Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Las Cruces, NM

The city of Las Cruces, situated in the state of New Mexico, translates to ‘The Crosses’ in Spanish. However, this title is more indicative of its strategic location at a junction between two major highways, leading to its contemporary nickname, ‘The Crossroads.’ The region has garnered historical prominence as a temporary residence for iconic figures such as Billy the Kid and the Mexican general Pancho Villa, while also serving as a sanctuary for miners in earlier times.

Today, Las Cruces commands attention for its diverse culinary offerings, characterized by authentic New Mexican food, alongside a warm blend of Southwestern hospitality, rich history, and vibrant culture. Below, we present the best attractions in Las Cruces:

1. Old Mesilla

Traveling south from Las Cruces leads you to the historic village of Mesilla, recognized for its pivotal role in the trial of the notorious Billy the Kid. The area boasts charming shops that offer locally crafted goods, and it serves as an excellent destination for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Additionally, Old Mesilla is reputed to be haunted by miners and renowned historical personalities, providing an inviting opportunity for brave visitors to participate in guided tours of the downtown plaza, believed to be filled with spectral presences.

2. Fort Seldon State Monument

Established in 1865 by the United States Army, Fort Seldon served as a vital military installation aimed at safeguarding settlers in the Mesilla Valley. While much of the original fortification has faded over time, visitors can still explore the enduring adobe-style structures and engage with an informative visitor center that features permanent exhibitions detailing life on the frontier.

If your visit coincides with the weekend, you may be fortunate enough to enjoy live demonstrations that transport you back in time.

3. Las Cruces Museum of Art

The Las Cruces Museum of Art is committed to promoting artistic expression within the local and regional context of New Mexico. The museum features a variety of permanent and rotating temporary exhibitions, allowing visitors to engage with diverse artistic mediums, including sculpture, photography, and painting.

In addition to exhibitions, lectures accompany many showcases, while demonstrations and art classes are provided, emphasizing contemporary art and support for emerging local talent.

4. Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market

If you find yourself in Las Cruces on a Wednesday or Saturday, the local Farmers and Crafts Market is an excellent destination from dawn until afternoon. It’s an ideal location to acquire unique souvenirs, including handmade jewelry, leather goods, and locally crafted ceramics and pottery. Furthermore, the market is abundant in fresh produce and delicious food options sourced directly from local farms.

5. Railroad Museum

Visit the Santa Fe Depot, a landmark within Las Cruces, to explore the Railroad Museum, a treasure trove for train enthusiasts. The museum presents a collection of permanent exhibitions that chronicle the development of the railroads within the region, complemented by period memorabilia on display.

Additionally, model railways exhibit track layouts and railroad maps, while a retired caboose offers a nostalgic glimpse into Las Cruces’ railway history.

6. La Vina Winery

Visitors may be surprised to learn that the climate in Las Cruces is conducive to winemaking, with the dry heat creating ideal conditions for grape cultivation. Consequently, numerous wineries have established themselves in the area, including La Vina Winery, renowned for its annual wine festival held every October.

In addition to the festival, visitors are encouraged to explore the winery’s facilities and tasting rooms at other times of the year, where they can sample the latest grape blends available for tasting.

7. White Sands National Monument

Located 45 miles east of Las Cruces, visitors can discover the world’s largest field of gypsum dunes. This extraordinary monument has been described as reminiscent of a scene from another world, with the dunes providing a unique ecosystem for local plant and animal life to flourish despite the harsh conditions. The pristine dunes, complemented by picnic areas, offer opportunities for activities such as sand surfing or tobogganing.

The monument encompasses an area of 275 square miles, and guided walks, including the Sunset Stroll Nature Walk, enable visitors to learn about local points of interest from knowledgeable local guides.

8. New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum

The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum serves as an educational hub for anyone interested in the region’s extensive agricultural history, which spans an astonishing 3,000 years. The museum provides a welcoming environment for guests of all ages with informative exhibits detailing local dairy farming practices and demonstrations of traditional farming and cooking techniques.

Moreover, visitors can learn about the various animals integral to local farming, exploring the diverse breeds of cows and engaging with them within their enclosures.

9. Green Chili Trail

For chili aficionados, the Walk of Flame offers a self-guided tour of numerous restaurants and bars that feature chili-infused dishes. Green chilies represent a cornerstone of culinary pride in Las Cruces; the local university even maintains a research center dedicated to studying this beloved ingredient.

Along the Green Chili Trail, patrons can sample local specialties, including traditional Mexican dishes featuring green chilies, and unique creations such as green chili vodka, green chili martinis, and even green chili beer. This journey also delves into the history of chili cultivation in the region, alongside insights into growing and harvesting methods.

10. Picacho Avenue Antiques Mall

If you appreciate antiquities, Picacho Avenue in downtown Las Cruces offers a delightful day of exploration for hidden treasures. This vibrant area is replete with antique shops featuring authentic period items, renowned for their high quality and reasonable pricing, making it the perfect destination for meaningful souvenirs from your visit.

11. Museum of Nature and Science

While the Museum of Nature and Science is relatively small compared to other institutions in Las Cruces, it still hosts a variety of exhibits that explore the region’s flora and fauna. It features a modest zoo housing around 40 examples of live animals, with a distinct focus on desert species. Moreover, rotating exhibitions on loan from other science and nature centers across the United States enhance the educational experience within this engaging venue.

12. Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Located just outside of Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is dedicated to conserving the forested areas along the Rio Grande. Spanning an impressive 305 acres, the park is ideal for both hiking and mountain biking—activities that are exceedingly popular in the region. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy fishing in the Rio Grande waters.

The wetlands within the park create an ideal habitat for a variety of bird species, making it a prime location for birdwatching enthusiasts.

13. Fountain Theater

The Fountain Theater holds the title of the oldest movie theater in New Mexico and serves as an exemplary model of period architecture, having been constructed in 1905 in the distinctive adobe style. This historic venue not only stands as a beloved monument of the New Mexico landscape but remains operational, screening films regularly, including classics that resonate with film enthusiasts, particularly fans of Westerns.

14. Branigan Cultural Center

For those looking to deepen their understanding of the Las Cruces area, the Branigan Cultural Center offers a rich array of cultural experiences, particularly in the arts. Within this center lies the Museum of Fine Art and Couture, as well as the Las Cruces Historical Museum. The collections encompass local artworks, including sculptures, photography, textiles, and historical artifacts.

A visit to this eclectic repository of local culture is highly recommended for anyone in the vicinity.

15. Organs Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

This designated monument comprises nearly 500,000 acres of protected land, popular for hiking within the scenic Organs Mountains that encircle Las Cruces. This area provides a welcome escape from the city, featuring well-marked trails adorned with breathtaking views overlooking the Chihuahua Desert and the Organ Mountains.

Regardless of the chosen trail, visitors will encounter vibrant local flora and fauna that thrive in this arid environment, and the monument is easily accessible from Las Cruces.