new mexico family trip

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• Navajo Nation
• Northwest New Mexico
• Capulin Volcano National Monument
• Albuquerque
• Silver City
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park

14 cool places to visit in New Mexico on a family vacation

If you’re traveling to New Mexico on a family vacation, you’ll be able to find year-round activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Fun things to do on a family vacation in New Mexico range from springtime hikes to exploring ancient cliff dwellings and cool underground caves in the summer. Autumn is a great time to check out the culture and history within the Navajo Nation, or you can hit the slopes for alpine sports in the winter months. Learn about some of the unique places to visit on a New Mexico family vacation, including family resorts.

1. Experience culture, history, and natural beauty within the  Navajo Nation

The  Navajo Nation  is to visit in New Mexico with kids that’s full of culture, history, education, and incredible natural beauty. You’ll find museums, monuments, and trading posts, as well as the Navajo Zoo and Botanical Park to explore. Tours range from self-guided to horseback tours and vehicle tours and cover topics from culture and history to Navajo arts. Accommodations within the Navajo Nation include hotels, campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, and even traditional hogan dwellings for an authentic Navajo experience. Be sure to be respectful, and see the Navajo Nation’s website for visiting protocols.

2. Take a step back in time at  Northwest New Mexico  historic sites

In Northwest New Mexico , you’ll find lots of unique things to do with kids of all ages. You can explore the center of an ancient world at the Chaco Culture National Historical Park , with ancient pueblos and artifacts dating from between 850 and 1250 A.D. At the Aztec Ruins National Monument, you’ll see preserved structures and history from the Pueblo Indians created hundreds of years ago. You can find a unique photo op at the Four Corners Monument, the only place in the United States where 4 states meet, between New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, and Colorado.

3. New Mexico family resort:  Angel Fire

Angel Fire Resort  is a family resort in New Mexico with year-round amenities and activities for kids. Accommodations range from cozy condos to log cabins and charming single-family homes, all with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. In winter months, you can enjoy alpine activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing, with some accommodations offering ski-in/ski-out locations. In warmer months, you’ll find activities like hiking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, and fishing nearby. Angel Fire is located close to family-friendly destinations for entertainment, shopping, and dining.

4. See cliff dwellings and more in  Los Alamos

Los Alamos  is a great spot for New Mexico family vacations, with a mix of small-town charm, incredible natural beauty, and fascinating historical sites. At the Bandelier National Monument and the Puye Cliff Dwellings, you’ll see ancient cave dwellings and pueblos, artifacts, pottery, and museum exhibits. You can learn about the creation of the atomic bomb at the Manhattan Project Historical Site and see full-size bomb models at the Bradbury Science Museum. In the winter months, you can enjoy alpine sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at the Pajarito Mountain Ski Area just outside of Los Alamos.

5. New Mexico family resort:  Red River

WorldMark by Wyndham is part of the beautiful  Red River Ski Area, a family resort in New Mexico with year-round activities and entertainment. The lodge at WorldMark Red River offers cozy resort accommodations with room amenities like fireplaces and mountain-view balconies, washer/dryers, and full kitchens. Resort amenities include an outdoor hot tub, barbecue and picnic areas, a private chair lift, and a ski-in/ski-out location just off the slopes. In the winter, you can snowboard, ski, or go sledding or snowshoeing just outside the lodge.

6. Stroll through the  Santa Fe  historic district

There are tons of fun things to do on a family vacation to New Mexico’s capital,  Santa Fe . The city is known for its charming Pueblo-style architecture and historic district, a thriving arts community, and kid-friendly attractions. Kids can get hands-on with interactive exhibits at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. Family-friendly historic sites include Pecos National Historical Park, Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe Plaza, and the Santa Fe Railyard Park. You can also explore a living museum at El Rancho de las Golondrinas, an 18th- and 19th-century Spanish village.

7. Hike the rim of an extinct volcano at  Capulin Volcano National Monument

If you’re going to be visiting Northeastern New Mexico on your family vacation, you can check out an extinct cinder cone volcano at  Capulin Volcano National Monument . Be sure to stop by the visitors center to learn about the volcano’s geology and how its eruption shaped the landscape. You can hike up the volcano or pay a reasonable fee and drive to the top. A kid-friendly hiking trail runs around the rim of the volcano and provides both incredible views into the cone and panoramic views of the area.

8. Explore the ‘Heart of New Mexico’ on family vacation in  Albuquerque

Albuquerque  is part of the state’s Central region known as the “Heart of New Mexico.” This colorful city is packed with kid-friendly attractions including museums like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, the Museum of Nuclear Science, and the Albuquerque Museum. You can also visit the ABQ BioPark zoo, aquarium, and botanical gardens downtown. Family entertainment in Albuquerque ranges from rides and waterslides at Cliff’s Amusement Park to flying in a hot air balloon and enjoying evening ghost tours through the city.

9. Hike in the Gila National Forest in  Silver City

Silver City  is a great option for a relaxing family vacation in New Mexico that’s located in the Southwest region just off the 3 million-acre Gila National Forest. In the forest, you can enjoy a range of beautiful wooded hiking trails, including accessible trails at the Catwalk Recreation Area. You can drive out to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, one of the few places where you can actually enter and explore caves and cliff dwellings. A short distance from Silver City you’ll find hot springs perfect for soaking away the day at Lightfeather Hot Springs and Gila Hot Springs.

10. See heritage farm and ranch exhibits in  Las Cruces

Las Cruces  has plenty of cool things to do with kids in Southwest New Mexico. At the Farm and Heritage Museum, you can examine thousands of years of history through interactive exhibits and artifacts, as well as a collection of live farm animals. Within the city, you’ll also find cultural centers, art museums and galleries, and historical sites. You can cool off in the pools at the Las Cruces Regional Aquatic Center or splash in the fountains at Plaza De Las Cruces. Scenic hiking trails can be found at places like Dripping Springs Natural Area and Prehistoric Trackways National Monument.

11. Explore caves in Southeast New Mexico at  Carlsbad Caverns National Park

One of the unique destinations you can visit in New Mexico on a family vacation is  Carlsbad Caverns National Park  in the Chihuahuan Desert. These massive limestone caves were formed millions of years ago, and there are multiple ways to see their beauty through self-guided tours, guided ranger tours, and evening bat flight programs. Certain trails inside the caverns are accessible for wheelchairs. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring a jacket, as the caves are chilly. Other attractions in the area include Rattlesnake Springs, Living Desert State Park, and the Carlsbad Museum and Art Center.

12. Hit the slopes at  Ski Apache

The Mescalero Apache Tribe is located in New Mexico’s South Central region and is known for its long-standing history, traditions, and culture. Within the tribe’s mountainous lands you’ll find year-round family fun at  Ski Apache , with winter alpine sports on beautiful slopes from snowboarding and skiing to sledding and snowshoeing. In warmer months, you’ll often still find powder skiing at Ski Apache, plus zip-line and gondola tours, hiking, and mountain biking. You can also swim in the indoor pool, take a dip in the hot tub, and play in the on-site arcade.

13. Climb the dunes at White Sands National Park in  Alamogordo

Alamogordo  is located in the Southeast region of New Mexico and is a city known for its diverse, kid-friendly attractions. A must-see in the area is White Sands National Park, where you can climb, slide, and even sled over the soft sand of rare white gypsum dunes. Be sure to check out the White Sands Visitor Center for the fascinating geology and history of this one-of-a-kind park. Additional family-friendly attractions in Alamogordo include the Alameda Park Zoo, the New Mexico Museum of Space History, the White Sands Missile Range Museum, and the Toy Train Depot.

14. Go out of this world at the UFO Museum in  Roswell

Located in the Southeast region of the state,  Roswell  is one of the uniquely quirky places you can visit on a family vacation to New Mexico. The city is world-famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash and offers kid-friendly entertainment at sites like the International UFO Museum and Spaceport Roswell as well as themed restaurants and shopping. You’ll also find plenty of natural beauty around Roswell, like the refreshing desert oasis at Bottomless Lake State Park. You can head over to Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge for scenic strolls along the Pecos River, wildlife spotting, and incredible sunset views in the evening.

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8 Great Things To Do In New Mexico With Kids

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New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, offers so many wonderful experiences for families. They run the gamut from historical to cultural to outdoor exploration and beyond. We were fortunate to visit New Mexico three times as we criss-crossed America during our “gap years” and on our massive Southwest road trip.

Especially in these crazy times, it’s a great place to do: there are so many amazing outdoor activities in New Mexico! Read on for some of my top picks for the best things to do in New Mexico with kids.

Books To Read Before You Visit New Mexico With Kids

Explore santa fe, hike petroglyph national monument, wonder at hot air balloon fiesta, sled through white sands national park, experience historic taos, enjoy new mexican food, trek through carlsbad caverns, climb into bandelier national monument, mapping the best things to do in new mexico with kids.

We always love to add relevant stories to our rotation before visiting a new place! It really anchors our kids and makes our explorations meaningful to (and fun for) them. Check out these kids books set in New Mexico before your trip:

There’s so much to love about a visit to Santa Fe. Even within the central Santa Fe Plaza (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) you’ll get a taste of the unique blend that gives New Mexico its identity. Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States, and the nation’s second-oldest city after St. Augustine, Florida.

The region was originally inhabited by the Native communities of the Southwest, including the Puebloan peoples who had lived there for several thousand years. They were subsequently joined by Spanish Catholic missionaries in the late 16th century and just a few years later construction began on the Plaza we see today, following the common layout of the time with a church on one side of the Plaza and the seat of government on another.

Downtown Santa Fe’s centerpiece for history and culture buffs is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (pictured above), though the church standing today is only about 150 years old and stands on the site of a church destroyed during the Pueblo revolt in the 17th century.

Our kids appreciated a brief visit inside the Cathedral to look around, but they really enjoyed strolling the Plaza itself. It remains the hub of Santa Fe, with tons of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and sweet shops. There are often cultural festivals and fairs on the Plaza (we stumbled into a wonderful one and got glimpses of amazing traditional clothing and dances). Stop in at one of the excellent New Mexican restaurants on the Plaza for lunch in the peaceful but lively atmosphere.

Pro tip: Make the most of your time driving around New Mexico with the free RoadTrippers app . It helps you plan your route and shows you tons of unique stops along the way. Get $5 off RoadTrippers Plus with coupon BTR5QTP .

Santa Fe is often recommended for adults due to it’s artsy reputation. Our kids really enjoyed the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , which is walkable from the Plaza. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring different periods of O’Keeffe’s work, and our kids loved having their own watercolor supplies to emulate her style ( this paint set and this book have come all over the world with us).

If you have more time in Santa Fe, consider a visit to El Rancho de las Golondrinas, a living history museum that showcases New Mexican life and culture in the early 18th century. Read more about it here.

For those seeking a more modern experience, Meow Wolf is a popular choice. It’s hard to describe exactly, but the basic idea is an immersive modern art experience. There are lots of neon and black lights, loud music, mirrors, and maze-like corridors. It’s not for everyone and my son (then 5.5) and I couldn’t get out fast enough, but other people absolutely love it. YMMV but check it out here and decide if it’s right for your family; kids who get over-stimulated may do better elsewhere. Children four and under are free, but strollers aren’t permitted inside to make sure you bring a carrier if your little one can’t walk the whole time. Tickets for adults are $25 each.

