Due to New Mexico’s size, it’s challenging to leave the state for a day trip — unless you live next to the border. However, that’s okay. There are plenty of amazing destinations and historic places in New Mexico just waiting to be discovered. As you search and plan for the best day trips near me in New Mexico, we’ve compiled this list to help. Filled with beautiful areas and unique attractions in New Mexico, don’t be surprised if you want to visit every destination on this list.

1. Sitting Bull Falls (near Carlsbad)
Tripadvisor/pedave33
Hidden in Southern New Mexico, this waterfall swimming hole is a refreshing and unexpected delight. The waterfall descends 150 feet into a vivid green pool, where you’ll want to take a dip in the summer. Read more about it here.
2. Meow Wolf (Santa Fe)
Facebook/Meow Wolf
This is not your mother’s art museum. Inside a converted bowling alley, owned by none other than George R. R. Martin, is a full-scale house. The House of Eternal Return takes interactive art to a whole new level — you really have to experience this unique attraction in New Mexico for yourself. Read more about it here.
3. Tucumcari
Flickr/Mobilus In Mobili
If you’re interested in Route 66, motor courts, neon signs, or nostalgic places, you’ll adore this underappreciated town. Check out the Route 66 Museum in New Mexico, admire the murals, and refuel at Watson’s, a Ranch Supply Store and restaurant. Read more about it here.
4. Lava tube hike (near Grants)
Tripadvisor/cdrocdoc
So you’ve taken your share of hikes through the Land of Enchantment, but have you ever embarked on a trek underground? Junction Cave, in El Malpais National Monument, is an old lava tube and you can walk right through it! It is one of the best historic places in New Mexico that you must explore. Read more about it here.
5. Hidden Treasure Aerial Park (Red River)
Facebook/Red River Ski & Summer Area
Part pirate ship, part treehouse adventure, this park fulfills all your childhood dreams. Clamber along this ropes course, while enjoying the challenge and also the staggering natural beauty surrounding you. Read more about it here.

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6. Nana’s Collectibles and Antique Mall (Hobbs)
Facebook/Nana's Collectibles & Antique Mall
If you’re a collector or a fan of objects with history, head over to this 10,000 square foot antique mall. Inside, browse between 100 different booths — something is bound to catch your eye. Read more about it here.
7. Silver City
Facebook/Visit Silver City
Whether you’re a fan of the arts or the outdoors, you’ll be entranced by this hidden gem of a town. Learn about its history at the Silver City Museum, sample food at some truly stellar restaurants, then explore beautiful Big Ditch Park or head out into the Gila Wilderness. Adventure awaits! Read more about it here.
8. Lake Farmington (Farmington)
Facebook/Visit Farmington
Lounge on a sandy beach? In New Mexico? That’s not just wishful thinking. Part of Lake Farmington, a 250-acre reservoir, is open to swimming and it’s lined by a small stretch of beach. As you search for the best day trips near me in New Mexico, this must be at the top of your list. Read more about it here.
9. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge (San Antonio)
Flickr/Diana Robinson
Our state’s most impressive refuge is conveniently located near the center of the state, making it an ideal day trip destination. While you’ll see the most birds between November and January, this tranquil spot is a haven for wildlife year round. Read more about it here.
10. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness (near Bloomfield)
Facebook/Visit Farmington
Bisti is an astonishing place filled with hoodoos and bizarrely-shaped rock formations that you won’t believe are real, even when you see them firsthand. Take a hike around this unique attraction in New Mexico and make sure you don't forget your camera. Read more about it here.

So, which day trips near me in New Mexico are you going to visit first?

Your current location will obviously affect how many of these are feasible day trips for you. That’s why we created such a geographically diverse list. However, if the best day trip you’ve ever taken wasn’t featured, nominate it here and tell us all about it!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Day trips near me in New Mexico

Courtnie Erickson | July 16, 2021

What are some unique attractions in New Mexico?

While there are many enchanting and beautiful sites in the Land of Enchantment, there are also some pretty unique attractions in New Mexico as well. If you are in Las Cruces, check out the giant roadrunner sculpture. This artwork is 20-feet tall and 40-feet long.

Camel Rock in Tesque is quite a fascinating sight. This rock formation looks like a camel resting and it makes for a great picture. Another unique attraction in New Mexico that you’ll want to add to your bucket list is the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa. This swimming hole has some of the bluest water in New Mexico and is one popular destination for scuba diving.

Should I visit the Route 66 Museum in New Mexico?

Yes! While there are some pretty incredible museums scattered around the Land of Enchantment, the Route 66 Museum in New Mexico is one that you do not want to miss. This museum gives you a closer look at the history of New Mexico’s Route 66. While visiting, you will get to enjoy a variety of exhibits including dozens of photos of Route 66 from around the country, gas pumps, signs, classic automobiles, and even an old jukebox. The exhibits may change so you will definitely want to visit often.

If you are in Santa Rosa, make sure to check out the Route 66 Auto Museum. This museum features classic and custom vehicles from throughout the years. You'll want to bring your camera as there are photo booths to help you remember this awesome day trip. Also, don't forget to stop by the snack bar and grab a tasty treat before you head out onto the road once again.

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Explore New Mexico

Featured Addresses
Sitting Bull Falls, New Mexico 88220, USA
1352 Rufina Cir, Santa Fe, NM 87507, USA
Tucumcari, NM 88401, USA
El Malpais, New Mexico 87020, USA
400 Pioneer Rd, Red River, NM 87558, USA
905 1/2 E Bender Blvd, Hobbs, NM 88240, USA
Silver City, NM 88061, USA
Farmington lake, Farmington, NM, USA
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 1001 NM-1, San Antonio, NM 87832, USA
Bisti / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area, County Road 7297, Bloomfield, NM 87413, USA