Las Cruces Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and things to do in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Plan your trip with our comprehensive Las Cruces travel guide.


Introduction to Las Cruces

Located in the Southern part of New Mexico, Las Cruces is a city known for its rich culture, scenic beauty, and adventure opportunities. Nestled between the towering Organ Mountains and the Rio Grande, Las Cruces is a small town with a big personality. Visitors here can explore over 50 parks, hike in the beautiful mountains, tour the historic downtown district, sample local cuisine, and enjoy year-round sunshine.

List of Places to Visit in Las Cruces

Whether you’ve lived here for a long time or just visiting the city for the first time, you can always find something new to experience in Las Cruces. Below are some of the must-visit places in Las Cruces:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum: This museum focuses on the history of farming and ranching in the region, featuring exhibitions that showcase the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
  • Branigan Cultural Center: Housed in the historic Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Depot building, this museum houses a collection of local and regional art exhibits, as well as hosting cultural events throughout the year.
  • Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument: Located just outside the city, this national monument features stunning rock formations, canyons, and petroglyphs, providing insight into the rich culture and history of the region.

Natural Attractions of Las Cruces: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dripping Springs Natural Area: This preserve is a great place for a hike, with trails leading to scenic waterfalls, rock formations, and hot springs.
  • White Sands National Park: Just a short drive from Las Cruces, White Sands is a must-visit destination for its picturesque white sand dunes that stretch across 275 square miles of desert.
  • Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park: Located along the Rio Grande, this park features a variety of bird species, making it a favorite spot for bird-watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Las Cruces

Las Cruces offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore miles of hiking and biking trails. Some of the popular hiking/biking trails include:

  • La Cueva Trail: A 5.5-mile trail that leads to a cave tucked away in the Organ Mountains.
  • Soledad Canyon: A scenic trail featuring stunning rock formations, a waterfall, and picnic areas.
  • Tortugas Mountain: A 4-mile loop trail that offers panoramic views of the city, including the Organ Mountains, the Mesilla Valley, and the Rio Grande.

Best Things to Do in Las Cruces: Activities and Tours

From exploring the great outdoors to getting a taste of local culture, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in Las Cruces. Below are some of the best things to do in the city:

  • Visit the Farmer’s Market: Held every Wednesday and Saturday morning, this market is a great place to sample fresh, locally grown produce and crafts.
  • Tour the historic Old Mesilla: A charming town just a few miles from Las Cruces, featuring adobe buildings, art galleries, and restaurants serving traditional Mexican cuisine.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Get a birds-eye view of the city and the surrounding landscape from a hot air balloon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Las Cruces

Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Las Cruces:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum
Day 2 Hike or bike the La Cueva Trail
Day 3 Take a scenic drive to the White Sands National Park
Day 4 Tour the historic Old Mesilla and have lunch at a local restaurant
Day 5 Sample local wine at the St. Clair Winery
Day 6 Visit the Dripping Springs Natural Area
Day 7 Explore the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

Food and Drink Scene of Las Cruces

The food and drink scene of Las Cruces is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. From traditional Mexican cuisine to local wines, there is something for everyone to savor.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: A regional specialty made with juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and roasted green chile.
  • Chiles Rellenos: A classic Mexican dish made with fresh poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with tomato sauce and sour cream.
  • Sopapillas: A sweet, fried pastry served with honey, butter, or jam.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexico Wine: Las Cruces and the surrounding region is famous for their wines, with local vineyards producing a variety of reds and whites.
  • Desert Margarita: Made using tequila, prickly pear and lime, this Margarita is a true taste of the Southwest.
  • Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink made from fresh fruit juices mixed with water and sugar.

Where to Stay in Las Cruces: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious stay, Las Cruces has something for everyone. Below are some of the popular lodging options in the city:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces: A popular chain hotel located just off I-25, providing comfortable rooms and convenient access to local attractions.
  • Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Las Cruces, offering beautiful views of the Organ Mountains and an on-site spa and restaurant.
  • Casita Camino Real: A charming bed and breakfast located in the historic Mesilla Plaza, offering beautiful rooms and a lovely garden.

