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
The price is £112 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
£112
24 Aug - 25 Aug
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! (1,411 reviews)
"Loved the historic Spanish architecture of the facility. Beautiful grounds."

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
Ramada Hotel & Conference Center by Wyndham Las Cruces

Ramada Hotel & Conference Center by Wyndham Las Cruces

3 out of 5
201 E University Avenue, I-10 Exit 142, Las Cruces, NM
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,001 reviews)
"This was a very special stay. Just pased through for one night, though we didn’t stay long, the atmosphere of this property was a delight to experience. Renovations to the property has made for an interesting layout. Almost feels like a world of its own once you step inside. I would absolutely recommend ..."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Ramada Hotel & Conference Center by Wyndham 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 £51 per night from 18 Aug to 19 Aug
£51
18 Aug - 19 Aug
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! (2,190 reviews)
"My room smelled like dog pee but was too tired to ask to move rooms"

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain
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.
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! (13 reviews)
"Super cute and clean casita. Great shower. Has all the essentials. New and safe neighborhood. Owners gave clear directions and were responsive. The only thing I would recommend is a foam topper for the very firm bed. I’d stay again."

Reviewed on 12 Jul 2025

New Casita/Suite No cleaning fee.
Quaint Southwest Mesilla Home - Pet Friendly

Quaint Southwest Mesilla Home - Pet Friendly

Las Cruces, NM
Stay at this holiday home in Las Cruces. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities and in-room jetted baths. Popular attractions Fountain Theater and Rio Grande Vineyards ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (35 reviews)
Great stay in Las Cruces
"I had a lovely, peaceful stay. The house was great. I also enjoyed going to the nearby Picacho Roasters coffee shop."

Reviewed on 20 Jun 2025

Quaint Southwest Mesilla Home - Pet Friendly
Beautiful Riverside Home

Beautiful Riverside Home

T or C, NM
Stay at this holiday home in Truth or Consequences. Enjoy laundry facilities, in-room jetted baths and air conditioning. Popular attractions Riverbend Hot Springs ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (10 reviews)
Amazing!
"The pictures don’t do this home justice! It was so much more than we expected and the river view is breathtaking. Our family enjoyed spending quality time in the beautiful backyard. Will definitely recommend to all of our friends and family."

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

Beautiful Riverside Home
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