Koshare Museum & Trading Post - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

The museum houses a massive collection of Native American artifacts, as well as a replicated kiva and a functioning trading post. The exhibits are well-documented and provide visitors with a fascinating look into the lives of the Native Americans who once inhabited the area. In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. Whether you're interested in learning about the history of the region or simply want to browse through some authentic Native American artifacts, the Koshare Indian Museum & Trading Post is definitely worth a visit.

The Koshare Museum & Trading Post in Otero County, Colorado has a long and rich history. The museum was founded in 1931 by a group of local residents who were passionate about preserving the area's unique heritage. The museum is home to an eclectic collection of artifacts that tell the story of the region's Native American, Spanish, and Anglo settlers. In addition to its collections, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events that help to bring the area's history to life. The Koshare Museum & Trading Post is an important part of Colorado's cultural landscape and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in learning more about the state's rich history.

The best time to visit the Koshare Museum & Trading Post is during the summer months, when the museum is open daily and the trading post is in full operation. During the summer, the museum also offers a variety of special events, including dance performances and storytelling sessions. 

1. Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum. There is a lot to see, including artwork, artifacts, and dioramas.
2. Be sure to check out the Koshare Dancers performance. The dancers are incredibly talented and the show is very moving.
3. The museum gift shop has a great selection of American Indian jewelry, pottery, and other items. be sure to pick up something for yourself or as a souvenir.
4. There is a picnic area located behind the museum if you'd like to bring your own lunch to enjoy during your visit.
5. Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum except for the Koshare Dancers performance area. Please be respectful of other visitors and do not use flash photography.
6. A guided tour is the best way to learn about the history and culture of Koshare Museum & Trading Post. Tours are available daily and must be booked in advance.
7. The cafe at Koshare Museum & Trading Post serves up delicious American and Native American-inspired cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.

1. The museum is named after the koshare, a Native American tribe that once lived in the area. 
2. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. 
3. The museum also has a Planetarium, which offers shows about the night sky and the constellations visible in the southwestern United States.
4. In addition to its regular exhibits, the Koshare Museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including an annual Navajo Rug Auction and a quilt show.
5. The collection of kachina dolls at the museum is one of the largest in the world, with over 1,000 dolls on display.
    

You just allow yourself at least 2-3 hours to see everything the museum has to offer.

From Denver, take I-25 south to Exit 109. Then take Highway 50 east for about 60 miles until you reach La Junta. Koshare Museum will be on your right just after you cross the Arkansas River. If you're coming from the south, take I-25 north to Exit 74. Then take Highway 350 east for approximately 45 miles until you reach La Junta. Again, Koshare Museum will be on your right just past the Arkansas River. 

 Admission to the museum is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and $3 for children ages 6-12. Children under 6 are free.
 

The museum is open Monday-Saturday 9 AM-5 PM and Sunday 1 PM-5 PM. Hours may vary seasonally so it's a good idea to check the website before you go.