What to Buy in Las Cruces: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From handmade crafts to local wine, there are plenty of unique gifts to take home after your trip to Las Cruces. Some of the popular souvenirs include:

  • Hatch Green Chile: A must-try ingredient in many Southwest dishes, you can find fresh or canned chile at local markets.
  • Handmade Pottery: Talented local artists create beautiful pottery inspired by the region’s natural landscape.
  • New Mexico Wine: Take a local bottle of wine home to enjoy after your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Las Cruces

The culture of Las Cruces is a reflection of its rich history and diverse population. Here are some customs to keep in mind during your visit:

  • Respect the history: Las Cruces has a deep-rooted history, dating back centuries to the early settlers in the region. Be sure to respect the cultural landmarks and traditions that have shaped the city.
  • Dress appropriately: The weather in Las Cruces is often warm and sunny, but it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Be open-minded: Las Cruces is a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds, so it’s important to embrace the diversity and be open-minded to new experiences.

Best Time to Visit Las Cruces

Las Cruces is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, the spring and fall months (March to May and September to November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful wildflower blooms. Summer months (June-August) can be hot, but the proximity to the White Sands National Park and other water activities make it a great time to visit as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Las Cruces

Do:

  • Visit the Farmers Market
  • Hike the La Cueva Trail
  • Sample the local cuisine
  • Respect the culture and history
  • Embrace the diversity

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage historical sites
  • Be disrespectful to other cultures
  • Disregard safety warnings when hiking or exploring
  • Wear revealing clothing in religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Las Cruces

Las Cruces is a generally safe city, but it’s important to take precautions as you would in any unfamiliar place. Here are some tips to stay safe:

  • Always lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight
  • Stay aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night
  • Be cautious when hiking or exploring the great outdoors

Health in Las Cruces

Las Cruces has plenty of health facilities and medical services available. If you need medical assistance during your trip, visit one of the following facilities:

  • Memorial Medical Center: This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialty services.
  • MountainView Regional Medical Center: A state-of-the-art hospital featuring a variety of medical and surgical services.
  • Urgent Care of Las Cruces: A walk-in clinic offering treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

Getting to Las Cruces: Transportation Options and Logistics

Las Cruces is easily accessible by car, bus, and plane.

Airports Near Las Cruces

  • El Paso International Airport: Located 50 miles to the south, this airport is the closest commercial airport to Las Cruces.
  • Albuquerque International Sunport: Located 225 miles north of Las Cruces, this airport is the largest airport in New Mexico.

Bus Stations Near Las Cruces

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: This bus service operates from downtown Las Cruces and offers daily service to El Paso, Albuquerque, and other regional destinations.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car options are available at both El Paso and Albuquerque airports.
  • Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services are available in Las Cruces, with services like Uber and Lyft widely available.

How to Get Around in Las Cruces

Las Cruces is a small city, and most of the popular attractions are within a short driving distance. Renting a car is a good option if you plan on exploring the great outdoors or visiting attractions outside the city limits. Taxis and Uber/Lyft services are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Las Cruces: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Las Cruces is a great base from which to explore the surrounding area, including the following nearby destinations:

  • White Sands National Park: Visit the famous White Sands Monument for a day of sand sledding or hiking.
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Tour one of the world’s largest caves located just a few hours from Las Cruces.
  • Roswell: A popular destination for UFO enthusiasts, Roswell is a unique destination worth exploring.

Conclusion

With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and outdoor adventures, Las Cruces is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of Southwest New Mexico. From world-class museums to the stunning Organ Mountains, Las Cruces offers plenty of opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Las Cruces, with the Organ Mountains as a backdrop Las Cruces, with the Organ Mountains as a backdrop