I recommend staying close to the Plaza to maximize convenience in Santa Fe. Check out the best places to stay in Santa Fe with kids . You’ll find plenty of options for any budget!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Santa Fe, New Mexico

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Right above the city of Albuquerque , you’ll find a true national treasure: Petroglyph National Monument . It’s one of the largest petroglyph sites on this continent despite its remarkably easy access.

Pop quiz: What is a petroglyph? A petroglyph is a carving in the surface of a rock. By contrast, a pictograph is a painting on the surface of a rock.

Start your exploration of these centuries old works in the visitors center, where the park movie explains their origins and the process the local community went through to preserve the site in the face of development pressure. You can also pick up a junior ranger book to provide more context for your visit.

There are several trails of varying lengths and difficulties that you can explore, and all have really impressive petroglyphs. Even the hardest trails were manageable for our 4 year old and some of the easiest can be accessed with a jogging stroller. Admission to Petroglyph National Monument is free .

The good news is that Albuquerque offers plenty of affordable places to stay for families. Check out this amazing family-friendly vacation rental or these centrally-located hotels for all budgets:

• Econo Lodge Old Town ($)
• Nativo Lodge ($)
• Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn ($$)
• Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town ($$)
• Hotel Chaco ($$$)
• Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque ($$$)

Read more: Can’t-Miss Things To Do In Albuquerque With Kids

Thanks to Dalya of Sweet Little Journey

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world and is possibly the busiest time of year in Albuquerque. If you plan to come see this spectacle be sure to plan far ahead since accommodation gets booked out far in advance!

The fiesta lasts a full week and is packed with various events and activities for families and hot air balloon lovers. Each day includes a mass ascension, when all the balloons are launched up into the air at the same time while spectators walk through the football field taking in the beautiful sights. Throughout the day, visitors are able to take rides on various balloons, watch a chainsaw carving competition, spot skydivers, and walk around the field looking for fun shaped balloons.

Each evening the balloons get lit from within and glow like ornaments in the dark. The pilots of each hot air balloon fire their burners and put on a full spectacle, sometimes synchronizing their glow to music or to other balloons.

Finally, don’t miss out on the Special Shapes Rodeo, which is arguably the most spectacular event of the whole week. This event showcases all the special shaped hot air balloons in the festival. Past year’s shapes included Star Wars characters, various animals, famous cartoon characters and more.

Hotel prices usually shoot up during this week since this has become a famous international event. Make sure to book well in advance and consider local vacation rentals for your stay. The Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has its own dedicated park named after the event, so you’ll want to find accommodation close to Balloon Fiesta Park in order to avoid long drive times and traffic jams.

White Sands National Park is one of the most unique places in America, let alone New Mexico. It is the world’s largest gypsum dune field and visiting is an incredible experience.

Unlike typical quartz dunes, the gypsum dunes in White Sands are cool (even cold) to the touch and often feel damp. The most fun way for kids to explore White Sands is by buying (or renting) a sled and wax and gliding down the dunes… over and over and over again.

There’s also an excellent junior ranger program that helps kids understand the areas geological origins, wildlife and conservation needs. You can take a well-marked nature walk on a boardwalk to learn more about the park’s ecosystem and catch the excellent park movie in the visitors center.

Pro tip: Pick up a National Parks annual pass as you explore the Southwest to save on admission fees

White Sands National Park is located in the southeast corner of New Mexico near the town of Alamogordo; the closest large city is Las Cruces. Check out these great places to stay in Las Cruces (which we chose for its road trip convenience and solid food options) and convenient places to stay in Alamogordo .

Read more: Planning your visit to White Sands National Park

Thanks to Eileen of Families Go!

Taos is a worthwhile stop on  any road trip through New Mexico  for its authentic Native American and New Mexican culture, not to mention good local food.

Start your visit at the  Taos Pueblo , a UNESCO world heritage site where some members of the area’s pueblo tribes still live. A guided tour will fill you on how the pueblo homes are built, the tribe’s history and their life and culture today.

Visit the  Hacienda de los Martinez  to learn about the life of a well-off Mexican trader in the 1800s. Kids like visiting the Hacienda because it tells the story of the family and hands-on activities include a room with dress-up clothes and period toys.

Make sure to visit the  Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , with its dizzying heights and amazing views of the gorge and surrounding dessert. Further down the road you can take a peek at the bizarre and creative homes in the off-the-grid  Earthship Biotecture  community.

It’s not hard to find good southwestern food in town, but there are two places you can’t miss. For breakfast, head to  Michael’s Kitchen  for chile-cheese croissants and cardamom doughnuts (along with more typical doughnuts and pastries for the kids).  For dinner you can’t beat  Orlando’s , a small restaurant filled with colorful Mexican knick-knacks. If the roomy outdoor patio is closed for bad weather be prepared to wait for a table; both locals and tourists flock here for inexpensive made-from scratch enchiladas, chiles rellenos, tamales and desserts.

If a pool is essential to your visit consider the upscale  El Monte Sagrada hotel a few minutes outside of town. In town, opt for the  Historic Taos Inn . Our room had a traditional kiva fireplace, two bathrooms and a side room with a pull-out couch for kids.

You can’t go to New Mexico without eating up a storm. New Mexican food isn’t for the faint of heart – think chiles, fried breads and tortillas, and lots of meat, cheese and eggs.

But New Mexican food isn’t just about the food per se . It’s also about the state’s fascinating, and sometimes devastating, history that saw the melding of so many cultures. It is distinctive in the region, incorporating the agricultural traditions of New Mexico’s Native communities and later Spanish influences.

If I could short-list a few items you need to eat on your visit, I’d start with these:

• Something with green chile – I’d vote for enchiladas, but a burger or huevos rancheros will work too.
• Sopapillas – I grew up eating these puffy fried pastries at our local New Mexican restaurant, and you’d better not eat them without honey.
• Blue corn tortillas or chips – Blue corn hails from northern New Mexico and was an important part of the diet for Native communities long before the Spanish came along.
• Calabacitas – This one’s for the vegetarians out there! I love this chopped squash side dish, which you can sometimes get in tacos or enchiladas as well. Much like corn, squash is a uniquely North American food and Native communities in the region refined its cultivation over thousands of years.

I’m not a food photographer by any means, but this meal in Albuquerque was pretty much perfect in my book:

I definitely recommend reading this article before your trip for some important background about New Mexican food. And if it’s got you salivating for some chiles rellenos, treat yourself to this cookbook for great recipes, fascinating history and drool-worthy photos.

Thanks to Preethi of Local Passport Family

One of our favorite stops in New Mexico with kids is Carlsbad Caverns National Park . Whether you explore on your own or as part of a Ranger-guided program, there’s plenty to explore at this New Mexico highlight.

To enter the caverns, be sure to reserve tickets in advance during busy times so that you can catch the elevator down. Admission is included with your National Parks annual pass .

I highly recommend arriving a couple hours before your entry time. That way, you’ll have a chance to check out the visitors center and complete the Junior Ranger booklets with kids. Everyone will enjoy the experience so much more if you learn about some of the fascinating history and natural features beforehand!

While at Carlsbad, don’t miss the Big Room chamber, which is the largest in North America. At about 1.25 miles (average time to walk it is 1.5 hours), it’s perfect for even families with young children. (There’s also a shortcut with a total distance of just over half a mile if you need a shorter route!) There’s also the 1.25 mile Natural Entrance Trail, which is fun and also a workout. With just over 750 feet of elevation gain in a short period, it’s the equivalent of climbing a 75-story building!

In addition to the caverns themselves, there are also above-ground hiking trails, incredible ranger-led bat programs, and night sky programs. There’s something for every interest.

While visiting Carlsbad Caverns with kids, I recommend staying in either hotels in Carlsbad , about half an hour away, or hotels in El Paso, TX if you want a bigger city and don’t mind a bit of a drive (about 2 hours).

Read more: Best gifts for National Park lovers

Thanks to Tavia of Big Brave Nomad

Bandolier National Monument is one of the most underrated National Monuments in my opinion. Bandolier National Monument is home to 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country as well as evidence of a human presence here going back over 11,000 years.  Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities.

People of all ages will enjoy the first half of Pueblo Loop Trail that take visitors into actual Ancestral Pueblo cave dwellings – at the half way point you can choose to continue on to Alcove House or turn back to the visitor center.  For families with older children or adults only, Alcove House is definitely worth the journey up 4 wooden ladders and into a home that once housed approximately 25 Ancestral Pueblo people. 

For your visit, bring a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the many picnic benches.  You can either print a park map in advance or you can purchase one for $2 at the visitor center. Bandolier National Monument offers a free shuttle bus from the White Rock visitor center in town or you can drive your own vehicle into the park.  However, there is limited in-park parking. (The shuttle is closed due to COVID for the 2020 season).

We chose to stay at the RV Park at White Rock Visitor Center for the convenience of hopping on the shuttle and close proximity to the grocery story and coffee shop.  However, the National Monument does offer 2 campgrounds inside the park and the towns of White Rock and Los Alamos have several hotel choices – click here to see the best options .

The park fee for Bandolier National Monument is $25 per day per vehicle or you can purchase an American the Beautiful Annual Pass for unlimited entry into National Park Sites across the United States.

Use this map to help you build your family’s New Mexico road trip itinerary:

If you’re interested in extending your family trip to New Mexico into other Southwest destinations, consider these options:

• Best things to do in Albuquerque with kids
• White Sands National Park visitors guide
• 7 Fun Things To Do With Kids On A Texas Family Vacation
• Big Bend National Park visitors guide
• Things to do in Big Bend National Park
• 8 Fun Things To Do In Austin With Kids
• The Ultimate Weekend in Dallas Itinerary: 2 Days of Texas Fun!
• Best things to do in Arizona with kids
• Saguaro National Park visitors guide
• 7 Fun Things To Do In Tucson With Kids – Choices For All Ages
• Things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale with kids
• Where To Stay In Scottsdale With Kids
• Fun things to do in Flagstaff with kids
• Where to stay in Flagstaff with kids
• 12 Can’t-Miss Things To Do In Colorado With Kids
• Rocky Mountain National Park with Kids: 2 Perfect Days
• 5 Best Family Ski Resorts in Colorado
• 13 Awesome Things To Do In Utah With Kids
• How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon With Kids
• 7 Unique Things To Do In Capitol Reef National Park

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12 EPIC Things to Do in New Mexico with Kids

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date March 11, 2024
• 4 Comments on 12 EPIC Things to Do in New Mexico with Kids

New Mexico is one of the most underrated states in the USA. It is one of only a few states that has a true distinguishing identity.

From the food to the architecture, there is a uniqueness to New Mexico that many other states simply lack. And for those visiting New Mexico with kids, you’ll find no shortage of interesting things to do.

This travel guide to the best things to do in New Mexico with kids details the top 12 places to visit in New Mexico and things to do in this incredible, family-friendly state in the southwest USA. 

About New Mexico

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment. If you are looking for a cultural experience in the United States, the American Southwest – particularly New Mexico – is where you will find it.

To appreciate many of the best things to do in New Mexico with kids – you first need to understand a little bit about the state’s past.

New Mexico has a rich and deep Native American history that has influenced almost every aspect of the state.

The Pueblo Indians were the original settlers of New Mexico, long before it was a state and before the USA was even a country.

