Southeast New Mexico Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Southeast New Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide


Introduction to Southeast New Mexico

Southeast New Mexico is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the state’s southwest corner, it boasts a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions. From scenic desert views to rich history and culture, Southeast New Mexico has something to offer every traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Southeast New Mexico

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
  2. Roswell UFO Museum
  3. Lincoln National Forest
  4. New Mexico Museum of Space History
  5. White Sands National Monument

Natural Attractions of Southeast New Mexico: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
  2. Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino
  3. Pecos River Flume
  4. Carlsbad Water Park
  5. Sitting Bull Falls

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast New Mexico

  1. Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Devil’s Hall Trail
  2. Lincoln National Forest: Ruidoso River Trail
  3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Natural Entrance Trail
  4. Three Rivers Petroglyph Site: Three Rivers Trail
  5. Sitting Bull Falls: Sitting Bull Falls Trail

Best Things to Do in Southeast New Mexico: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the caves at Carlsbad Caverns National Park
  2. Witness the famous UFO phenomenon at Roswell UFO Museum
  3. Take a scenic drive through Guadalupe Mountains National Park
  4. Enjoy a day at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino
  5. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast New Mexico

Day Activity
1 Explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park
2 Discover Roswell and the UFO Museum
3 Hike through Guadalupe Mountains National Park
4 Visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History
5 Relax at White Sands National Monument
6 Enjoy Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino
7 Experience the Sitting Bull Falls and Three Rivers Petroglyph Site

Food and Drink Scene of Southeast New Mexico

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Green Chile Stew
  2. Enchiladas
  3. New Mexico Chile Rellenos
  4. Carne Adovada
  5. Stuffed Sopapillas

Local Beverages

  1. Margaritas
  2. Mexican Beer
  3. New Mexico Wine
  4. Pineapple/Cantaloupe/Strawberry Margaritas
  5. Horchata

Where to Stay in Southeast New Mexico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Fairfield Inn and Suites - Carlsbad
  2. SpringHill Suites - Roswell
  3. MCM Elegante - Ruidoso
  4. Hampton Inn and Suites - Hobbs
  5. The Lodge Of Cloudcroft

What to Buy in Southeast New Mexico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Chile Powder
  2. Handmade pottery
  3. Southwest-inspired jewelry
  4. Authentic cowboy boots
  5. Local wines

Local Culture and Customs of Southeast New Mexico

Southeast New Mexicans are friendly, welcoming people who take pride in their cultural and historical heritage. Visitors should respect local customs, such as being polite and courteous, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Southeast New Mexico

The best time to visit Southeast New Mexico is during the fall and spring months when the temperatures are milder, and the crowds are fewer. However, visitors can also enjoy the area’s attractions year-round, with summer being the busiest season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast New Mexico

Do:

  1. Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  2. Try the local cuisine and beverages
  3. Take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities
  4. Explore the historical sites and museums
  5. Engage with locals and learn about their culture

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect religious sites and customs
  2. Leave trash or litter in natural areas
  3. Ignore park regulations and guidelines
  4. Speak ill of the local culture or residents
  5. Engage in risky or dangerous behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southeast New Mexico

Southeast New Mexico is generally a safe destination. Visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety, such as staying aware of their surroundings, avoiding isolated and dark areas at night, and securing their valuables when traveling.

Health in Southeast New Mexico

Visitors to Southeast New Mexico should be aware of the high elevation of the region, which can cause altitude sickness in some people. They should also stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays, especially during outdoor activities.

Getting to Southeast New Mexico: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southeast New Mexico

  1. Cavern City Air Terminal - Carlsbad
  2. Roswell International Air Center - Roswell

Bus Stations Near Southeast New Mexico

  1. Lea County Regional Airport - Hobbs
  2. Greyhound - Carlsbad

Other Options

  1. Rental cars are available at all airports and major cities.
  2. Private transportation services are available in some areas.

How to Get Around in Southeast New Mexico

The best way to get around in Southeast New Mexico is by car. Visitors can rent a car at any major airport or city. There are also taxi services and ride-share options available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Southeast New Mexico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Big Bend National Park, Texas
  2. White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
  3. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
  4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Conclusion

Southeast New Mexico offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and culture. From exploring the mystical caves of Carlsbad Caverns National Park to experiencing the famous UFO phenomenon in Roswell, the region is full of exciting and memorable experiences for every traveler.

Yucca in White Sands National Park Yucca in White Sands National Park Southeast New Mexico map Southeast New Mexico map


    Carlsbad
    Carlsbad Caverns National Park
    Cloudcroft
    Clovis
    Fort Sumner
    Hobbs
    Lincoln
    Lincoln National Forest