The visit begins in the lobby, where a large map, texts, and a video introduce the ecological richness, diversity, and distinctions between two important regions: the Gran Chichimeca and Mesoamerica.

To the right, the exhibit "Ancient Times (30,000 B.C. to 100 A.D.)" explores the earliest inhabitants of the region and their practices of hunting and gathering. It features fossils of large mammals and a collection of artifacts that illustrate life during those early times. A map highlights the first cultural areas of the Gran Chichimeca, divided into four regions: Mogollón, O'otam, Seri, and Anasazi.

At the center of the room stands a scale model of Paquimé, showing what the city likely looked like at its peak. The model reflects the culture’s advanced water management technology. Around it, three interactive displays provide detailed information on different aspects of city life, including its historical periods and domestic, civic, and religious architecture.

Next to the model of Mesa Verde, visitors can learn more about Paquimé’s use of water—crucial for survival in the desert. Illustrations explain the layout of spring basins and the technologies used to distribute water. Separate display cases feature models reconstructing household water systems, as well as fine examples of Paquimé’s hallmark polychrome pottery, known for its exquisite design and craftsmanship.

This room explores daily life in Paquimé. Large display cases contain the essential raw materials used by the community, while smaller side cases highlight various craftspeople and their work:

• Potters, with examples of clay techniques, designs, uses, and functions
• Stoneworkers, who skillfully carved sculptures, ceremonial objects, tools, and utensils
• Shell artisans, creators of decorative and ritual items of great ingenuity
• Copper workers, who produced both large and small objects and jewelry
• Bone artisans, who carved tools from various animal bones
• Weavers and miners, who understood the properties of different minerals and plants
• Carpenters and builders, shown with their construction tools

The room also highlights trade—Paquimé’s main vocation—and the intricate networks connecting the Gran Chichimeca and Mesoamerica.

In the second corridor, niches contain offerings to the gods—finely crafted objects in stone, ceramics, and metal used by shamans, priests, and spiritual healers. Musical instruments on display suggest both ceremonial and recreational uses. Opposite the niches, a section presents a depiction of the city's decline and abandonment, likely in the 13th century. Whether caused by war, prolonged drought, or a combination of factors, the people of Paquimé set off “toward other lands.” A map illustrates post-Paquimé settlements, with emphasis on the site of Tres Ríos.

When the Spanish arrived in the region, Paquimé had long been abandoned. The history of northern Mexico differs from that of the south. The Spanish conquest here took the form of missions—“the sword and the cross”—marking a period of colonial penetration and frequent indigenous uprisings. These were not subdued peoples, but often exterminated ones. A small video room offers a summary of regional history from the colonial period through the 20th century.

This room also features a model of the San Antonio de Padua mission, near Casas Grandes, and an old map showing early routes and settlements. Artifacts from the colonial era are on display, including weapons. The central panel presents a selection of historical objects from northern Mexico, especially tools used in mining, ranching, and agriculture.

From the lobby, visitors can access the Central Courtyard, leading to the second floor with terraces and a large scenic overlook of the natural landscape surrounding Casas Grandes—and a stunning view of the archaeological site of Paquimé. The descent down a ramp begins the tour of the Archaeological Zone.