Hobbs Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Hobbs with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Hobbs

Hobbs is a city in Southeast New Mexico, United States, known for its rich history and natural beauty. The city is renowned for the art and cultural attractions that have grown around it, including a handful of picturesque museums, art galleries, theaters and parks. Hobbs owes its fame to its close proximity to the Permian Basin, which has been an important source of oil and gas for the state of New Mexico. Visitors flock to Hobbs year-round to immerse themselves in the area’s unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventurous outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Hobbs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors to Hobbs can’t miss exploring some of the city’s museums and historical places. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

  • Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame: This museum features a vast collection of artifacts depicting the history and culture of Lea County and the American West.

  • Lea County Museum: Located in downtown Lovington, this museum showcases the history of the region dating back to the prehistoric times.

  • Zia Park Hotel & Casino: This casino is one of the biggest attractions in Hobbs, offering a variety of games, entertainment, and dining options in a vibrant atmosphere.

  • New Mexico Junior College Western Heritage Museum: This museum offers insights into the history of Lea County and the surrounding region, focusing on the cowboy way of life and the history of the college.

Natural Attractions of Hobbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hobbs is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in New Mexico. Here are some of the top outdoor attractions you won’t want to miss:

  • Harry McAdams State Park: This park features a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing.

  • Lovington City Park: Featuring walking paths and picnic facilities, this family-friendly park offers plenty of space for outdoor activities.

  • Hobbs Riverwalk: This three-mile walking and biking path runs along the North Hobbs Arroyo, offering scenic views of the river and the surrounding vegetation.

  • Rockwind Community Links: Located on the outskirts of Hobbs, this 27-hole golf course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountainsides and the nearby oil fields.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hobbs

If you’re looking to explore Hobbs on foot or by bike, here are some of the top routes you’ll want to consider:

  • North Beltway Trail: This 6.5-mile paved trail runs along the outer edge of Hobbs, offering great views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Hobbs Riverwalk: As mentioned earlier, this 3-mile trail follows the North Hobbs Arroyo, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

  • Lea Lake Trail: Designed for hikers, this scenic trail winds through a variety of landscapes, offering spectacular views of Lea Lake and the nearby cliffs.

Best Things to Do in Hobbs: Activities and Tours

Hobbs offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top experiences to consider:

  • Zia Park Casino and Racetrack: Try your luck at the casino or catch a live horse race at this popular attraction.

  • Hobbs Community Playhouse: Enjoy a night of live theater at this cozy venue, which features an ever-changing roster of shows.

  • Desert Thunder Raceway: Located just outside of Hobbs, this raceway offers a variety of automotive events throughout the year.

  • Hobbs Summer Sounds: This annual music festival features live music, food trucks, vendors, and other activities for attendees of all ages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hobbs

Day 1:

  • Visit the Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Day 2:

  • Explore the Lea County Museum in Lovington.

Day 3:

  • Take a hike at Harry McAdams State Park.

Day 4:

  • Try your luck at the Zia Park Casino and Racetrack.

Day 5:

  • Play a round of golf at Rockwind Community Links.

Day 6:

  • Attend a show at the Hobbs Community Playhouse.

Day 7:

  • Visit the Hobbs Summer Sounds festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Hobbs

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting Hobbs, make sure to try some of the regional specialties, including:

  • Green chile cheeseburger: A New Mexico classic, this burger is served with green chile, cheese, and other top-notch toppings.

  • Enchiladas: A Mexican staple, enchiladas are filled with your choice of meat, beans, or cheese and topped with red or green chile sauce.

  • Carne adovada: This spicy stew is made with pork, garlic, onions, and red chile, cooked to perfection over a low heat.

  • Posole: This hearty dish consists of hominy and pork simmered for hours in a flavorful broth.

Local Beverages

Hobbs is known for its wide variety of beers and other alcoholic beverages. Here’s what you should try:

  • Marble Brewery: This regional brewery features a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and other seasonal selections.

  • Desert Watermelon Wheat Ale: A refreshing summer beer made with pureed watermelon and wheat.

  • Blue Corn Lavender Kombucha: This healthful beverage is made with blue corn and honey, and flavored with lavender.

Where to Stay in Hobbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hobbs offers a variety of lodging options, including:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Hobbs: This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, pool, and free breakfast.

  • Motel 6 Hobbs: This affordable motel offers basic amenities, including a pool and free parking.

  • Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hobbs: This hotel offers easy access to the Lea County Event Center and other local attractions, and includes a free breakfast and parking.

What to Buy in Hobbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Hobbs, consider taking home some of the following local products:

  • Oilfield memorabilia: Hobbs is located in the heart of New Mexico’s oilfields and is the perfect place to find unique oilfield souvenirs, such as drilling rig models and handmade craft items.

  • Hobbs T-Shirts: Complete your wardrobe with Hobbs-centric t-shirts that show you have visited this unique city.

Local Culture and Customs of Hobbs

Hobbs is a melting pot of people from varying backgrounds, but the culture here is heavily influenced by the oil industry. People in the area are friendly, hardworking, and take great pride in their region’s unique customs and traditions. Visitors are expected to show respect for local customs and manners by following a few basic guidelines, such as dressing modestly in public places.

Best Time to Visit Hobbs

The best time to visit Hobbs is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are comfortable. The summer months can be hot and steamy, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hobbs

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking, biking, or camping.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal drug use or other illegal activities.

  • Leave your valuables unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hobbs

Hobbs is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions, such as locking their doors and securing their belongings.

Health in Hobbs

Medical services in Hobbs are adequate; however, visitors should ensure that they have health insurance before visiting the city.

Getting to Hobbs: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are multiple transportation options for getting to Hobbs. Here are some of the most common options:

Airports Near Hobbs

  • Lea County Regional Airport: This airport is located just next to Hobbs, and offers a few daily scheduled flights.

  • Midland International Air and Space Port: This airport is located about 100 miles west of Hobbs, and offers flights to cities across the country.

Bus Stations Near Hobbs

  • Greyhound Station: This bus station is located in downtown Hobbs and offers bus services to cities across the country

Other Options

  • Renting a car: A great way to see the sights and explore the surrounding area is by renting a car.

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services: These services are available in Hobbs, but are more convenient for shorter rides within the city.

How to Get Around in Hobbs

Hobbs offers a few options for getting around the city:

  • Driving: Most visitors find it convenient to drive in Hobbs, but be prepared for traffic during peak rush hours.

  • Biking: Hobbs offers a few biking trails that are ideal for cycling enthusiasts.

  • Public transportation: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for short rides within the city.

Where to Go Next from Hobbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the top destinations that are easily accessible from Hobbs:

  • Roswell: Known for its UFO sightings, this city is located just 95 miles east of Hobbs and is a great place to explore the wonders of the universe.

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located about 120 miles southwest of Hobbs, this natural wonder is a must-see destination for any nature lover.

  • Big Bend National Park: This national park is located about 350 miles west of Hobbs and is a great place to explore the beauty of the Southwest.

Conclusion

Hobbs is a unique and beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural landscape, learning about the local culture and history, or indulging in some of the area’s delicious cuisine and beverages, Hobbs is a destination that won’t disappoint. With this travel guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit to this charming city.