Los Alamos Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Plan your trip with this travel guide.


Introduction to Los Alamos

Nestled in the Jemez Mountains of North Central New Mexico is the small town of Los Alamos. Famous for being the birthplace of the atomic bomb, Los Alamos is a unique destination that offers a blend of science, history, and outdoor adventure. The town is home to the Los Alamos National Laboratory, which played a critical role in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Today, Los Alamos attracts visitors who want to explore its cultural and natural attractions and enjoy its small-town charm.

List of Places to Visit in Los Alamos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bradbury Science Museum: This museum exhibits the history and science of the Manhattan Project, as well as the scientific research being conducted at the Los Alamos National Laboratory today.
  • Los Alamos History Museum: Take a step back in time with exhibits that highlight the cultural and natural history of Los Alamos and its surrounding areas.
  • Fuller Lodge: Built in the 1920s, this historic building has served as a community gathering place for decades. Today, it houses an art center and a restaurant.

Natural Attractions of Los Alamos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bandelier National Monument: This park features stunning cliff dwellings, hiking trails, and opportunities to connect with Native American history and culture.
  • Pajarito Ski Mountain: Hit the slopes during the winter or take a ride on the mountain bike trails during the summer at this resort.
  • Valles Caldera National Preserve: Hike, fish, and explore this volcanic caldera in the Jemez Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Los Alamos

  • Pajarito Mountain: Take the scenic lift ride to the top of the mountain and hike or bike down the trails.
  • Ancho Canyon Trail: This trail takes you through a narrow canyon with stunning rock formations.
  • Guaje Ridge Trail: This trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Los Alamos: Activities and Tours

  • Atomic City Tours: Learn about the history and science of Los Alamos on a guided tour of the town and the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
  • Pajarito Environmental Education Center: Take a guided hike, birdwatch, or learn about native plants at this interactive center.
  • Los Alamos Farmers Market: Browse local produce, baked goods, and crafts at this weekly market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Los Alamos

Day Activity
1 Visit Bradbury Science Museum and Fuller Lodge
2 Explore Bandelier National Monument
3 Go skiing or mountain biking at Pajarito Ski Mountain
4 Take a guided hike at Valles Caldera National Preserve
5 Visit Los Alamos History Museum and hike the Ancho Canyon Trail
6 Take a guided tour of the Los Alamos National Laboratory
7 Browse the Los Alamos Farmers Market and visit Pajarito Environmental Education Center

Food and Drink Scene of Los Alamos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: This New Mexican staple features a juicy burger patty topped with roasted green chiles and melted cheese on a toasted bun.
  • Sopapillas: These fluffy pastries are served hot and drizzled with honey or stuffed with savory fillings.
  • Blue Corn Enchiladas: Blending traditional New Mexican flavors with blue corn tortillas creates this delicious dish.

Local Beverages

  • Santa Fe Brewing Co. Beer: Brewed in nearby Santa Fe, these beers are available on tap and in bottles throughout Los Alamos.
  • Los Alamos Lemonade: This refreshing drink is made with fresh lemon juice, ginger beer, and a splash of local honey.

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

  • Comfort Inn: This hotel offers comfortable and affordable lodging rooms.
  • Los Alamos Suites: These guesthouses offer spacious, fully furnished apartments for families or groups.
  • Upaya Zen Center: This Buddhist Center offers retreat-style lodging for those seeking a peaceful and meditative environment.

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

  • Atomic City Souvenirs: This gift shop offers t-shirts, mugs, and other souvenirs related to the town’s history and science.
  • Homestead Emporium: Browse handmade pottery, jewelry, and other crafts made by local artists.
  • Los Alamos Farmers Market: Bring home local produce, baked goods, and crafts from this weekly market.

Local Culture and Customs of Los Alamos

Los Alamos is unique for its blend of science and small-town charm. The town is full of scientists and engineers who work at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, but also has a rich history and strong community spirit. Visitors should be mindful of the town’s connection to the Manhattan Project and its sensitive research today.

Best Time to Visit Los Alamos

The best time to visit Los Alamos is during the summer months from June through August. The weather is warm and sunny, making outdoor activities enjoyable. However, the winter months also bring opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Los Alamos

Do:

  • Do explore the town’s rich history and culture.
  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor adventures available in the Jemez Mountains.
  • Do hike, bike, and explore the many trails and parks in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photos or videos of sensitive areas or research at the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
  • Don’t forget to respect the town’s cultural and historical significance.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Los Alamos

Los Alamos is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should exercise normal precautions and be mindful of sensitive research being conducted at the Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Health in Los Alamos

The town has a small hospital and medical services available. However, visitors should be prepared for the high altitude of the Jemez Mountains and its potential impact on their health.

Getting to Los Alamos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Los Alamos

The nearest airports to Los Alamos are:

  • Los Alamos County Airport: This small airport offers limited domestic flights.
  • Albuquerque International Sunport: This major airport offers multiple international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Los Alamos

  • Los Alamos Atomic City Transit: This local bus service offers connections to Santa Fe and other nearby towns.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Car rental services are available at most airports.
  • Shuttle Service: Several shuttle services offer transportation to and from Los Alamos and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Los Alamos

The town is small and walkable, but a car is necessary to explore the surrounding area. Alternatively, visitors can use the local bus service, Los Alamos Atomic City Transit, to get around.

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

  • Santa Fe: Explore the historic city of Santa Fe, just a short drive away from Los Alamos.
  • Taos: Head north to Taos to discover the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the area.
  • Albuquerque: The largest city in New Mexico offers a range of cultural attractions, such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History.

Conclusion

Los Alamos is a unique destination worth visiting for its science, history, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. Plan a trip to this hidden gem of New Mexico and experience its cultural and natural attractions firsthand.

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