Then came Spanish explorers who settled in New Mexico in the 16th century. They brought their own culture, food, and way of life.

Although it probably wasn’t a popular union at the time, these two cultural influences have shaped New Mexico into what it is today.

New Mexican Cuisine

The fusion of the Indigenous and Spanish cultures is very apparent in the state’s traditional cuisine. New Mexico is known for a very unique type of Latin-style food prepared with hatch green chile peppers.

If you happen to find it on the menu, order enchiladas “Christmas style”. They are served stacked, not rolled, and are smothered in red sauce on one side of the plate and green sauce on the other side. You can also order your enchiladas with a fried egg on top. 

Indian squaw bread, also known as Navajo fry bread, is also a popular food choice that is somewhat specific to New Mexico.

Additionally, foods like chile rellenos (stuffed chiles), blue corn tortilla chips, and posole are all popular dishes in New Mexico.

New Mexico Architecture

The Native American history hasn’t just inspired the delicious food, the architecture and décor you will find in many parts of New Mexico is also different from what you may find elsewhere.

Adobe, or mud brick, is a common building material found throughout the southwest and especially in New Mexico.

Hanging on the outside of many of the adobe buildings, whether homes or storefronts, you’ll commonly see chile ristras. 

I’m not sure how these strands of large dried chiles became so popular in New Mexico, but they are practically synonymous with the state.

Top 12 things to do in New Mexico with kids

Although the architecture and cuisine are quite unique, there are a lot of things to do in New Mexico besides eating delicious, authentic food and looking at cool buildings.

Those visiting New Mexico with kids will enjoy exploring the varying landscapes across the state. From mountains to deserts, to caves, and sand dunes, New Mexico has a little bit of everything.

If you are planning a New Mexico family vacation, here are the top 12 best things to do in New Mexico with kids.

Go sand boarding at White Sands National Park

White Sands is one of the most recently added national parks in the United States National Park system.

Designated a national park in 2019, White Sands is beautiful and picturesque. Spanning 275 square miles, the park consists of white sand dunes composed of gypsum crystals. 

It is the largest field of sand dunes of its kind on earth .

If the Sahara desert and the beaches of the Bahamas had a love child, it would be White Sands National Park . Imagine white sand stretching for miles forming gentle, rolling dunes as far as the eye could see.

Although somewhat remote, there are plenty of things to do in and around White Sands National Park .

I recommend packing a picnic lunch and bringing a sled. Adults and kids alike will have a blast sledding down the hills of pristine white sand.

Unlike normal sand, the gypsum sand that makes up White Sands National Park never gets hot, so you can walk on it barefooted even in the heat of the New Mexico summer. However, two of the most important things to pack when you visit White Sands are water and sunscreen.

In summer, temperatures here often reach highs around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). The sun reflects off the sand and can cause sunburns, even if you are not visiting during the peak summer months.

Where to stay near White Sands National Park

Holiday Inn Express and Suites – Alamogordo, NM

Tour New Mexico’s Underworld at Carlsbad Caverns National Park

When it comes to caves, Carlsbad Caverns may be the most impressive and beautiful system of underground caverns in North America. In my opinion, it is one of the top natural wonders in the United States .

It was discovered in the late 1800s and named a national park in 1930. It is also one of only two caves in the United States that is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

Today, more than 400,000 people visit the caverns each year.

There are lots of things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park , but exploring its cave system that gives the park its name is the highlight of any itinerary. There several named rooms in the cave that visitors can explore. One of the most popular is known as The Hall of the Giants or Big Room.

The Big Room is the largest chamber inside Carlsbad Caverns, and the largest accessible limestone chamber in North America . The caves are not only beautiful and mysterious but are fascinating to tour.

Stay until sunset and you’ll get to watch hundreds of thousands of bats emerge from the cave’s natural entrance and spiral into the night sky. The national park is home to 17 different species of bats.

If you plan to visit both White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns during your family vacation to New Mexico, be sure to buy an America the Beautiful National Park Pass – which will cover admission to both national parks.

Where to stay near Carlsbad Caverns

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Learn about Aliens in Roswell

Fun fact, I actually lived in Roswell , New Mexico for more than a decade. Known by conspiracy theorists as the town where the aliens landed in 1947, Roswell has become a bit of a tourist site over the years.

Growing up in Roswell I always knew of the supposed alien spaceship crash, but no one made anything of it. It definitely didn’t define the town the way it does now.

Fast forward a few years and a few alien movies later, Roswell has become the Mecca for all the fanatical alien believers around the world.

Drive down Main Street in the small town and everything from the local McDonald’s to the street lamps are alien themed.

If you plan to visit Roswell, New Mexico take the time to tour the Alien Museum and learn about the history of the town’s mysterious alien sighting.

Where to stay in Roswell

Holiday Inn Express and Suites

Admire the landscape at Bisti / De-Na-Zin Badlands

After you’ve visited Roswell and your kids are convinced aliens exist, take them to B isti / De-Na-Zin Badlands , outside of Farmington, New Mexico. The landscape of this area will make them feel like they’re in an alien land. 

The unique rock formations look other-worldly. The wilderness area is free to enter and offers some really great and picturesque desert hikes.

Beware, there are no marked trails so know where you are going and don’t get lost!

Although the Bisti Badlands are barren lands now, at one point in time this area was a coastal swamp, which helps explain the unique formations of peaks and valleys.

Where to stay near Bisti Badlands

Home2 Suites by Hilton in Farmington

Explore Cliff Dwellings at Bandelier National Monument

There is no place better than New Mexico in the entire US to learn about the original, indigenous people of the Americas. Native American culture is deeply entwined in the state’s history.

At Bandelier National Monument , just outside Los Alamos, one of the best small towns in the US , you’ll find evidence of human settlement that dates back 11,000 years when the Pueblo Indians built cliff dwellings to survive.

Visitors to Bandelier National Monument can even climb ladders to explore some of the cave-like homes built into the limestone cliffs.

I first visited Bandelier National Monument as a child growing up in New Mexico. I was fascinated by the well-preserved glimpse of life long before modern times. Now, as a mother myself, I see this as a valuable place to teach my own child about our country’s history and its original people.

When visiting New Mexico with kids, one of the best things to do is to show them the history and culture that make the state so unique.

Where to stay near Bandelier National Monument

Holiday Inn Express and Suites, Los Alamos Entrada Park

Relax in the Mountain Town of Ruidoso

Ruidoso is a picturesque mountain town that you will find to be significantly less crowded than most resort towns.

In winter, skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the small but adequate ski mountain, Ski Apache . It is a wonderful and gentle mountain resort to teach young children how to ski .

And in summer, hikers and mountain bikers will find no shortage of trails to explore. In the midtown area, you’ll find unique shops carrying everything from turquoise jewelry to souvenirs and Native American artwork.

I spent many summers and winters in Ruidoso as a child and have so many fond memories of this beautiful, small town. It is truly one of the best places to visit in New Mexico for families.

Where to stay in Ruidoso

Ruidoso River Resort Condos

Discover Old Town Albuquerque and it’s many family-friendly museums

Albuquerque is one of the greatest cities in New Mexico to visit with children. I’d recommend spending a few days in Albuquerque with kids. 

To get a good feel for the city, start out with a visit to Old Town Albuquerque .

This historic area of Albuquerque features narrow streets lined with adobe buildings. A variety of great shops and cafes run by local artisans and restaurateurs make Old Town a great place to shop locally and support small businesses.

This area is also a great place to sample authentic New Mexico cuisine.

You can take a self-guided walking tour, or for a more cultural experience, book a guided walking tour .

For an extra unique experience, you can take the popular Ghost Tour of Old Town . On the tour, you’ll learn about the legends, folklore, and ghost stories that have become a part of the area’s 300+ year haunted history. 

There are plenty of things to do in Albuquerque with kids to keep the family entertained for a few days.

Kids will love the BioPark zoo and aquarium, the Natural History Museum , and Explora Science Museum. All of these are within a short drive from Old Town.

Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you visit New Mexico during early-October, you’ll get an extra special treat, because each year Albuquerque hosts the largest hot air balloon festival in the world !

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most incredible things to experience in New Mexico.

Unfortunately, it’s only 9 days long, so you have to plan your trip accordingly if you want to witness hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies. 

However, even if you aren’t visiting during the festival, you can book a sunrise hot air balloon ride any time of year. 

Take a Ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway

Just outside of Albuquerque, a trip up the scenic Sandia Peak Tramway is a must.

The longest tramway in the United States , the Sandia Peak Tramway runs 2.7 miles and takes roughly 10-15 minutes to get to the top.

The views from inside the tram, as well as from the top of the mountain range are beautiful. Enjoy a nice lunch at the top, or simply hike around and explore on a nice day.

Where to stay in Albuquerque

• El Vado Motel
• Hotel Albuquerque

Explore the Charming City of Santa Fe

A trip to New Mexico with kids wouldn’t be complete without visiting the state capital of Santa Fe . Santa Fe is a great spring break destination for families and gives you a true sense of the state.

The former Spanish settlement maintains much of its original charm and history, while also embodying a quirky artist vibe . As a first-time visitor to Santa Fe, you’ll want to head to the plaza and walk through the surrounding streets.

Take time to dip into some of the many art galleries in the area, and of course enjoy a traditional New Mexican meal made with hatch green chiles. 

For an extra unique experience, book a 3-hour interactive scavenger hunt that combines Amazing Race -type family fun with sightseeing!

If visiting New Mexico with kids, the immersive Meow Wolf installation is also a must-visit! Meow Wolf has other locations in Denver , Las Vegas, and Grapevine, Texas – located between Dallas and Fort Worth .

Where to stay in Santa Fe

The Inn of Five Graces

Tour the Taos Pueblo

The Taos Pueblo is commonly believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States. The multi-story adobe complex is home to about 150 Pueblo Indians and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors to the Taos Pueblo can tour the community, learn about life at the Pueblo, and witness tribal events like ceremonial dances and feasts. It is one of the best cultural experiences in New Mexico !

If visiting New Mexico in winter, Taos is also home to one of the best ski resorts in New Mexico.

Where to stay in Taos

El Monte Sagrado Resort and Spa

Marvel at 3,000-year-old petroglyphs

Petroglyph National Monument is an archaeological treasure that bears witness to the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest. 

This remarkable site, spanning over 17 miles on the outskirts of Albuquerque, is home to thousands of ancient petroglyphs etched into volcanic rock by Indigenous peoples and early Spanish settlers. 

These intricate carvings and symbols, some dating back over 3,000 years, offer a window into the spiritual beliefs, daily life, and artistic expressions of those who once inhabited this arid landscape.

Visitors to Petroglyph National Monument can explore its numerous hiking trails and witness the enduring mysteries of the Southwest’s ancient cultures.

Map of the Best Things to Do in New Mexico with Kids

New Mexico is a big state. You can plan one big road trip across New Mexico or see different parts of the state on different trips. For example, you can fit parts of Northern New Mexico into a southwest USA road trip . 

Alternatively, you can add parts of southeastern New Mexico to a West Texas road trip . 

Either way, it’s good to have an idea of where each of these best things to do in New Mexico with kids is located and the distance and travel time between them.

Why you should visit New Mexico with kids

New Mexico is a fascinating state for kids. It is a place where children will not only learn about – but learn to love – history, culture, and geography.

