You don’t need to go out of state to have a great adventure. In fact, if you search "day trips near me in New Mexico," you might just be surprised by the results. Save money and travel time with local trips that will blow you away. Most people know about Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Monument, but here are some other unique destinations in New Mexico. Ready to start exploring? Let's go!

1. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa (Ojo Caliente)

This hot spring resort offers both public and private bathing options. Every day, the springs here produce 100,000 gallons of hot water. There are four separate kinds of mineral water available: soda, arsenic, iron, and lithia, along with a mud pool. Can’t you picture yourself relaxing in this dramatic setting? Learn more about Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa.

2. The Catwalk National Scenic Trail (Glenwood)

This trail was built along the route of an old water pipeline through Whitewater Canyon, which was used for mining operations. The canyon catwalk reopened in 2016, so now you can explore it for yourself and admire gorgeous scenery that includes a small waterfall. Additional hiking opportunities abound in the Gila National Forest, making this an ideal locale for an active vacation. Learn more about what makes the Catwalk National Scenic Trail such an amazing day trip in New Mexico.

3. Farmington

Farmington may not be the first place that pops into your head as a New Mexico vacation spot, but there’s a surprising amount of things to do here. Check out Salmon Ruins, a Chacoan site, or enjoy the trails that the city has cultivated along the banks of the Animas River. Farmington Lake now has a swimming beach, making it appealing on hot, summer days. Farmington also makes a great base if you want to take day trips to remote locations like Chaco Canyon, the Angel Peak Scenic Area, or Bisti Badlands. Truly, Farmington is a jaw-dropping place.

4. Red Horse Vineyard B&B (Albuquerque)

This hidden gem of a bed and breakfast is also a vineyard. Sounds like the perfect combination, right? Use this as a base for exploring Albuquerque or else escape here for a romantic getaway. Would you stay the night at this charming bed & breakfast in New Mexico?

5. Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (Chama)

Hop aboard the best train ride in the nation to wonder at the landscapes of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. Embrace a slower pace of life aboard this historic steam train. Stay across the street at the Chama Station Inn and, in keeping with the train theme of this trip, dine at Boxcar Café. This scenic train ride in New Mexico is one you won't want to miss.

6. Madrid

This ex-ghost town is ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway. Trace the town’s history from its mining days to its reinvention as an artistic community by visiting the Old Coal Town Museum and moseying through the numerous galleries. Learn more about what makes Madrid such a fascinating day trip destination.

7. The Blue Hole (Santa Rosa)

You could fork out for plane tickets to Belize or you could discover the crystal-clear depths of the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa. Scuba divers and swimmers alike are wowed by this spot. Can you imagine a more magical swimming hole in New Mexico?

8. City of Rocks State Park (near Deming and Silver City)

Take a trip that is both budget and family-friendly. At this state park, you can wander between forty-foot high volcanic boulders that have formed a literal city of rocks. Activities include hiking the 5.5 miles of trails, mountain biking, birding, and star-gazing (there are 52 developed campsites). Click here for more info.

9. State parks road trip

New Mexico’s state parks are some of our greatest treasures. We’ve combined several into an easy-to-follow route. This trip offers lakes, mountains, a zoo, trails, and more. Check out the full itinerary by clicking here.

10. Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort (Mescalero)

Resorts are so relaxing because everything is on-site. Inn of the Mountain Gods provides entertainment (water sports, ziplining, fishing, golf, a casino), restaurants, and accommodations all in a serene setting. Would you spend the night at this picturesque New Mexico resort?

11. Grants

Grants is close to some of New Mexico's most unique attractions. Hike underground in the lava tubes of El Malpais, interact with wolves at Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, or tour the Land of Fire and Ice,

which features both an ice cave and a volcano!

Have you taken any of these trips? Is there a destination you’d add to this list? We hope we've helped provide some inspiration to the ever-pressing question, "what are some day trips near me in New Mexico?" If you have any other destinations that may have missed the list, be sure to share them with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!

For more fun places to go in New Mexico, check out our previous article: 12 Unforgettable New Mexico Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year.