Deming Travel Guide

Explore the best of Deming, New Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide - including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Deming

Located in the southwest of New Mexico, Deming is a small town with a rich history and a diverse mix of cultures. The town has seen battles between Native American tribes and Spanish conquistadors and was a popular stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route. Today, Deming is an idyllic place with a plethora of leisure activities that will cater to all tastes, including outdoor sports, cultural sites, and vibrant local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Deming

If you’re planning a trip to Deming, here’s a list of the top-rated attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Start with the culturally important attractions which tell the story of the town’s historical past:

  • Deming Luna Mimbres Museum- This museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including exhibits on local history, military artifacts, and prehistoric life.
  • The Marshall Memorial Library and Museum - Visit this library cum museum to see a range of exhibits on the town’s cultural history, including the famous Barrel Cactus carriage.
  • The Deming Arts Center - Showcasing pieces of art created by local as well as worldwide artists, this art center is a must-visit for art lovers.
  • The St. Clair Winery & Bistro - A must-visit for wine connoisseurs, this winery has been operating for over 85 years and has some of the best-tasting wines in the region.

Natural Attractions of Deming: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Deming has a lot of scenic beauty, which makes it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Be sure to check out these popular outdoor spots:

  • Rockhound State Park - Located 12 miles southeast of Deming, this park is a fantastic spot for rock hunting, hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The park is open year-round, and visitors can take advantage of several trails, including the 4.2-mile Jasper Ridge Trail.
  • City of Rocks State Park - Located 30 minutes outside of Deming, this park features volcanic rocks that are over 30 million years old. Visitors can hike, picnic, or camp here.
  • Spring Canyon State Park - Just 15 miles to the west of Deming, this state park is full of scenic beauty with natural hot springs, hiking trails, and wildlife. Visitors can camp, hike or fish here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Deming

If you’re looking for guided and safe outdoor experiences, check out these popular hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • The Black Range Crest Trail - If you are a hiking enthusiast, the Black Range Crest Trail is the perfect trip for you. Stretching for several miles, this trail is the best way to explore the wonderful scenery of the region.
  • The Sunshine Loop Trail - The Sunshine Loop Trail is a great choice for those who love biking. The route is approximately 10 miles long and leads riders through the local terrain, providing scenic views along the way.
  • The Big Luna Mountain Hike - This 10.5-mile hike is a challenging hike but a great way to get out and explore the area’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Deming: Activities and Tours

Apart from historical and outdoor attractions, Deming offers a range of exciting activities and tours. Check out some of the must-try experiences:

  • Adventures & Wine New Mexico - This tour company offers guided wine tours, tastings, and sightseeing trips. Visit some of the region’s top wineries in comfort and style.
  • The Luna Rossa Winery - Get hands-on experience in winemaking with the Luna Rossa Winery’s tours and tastings.
  • Border World Tours - These tours take you to nearby destinations like Silver City, Palomas, and Bisbee, providing a glimpse into the local culture.
  • Gamboa’s Tours - Join these tours to explore the famous Deming historic downtown, and learn about its amazing architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Deming

If you have a week to spend here is an itinerary recommended to make the most of your stay in Deming.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum and the Marshall Memorial Library and Museum.
Day 2 Take a scenic drive to City of Rocks State Park.
Day 3 Go hiking at Rockhound State Park.
Day 4 Explore more of the local culture with a wine tour and tasting with Adventures and Wine New Mexico or Luna Rossa Winery.
Day 5 Join a guided tour with Border World Tours to nearby destinations like Silver City.
Day 6 Take a day trip to Palomas, Mexico.
Day 7 Explore the Big Luna Mountain hike or other hiking/biking routes in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Deming

Deming is known for its diverse culinary experiences. Check out some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Flame’s ribeye steak- This steakhouse is considered the most famous in Deming and is well known for its steak and juicy hamburgers.
  • Anita’s Cafe - Famous for its New Mexican style Tex-Mex food, this cafe serves traditional dishes such as huevos rancheros and green chili chicken enchiladas.
  • The Patio Cafe - A must-visit spot for breakfast, the Patio Cafe’s fluffy pancakes, and crisp hash browns are sure to satisfy your cravings.
  • Irma’s Restaraunt - Offering an excellent selection of home-cooked New Mexican dishes, this restaurant is perfect for those searching for true southern hospitality.