Exploring New Mexico with kids is a great way for families to turn a road trip into an adventure. From artsy urban areas to barren badlands and even aliens, New Mexico is a must for anyone wanting to experience something different!

Have you visited New Mexico with kids – or without? What are your favorite places to visit on New Mexico family vacations? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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4 comments on “12 EPIC Things to Do in New Mexico with Kids”

We were just in Albuquerque/Santa Fe. Meow Wolf in Santa Fe is definitely a plus (and Explora) if visiting with kids. I would definitely skip the natural history museum next time.

New Mexico sounds amazing for families. We’ve only visited the Pacific North West Coast of the States but the southern half is on our to-do list and I’d love to add New Mexico to that. It seems there’s a lot on offer for families!

I love New Mexico; it truly is a magical place; like most of the Southwest. I still haven’t made it to White Sands NM, but have visited Bandelier, Santa Fe and drove through the Bisti Badlands plenty of times to appreciate their beauty at different times of the day. My favorite place on your list is Taos Pueblo; we’ve toured the village, but there were no ceremonies going on when we were there. We love visiting Chaco; not really a mecca for kids, though ours enjoy it (or so we hope), but I love the remoteness and history there.

Born and raised in Albuquerque. I have taken my kids back many times. You hit a lot of highlights. The one thing I would add is the Balloon Fiesta. Definite bucket list item especially with kids! They have such amazement in their eyes as you walk through the balloons. There is no replicating the sights and sounds of the fiesta.

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18 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico, According to Locals

Come to see historic small towns, scenic hiking trails, the "Grand Canyon of New Mexico," and more.

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure

Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Visit New Mexico

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

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Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

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For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

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Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

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Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

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Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

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El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

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The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

Michael Warren/Getty Images

Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

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This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

Kathleen Messmer/Travel + Leisure

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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New Mexico Road Trip with Kids Itinerary (6 nights)

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New Mexico is a beautiful state offerings deserts, dunes, mountains and loads of culture. This itinerary will offer you a snapshot of Albuquerque and the southern part of the state.

Getting there:

Depending on where you are coming from, it may make sense to road trip from your home in your own car. If you’re coming from the West Coast, there are ample opportunities to hit up some other National Parks along the way to enhance this itinerary. A few suggestions to consider: Grand Canyon National Park, Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

We opted to fly into Albuquerque Sunport International Airport (ABQ) and rent a car at the airport as we had limited time for this road trip.

This will be your travel day and arrival in Albuquerque if you arrive by plane. Today, you will drive from Albuquerque to Alamogordo. If you arrive late, grab a quick dinner in Los Lunas (mostly fast food and fast casual) and continue driving.

Accommodation recommendation: Home2 Suites Alamogordo

Approximate drive time: about 3 hours (200 miles)

If you got into the hotel late, have a lazy morning and then explore town. Consider visiting McGinn’s Pistachioland , home to the world’s largest pistachio. Sample various flavored pistachios, grab an ice cream and consider taking the farm tour. The tour is very basic but you may learn a thing or two about pistachios!

After, check out the Alameda Park Zoo . This park was founded as a deer park at the train station in the late 1890s as a place to entertain passengers while the train refueled. Now, it is a small animal park that houses many rescued or injured animals in hopes of reintroducing them into the wild. There is also a playground here and lots of open space for kids to run around.

Have lunch and then head south towards White Sands National Park . Going this time of day will be busy but you can easily drive the 8-mile Dunes Drive to get acclimated to the park and maybe stop at the Interdune Boardwalk to explore. Before you leave, consider swinging by the Visitor’s Center and buying a sled.

If the kids are in a good mood, stay for an epic sunset.

NOTE: I highly recommend 2 nights in Alamogordo as a buffer. This park is subject to last-minute closures due to missile testing at the adjacent White Sands Missile Range. This closes Highway 70 between Las Cruces and Alamogordo. Check the White Sands National Park website a day or two in advance to see if there are any planned closures. 

Today is a short travel day but a great opportunity to get one more visit to the park. Now that you have the lay of the land at White Sands National Park and you bought a sled yesterday, head to the park at opening time (usually 7am but check the National Park website to confirm). Enjoy the park in solitude with minimal crowds. This is a great time to sled but since the Visitor’s Center doesn’t open until 9am, you will have an advantage over others who are visiting for the first time. There is no designated sledding spot. Just find a dune, wax up your sled and go! If you need a break from the adrenaline, try out the Dune Life Nature Trail for a sandy walk to learn about the creatures and plants of the desert.

When park time is wrapped, you will drive across Lincoln National Forest and then through some small town on the way to Carlsbad. A great place to stop for lunch is the mountain town of Cloudcroft. Dotted with restaurants and shops, this is a great stopping point before the next stretch which is pretty barren. If you need another stop, Kith+Kin Roasting Company in Artesia had a vast coffee, food and dessert menu including homemade ice cream.

Once in Carlsbad, you’ll find mostly fast food and taquerias for food options.

Accommodation Recommendation: Hyatt House Carlsbad

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 45 minutes (150 miles)

Book tickets for Carlsbad Caverns on this day. Opt for an earlier entry time and plan to spend about 2-3 hours there between the self-guided tours and the exhibits. There is a cafeteria on-site and it is recommended to grab something here unless you have packed lunch. After exploring the caverns, head south and tick off another national park by visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park .

Carlsbad Caverns natural entrance

If you end up with extra time in Carlsbad, consider visiting Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park .

Approximate drive time round trip (both parks): 1 hour, 45 minutes (100 miles)

As you head back north towards Albuquerque, you can spend a bit of time in the famous city of Roswell, New Mexico. With kids, it will be a brief visit but a good place to stretch legs and take a few fun photos. Roswell is home to lots of museum, many of them free, so take a look ahead of time and have a plan of what you want to check out. The International UFO Museum and Research Center was fairly inexpensive but my 3 year old was a bit scared by it.

Between Roswell and Albuquerque, you will not find a lot of food options so, if time allows, consider grabbing lunch in Roswell. Other than that, you may find an occasional diner or a gas station with some sort of food spot attached.

Today is a great day to book the Sandia Peak Tramway .  Tickets only go on sale a day or two in advance due to weather. If you can score afternoon/evening tickets for tonight, this is a good plan but you will need to stay on a tight timeline as today is the longest drive. You could also book dinner at the top of Sandia Peak at TEN 3 (make reservations in advance for Thursday-Monday with seatings between 5-7pm).

At the end of the day, make your way to Albuquerque’s Old Town for your accommodation.

Accommodation Recommendation: Hotel Chaco or this AirBnB 3-bedroom house

Approximate drive time: 4 hours (275 miles)

Albuquerque has so much to explore so pick a few sights that catch your eye and plan around that. A few suggestions:

• Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum – it is only right to check out this spot when you’re in the “Hot Air Ballooning Capital of the World.” Exhibits that both children and adults willequally enjoy.
• ABQ Biopark – a zoo, botanical garden and aquarium in one.
• American International Rattlesnake Museum – have a child who loves snakes? This is your spot!
• Explora – A hands-on museum for the whole family with 250 interactive exhibits focused on STEM learning.
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center – near Old Town, this center will teach you about the culture, history and art of the Pueblo Native American culture.
• New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science – several different exhibits including lots about dinosaurs as part of their permanent collection and special unique temporary exhibits.
• Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm – a lovely spot with a great farm shop and a delicious restaurant called Campo (book ahead for brunch and dinner).
• Old Town Albuquerque – walk around the plaza, grab a cup of coffee at Blackbird Coffee House and browse the shops.
• Take in a minor league baseball game at Rio Grande Credit Union Field where the Albuquerque Isotopes play.
• Sawmill Market is an urban market with 27 local merchants selling food, drink and merchandise. Indoor and outdoor dining.

This will either be departure day or catching an outbound flight home.

Road Trip Essentials:

Wondering what to pack for exploring New Mexico?

• In the summer months, expect warm temperatures so breathable, lightweight clothing with ample sun protection. Sunglasses are a must, especially at White Sands National Park.
• In the winter months, cooler temps and wind are likely. A warm jacket is key.
• Clothing-wise, you can pack pretty casual – we did dress-up a bit nicer for brunch at Los Poblanos.
• Footwear: comfortable walking shoes and sandals are essential; if you plan to explore more, hiking boots are recommended
• Daypack for carrying the essential around
• Refillable water bottle
• Games and activities for the kids for the longer driving days (a few of our favorites are Auto Bingo , Melissa & Doug Water Wow! sets & magnetic playsets )

Have a question about visiting New Mexico? Drop a question in the comments.

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Southern New Mexico Road Trip With Kids -Family-Friendly Off The Beaten Path Itinerary

Southern New Mexico Road Trip With Kids

Before our first visit to New Mexico, we thought the state’s nickname – The Land Of Enchantment – was simply a figure of speech. However, by the end of our very first day in the state, we were thoroughly convinced that the nickname was actually a gross understatement.

@forsomethingmore Replying to @punker76 I genuinely love southern NM. It is so beautiful and has so much to offer. It’s okay if you think it’s crap, we’ve loved every minute of our time there. Happy Holidays! #southernnm #newmexico #newmexicotrue #newmexicohype #southwest #southwestroadtrip #usa_tiktok #traveltiktok ♬ original sound – 💔

So, if you choose to embark on a Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, or even without, we’re confident you’ll experience countless unforgettable landscapes and unique geological sites, cultural riches, and culinary delights (from affordable and classic hole-in-the-wall eateries that have stood the test of time) in this highly underrated part of the American Southwest.

Below is our ultimate Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary. Our proposed route is a counterclockwise loop that starts and ends in Las Cruces, so if you’re flying to New Mexico, you can book a round-trip flight into and out of the Las Cruces International Airport (LRU).

Table of Contents

Who This Road Trip Itinerary Is For

We’ve created this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary with outdoorsy, active, and thrifty families in mind. So, many of the accommodations we mention are the super affordable New Mexico State Park campgrounds, RV parks, or free campsites in the beautiful outdoors!

Many of the things to do are ones that require you to move your body a bit. However, if you’re not as eager to commune with nature as we are, there too are countless hotels, motels, AirBnBs, etc. in all of the places we cover, so don’t fret if you’re not the camping or RVing type. And don’t worry, not everything we recommend will make you get your sweat on.

Also, if you’re in love with New Mexico and wish to move here, explore career opportunities in New Mexico and start a new life chapter.

How Long Will The Itinerary Take?

If you want to experience all we’ve listed below, and do so without too much dawdling or relaxing, it’ll likely take you 3-4 weeks. However, below we don’t provide recommended times for any of the destinations, as we firmly believe that you ought to experience any or all of these things at a pace and to an extent that you find comfortable and satisfying.

When Is The Best Time To Do This Road Trip?

The answer to this question depends on what type of weather you prefer. We don’t care for scorching heat, so we completed this road trip in the cooler months (November and December). However, if you don’t like the cold, or rather we should say the mild cold of Southern New Mexico, it’ll be best for you to avoid the winter months.

Below are some annual weather data for Las Cruces, and if you head to timeanddate.com you can explore other locations on your own. To navigate to the type of chart you see below, after you’ve typed in the city of your choice, click on the Climate (Averages) tab.

