Southwestern New Mexico

Travel Guide

Magdalena which includes land animals, a sunset and farmland
Socorro showing touring and farmland
Magdalena featuring an observatory
Socorro showing farmland
Southwestern New Mexico which includes vehicle 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 traveling between May and September, be sure to keep hydrated as the dry heat can be intense. For mild weather and lovely sunsets, consider traveling from September to November.

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

Where to stay in Southwestern New Mexico

Default Image

Picacho Hills

While Picacho Hills isn't home to many top sights, Paisano Pete and Recycled Roadrunner Statue are some notable places to visit nearby.

Picacho Hills
Default Image

Talavera

While there might not be top attractions in Talavera, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Dripping Springs Natural Area and New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.

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 P6,452 per night from Aug 4 to Aug 5
P6,452
P8,866 total
Aug 4 - Aug 5
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! (1,358 reviews)
"The pool, lobby and grounds were really nice. The room was mediocre. No fridge or microwave in the room and the bathroom is small and the shower door would get stuck. The restaurant and bar service was incredibly friendly but very understaffed and slow."

Reviewed on Jul 6, 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
The price is P4,391 per night from Jul 20 to Jul 21
P4,391
P5,105 total
Jul 20 - Jul 21
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,000 reviews)
"Great place to stay. We continue to stay here everytime we visit. Outdated but definitely clean, safe, quiet and totally convenient."

Reviewed on Jul 2, 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 P3,551 per night from Jul 15 to Jul 16
P3,551
P4,167 total
Jul 15 - Jul 16
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Las Cruces. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,146 reviews)
"Clean"

Reviewed on Jul 4, 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.
Alpine Village Suites
Alpine Village Suites
3.5 out of 5
100 Thunderbird Rd, Taos Ski Valley, NM
Stay at this 3.5-star spa aparthotel in Taos Ski Valley. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (554 reviews)
"The sound of running water, right out the window, was gorgeous. Very peaceful stay"

Reviewed on Jul 5, 2025

Alpine Village Suites
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging
3 out of 5
321 Kearney Ave, Santa Fe, NM
Stay at this aparthotel in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,172 reviews)
"Lovely place!"

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2025

Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging
High Sierra Condominium
High Sierra Condominium
3 out of 5
504 Excalibur Rd, Ruidoso, NM
Stay at this 3-star family-friendly condo in Ruidoso. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Casino Apache Travel Center ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (147 reviews)
"Lovely condo beautiful views"

Reviewed on Jun 16, 2025

High Sierra Condominium
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