14 Destinations Everyone In New Mexico Needs to Visit This Summer

Now that the short nights of summer are here, you can pack even more excitement into your days. This is the ideal time to explore all that the Land of Enchantment has to offer. There are amazing hiking trails in New Mexico, swimming holes in New Mexico, and so much more! Here are some awesome places to get you started on your quest for adventure in New Mexico in Summer:

1. Lake Farmington (Farmington)

Need somewhere to go swimming in New Mexico? The Beach at Lake Farmington has been enlarged by 10,000 square feet and there are even more water toys to play with now (score). Splash around, safe in the knowledge that motorized craft aren’t allowed here. However, this is a great spot to try a little paddleboarding.

2. Comanche Creek Brewing Company (Eagle Nest)

Check out one of our state’s great breweries this summer. While there are many wonderful options to choose from, consider driving out to Eagle Nest. There you’ll discover the Comanche Creek Brewing Company nestled inside an old cabin in the most picturesque setting imaginable.

3. Tinnie Silver Dollar (Tinnie)

Ensure that the journey is just as much fun as your ultimate destination, with a stop at this adorable gift shop and creperie, located between Ruidoso Downs and Roswell. Definitely check out the hours and other practical information for Tinnie Silver Dollar before venturing out, because you don’t want to arrive in the middle of nowhere and find the mercantile closed. That would be awkward.

4. Elephant Butte Lake State Park (Elephant Butte)

When it comes to summer in New Mexico, you can't beat Elephant Butte Lake State Park. You probably expected to see our biggest lake (technically a reservoir) on a summer bucket list. While this entry may not be original, it’s included because this state park is popular for good reason. The range of water activities possible here seems endless and there just aren’t that many places in New Mexico where you can go beach camping.

5. Inn of the Mountain Gods (Mescalero)

If you've never been to Inn of the Mountain Gods, this is the perfect time to go. This pristine resort offers golf, water activities, a casino… and the chance to go ziplining over the lake. Now that’s a way to make your summer memorable.

6. Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area (near Carlsbad)

A short trail leads to an unexpected gem in this arid part of the state: a waterfall swimming hole. Sitting Bull Falls is a 150-foot-high waterfall that descends into a pool perfect for taking a dip. It's one of our favorite places to go swimming in New Mexico, and we think you'll agree.

7. Park Lake (Santa Rosa)

Cliff’s, Abq Surf N' Slide at Hotel Cascada, or Park Lake in Santa Rosa are all refreshing ways to spend a hot day. Park Lake just got the only WIBIT in the state. It’s essentially an inflatable obstacle course meets waterpark that floats. Sign us up! You wouldn't guess that some of the best waterparks in New Mexico double as the best in the country, but now you will!

8. Rancho de Chimayo (Chimayo)

If you haven’t yet dined at this classic New Mexican restaurant, it’s time for that to change. Go because the sopapillas will change your life, because the carne adovada is perfectly flavored, or because this eatery earned a James Beard Foundation Award. Your reason doesn’t matter - just go! Come see why Ranche de Chimayo is one of the best places to eat in New Mexico. It won't be long before you're back.

9. Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument (Las Cruces)

Go horseback riding, biking, or hiking inside the boundaries of this vast National Monument in New Mexico. Highlights include the trails weaving through the Dripping Springs Natural Area, the Kilbourne Hole – one of the coolest places you’ve probably never heard of, and the Pine Tree Trail, which affords great views of the Organ Needles.

10. Lake Katherine (between Pecos and Santa Fe)

This is an ambitious entry for sure but, if you are able to trek to this alpine lake tucked into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you won’t regret it. Lake Katherine is easily one of the most breathtaking lakes in New Mexico, and it's at its best in summer.

11. Corrales

This small town feels a million miles away from Albuquerque, even though it’s more like 15 miles. Savor the slower pace of life here, the peaceful rural setting, the vineyards, and the scrumptious restaurants this season. Corrales is an awesome destination for summer, winter, spring, or fall - but we love it most in summer!

12. Pioneer Store Museum (Chloride)

If you're interested in the array of museums in New Mexico, Pioneer Store Museum is a must-do. There’s nothing like a general store to bring on waves of nostalgia and this particular one is even more interesting because it’s been converted into a museum. If you ever wondered what shopping was like in days gone by, head to this remote spot for answers.

13. Meow Wolf (Santa Fe)

The reputation of this fledging, interactive art experience is steadily growing. There aren’t really words to describe the explosions of color, unfettered creativity, and immersive nature of this converted bowling alley. You need to see it first hand - preferably this summer! Meow Wolf Santa Fe is one of those things that'll keep you wondering about it for weeks after you leave. Be sure to take special care to solve the mystery within (and stay away from those pesky other dimensions).

14. Silver City

Silver City is well worth a detour. Investigate the lush depths of Big Ditch Park, the town’s small but fascinating museums, and enjoy the numerous festivals held here throughout the year.

So, what are your plans for this summer? Let us know on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page!