Los Lunas Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Los Lunas with this comprehensive travel guide full of tips on where to stay, what to see, and all you need to know to make the most of your trip!


Los Lunas Travel Guide

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique destination in Central New Mexico, Los Lunas is a must-visit. This charming town has a lot to offer, from natural beauty to cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Los Lunas.

List of Places to Visit in Los Lunas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Los Lunas has a rich history and culture, reflected through its museums and historic sites. Some of the top places to visit are:

  • Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts: This museum showcases the unique history and culture of the area, including exhibits on farming, ranching, and Native American history.
  • Bosque Farms Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Bosque Farms, a nearby community that dates back to the early 20th century.
  • Luna Mansion: This historic mansion is a landmark of the town and serves as a venue for special events. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about its history.

Natural Attractions of Los Lunas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Los Lunas is known for its beautiful natural scenery. There are many parks and outdoor attractions to explore, including:

  • Bernardo Wildlife Area: This wildlife area is a great spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, elk, and migratory birds.
  • The Box Recreation Area: This scenic area is a popular spot for fishing and hiking. With its towering cliffs, rushing streams, and lush forests, it offers a truly breathtaking experience.
  • Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area: This area is another great spot for hiking and wildlife viewing, with over 500 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and forests to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Los Lunas

For outdoor enthusiasts, Los Lunas has a lot to offer. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • Tomé Hill Trail: This popular trail offers great views of the town and the surrounding mountains. At the top of the hill, there is a large cross that is visible from miles away.
  • Belen Harvey House Trail: This easy trail follows the path of an old railway line, passing through beautiful countryside and historic landmarks.
  • Valencia County Bike Path: This scenic path follows the Rio Grande through Los Lunas and several other nearby communities, offering great views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Los Lunas: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, visitors to Los Lunas can enjoy a variety of other activities and tours. Some popular options include:

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Los Lunas is home to several wineries that offer tastings and tours. Visit Luna Rossa Winery for a taste of their award-winning wines.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the town and surrounding landscapes. Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Company offers scenic flights.
  • Horseback Riding: Saddle up for a horseback ride through the countryside. Los Lunas Stables offers guided trail rides for all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Los Lunas

If you’re planning a longer trip to Los Lunas, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1:

  • Arrive in Los Lunas, check into your hotel
  • Visit the Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts for an introduction to the town’s history and culture
  • Enjoy dinner at Luna Mansion

Day 2:

  • Hike the Tomé Hill Trail for stunning views of the surrounding area
  • Visit the Bosque Farms Museum to learn more about the history of the area

Day 3:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the town and its surroundings
  • Visit Belen Harvey House Museum for a glimpse into the area’s railway history

Day 4:

  • Spend the day at The Box Recreation Area, fishing and hiking
  • Have dinner at The Timbers restaurant to enjoy some regional cuisine

Day 5:

  • Explore the Valencia County Bike Path on a bike tour, stopping at Riverside Nature Center along the way
  • Have dinner at Luna Rossa Winery and tour the vineyard

Day 6:

  • Horseback ride through the countryside with Los Lunas Stables
  • Visit Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area for some wildlife viewing

Day 7:

  • Relax and enjoy your last day in Los Lunas

Food and Drink Scene of Los Lunas

Los Lunas has a great food and drink scene, with something to suit all tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile: A regional specialty, green chile can be found in many dishes in Los Lunas. Try it in a breakfast burrito or on top of a burger.
  • Carne adovada: This slow-cooked pork dish is another New Mexican favorite, usually served with beans and rice.
  • Navajo Tacos: A Navajo dish consisting of frybread topped with beans, chili, cheese, and other toppings.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexican Wine: Los Lunas is home to several wineries, including Luna Rossa Winery, where you can try some locally made wine.
  • Hatch Chile Margarita: A unique twist on a classic drink, this margarita is made with Hatch chiles, a spicy New Mexican pepper.

Where to Stay in Los Lunas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whatever your budget and preferences, Los Lunas has a range of accommodation options. Some popular choices are:

  • Siesta Motel: This budget-friendly motel offers clean and comfortable accommodations with easy access to the town’s attractions.
  • Best Western Valencia Inn & Suites: This hotel features spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to the freeway.
  • Los Lunas Inn & Suites: This locally owned hotel offers affordable and comfortable rooms with a modern design.

What to Buy in Los Lunas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift, there are several local products you can bring back from Los Lunas. These include:

  • Pottery: The area is known for its Native American pottery, often made using traditional techniques and designs.
  • Chile Ristras: These strings of dried chile peppers are a colorful and fragrant souvenir that also happen to be a popular cooking ingredient in the area.
  • New Mexican Wine: Stop by one of the wineries in Los Lunas and pick up a bottle or two of locally made wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Los Lunas

Los Lunas is a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, each with their customs and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and take the time to learn about it through museums and events.

Best Time to Visit Los Lunas

The best time to visit Los Lunas is during the fall and spring months, when the weather is cooler and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot, but it is also the season for many outdoor events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Los Lunas

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try New Mexican cuisine and local wine
  • Take advantage of the many hiking and outdoor opportunities

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property
  • Ignore signage on hiking trails
  • Litter or damage the local flora and fauna

Safety and Health

Safety in Los Lunas

Los Lunas is considered a safe destination, but visitors should take usual precautions, such as locking their cars and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Los Lunas

The town has several medical facilities, including Los Lunas Community Clinic, Valencia Primary Care, and Presbyterian Urgent Care.

Getting to Los Lunas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Los Lunas is easily accessible by car, with several highways passing through the area. There are also several airports and bus stations nearby.

Airports Near Los Lunas

  • Albuquerque International Sunport: This is the nearest major airport, located about 25 miles north of Los Lunas.
  • Santa Fe Regional Airport: Another option is this airport, located about 60 miles to the northeast.

Bus Stations Near Los Lunas

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The closest Greyhound station is located in Albuquerque, about 22 miles north.
  • New Mexico Rail Runner Express: This commuter rail system has several stops in the surrounding area, including Los Lunas.

Other Options

If you prefer not to drive, there are several shuttle and taxi services available to transport you in and around Los Lunas.

How to Get Around in Los Lunas

The easiest way to get around Los Lunas is by car, although bicycle rentals are available in some areas. There is also a bus service provided by Valencia County.

Where to Go Next from Los Lunas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Los Lunas is conveniently located near several other destinations and attractions in the area. Some options for your next stop include:

  • Albuquerque: A vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, hop on Route 66 and visit museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.
  • Belen: This historic railroad town is home to the Harvey House Museum and several historic landmarks.
  • The Very Large Array: One of the world’s premier radio astronomy observatories, it is located about 50 miles west of Los Lunas.

Conclusion

Los Lunas is a unique and exciting destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a longer vacation, this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip.