It’s still a work in progress, because there’s not yet public access to buildings that encompass part of the park in Los Alamos, but the Manhattan Project National Historic Park is the newest of its kind in New Mexico. More than 6,000 scientists and workers designed and built the atomic bomb, known by the code name of Project Y, in the 1940s. The Los Alamos area, located on the remote Pajarito Plateau, was chosen by the government for its national isolation. Its setting provided for a greater amount of security. Here’s why you’ll want to visit the park service’s visitor center at Los Alamos and the still-evolving park area to learn its important history:

While more than 30 sites across America played a role in the Manhattan Project, New Mexico's Los Alamos was one of three key locations.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Manhattan Project was a collaboration between the military and citizens that started humbly in 1939 and quickly grew in the 1940s. The three significant site locations were Washington and Tennessee in addition to New Mexico. About 54,000 acres in New Mexico were acquired for the venture.
Los Alamos is sometimes referred to as Atomic City since it is considered the birthplace of the atomic bomb.
rogersober/Trip Advisor
The community has a rich history and was where thousands of the world's greatest scientific minds once lived and worked during World War II. The park encompasses three Department of Energy facilities: Gun Site Facilities associated with the design of the "Little Boy" bomb, V-Site Facilities where components of the Trinity device were assembled, and the Pajarito Site where plutonium chemical research was conducted.The plan is for them one day to be on display to the public.
The visitor center is a great first stop to learn more about the events of the 1940s that happened here.
rogersober/Trip Advisor
The center is located at 475 20th St. in Los Alamos.

Related Stories

This Underrated State Park In New Mexico Will Have You Feeling A Thousand Miles Away From It All

This Underrated State Park In New Mexico Will Have You Feeling A Thousand Miles Away From It All

 The One New Mexico State Park That Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland Each Year

The One New Mexico State Park That Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland Each Year

 The Fun-Filled State Park In New Mexico That Has Something For Everyone

The Fun-Filled State Park In New Mexico That Has Something For Everyone
The center is open daily in the summer from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
rogersober/Trip Advisor
Winter and spring hours vary, so call before going to check the latest schedule at (505)661-6277.
Visitors will enjoy historic photographs, displays, and stories from park rangers.
kanbaatar/Trip Advisor
The center provides the framework for additional exploration around the area.
rogersober/Trip Advisor

Download the Manhattan Project National Historical Park site map to learn more information about Project Y and locations that will one day be opened up to the public. The area itself is still of great interest, and visitors will enjoy walking around Los Alamos and learning more about this beautiful and historic New Mexican town.

Were you aware of the significance of this New Mexican area in America’s victory in World War II? Have you visited this remote desert area, and if so, what were your favorite places to visit. For related content, be sure to visit best cities In New Mexico to explore on foot.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore New Mexico