Posted in New Mexico
May 21, 2017
The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In New Mexico
Due to New Mexico’s size, it’s challenging to leave the state for a day trip, unless you live next to the border. But that’s okay. There are plenty of amazing destinations just waiting to be discovered in the Land of Enchantment. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best day trips you can take in New Mexico.
This waterfall swimming hole is a refreshing and unexpected delight, hidden in Southern New Mexico. The waterfall descends 150 feet into a vivid green pool, where you’ll want to take a dip this summer. Read more about it here.
This is not your mother’s art museum. Inside a converted bowling alley, owned by none other than George R. R. Martin, is full-scale house. The House of Eternal Return takes interactive art to a whole new level - you really have to experience Meow Wolf for yourself. Read more about it here.
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, admire the murals, and refuel at Watson’s, a Ranch Supply Store slash restaurant. Read more about it here.
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! Read more about it here.
Part pirate ship, part tree house adventure, this park fulfills all your childhood dreams. Clamber along this ropes course, enjoying the challenge and also the staggering natural beauty surrounding you. Read more about it here.
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.
The words "cheese farm" are enough to win me over. If you feel the same way, you’ll want to take a tour of this tranquil, New Mexico farm. Pick up some cheese and snuggle with the adorable goats. Seriously, goat snuggling is now a thing. How can you resist this goofy face? Read more about it here.
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.
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. Read more about it here.
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.
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. Read more about it here.
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, let us know about it on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page.
