty, daughter Toni, and son Peter lived in this this modest dwelling from 1943-1945. Visitors can explore the house, now a museum, to learn about Oppenheimer's life and the intense scientific efforts that took place in the creation of the world's first atomic bomb.

Tip by

1.55 km

Ancestral Pueblo Dwelling and the Romero Cabin

Highlight • Historical Site

Just across from the Los Alamos History Museum, there is an Ancestral Pueblo Dwelling that offers visitors insight into ancient indigenous Pueblo people cultural practices. Next to the dwelling is the Romero Cabin, which reflects the town's more recent history and early Spanish and American settlers' lifestyle. Together, these sites contribute to the museum's mission of interpreting the diverse history of the Pajarito Plateau, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and historical layers that shape Los Alamos.

Tip by

1.81 km

Los Alamos

Highlight • Settlement

Los Alamos, New Mexico, holds a significant place in history as the site of the top-secret Manhattan Project during World War II, where scientists developed the atomic bomb. Established in 1943, the Los Alamos National Laboratory remains a key center for scientific research. Beyond its historical importance, Los Alamos offers diverse outdoor recreational opportunities. The surrounding landscape features the stunning Bandelier National Monument, known for its ancient Pueblo dwellings and scenic canyons. The nearby Valles Caldera National Preserve offers opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the remnants of a massive volcanic crater. The Los Alamos Main Street encompasses the Manhattan Project National Historical Park and the surrounding area where you can shop at local stores and eat at local cafes and restaurants.

Tip by

2.22 km

Bradbury Science Museum

Highlight • Historical Site

The Bradbury Science Museum, located in Los Alamos, New Mexico, is dedicated to showcasing the scientific and technological contributions of Los Alamos National Laboratory, particularly during the Manhattan Project. Named after the laboratory's second director, Dr. Norris E. Bradbury, the museum offers an immersive experience, featuring exhibits on nuclear science, physics, and the history of Los Alamos. Visitors can explore interactive displays, models, and artifacts, and learn about the laboratory's role in developing nuclear weapons and its ongoing contributions to various scientific fields. The museum aims to educate the public on the laboratory's research and its impact on national security and scientific advancements. Admission is free for visitors of all ages.

Tip by

2.35 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.95 km

365 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.66 km

492 m

170 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Friday 22 May

23°C

9°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour take?

The walking tour is designed to be an easy exploration of historical sites. While the komoot route covers about 2.35 km (1.46 miles), guided tours typically last between one and two hours, allowing ample time to visit the various landmarks and absorb the history.

What is the terrain like on this walking tour?

The tour primarily covers the compact and walkable downtown area of Los Alamos. You'll be on established paths and sidewalks. While the walking itself is easy, be aware that Los Alamos is at a high altitude, with the historic post office at 7,320 feet (2,231 meters).

What historical sites and landmarks can I see along the route?

This walking tour takes you through significant historical sites related to the Manhattan Project and earlier history. You'll encounter places like Ashley Pond Park, The Los Alamos History Museum, Bathtub Row (where project leaders like J. Robert Oppenheimer lived), and the Oppenheimer House. You can also explore the Ancestral Pueblo Dwelling and the Romero Cabin, and the Bradbury Science Museum.

Is the Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Walking Tour dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the outdoor areas of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park and on public sidewalks in Los Alamos, provided they are kept on a leash. Please be mindful of local regulations and clean up after your pet. Some indoor museum exhibits may not allow pets, so check with individual establishments.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park?

No, there is no entrance fee or permit required to visit the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The park consists of various sites spread throughout the town, many of which are publicly accessible. However, some individual museums or attractions along the route may have their own operating hours or admission fees.

Where can I park for the walking tour?

Parking is available in various public lots throughout downtown Los Alamos, close to the historical sites. You can often find parking near the Los Alamos History Museum or Ashley Pond Park, which are central starting points for the tour. For more detailed information, you can check the official National Park Service website for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park at nps.gov.

What is the best time of year to visit Los Alamos for this walking tour?

The walking tour can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking. Summer can be warm but is often tempered by the high altitude. Winter can bring snow, which adds a unique atmosphere, but be prepared for colder temperatures. Always check the local weather forecast before your visit.

Does this walking tour intersect with other trails?

Yes, this route primarily follows sections of the local Urban Trail, which connects many of the historical sites and amenities within the town of Los Alamos.

Is the walking tour suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The tour is rated as easy, with minimal elevation change and established paths, making it very accessible for families. The historical significance and interactive elements at museums like the Bradbury Science Museum can be engaging for children and adults alike.

Are there amenities like cafes or restrooms available along the route?

Yes, as the tour is located within the downtown area of Los Alamos, you'll find various amenities. There are cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms conveniently located near many of the historical sites. The Los Alamos town center provides all necessary services for visitors.

What should I wear for the Los Alamos walking tour?

Given the high altitude of Los Alamos, it's wise to dress in layers, as temperatures can change throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll be on your feet exploring historical sites. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is also recommended due to the elevation.