Customize To Your Heart’s Content

If you’re not keen to follow our proposed route below, no sweat. More broadly, our itinerary is a menu of options for what Southern New Mexico has to offer. And, since we’ve long ago learned the Aristotelian-inspired adage of “the more we experience, the more we know we haven’t experienced,” if you’ve embarked on a Southern New Mexico road trip with kids (or without), and you think there are items we ought to add to our itinerary, please leave us a comment below , and thank you in advance for your suggestions!

Our Road Trip Map

If you’d like to see geographically all the experiences we’ve included in our Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, you can scroll down to the bottom of this post , and you’ll find everything neatly on a Google Map.

Please Remember Safety First

Most of the things to do in this itinerary in some way shape or form require you to move your body in the great outdoors of Southern New Mexico. If you’ve never been to a desert environment, the most simple way to put it is, the environment is just about as dangerous as it is beautiful.

The best way to stay safe along this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids is to do a bit of reading/learning before you head to each site to generally know what to look out for.

The following list is NOT exhaustive in terms of what you should consider in order to stay safe out in the desert, but it’s a pretty good start. Combine this list with your own research of each site’s unique safety considerations, and you and your family will be able to have a safe, fun, and memorable road trip.

Medical Kits and Protection 

When planning a trip with children, it’s essential to have medical kits with specific items catering to their needs. For example, protective  face masks designed for children  offer effective protection against dust, smog, pollutants, and pathogens. Equipping your little ones with these masks not only prevents health issues but also shields them from desert winds and sand, enhancing their comfort and security during the trip.

It might seem like a no-brainer, but we highly suggest you check the local weather report before setting out for the various adventure we include in this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids. This is one of the easiest ways to make sure you’ll be prepared and thus have a safe and fun time!

Dehydration

This one is simple. Drink ample water, and maybe even bring a bit more than you think you need. We never regret carrying a bit more water than we need, and we ALWAYS regret bringing too little. Also, if you’re going to be RVing on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, consider buying a water filter , and that way you’ll be sure you’re drinking safe, clean, and tasty water the entire time.

The best way to prevent sunburn is to wear long clothing. If you’re not willing to cover up with clothes, at least apply suncream, and reapply it throughout the day. Remember to wear sunglasses too.

Cacti/Prickly Things

We constantly stay VERY close to our two sons when we’re in the desert so that if they trip or stumble we might have a chance to grab them before they fall onto a cactus or something else prickly. The last thing we want is for them to get stuck by any one of the countless cacti that are endemic to Southern New Mexico.

@forsomethingmore We love the desert! BUT, I would be lying if I said i’m completely comfortable in the desert with the kids. The more you do something though, the better it gets. One tip for hiking in the desert: Bring an Ace comb. It gets those chollos out very well! Also, always teach your kids what to be aware of in the desert. Shockingly, they have only gotten spines in them once. 🩹 What do you think about hiking in the desert with kids? #deserthiking #hikingwithtoddlers #arizonahiking #hikearizona #organpipecactus ♬ original sound – Britts Fits | Small Biz

TIP : A simple ACE Pocket Comb is one of the best tools for removing large prickers. For the small ones, we recommend a pair of precision tweezers . As far as it’s possible, don’t try to remove the prickers with your fingers, as they’ll likely come out of the first person and right into your fingers!

Snakes/Scorpions/Venomous Other Things

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The ShySkis | Family Travel (@forsomethingmore)

There is a lot that goes into snake safety , however, the general rules we follow are:

• Never approach a snake.
• Move slowly, and always look where you’re stepping.
• Don’t put any part of your body under/in a spot where you can’t see what’s there. For example, don’t put your foot under a bush (snakes like to hang out in bushes), don’t walk through tall grass, and don’t stick your fingers in any holes, etc. as snakes often live in those holes.
• Step on rocks/logs, NOT over them. Often snakes like to hike under these items, so stepping over them is riskier.
• If you leave your shoes out at night, carefully shake them out in the morning.
• Don’t touch snakes AT ALL. Even once they’re dead, they can still inject venom.
• If you hear a rattler/snake, stay still. Once you know where it is, SLOWLY back away.

And, in the unfortunate event that you do get bit by a snake or other venomous critter:

• Try not to move.
• Wash the bite with soap/water.
• Take off jewelry, etc. that might restrict swelling.
• Immobilize the affected area.
• If possible, keep the bite below the heart.
• Transport the victim to the nearest medical facility ASAP.
• If you can safely ID the snake/critter, do so.

Mountain Lions

The basic idea behind mountain lion safety is:

• Never adventure alone. If you’re hiking with kids, keep them close to you, and better yet, put one adult at the front of the hiking group, put the kids in the middle, and put another adult at the back.

If you do encounter a mountain lion, the basic idea is:

• DO NOT APPROACH a mountain lion
• Convince it that you are NOT prey and that you might be dangerous
• Do all you can do to appear large, i.e. raise your arms, hiking poles, branches, etc. over your head, fan out your jacket, etc.
• DO NOT RUN, as this may stimulate their chasing instinct.

If you are attacked by a mountain lion:

• Fight back with whatever you have.
• Protect your neck, as this is what they usually attack.
• Try to remain standing, as this will keep your neck farthest from the animal.

Getting Lost

Last but certainly not least, many of the things to do on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary will take you off-grid and far beyond reliable phone service.

We recommend you always have a good reliable map with you, and that it be usable even when you have no phone service. We almost exclusively use GuruMaps for offline navigation for this purpose, and we HIGHLY recommend you do too.

Safety Gear

We know that this section on safety isn’t the most pleasant, but we feel it’s better to go over it here so that you’ll be best equipped to have a safe Southern New Mexico road trip experience.

Last but not least, aside from our day hiking gear when we’re in bear country and even moose and mountain lion country, we carry bear spray . There is a bit of debate on the efficacy of bear spray , so we suggest you do your own research and decide if carrying a can or two is right for you.

Here’s Our Itinerary

And now, without further ado…Here’s our Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary!

With a population of just over 100,000 spread over about 77 square miles, Las Cruces certainly isn’t too densely populated or bustling (just for reference sake Manhatten, NY has 1.6 million people cramped into just about 23 square miles), but it is indeed the second largest city in New Mexico.

Starting your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids in Las Cruces means that right at your fingertips you’ll have access to both the great outdoors as well as the perks that come with being in a sprawling yet relaxed city.

Things To Do In Las Cruces

Organ mountains-desert peaks national monument .

The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument includes the Organ Mountains, the Desert Peaks, the Potrillo Mountains, and the Doña Ana Mountains. We only checked out the Organ Mountains, so suffice it to say, we’re eager to come back to this spectacular spot.

Dripping Springs Natural Area

The Dripping Springs Natural Area is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) parcel on the western side of the majestic Organ Mountains and is a mere 10 miles east of Las Cruces. It’s ripe for some easy and family-friendly hiking, wildlife viewing, and more broadly a quick and spectacular escape into nature just minutes away from downtown Las Cruces. We definitely think Dripping Springs deserves a spot on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary.

Also, there are a number of free campsites along one of the roads that lead to the Dripping Springs Natural Area, so if you’re keen on some camping, you’ll be in luck!

Pine Tree Loop Trail

The 4.1 mi (6.6 km) Pine Tree loop trail is an intermediate/advanced route, but it’s one of our favorite hikes in our entire Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary.

Tucked just about as close up to the Organ Mountains as you can get (without having to do any rock climbing), this trail takes you up close and personal with the Needles, the most iconic peaks in the Organ Mountains.

If you and your family are new to hiking, maybe skip this one, but if you’re semi-experienced and/or are up for a bit of a challenge, hike on. We also suggest you look at our day hike packing guide to see the gear we bring to ensure we have fun, safe, and memorable family hikes!

The Pine Tree Loop trailhead is located within the Aguirre Springs Campground , a scenic and affordable place to stay on the very far outskirts of Las Cruces.

Kilbourne Hole Volcanic Crater National Natural Landmark

The Kilbourne Hole Volcanic Crater is estimated to be between 24,000 and 100,000 years old and is a rockhound’s paradise!

The distinctive minerals in this area are the result of the volcanic explosion that formed the crater, and while many of the minerals in and around the crater are merely dull brown or black on the outside, inside they are commonly comprised of shimmering green/olive and yellow glass-like granules.

Prehistoric Trackways National Monument

If you’re looking for an easy and family-friendly hike that also is rich in natural history, you’ll definitely want to check out Prehistoric Trackways National Monument .

Located in the Robledo Mountains, the monument is chock full of fossilized footprints from many creatures that were alive before the dinosaurs. That means the tracks you’ll get to check out are approximately 280 million years old! Who wouldn’t want to check this out on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids?

We hiked the Ridgeline Trail to the Discovery Trail , and it was a very family-friendly route the entire way.

Slot Canyon Hike

This slot canyon hike is an off-the-beaten-path gem of Las Cruces. What we found unique about this slot canyon, as compared to others we’ve hiked throughout the southwest, is that you’ll be able to hike up and out of the slot and onto the plateau behind it. On most others we’ve hiked, the slot eventually narrows to the point that it’s impassable.

The trailhead is more or less unmarked. Look for the gate and the part where you can duck around it. Then, you’ll essentially follow the trail south and then southwest. The trail isn’t marked, although there are some cairns, so if you’re not comfortable finding the trail on your own, maybe save this one until your orienteering skills are a bit more up to snuff.

Last but not least, we suggest you do NOT attempt to hike this slot canyon if there has been recent rain or if any is forecasted. While it didn’t flood while we were there, it’s almost undoubtedly prone to flash floods during rain events.

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Believe it or not, in the dry desert environment of southern New Mexico, in the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park , you can actually hike through some wetlands! The water here also makes the park a fantastic spot for birding.

The gentle nature trails here and the extremely kid-friendly visitor center (there were many things the kids were able to touch and do) made Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park a perfect morning adventure for all of us.

Las Cruces Farmers And Crafts Market

Over the course of our travels, we’ve been to a number of farmers and crafts markets, and usually, they’re nice, but nothing to write home about.

The Las Cruces Farmers And Crafts Market IS one that we think is worth writing home about. Put more simply, we’re certain it’s one of the best, if not the best , we’ve ever been to. If you’re into this type of thing, you won’t want to miss this market on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

The market spans 7 city blocks and has vendors selling a wide variety of foods, produce, and crafts most of which are right from the local community. It usually happens on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 AM until noon in Downtown Las Cruces on Main St., starting from Bowman Ave all the way up to the Main St. Roundabout, but check the website for the most up-to-date details.

Where To Stay In Las Cruces

Again, as the second largest city in New Mexico, there are plenty of places to stay in Las Cruces . The following two are the ones we recommend.

Hacienda RV Resort

If you’re RVing on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, the Hacienda RV Resort is a clean, well-maintained, and centrally located RV park in the area. They have a hot tub too that was piping hot, but they strictly enforce their policy that you must be 21+ to go in it.

Baylor Canyon Road – Free Camping/Boondocking

Another option for staying in the Las Cruces area, with or without an RV, is camping over on the eastern side of Baylor Canyon Road .

Generally speaking, it’s free to camp on public lands (BLM land and National Forests mostly) for 14 days, sometimes more, and that goes for both tent camping or even parking your RV. As an aside, the term “boondocking” means parking your RV somewhere off-grid.

What’s most appealing about this spot, aside from its price (again, it’s free!) is that it’s set right at the foot of the Organ Mountains, so the aesthetic of this area can’t be beaten! Also, it’s right next to the Dripping Springs Natural Area , so if you do camp here, you could easily be the first one into that area on any given day!

