We welcome your visit to the Very Large Array!

We now require advance purchase, timed-entry admission. 

How it works:

• The VLA is open to the public 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve Day.
• Important Update!
  • Now through April 30, 2024: Entry times are available every hour (until sold out), up to 3 p.m. 
  • Beginning May 1, 2024: timed-entry will no longer be required so admission will be good for anytime between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Admission to the site includes:
  • Our Visitor Center including our documentary film, current exhibits, and Gift Shop
  • Our outdoor self-guided walking tour (weather permitting) 
• Please note: the Gift Shop is currently closed due to staffing issues.
• There may be times when the VLA is closed to the public without prior notice, i.e., adverse weather conditions or emergency site work. Please always check the website prior to visiting to ensure access is available.

Important Dates

• April 20, 2024: Spring Open House. Free admission. Details can be found here. 
• October 19, 2024: Fall Open House. Free admission. Details can be found here. 

International Visitors

• If you have a billing address outside of the U.S., multiple European banks sometimes decline this transaction due to perceived inconsistencies between their security protocols and that of our online system. If your transaction is continually rejected, please be assured we make allowances for walk-ins at the VLA for issues like this.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

If for any reason you cannot make the date and time of your admissions reservation, email [email protected] (Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm) and we will be happy to issue a refund or reschdule your visit. 

Inclement Weather Policy

By nature of its location on the Plains of San Agustin at an altitude of 7000 feet, the weather condition at the VLA can vary wildly and visitors should prepare for extreme conditions all year round. 

We will do our best to announce any site closures in advance, but conditions can change rapidly and we might not always have much warning. In the event we need to close, we will update our website as soon as possible. 

Please check the local weather forecast and NMRoads.com before your visit and if you have concerns about making the drive email [email protected] to request a refund.