Las Cruces
Las Cruces is in the Mesilla Valley, between the Organ Mountains and the Rio Grande. With approximately 350 days of sunshine each year, the climate is ideal for outdoor exploration and recreation.
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is 496,000 acres (200,724 hectares) of protected land. Hike along desert nature trails and check out archeological sites such as Apache Flats and Chavez Cave. Go horseback riding along the mountainside Baylor Pass and picnic at the Leasburg Dam State Park. Try sledding down dunes of gypsum sand at the White Sands National Monument, 52 miles (84 kilometers) from the city.
Birdwatchers, bring your cameras and binoculars for the diverse habitats around Las Cruces that are home to many bird species. Sign up for a bird-watching tour through the wetlands of Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. At Dripping Springs Resort, you may see bald eagles, owls and roadrunners as well as many other species.
Once you are back in Las Cruces, explore its museums, galleries and other attractions. Visit the historic district of Mesquite Street, where the city was founded in 1849. See some of the original adobe houses. View the collection of World War II and Korean War aircraft at the War Eagles Air Museum. Admire contemporary art pieces by regional and national artists at Las Cruces Museum of Arts. For shopping, browse the specialty shops on Main Street.
Las Cruces is known for its winemaking, with more than 40 commercial wineries along the Rio Grande. During your stay, go on the Las Cruces Wine Trail that encompasses the tasting rooms and vineyards of 10 wineries.
The city is conveniently located less than 1 hour’s drive from El Paso International Airport. Spaceport America is nearby; this will be a commercial hub for space tourism and is currently open for tours.
The popularity of Las Cruces is due to its history, scenery and range of outdoor adventures.