Aguirre Springs Campground

If being right at the foot of the Organ Mountains isn’t immersive enough for you, at the Aguirre Springs Campground, you can camp in the Organ Mountains themselves.

Usually, you’d have to hike to the type of spot the campground is set in, but in this case, you can drive right up, and the views from this campsite are SPECTACULAR let alone those you get from the Pine Tree Loop Trail which leaves right from the campground.

NOTE : If you are RVing here, and if your trailer is longer than 23 feet, the BLM does NOT recommend you attempt to tow up here. Their reason is two-fold. First, the road getting up there has narrow and sharp curves, and even more so, the campsites up there (except for two) are VERY small.

As a matter of fact, we were able to tow our 28-foot travel trailer up there, and we were lucky enough to get a spot big enough for our rig.

If you’re coming here at peak season and/or you have a trailer that is pushing the recommended size limits, we HIGHLY recommend you unhitch your rig at the bottom of the road, drive up, see if there are spaces available that will work for you (all are first come first served), and then make a decision from there.

An Old Classic Las Cruces Eatery

Day’s hamburgers.

Day’s Hamburgers has been serving Las Cruces since 1932, so when we found this hole-in-the-wall eatery, we knew it must be good.

Upon the first bite of our burgers, our suspicions were confirmed. Be warned, however, the prices here are VERY affordable, and the burgers are massive, so if you’re prone to overeating, take a deep breath before you order.

For our family of four, with enough food to make our bellies ache a little bit, the total bill was about US$25. Not bad if you ask us. And, since it’s located right near the Farmers Market , if you didn’t find anything to feast on there, you almost certainly will here. On your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, make sure to stop here!

Alamogordo is a great jumping-off place for many spectacular sites in Southern New Mexico. From the blindingly white gypsum dunes at White Sand Dunes National Monument to the much lesser know Dog Canyon Trail in the Oliver Lee Memorial State park, and even to the highly engaging and family-friendly Space History Museum, Alamogordo definitely deserves a spot on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary.

Things To Do In Alamogordo

White sands national park.

Although not designated as a national park until 2019, the spectacular and undulating gypsum dunes have certainly been recognized as spectacular for a long time. In fact, in 1933 President Herbert Hoover designated the white sand dunes as a national monument, so suffice it to say, these dunes are an old classic and with good reason.

Whether you decide to hike through the dunes, take a scenic drive through the park, or even just bring a sled (yes, we mean a snow sled) and enjoy making laps up and down a single dune, you’ll definitely want to check out this spectacular and unique part of Southern New Mexico.

NOTE : If you are able to avoid a high-wind day when you visit White Sand Dunes National Park, you’ll likely have the best experience. However, if you’re not able to avoid a windy day, we recommend you bring some ski goggles , and maybe even a lightweight balaclava , and then get out there and have a blast!

Also, from time to time the park is closed because the nearby missile range is actively running missile tests. So, check the White Sand Dunes National Park website for the most current closure information.

Heart Of The Desert Pistachios And Wines

If you like pistachios, you’ll want to check out Heart of the Desert Pistachios And Wines . Set on over 300 acres, this farm is the largest and oldest pistachio farm in New Mexico.

Formerly known as “Eagle Ranch,” until Budweiser sued them for copyright infringement, this family-owned operation offers free tours daily (check their website for the most up-to-date tour info).

If you do decide to take the tour, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the entire pistachio farming process from how they grow on the trees all the way to how they make their delicious pistachio ice cream and the myriad other pistachio treats in their gift shop.

Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

We can’t highly enough recommend Oliver Lee Memorial State Park as both a place to camp (see below), and also a place to hike during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids experience. While there are only two established trails in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, there is also ample space to bushwhack and take in the beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Dog Canyon Trail

The most rugged of the two trails is the Dog Canyon Trail. By all measures, this is a challenging trail, even in the cooler months. It’s 10 miles (16 km) round trip, so pace yourself.

However…

The steep ascent right from the trailhead will almost immediately afford you spectacular views, so even if you just want to hike a bit of it, we highly recommend you do so.

Once the trail mellows out a bit in the middle section, the views are still stunning.

If you have the skill and the right day hiking gear , you’ll be able to make it all the way to the top of Dog Canyon.

Riparian Nature Trail

If you’re not keen on such an intense route, the riparian nature trail is too well worth checking out. Be careful here, however, as there is a good bit of poison ivy that grows along the small river that often flows through Dog Canyon year-round.

New Mexico Museum Of Space History

If your kids are as fascinated by outer space as ours are, you’ll definitely want to add the New Mexico Museum Of Space History to your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary.

Briefly, at the museum kids get to dress in kid-sized space suits, man the controls of a few simulators, look at and even climb on some old spacecraft, and play on a fun spaceship-themed playground.

Toy Train Depot

If your kids like trains, you’ll want to set aside some time to experience the Toy Train Depot . They’ll not only get to learn about how the railroads that now run through Alamogordo were integral to the city’s development, but they’ll also get to take a ride on a nearly mile-long mini-train that circles around the park.

Check Out Cloudcroft

New Mexico is a place of stark contrasts, and you’ll be able to experience one quite easily if you take a drive up to Cloudcroft. Starting down in Alamogordo, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the Southern New Mexico desert.

But…In a mere 25 miles (40 km), and about 4,500 ft (1,400 m) of elevation gain, you’ll be smack dab in the middle of a quaint mountain village and the Lincoln National Forest. Up in Cloudcroft, you’ll be surrounded by various conifers including Engelmann Spruce, Ponderosa Pine, Pinyon Pines, and Junipers.

The drive itself is worth it during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, and once you’re up in Cloudcroft there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and of course outdoor adventures that you can enjoy.

Where To Stay In Alamogordo 

You’ll have an abundance of places to stay in Alamogordo, New Mexico . So to help you cut through the chatter, the following two are ones we recommend.

Camping in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

Camping/RVing at Oliver Lee is a no-brainer if you’re eager to be near all that Alamagordo has to offer, you’re a thrifty traveler, and you’re okay with having the breathtakingly-beautiful Dog Canyon right in your backyard.

At the time of writing, an electric site is $14/night and a non-electric site is $10/night, the typical standard for New Mexico state park campgrounds. There is potable water available as well as bathrooms and hot showers. What more could you want?

Dog Canyon Dispersed Campground (Right Outside Oliver Lee)

If you’re really looking for affordable accommodation on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids (or even without them), you can camp/boondock for free right outside Oliver Lee Memorial State Park at the Dog Canyon Dispersed Campground .

NOTE : The rangers at Oliver Lee are quite vigilant regarding folks stealing water from the spigot at the park’s entrance, so if you do choose to camp in Dog Canyon, make sure to bring all the water you’ll need.

An Old Classic Alamogordo Eatery

Hi-d-ho drive-in.

First opened in 1952, the Hi-D-Ho Drive-In has become a mainstay of the Alamogordo food scene. If you’re SUPER hungry, try their Tiger Burger, and make sure to add green chili. Or, if you’re not hungry enough to eat a cow, you could easily split the Tiger between two people. Don’t overlook their chili cheese fries, and whatever you order, make sure to try their refreshing limeade!

While Carlsbad, New Mexico in and of itself isn’t a”must-see place,” it’s again a fantastic jumping-off point for many spots we’d consider bucket list travel items.

From the Living Desert Nature Park to the countless sites you’ll see in the depths of Carlsbad Caverns National Park (as well as the lesser-know and equally as fantastic hiking above the caverns), as well as the majestic and towering peaks of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, in these spots alone, you could spend a lifetime.

However, still within reach of Carlsbad is the Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Areas, as well as a gorgeous and off-the-beaten-path canyon rim road located within the Lincoln National Forest. Truthfully, you could easily post up in Carlsbad and not get bored for a long long time on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Things To Do In Carlsbad

Living desert zoo and gardens state park.

Of all the experiences on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary that has a fee associated with it, the Living Desert Zoo And Gardens State Park , which is essentially a zoo and native New Mexico plant garden, might be the best value experience of them all. It’s also SUPER kid friendly, highly educational, and very engaging. If you leave this experience without having learned a TON about New Mexico’s native flora and fauna, we’ll eat our hiking shoes.

At the time of writing, admission costs those who are 13+ $5, those who are 7-12 $3, and kiddos 6 a whopping $0.

We easily spent half a day here, and that was with two toddlers. If you have kids who are old enough to read the myriad informational signs on their own (or who have the patience to listen to you read them), you could easily spend an entire day here.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns was designated as a national monument in 1923 and then as a national park in 1930, so these fascinating and approximately 265 million-year-old caverns have been only folks’ radar for quite a while, and with good reason.

With over 145 miles (233 km) of passages and the current deepest know point at just about 1,600 feet down (489 m), descending into this one-of-a-kind cave is unlike any other caving experience we’ve ever had.

We walked down the extremely steep and dimly lit 1.25 mi (2 km) paved trail into the caverns, but if you’d prefer to skip that bit, there is an elevator that you can ride down.

If you come here on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids in the fall, you’ll be able to view the multi-million bat exodus from the cave that happens at dusk almost every evening.

And, no matter the time of year you visit on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, don’t forget to do some hiking in the often-forgotten, but still spectacular, above-ground portion of the park. We hiked the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail , but there are many others to choose from.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Technically, Guadalupe Mountains National Park shouldn’t be on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary since it’s just over the border into Texas.

Since it’s just about 50 miles south of Carlsbad, and a mere 30 miles south of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, we’d feel remiss in not mentioning it when (a) you’ll be so close and (b) when it’s a jaw-droppingly-spectacular and undeniably bucket list-worthy place!

If you approach from Carlsbad, NM, you’ll easily notice these 260 million-year-old fossilized reef mountains that sharply rise an impressive 3000 feet (1000 meters) above the Chihuahuan Desert and certainly Guadalupe Peak – the highest point in Texas – that comes in at an impressive 8,751 ft (2,667 m) above sea level.

Given the over 80 miles of trails that weave throughout the park, we could have spent a lifetime exploring this area, so plan accordingly. Many of the trails in Guadalupe are intermediate/advanced, but one we found family-friendly was the Smith Spring Trail.

NOTE : Unlike many other national parks, Guadalupe does not have any scenic drives, and the only road going into the park is a jeep trail. There are a few parts of the park that are wheelchair accessible , but by far, Guadalupe is accessible only via hiking/walking/horseback.

Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area

If you happen to embark on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids in the summertime, Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area is a place you simply shouldn’t miss.

Given that it’s a desert oasis, if indeed it is warm while you’re here, you’ll be able to take a dip in the waterfall’s pools, enjoy a picnic in one of the many shaded picnic areas, and of course, hike some of the trails in the area too.

This place is popular, so try your best to arrive early. And, even if you’re not here in swimming-friendly weather, the falls are still worth seeing and the hiking around the area is great too!

Lincoln National Forest

There are 134 national forests in the United States. And while Lincoln National Forest is number 70 in terms of size, it’s still a whopping 1.1 million acres! (As an aside, the largest is Tongas National Forest in Alaska coming in at 16 million acres, and the smallest is the Tuskeegee National Forest in Alabama at 11,000 acres.)

In any case, there are TONS of things to do in Lincoln National Forest, so we’ll just cover one of our favorite spots – 5 Points Vista on Guadalupe Ridge Road.