Local Beverages

  • La Esperanza Winery - This family-owned winery produces high-quality wines using local grapes.
  • St. Clair Winery - In addition to the tasting room, the winery features a bistro where visitors can enjoy a delightful meal after some wine sampling.
  • Mimbres Valley Brewing Company - This brewery is known for its locally crafted beers, delicious pub food, and live music events.

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

Deming has a variety of accommodation options to cater to all budgets. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Hampton Inn Deming - Located in the heart of Deming, this Hampton Inn offers comfortable rooms and has an outdoor pool and fitness center.
  • Deming Motel - This affordable, budget-friendly option is located in the heart of downtown and provides all basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Adobe Hacienda Bed & Breakfast - Enjoy a luxury stay at this beautiful bed and breakfast that comes fully equipped with a swimming pool, hot tub, and various other outdoor amenities.

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

If you want to bring home a piece of Deming, here’s what you should take:

  • Valley Auto Parts - If you have an appetite for car parts or appreciate unique car-related accessories, make sure you stop by this store in Deming.
  • The Luna County Fairgrounds Flea Market - Each month, local vendors set up shop at the Luna County Fairgrounds for fascinating flea market finds.
  • The Deming Whisk Bakery - Famous for its pie crust whiskey, pick yourself up a bag of this delicious treat on your way out of town.

Local Culture and Customs of Deming

In Deming, the locals are friendly, and the cultural scene is vibrant. The town has a rich history as a commercial center and has a mixture of cultures, including Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures.

Best Time to Visit Deming

Deming is a year-round destination but has ideal weather from March to May and September to November. During these periods, temperatures are mild and comfortable. Summers in Deming are hot and dry, while winters are mild, with infrequent snowfall and cold winds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Deming

Here is a quick list of the Do’s and Don’ts to follow when visiting Deming:

Do:

  • Respect the local cultures.
  • Bring suitable clothing and sunscreens as it can get hot during the day.
  • Follow local hiking and camping rules to ensure safety during outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave trash behind and always clean up after yourself.
  • Don’t attempt to wander off-trail while hiking as it can be dangerous.
  • Don’t enter restricted areas.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips to ensure safety and proper health practices during your visit to Deming:

Safety in Deming

  • Deming is considered a safe place to visit, but it’s always wise to take standard safety measures, such as not walking alone at night and not leaving valuables in your vehicle.
  • Always follow the rules while driving and adhere to the local speed limits

Health in Deming

  • Deming has some high altitude locations, so make sure to drink plenty of water and rest properly, especially if you’re acclimatizing.
  • Pack basic medication for emergencies.

Getting to Deming: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options to get to Deming. Here are some of the most popular:

Airports Near Deming

  • El Paso International Airport - Located 95 miles away from Deming, this is the nearest international airport to the town
  • Albuquerque International Sunport- This airport is located a little over 200 miles away and offers additional options for domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Deming

  • Greyhound bus station -Located on South Gold Street, this station runs daily bus services to and from Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and El Paso.

Other Options

  • Driving gets the job done as Deming is accessible via SR-11 and the I-10.
  • Car rentals options are available in nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Deming

Getting around Deming is easy and comfortable. The town has several transportation options available, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and bike rentals. Additionally, most of the popular attractions are within walking or biking distance of one another.

Where to Go Next from Deming: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Deming’s location makes it perfect as a base for day trips to nearby destinations such as:

  • Silver City - Located just 1 hour away, Silver City offers visitors a great trip to explore the city’s art galleries, cafes, and architecture.
  • Las Cruces - Las Cruces is full of fascinating museums, great places to eat, and numerous historic sites. It is only 55 miles away from Deming.
  • Catwalk Recreation Area - Just under two hours from Deming, hike through the scenic Catwalk recreation area and see some of the best scenic beauty the state of New Mexico has to offer.

Conclusion

In summary, Deming, New Mexico, is rich in history and culture with scenic beauty and ample outdoor adventure opportunities. With its diverse mix of local cuisine, drink, accommodation, and friendly locals, Deming is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the southwest. By following our comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the tools to create a memorable Deming experience.