Las Cruces Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Mesilla Valley, Las Cruces is a vibrant city in the southern region of New Mexico, United States. With its unique blend of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural diversity, Las Cruces offers a truly captivating experience for travelers.

History enthusiasts will be enthralled by the city's rich heritage, which dates back thousands of years. The nearby Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is home to ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites, providing a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people who once called this area home. The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum is also a must-visit, showcasing the region's agricultural traditions and rural history.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise in Las Cruces. The city is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, including the dramatic Organ Mountains and the picturesque Mesilla Valley. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the many trails that wind through the mountains, offering panoramic views of the desert landscape. The nearby White Sands National Park, with its vast expanse of sparkling white gypsum sand dunes, is a sight to behold and perfect for a day trip.

Culture and art thrive in Las Cruces, with a vibrant arts scene that celebrates the region's diverse heritage. The Downtown Mall is a hub of artistic activity, featuring galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending one of the city's many festivals, such as the annual Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference or the Renaissance ArtsFaire.

Food lovers will delight in the culinary offerings of Las Cruces. The city is known for its New Mexican cuisine, with its distinct flavors and spicy kick. From traditional dishes like green chile enchiladas to modern twists on southwestern classics, there is something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a meal at one of the charming local restaurants that line the streets of downtown Las Cruces.

Alternative names: Founded: 1849 (175 years ago)Population: 101.6 thous.Area: 77.04 mi²Elevation: 3934 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 32°18'36"N, 106°46'16"W

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New MexicoUnited States

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Las Cruces Top Attractions

Las Cruces Attractions - What to See and Explore

Las Cruces offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, Goddard Hall, William Conroy Honors Center, Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Natural history museum • History museum
New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum
The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum is a 47-acre interactive museum in Las Cruces, New Mexico, that chronicles the state’s 3,000-year history of farming and ranching. The museum is part of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.
32°16'53"N • 106°45'14"W
Goddard Hall
Goddard Hall of New Mexico State University is a historic building in Las Cruces, New Mexico. It is located on S. Horseshoe between Espina and Sweet on the NMSU campus. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
32°16'60"N • 106°45'21"W
William Conroy Honors Center
The William Conroy Honors Center, at the New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico is a historic building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1907 as a Young Men's Christian Association building. It was designed by architects Trost & Trost.

Church • El Paseo
Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
32°20'23"N • 106°44'17"W
Sonoma Ranch Golf Course
Golf • Outdoor activities • Park
32°17'11"N • 106°43'34"W
New Mexico State University Golf Course
Golf • Outdoor activities • Universities and schools
Universities and schools • University District
New Mexico State University
New Mexico State University is a public land-grant research university with its main campus in Las Cruces, New Mexico in the United States. Founded on September 17, 1888, it is the oldest public institution of higher education in the state of New Mexico and one of two flagship universities in New Mexico.
Theater • Concerts and shows
Rio Grande Theatre
The Rio Grande Theatre in Las Cruces, New Mexico was opened on July 29, 1926. The theatre was built by Seale and Dyne and operated by the Central Theatres Corporation of Denver.
Church • Las Esperanzas
Phillips Chapel CME Church
Phillips Chapel CME Church is a historic Christian Methodist Episcopal church building at 638 N. Tornillo Street in Las Cruces, New Mexico. It was built in 1912 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. It is a one-story adobe building, about 29 by 38 feet in plan, with buttresses against its front.
32°17'2"N • 106°45'18"W
Nason House
The Nason House, formerly the University President's House, is a historic house in Las Cruces, New Mexico, U.S. It was constructed as the official residence of the president of New Mexico State University. It was built on the NMSU campus in 1918.
32°16'60"N • 106°45'43"W
Cutter Gallery
Museum • Jewelry • Art gallery
32°16'54"N • 106°45'36"W
Zuhl Collection
Museum • Specialty museum • Science museum
32°17'5"N • 106°45'4"W
New Mexico State University
Universities and schools • University District
Park • East Side Las Cruces
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is a state park of New Mexico, United States, preserving a riverside forest along the Rio Grande. The park is located near Las Cruces and just west of Mesilla. The park itself encompasses approximately 305 acres, at an elevation of 3,900 feet. The park consists of river woodlands and restored wetlands.
Interesting neighbourhood • Victorian architecture
Alameda-Depot Historic District
The Alameda-Depot Historic District, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a historic district which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. The listing included 271 contributing buildings and a contributing site, on 70 acres.
Library
Thomas Branigan Memorial Library
Thomas Branigan Memorial Library; often referred to as simply "Branigan", is the public library serving Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Victorian architecture
Nestor Armijo House
The Nestor Armijo House is a historic house in Las Cruces, New Mexico. It was built in 1870 for Bradford Daily and his wife Maricita. In 1877, it was purchased by Nestor Armijo, a merchant and rancher. When his granddaughters were orphaned in 1902, they moved into his house and lived with him until he died in 1911.
Colonial revival architecture • University District
Hadley-Ludwick House
The Hadley-Ludwick House is a historic house in Las Cruces, New Mexico. It was built in 1907 for Hiram Hadley, the founder of Las Cruces College, later known as New Mexico State University. The house was designed in the Colonial Revival architectural style.
Neighbourhood • Mesilla Park
Mesilla Park Historic District
The Mesilla Park Historic District, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a historic district which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016. The listing included 131 contributing buildings and two contributing structures on 184 acres.

Things to See and Do in Las Cruces by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Las Cruces.

Active

Organ Mountains
Las Cruces
HikingHiking trail
Sonoma Ranch Golf Course
Las Cruces
GolfOutdoor activitiesParkSonoma Ranch
New Mexico State University Golf Course
Las Cruces
GolfOutdoor activitiesUniversities and schools
Pan American Center
Las Cruces
SportSport venueUniversity District

Day trips

Las Cruces – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Las Cruces, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Western Playland (Sunland Park), El Paso Zoo (El Paso), McKelligon Canyon (El Paso).

37 milesS
Theme park, Amusement park
Western Playland, Sunland Park
Nestled in the heart of Sunland Park, New Mexico, Western Playland emerges as a vibrant oasis of thrills and entertainment. This amusement park, a staple of the region, offers a variety of attractions designed to delight visitors of all ages.
42 milesSE
35-acre park with 220 species
El Paso Zoo, El Paso
Nestled in the heart of El Paso, Texas, the El Paso Zoo stands as a cherished natural oasis that offers an unforgettable adventure for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Spanning 35 acres, this regional zoo is home to a diverse collection of species from around...
38 milesSE
Nature, Canyon, Trail
McKelligon Canyon, El Paso
Nestled within the rugged terrain of the Franklin Mountains in El Paso, Texas, McKelligon Canyon stands as a natural retreat for both locals and tourists alike. This picturesque canyon is home to the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheater, a venue that is as famous for its...
41 milesSE
Forts and castles
Fort Bliss, El Paso
Fort Bliss is a United States Army post in New Mexico and Texas, with its headquarters in El Paso, Texas. Named in honor of LTC William Bliss, a mathematics professor who was the son-in-law of President Zachary Taylor, Ft.
40 milesSE
Museum, History museum, Natural history museum
Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, El Paso
The Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens is a cultural history and natural history museum on the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso in El Paso, Texas, United States.The museum was built in 1963 to commemorate the centenary of Texas independence, making it the oldest museum in El Paso.

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Best Time To Visit Las Cruces

Learn when is the best time to travel to Las Cruces weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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April, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in May.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in March and April. Most of it rains in August.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Las Cruces?

The top attractions to visit in Las Cruces are:

What is the best time to visit Las Cruces?

April, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in May. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and December.