Guadalupe Ridge Road – 5 Points Vista

The drive to Five Points Vista will take you through some beautiful pine forests, and then right along the rim of Dog Canyon on Guadalupe Ridge Road . The road is approximately 1500 feet (460 meters) above the canyon floor and is right on the canyon’s edge. Drive carefully here folks!

If you do nothing other than drive out here and take in the expansive view of the canyon and beyond, you’ll certainly have a memorable experience on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids. It’s certainly not as grand as the Grand Canyon, but it’s still breathtaking.

If you decide to do some bushwhacking in this area, as we did, we’re certain it’ll add yet another layer to this lovely experience.

Where To Stay In Carlsbad

Of the many places to stay in Carlsbad, New Mexico , below are a few we recommend.

Bud’s Place

Bud’s Place is a no-frills RV park in Carlsbad, New Mexico. It’s affordable, clean, well maintained, and centrally located for experiencing all Carlsbad has to offer. We enjoyed our stay here, and we’d recommend it to folks who like having a full hookup for their RV during their Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Boondocking/Camping South Of Carlsbad

If you’re open to camping, there are MANY free campsites along Route 62, heading south out of Carlsbad just south of the turn-off for Carlsbad Caverns National Park. All of this is BLM land, and again, you’re allowed to camp there for 14 days at a time.

One of our favorite RVing and camping apps is FreeRoam ( iOS , Android ), and it’ll certainly help you find a free or affordable spot to camp!

An Old Classic Carlsbad Eatery

La Patrona serves classic Mexican food at affordable prices, and you’ll pass right by it on your way to/from Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

The place was packed when we came here at lunchtime, and we quickly found out why. Their burritos were excellent, and their tacos were too, so it’s no wonder they’ve been selling their delicious food since 2013!

While many might claim that Roswell wouldn’t be very well known had the Roswell Indecent of 1947 not occurred, we beg to differ.

At a glance, Roswell, New Mexico, albeit somewhat of a remote place, is an unusual destination that is certainly worthy of a visit.

In addition to the many alien-themed attractions and museums, there is a robust artist community here as well as one-of-a-kind geologic sites that are protected within both a wildlife refuge and a state park.

Things To Do In Roswell

Bitter lake national wildlife refuge.

Way back in 1935 this place was known as the “Carlsbad Bird Refuge.” However, given how unique and valuable this area is, a short two years later in 1937 it gained National Wildlife Refuge status.

At the refuge, New Mexico’s Southern Plains meet the Chihuahuan Desert, and it’s this intersection that makes it a biologically diverse and important wetland in the larger Pecos River watershed.

Although right off the bat it may look like a boring uninteresting landscape, if you take some time to have a closer look, you’ll quickly realize that the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a veritable oasis in the otherwise parched New Mexico landscape. On your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, you’ll definitely want to make a stop here.

Bottomless Lakes State Park

Again, if you’ve chosen to experience this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids during the summertime, you’ll want to make a stop at Bottomless Lakes State Park.

The system of 9 lakes here, which get successively deeper, is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day! You can swim in Lea Lake, so pack accordingly.

And believe it or not, in addition to the hiking, mountain biking, and boating here, folks actually SCUBA dive into these lakes to view the endangered Pecos pupfish, turtles, and even schools of Mexican tetra.

Roswell Museum And Art Center

The mission of the museum is that “The Roswell Museum inspires discovery and creativity along with a cultural understanding of the American Southwest and the greater community.”

In other words, if you’d like to see some brilliant southwest art, as well as historical southwest artifacts spanning the 16th to the 20th century, you’ll want to save some time for this.

International UFO Museum

Do UFOs really exist? One of the best ways to begin answering that question is by taking a trip to the International UFO Museum & Research Center at Roswell, New Mexico. It was created to share information with the world about the 1947 Roswell Incident. However, now the entire place not only covers the Roswell Incident but is oriented around gathering, preserving, and sharing everything and anything related to UFOs and related phenomena.

Spring River Park And Zoo

If you indeed embark on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, visiting a zoo is a no-brainer. When you explore the Spring River Zoo, located within the Spring River Park, you’ll enjoy a lovely park equipped with playground equipment and a lovely zoo. Pack a picnic lunch, and you’ll not have to worry about heading home early.

Where To Stay In Roswell

There are lots of places to stay in Roswell, New Mexico . The following two are the ones we recommend, but there are certainly a number of great options.

Trailer Village RV Park

If you’re experiencing this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids in an RV, and you’re eager to be on-grid for a bit, the Trailer Village RV Park seldom leaves anyone disappointed. Family-owned and operated, a stay here will not only support the local economy, but it’ll also give you front-row access to all that Roswell has to offer.

Alamo Road BLM Land

If you’d prefer the price of free for your Rowell accommodation, the good ol’ BLM comes to the rescue yet again! Head east out of Roswell to Alamo Road (located just east of Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge), and you’ll have plenty of free dispersed campsites to choose from!

Old Classic Roswell Eateries

Cowboy cafe.

For homestyle cooking and homemade pies at a true hole-in-the-wall eatery, head over to the Cowboy Cafe. Their delicious creations, their generous portions, and their fair prices make this a great stop if you’re hungry on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids. Don’t forget to save some room for their award-winning pies and desserts!

Martin’s Capitol Cafe

For yet another hole-in-the-wall dining experience where you’ll be able to sample New Mexico classics at an affordable price, head over to Martin’s Capitol Cafe.

Of their many recommended dishes, their chili Rellenos and sopapillas are must try. And of course, since you’re in New Mexico, you’ll want to taste the most classic dish in the state, a big blow of piping hot Green Chili.

(If you fall in love with Green Chili as much as we have, you’ll want to make some time to eat your way through the Green Chili capital of the world , conveniently located in the great state of New Mexico!)

If you’re keen to see some snow in the wintertime or escape the heat of the New Mexico summer on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, head up into the mountains, and check out Ruidoso.

At 6,900 feet (2,100 meters) above sea level, and a year-round average high temperature of 65 F (18 C) you’ll be in a noticeably different, and considerably more temperate environment than you’ll experience in the desert of Roswell.

Things To Do In Ruidoso

Grindstone lake recreation area.

The International Mountain Biking Association designed this beautiful spot, so it’s ripe for some great riding. But don’t worry if you don’t bike.

Within the recreation area, you can also hike and even horseback ride on the 18+ miles of trails. In addition, there is a fantastic frisbee golf course and even watercraft rentals.

Care for some fishing? Bring your rod and reel to try to land some of the stocked rainbow trout, catfish, and even smallmouth bass. But don’t forget, if you’re over 12 years old, you’ll need to purchase a New Mexico fishing license .

Ruidoso Winter Park

In spite of the name, there is plenty to do at the Ruidoso Winter Park year-round. In the winter months, you can enjoy snow tubing to your heart’s content. In the summer months, you’ll still be able to tube down the grassy hills (there is a special slick plastic surface they lay down) as well as a zip-line and even fly down the mountain on their mountain coaster, so consider checking this out during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

For skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer, Ski Apache is the go-to spot in Southern New Mexico. With rentals available too, you can travel light and still enjoy some time on the slopes. Make sure to check the trail conditions before heading here, as you’ll want to get the most bang for your buck.

Where To Stay In Ruidoso

There are many places to stay in Ruidoso . From cozy mountain cabins to more traditional hotels, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. The following two are what we recommend, but again, there are a number of great choices to fit your own particular preferences.

Little Creek RV Park

Located about 10 minutes outside Ruidoso, the large, pull-through, full hook-up RV sites and the forested Sacramento Mountains that surround the park make this a great option for both short-term and even long-term stays. If you do want to stay for more than a few days, ask about weekly or even monthly pricing, as you’ll score increasingly better deals.

Free Camping/Boondocking In The Lincoln National Forest

Ruidoso is more or less surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest, so that means, there are plenty of free camping/boondocking spots. Again, if you check out FreeRoam ( iOS , Android ), you’ll be off to the races in finding a free spot to camp.

Cedar Creek Campground

If you prefer a few facilities, consider the Cedar Creek Campground . While they only offer group sites, at the time of writing, the non-electric group site here is US$25/night, and even an electric site starts at US$60/night. So, if you’re caravaning on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, you’ll easily be able to get the cost down on this already affordable option.

An Old Classic Ruidoso Eatery

For a delicious but no-frills taco experience, check out Ole Taco. At this small, family-owned, and very affordable restaurant, in addition to their tacos, their enchiladas, chimichangas as well as rice and beans are items you ought to try!

Hall Of Flame Burgers

Sometimes we get a hankering for a burger. If that happens to you while you’re in Ruidoso, head on over to Hall Of Flame Burgers. And of course, since you’re in New Mexico, and you’d be missing out if you don’t eat Green Chili at every moment possible (just joking) make sure to try their Hatch Burger!

Carrizozo 

While Carrizozo isn’t a bustling metropolis, and in fact is actually quite a tiny town, it still deserves mention on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary as it’s home to Valley Of Fires Recreation Area and is quite nearby to the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, both places that each deserve a day, or maybe two, of exploring.

Things To Do In Carrizozo

Valley of fires recreation area.

Not to be confused with Valley Of Fire State Park in Nevada , Valley Of Fires Recreation Area in New Mexico is regarded among many experts as one of the youngest lava flows in the continental Unites States. The Malpais Lava Flow is literally right next to the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area (you can walk from the recreation area to the lava flow in about 30 seconds) and is definitely worth checking out. You can also camp here, as you’ll see below.

This approximately 5,000-year-old lava flow, which of course has now hardened into what looks like basaltic-fudge-ripples, is a place where you can get up close and personal with this geologic event. We definitely think Valley of Fires is worth some time on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

More specifically, the BLM has built an approximately 1 mi (1.6 km) paved boardwalk – The Malpais Nature Trail – that will allow you to circumnavigate the lava field itself. The numbered stations along the route will help you gain an in-depth understanding of this unique and scenic spot.

Three Rivers Petroglyph Site

The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is one of the only places in the American Southwest that has exclusively been protected due to the presence and concentration of petroglyphs. With glyphs that are dated from 400 to 1450 AD, you’ll be able to see first-hand some of the symbology of the Jornada Mogollon people that carved these long ago.

It’s also one of the few places in the American Southwest where you can literally walk amongst the approximately 21,000 glyphs that blanket this approximately 50 acres of New Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert. During your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, we suggest you set aside at least a half-day to check out this stunning site.

Petroglyphs vs. Hieroglyphs

As an aside, don’t confuse petroglyphs with hieroglyphs. To oversimplify, petroglyphs are images carved into rocks that represent the advanced religions, cultures, and societies that surrounded this area. Hieroglyphs on the other hand are most commonly associated with Egyptian culture and are a collection of pictures that often represent words and form the basis of a complex writing system. Distilled, petroglyphs are stand-alone symbols, and hieroglyphs are pictures that represent words and are used as the basis of a writing system.

Where To Stay In Carrizozo

There are not too many places to stay in Carrizozo if you’re looking for a hotel, so we recommend you camp while you’re in this area.

We stayed at Valley Of Fires for a handful of nights, and we were very pleased with our stay. As a BLM recreation area, the price was right (as it typically is in BLM, Forest Service, and National Recreation Areas), the facilities were well maintained, and the location was perfect for exploring both the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site and of course the Valley Of Fires.

