This Unexpected Village in New Mexico Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered

If you're someone who doesn't mind going off the beaten path, you may find a 10-mile detour south of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, to be a worthwhile adventure. Puerto de Luna is a historic village that feels like a secret not many people know about, one that both history buffs and photographers love. Are you curious to hear more about what may be one of the best road trip stops in New Mexico? Let's discover why you should take a detour to Puerto de Luna.

Why This Stop Is Worth the Detour

Located nearly 10 miles southeast of Santa Rosa along SR-91 is one of the most unexpected places in New Mexico you never considered visiting: Puerto de Luna. This historic unincorporated community along the Pecos River is said to have been named by Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, who visited the area in 1541. As legend has it, Vásquez called it Puerto de Luna, meaning "Gateway of the Moon," after witnessing a full moon rising through a gap in the hills one night.

In 1863, the village of Puerto de Luna was settled by six families and is one of the oldest communities in southeast New Mexico. Ranching and agriculture were the area's top economic drivers, and from 1891 to 1903, it served as the county seat of Guadalupe County. One of the main claims to fame here, however, stems from the American outlaw Billy the Kid, who is said to have often visited the village and befriended many of its residents.

Today, Puerto de Luna is home to fewer than 200 people and is considered a bit of a living ghost town. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination to spend a few hours, this quiet, historic community is worth a visit.

What to See and Do Here

Puerto de Luna is quiet, rural, and incredibly scenic. The rugged desert terrain surrounding the Pecos River provides a wonderful setting for photography. There are also a few historic structures built in classic adobe style that are worth seeing, including several abandoned houses, the ruins of the Guadalupe County Courthouse, the old Guadalupe County Jail, a cemetery, and an old gas station.

Walking or driving around town is a must to get a feel of the historic 1800s village, which doesn't look like it's changed all that much since it was established. Another thing you can do is head to the banks of the Pecos River and enjoy a picnic while taking in the beautiful scenery of Puerto de Luna.

Nearby Road Trip Attractions

Exploring nearby Santa Rosa is a must when visiting this part of New Mexico. Historic Route 66, established here in 1930, passes right through town, with plenty of attractions along the way. One stop you must make is the Route 66 Auto Museum, featuring vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia, plus souvenirs for sale. Also along the route are vintage signs and the Pecos River Bridge, a scenic railroad bridge built 50 feet above the river.

One place Santa Rosa is best known for, however, is the Blue Hole. Located along Route 66 on the east side of town, this natural pool is fed by an underground spring and serves as a popular swimming hole, especially for SCUBA divers. The Blue Hole is 81 feet deep and maintains a year-round temperature of 61 degrees.

Best Road Trip Stops in New Mexico

Puerto de Luna, New Mexico, is a worthwhile detour for intrepid road trippers seeking history, scenery, and nature. If you haven't been here yet, would you consider visiting on your next Route 66 road trip? Discover 10 more off-the-beaten-path destinations in New Mexico, or use Only In Your State's Itinerary Planner for more road trip detours.