Mines Museum of Earth Science | Denver

The Mines Museum of Earth Science is an educational institution located on the Colorado School of Mines campus in Golden, Colorado, USA.

It houses a collection of geological specimens and minerals.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is situated within the Green Center building on the Colorado School of Mines campus. The building itself is constructed primarily of brick and concrete. The museum's exhibition space features display cases made of glass and metal, housing a diverse array of mineral and rock samples. Lighting within the exhibition areas is designed for specimen visibility.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is located at 1600 Maple Street, Golden, Colorado. It is approximately 25 kilometers west of downtown Denver. Access to the Colorado School of Mines campus is via State Highway 93. Visitor parking is available in designated campus lots, with hourly and daily rates. Public transportation options include the RTD bus route 16, which stops on the campus.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Mines Museum of Earth Science originated from the mineral collection of the Colorado School of Mines, established in 1874. The current museum space within the Green Center was developed to consolidate and display these extensive geological holdings for educational purposes. The collection represents a wide range of geological formations and mineral deposits from Colorado and globally.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe exhibits on mineralogy, crystallography, and economic geology. Specific displays include a significant collection of Colorado minerals, meteorites, and fluorescent minerals. Educational programs and guided tours are available by appointment.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located within the Green Center. Limited seating is available in the exhibition area. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available on campus. Food vendors and dining facilities are located in other buildings on the Colorado School of Mines campus, a short walk from the Green Center.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round during its scheduled operating hours. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded. For optimal viewing of fluorescent minerals, visiting during daylight hours is recommended, as some exhibits utilize UV lighting.

Facts & Legends

The museum's collection includes the "Colorado Collection," featuring over 1,000 mineral specimens from the state, many of which are rare or historically significant. One notable specimen is a large, well-formed crystal of Rhodochrosite, Colorado's state mineral.

Nearby Landmarks

• Colorado School of Mines Campus Buildings (0.1km North)
• Golden History Museum & Park (1.5km Southwest)
• Clear Creek (2.0km Northwest)
• Coors Brewery Tour (2.5km East)
• Table Mountain (3.0km North)