Southwestern New Mexico Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Magdalena which includes farmland, land animals and a sunset
Socorro showing farmland and vehicle touring
Magdalena which includes an observatory
Socorro showing farmland
Southwestern New Mexico showing touring and tranquil scenes

Explore rugged desert terrain, relax in spa towns, learn about Hispanic heritage and find out more about this region’s obsession with outer space.

Southwestern New Mexico is a place for the pioneers of yesterday and today. See the mining towns where miners used to strike it rich in gold and silver as they headed west and follow the trails of the Spanish explorers. Take a tour of the launch pad that was built to provide commercialized trips to outer space as leading scientists work to explore the next frontier.

Visit Las Cruces, a historic city with views of the Organ Mountains. Learn about the history of the settlers at the Fort Selden Historic Site, which once played a role in keeping the area safe. Stop by Silver City for authentic Mexican food and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities at Bear Mountain Lodge.

Take a walking tour of the Very Large Array Telescopes, 27 bright white telescopes in the Plains of San Agustin that are used by astronomers to map out the sky. Experience astronaut simulators and meet the experts who are working to advance space exploration at Spaceport America.

The Southwestern New Mexico region is home to vast natural areas including the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Hike the nature trails along the Rio Grande and bring a picnic to enjoy while birdwatching. Next to Whitewater Creek, explore the Catwalk National Scenic Trail, which leads through Whitewater Canyon and past hidden waterfalls. Elephant Butte Lake State Park offers a variety of water-based activities, including kayaking and swimming.

For a uniquely named spa town, visit Truth or Consequences and dip your feet in its warm mineral waters. Relax downtown at Las Palomas Plaza and attend a performance in Ralph Edwards Park.

Southwestern New Mexico typically provides sunny skies. If you are travelling between May and September, be sure to keep hydrated as the dry heat can be intense. For mild weather and lovely sunsets, consider travelling from September to November.

Start your next adventure in Southwestern New Mexico, a popular holiday destination offering a mix of history, outdoor activities and innovation.

Where to stay in Southwestern New Mexico

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Picacho Hills

Picacho Hills might not have many top sights, but Paisano Pete and Recycled Roadrunner Statue are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Picacho Hills
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Talavera

When in Talavera, you can plan a visit to Dripping Springs Natural Area and New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Talavera
Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces

Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces

3.5 out of 5
705 S Telshor Blvd, Las Cruces, NM
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £115 per night from 31 Aug to 1 Sept
£115
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy 3 bars/lounges, a nightclub and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,455 reviews)
Great Place to Stay
"I stayed here when I moved to Las Cruces. It is beautiful and conveniently located near grocery stores, restaurants and the mall. The pool is amazing!"

Reviewed on 23 Aug 2025

Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain

3 out of 5
1500 Hickory Dr, Las Cruces, NM
The price is £52 per night from 2 Sept to 3 Sept
£52
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,215 reviews)
Great for a quick overnight
"Perfect quick overnight on a cross country drive. Rooms a bit dark and outdated but comfy bed, very clean, good free breakfast."

Reviewed on 22 Aug 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain
Days Inn by Wyndham Las Cruces

Days Inn by Wyndham Las Cruces

2.5 out of 5
755 Avenida De Mesilla, Las Cruces, NM
The price is £42 per night from 10 Sept to 11 Sept
£42
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,196 reviews)
"me senti muy comoda"

Reviewed on 24 Aug 2025

Days Inn by Wyndham Las Cruces
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cozy pet friendly house with a great outdoor space, and fully stocked kitchen.

Cozy pet friendly house with a great outdoor space, and fully stocked kitchen.

Las Cruces, NM
Stay at this holiday home in Las Cruces. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffee maker and air conditioning. Popular attractions Branigan Cultural Center ...
10/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
"Excellent and clear communicationExceptional amenities, stocked kitchen, coffee and tea and a little treat!Clean and comfortable.Nice yard and ample room."

Reviewed on 19 Aug 2025

Cozy pet friendly house with a great outdoor space, and fully stocked kitchen.
Josefina's King Suite in Historic Old Mesilla Plaza.

Josefina's King Suite in Historic Old Mesilla Plaza.

2 out of 5
Mesilla
Stay at this apartment in Mesilla. Enjoy air conditioning. Popular attractions San Albino Basilica and Mesillia Plaza are located nearby.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (16 reviews)
"Amazing property and location. Convenient walking to Old Town. Secure. Great communication with hosts. We will return!"

Reviewed on 24 Aug 2025

Josefina's King Suite in Historic Old Mesilla Plaza.
New Casita/Suite No cleaning fee.

New Casita/Suite No cleaning fee.

Las Cruces, NM
Stay at this apartment in Las Cruces. Enjoy an in-room coffee maker and air conditioning. Popular attractions Red Hawk Golf Club and Sonoma Ranch Golf Course ...
10/10 Exceptional! (14 reviews)
A classy Casita!
"My sister and I needed a place to stay where we felt safe and relaxed while taking care of some business in Las Cruces. This was the perfect place! It is very well kept in a lovely neighborhood. In my opinion, a kitchen is for display only. This one had exactly what we needed but if you are a chef, ..."

Reviewed on 9 Aug 2025

New Casita/Suite No cleaning fee.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Southwestern New Mexico