At the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the visitor center hours vary by location:
– Hanford, WA: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday open, Sunday closed.
– Los Alamos, NM: Friday to Monday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Tuesday to Thursday closed.
– Oak Ridge, TN: Hours not specified, but similar community-based access applies.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. Admission is free.
From Knoxville, take I-40 W to Oak Ridge, a secret city born of wartime innovation. Or, from Seattle, drive I-90 E to Richland, near the clandestine Hanford site. Alternatively, from Santa Fe, head to Los Alamos via US-84 W, uncovering the heart of nuclear history.
Parking options vary by site. At Oak Ridge, park in the library parking lot for the Secret City Commemorative Walk. In Los Alamos, park on 20th St near the Visitor Contact Station; no specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned. No overnight parking or fees indicated.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Manhattan Project National Historical Park, a unique and poignant destination, sprawls across three distinct sites in Oak Ridge, Tennessee; Los Alamos, New Mexico; and Hanford, Washington. This park is not about lush landscapes or wildlife, but about the profound history that shaped the world.
In Oak Ridge, Tennessee, the park reveals the secretive town that once housed thousands of workers in a flurry of wartime activity. The X-10 Graphite Reactor, a pioneer in nuclear research, stands as a testament to the era’s innovation. Los Alamos, New Mexico, is home to the Los Alamos National Laboratory, where some of the brightest minds of the 20th century labored to create the atomic bomb. The town’s high desert landscape, dotted with piñon pines and juniper, provides a stark contrast to the intense scientific endeavors that took place here.
Hanford, Washington, offers a glimpse into the massive industrial effort that produced plutonium. The B Reactor, now a National Historic Landmark, is a haunting reminder of the scale and urgency of the Manhattan Project.
Visitors can explore the sites through interpretive programs and guided tours, led by knowledgeable park rangers. While the park does not offer traditional outdoor activities, it provides a deep dive into the history and science that defined a generation. Nearby, artisan towns like Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Richland, Washington, offer a blend of cultural experiences and local craftsmanship.
Special events include lectures and workshops that delve into the scientific and historical aspects of the Manhattan Project. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the park’s visitor centers and historic sites are open to explore, even when the main facilities are closed. This park is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by history, science, and the human ingenuity that shaped the course of modern history.
- Area (mi²)
- 700
- Established year
- 2015
Top 3 Facts about Manhattan Project National Historical Park
The project led to the development of communities like Hanford, where the Tri-Cities area was established, and it involved the construction of facilities that produced plutonium, with the B Reactor at Hanford generating 250 megawatts of thermal power.
In the desert trails and expansive vistas of this historical site, visitors can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including prairie dogs, black bears, and golden eagles. The landscape is dotted with unique flora, and the skies are filled with canyon towhees, turkey vultures, and sandhill cranes. Mountain lions and mule deer roam the terrain, while short-horned lizards bask in the sun. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance creates a captivating experience for those who venture here.
Along the Columbia River, where the Hanford Engineer Works once thrived, the water glimmers with a soft blue hue, reflecting the vast sky above. The surrounding landscape is dotted with unique geological formations, a testament to the region’s rich natural history. The nearby Rattlesnake Mountains rise to heights of over 3,600 feet, offering a dramatic backdrop to this historic site. Here, the confluence of natural beauty and historical significance creates a unique and captivating experience.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit, allowing a few days to explore multiple sites. Start at the visitor center, then take guided tours or self-tour the historic communities. Anticipate security checkpoints and limited dining options. Attend the ‘Ride with the Ranger’ event in April for a unique experience. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on varied terrain. Pack meals and rest frequently.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varied weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a waterproof jacket for unexpected rain. Bring a daypack with snacks, water, and a map. For longer stays, include camping gear and warm clothing for cooler nights.
Respect Wildlife
Respect local wildlife by keeping a safe distance, especially from prairie dogs and black bears. Avoid feeding or disturbing animals. Stay on designated trails to protect fragile flora and fauna. Be mindful of seasonal weather and habitat sensitivities. Leave no trace, taking all trash with you.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Be informed, stay safe.
Seasons
In spring, explore historic sites amidst mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes. Although B Reactor tours are suspended due to construction, Pre-Manhattan Project Historical Sites tours begin in April, offering a unique glimpse into World War II-era science and history.
Explore the secretive past of America’s nuclear age in the summer, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s. Attend the Tennis Court Dances in July, a nostalgic evening of music and socializing. Warm weather makes for ideal hiking and biking tours, but construction at key sites may limit some access.
Experience autumn’s mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and vibrant colors through guided bike rides and hikes. Join the “Ride with a Ranger” or “Hike Through Time” in September and October, exploring historic landscapes and learning about the region’s rich history amidst crisp fall weather. Ideal for immersive outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter experience, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. Crisp weather and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to immerse in historic sites and museums, though some facilities may have limited hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Manhattan Project National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the sites, you can stay in Hanford, Washington, for the Hanford site; Los Alamos, New Mexico, for the Los Alamos site; or Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for the Oak Ridge site. Each of these cities is close to the respective historical locations.
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The Acid Canyon Trail in Los Alamos is the most family-friendly hike, lasting 30-90 minutes and allowing pets. This trail is part of the historical park and offers a manageable duration for families to enjoy together.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in any buildings and owners must clean up after them. Dogs should never be left unattended.
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Parking is free at the park. There are no entrance fees or parking charges to visit the sites.
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You can visit three main sites: Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where scientists and engineers developed uranium-235; Los Alamos, New Mexico, the central research and development site led by J. Robert Oppenheimer; and Hanford, Washington, a secret factory that produced plutonium. These sites offer visitor centers, interpretive services, and park rangers to provide historical context. The park was established on November 10, 2015, through a joint effort by the National Park Service and the Department of Energy.