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many free camping/boondocking spots in/around Carrizozo.

An Old Classic Carrizozo Eatery

Four winds restaurant.

Serving authentic Mexican food as well as some classic American diner food since the 1940s, the Four Winds Restaurant has certainly proven it serves tasty foods worth trying. Hopefully, while you’re dining on one of their many delicious dishes (such as the Chiles Relleno Plate) the restaurant won’t be destroyed by an airplane crash as was the case in the 1950s when the entire place had to be rebuilt.

Truth Or Consequences

If you’re wondering about the name, so were we. However, we soon discovered that back in the 1940s, TV producer Ralph Edwards emceed a game show called Truth or Consequences , and he set out to find a town that would change its name to match his show. While only a few municipalities actually applied, tiny Hot Springs, New Mexico was chosen, and the name has forever since been changed.

In brief, Truth Or Consequences is most well known for its hot springs and the nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park, but it’s also home to a quirky retro movie theatre as well as the New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers Playhouse.

NOTE : Most of the hot springs only allow children 12 years and older, so if you’re doing this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids who are under that age, they’ll unfortunately not be able to take a dip.

Things To Do In Truth Or Consequences

Various hot spring pools.

There are many hot springs to enjoy in Truth Or Consequences. Each bath house has its own style and vibe, so consider a hot spring hop to get a feel for a few! The Riverbend Hot Springs explicitly allows for kids 12+, so it’ll be a good choice if you’re traveling with older kids. It’s also a treat of a place to stay, and we’ll go into that below.

Elephant Butte Lake State Park

If you’re looking for a beach experience in the middle of otherwise hot and dry New Mexico, you’ll want to check out Elephant Butte Lake State Park – New Mexico’s largest state park and largest reservoir.

With just about 36,000 acres of the reservoir to explore, if you like boating, fishing, camping, relaxing on a sandy beach, hiking or simply connecting with nature, you’ll definitely want to spend some time at Elephant Butte.

Random fact: North Dakota’s Lake Sakakawea – another one of our favorite spots – is 300,000 acres! So if large freshwater bodies and all they offer for recreation is your thing, you should definitely consider a trip to North Dakota!

El Cortez Movie Theater

While an old-fashioned movie night likely isn’t going to be an appealing experience for folks with little kids, if you’re doing this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids who can sit through an entire movie, you’ll want to consider catching a movie at the 1930s style El Cortez Movie Theatre.

New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers Playhouse

If you like to move and groove, and if you happen to be in Truth Or Consequences on a Saturday night between 7 and 9 PM, you should definitely check out the dance that the New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers Playhouse hosts.

Where To Stay In Truth Or Consequences

There are a number of places to stay in Truth Or Consequences . From high-end accommodations to more affordable options and even some super affordable New Mexico state park camping , you’ll have many choices of where to stay.

Elephant Butte State Park

At the time of writing, across the state of New Mexico, a tent site costs US$8/night, a site with water and electricity costs US$14/night, and a site with water, electricity and sewer costs US$18/night. Pretty sweet deal, huh? And, if you purchase a New Mexico State Park annual pass , those prices drop a bit.

Riverbend Hot Springs

While the Riverbend Hot Springs is quite a bit more expensive than the other accommodations we’ve included in this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary, it’s appealing for a few reasons. First, it allows kids 12+ to enjoy the on-site hot springs, and second, the price of your room/RV site includes access to their hot spring pools. Nevertheless, if you are traveling on the cheap, this will be a bit of a splurge.

An Old Classic Truth Or Consequences Eatery

Johnny b’s restaurant.

Although Jonny B’s Restaurant is a bit younger than A&B (it opened in 2015), it’s quickly become a local favorite. Any of their breakfast selections are rave-worthy, but they also make a mean chicken fried steak and even a Philly Cheesesteak that’s worth mentioning. And again, with prices that won’t hurt your wallet too much, you’ll be able to afford to eat here again and again.

A&B Drive-In

Serving the fine folks of Truth Or Consequences since 1994, if you’re in the market for a burger or Mexican food, and you’re also looking for amazing value, you’ll definitely want to grab a bite at A&B Drive-In. Renowned for its green chili cheeseburger, and also well-known for its chimichangas and fried mushrooms, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

While we normally go to a place because it has a balance between outdoorsy and active things to do as well as a cultural value and of course culinary spots too, for us, and for many others, Hatch, New Mexico is mostly about the food scene.

More pointedly, Hatch, New Mexico is the Mecca of Green Chili, and nearly the entire town revolves around both this dish and cultivating Sandilla Chilis , which they traditionally use in the dish. Make sure to save some time to check out Hatch on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

In a sentence, Green Chili is a soup made from a base of Sandilla Chilis (commonly known as “Hatch Green Chilis”) and pork shoulder. It’s cooked low and slow, so by the time you take your first bite, the shoulder will be buttery soft, the chili base will only be mildly spicy, and the slight hint of cumin and garlic will underscore all the other flavors in your mouth.

It’s common to put some shredded cheddar cheese, raw diced white onion, and minced cilantro on top of Green Chili. It’s typical to eat this dish by using a small piece of a fresh and warm flour tortilla as a little spoon and then doing your best to not drip on your shirt. It’s our bet that by the time you get to the bottom of your bowl, you’ll be feverishly craving your next one – or at the least, that’s been our experience.

Things To Do In Hatch

Hatch chili festival.

The Hatch Chili Festival happens every year in the fall right around the beginning of September. If you’re a Green Chili fanatic like we are, you might consider planning to do this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids in consideration of being able to attend this festival. Check the website for the most up-to-date information on the festival schedule.

West Hall Street – Buy Some Chilis

All around Hatch there are shops that sell dried and sometimes fresh fire-roasted chilis. In any case, walking along West Hall Street (the main street that cuts through Hatch’s “downtown”) you’ll see plenty of shops to choose from.

Village Market And Other Unique Grocery Stores

The grocery stores in Hatch sell lots of local chilis and chili products. You can stock up here if you’re not planning to return for a while. Or, if you come to love the Green Chili in Hatch so much that you plan to move to the area, you obviously won’t need to stock up. In particular, we like to browse through the Village Market. Therein you’ll also find great deals on high-quality cuts of meat.

Do A Self-Guided Green Chili Tour

Every person or restaurant that makes Green Chili has their own version of the recipe. Some are thicker than others. Some are spicier than others. Some include kidney beans. Others wouldn’t dare adulterate the delicate flavor of the Sandilla Chili with a bean, and the variations go on and on.

We suggest you head to a handful of different restaurants in town during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, nearly all of which serve Green Chili, and try a few to figure out which recipe you like best. And, if you hit on something you think is really great, leave us a comment below , as we’re always keen to try new places!

Caballo Lake State Park

If after you’ve stuffed yourself on Green Chili you need to walk it all off a bit, consider checking out Caballo Lake State Park. Just about 30 miles north of Hatch, and set against the stunning Caballo Mountains, you can enjoy a full range of watersports, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, birding, biking, and of course, even some picnicking on take-out Green Chili from Hatch.

Where To Stay In Hatch

There are not too many places to stay in Hatch itself, but Caballo Lake State Park is nearby.

If you’ve made it this far in this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary, you know we LOVE the New Mexico State Park system. The parks themselves are always interesting and unique places to visit, and the campsites are always clean, well-maintained, and GREAT value. Caballo Lake State Park is no exception. So, if you need multiple days to fully sample the Green Chili in Hatch, we recommend you stay here.

Old Classic Hatch Eateries

B & e burritos.

One of the places we keep coming back to in Hatch is B&E burritos . Owners Willie and Esther have been serving their no-frills yet delicious Green-Chili-based fare since 1978. That’s a whole lot of Green Chili! At any restaurant in Hatch, we recommend you order an unadulterated bowl of Green Chili in order to truly taste the restaurant’s unique recipe. The same goes here for B&E. What you’ll find at B&E is that their Green Chili is quite thick, almost like a stew. And if you still have room after your purist bowl, we recommend you try their Green Chili burrito, as well as their fantastic rice and refried beans.

Valley Cafe

Opened in 2006, Valley Cafe also serves a bunch of delicious Green Chili based dishes. We recommend you go here because (a) their Green Chilis is fantastic, but also because (b) their recipe is quite different than B&E’s and serves as a tasty point of comparison. The Green Chili here is a bit thinner than B&E’s – almost like a soup – but is delicious in its own right. And again, if you have room after your bowl, consider trying their Green Chili Cheese Enchiladas.

Deming holds a special place in our hearts. It’s the place we began to hit our stride when we first transitioned into our full-time RVing lifestyle, and it’s also home to our favorite RV park in the country, or at least our favorite so far . And in addition to the sentimental value that Deming has to us, Deming is ideally located to access three bucket-list worthy state parks, a fascinating local history museum as well as a number of excellent sites for desert-rockhounding. Definitely make sure to stop in Deming for a while on your own Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Things To Do In Deming

Rockhound state park.

Set in the jagged and craggy Little Florida Mountains, Rockhound State Park is ripe for hiking, wildflower identification, rockhounding (of course), and even some serene camping.

It’s a pretty small state park, but its beauty is abundant in just about every nook and cranny of the park. On the Thunderegg Trail it’s possible to find thundereggs , and on the Jasper Trail, surprise surprise, you’ll be likely to find a whole load of Jasper .

In addition to how geologically fascinating this area is, scenically it’s just stunning. The hiking terrain here isn’t super challenging, so we recommend you go here to luxuriate in the breathtaking beauty of this special area, and maybe even pack a picnic lunch too!

Spring Canyon Recreation Area

Also part of Rockhound State Park is the Spring Canyon Recreation Area . Here you’ll find a number of scenic picnic areas all of which have grills, so you could come here merely for a memorable cookout.

However, if you’re like us, when you see rugged mountains like the Little Florida’s, all you can think about is hiking.

There are two trails to choose from.

Spring Canyon Trail

One option is the rugged and steep Spring Canyon Trail. Not surprisingly, this approximately 1 mi (1.6 km) trail heads nearly straight uphill to the spring, so if you’re a beginner hiker, this trail is going to be a real challenge.

In any case, the trail weaves up the Spring Canyon the whole time, so don’t forget to turn around to see the spectacular views behind you.

Unfortunately, the spring itself isn’t much to look at, but if you have a trail filter , you’ll be able to safely drink some of this fresh mountain water.

Lover’s Leap Trail

The second option is the approximately 2.5 mi (4 km) round trip Lover’s Leap Trail. If you’re an intermediate/advanced hiker, and you only have time to hike one of the two trails in the Spring Canyon Recreation Area, we recommend you hike this one during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

In essence, you’ll be snaking your way up Lover’s Leap Canyon, but instead of terminating at the relatively non-scenic Spring Canyon spring, this trail ends with expansive panoramic views of the entire Mimbres Valley .

City Of Rocks State Park

If you’re journeying on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids, and especially if your kids are 3+, you should make sure to save some time for City Of Rocks State Park.

Located about halfway between Silver City and Deming, you could do this en route to Silver City. In short, City Of Rocks is a 35 million-year-old volcanic rock column jungle gym, and it’ll keep your kiddos engaged for hours since the gentle bouldering options here are seemingly endless.

In addition to all the family-friendly bouldering, you’ll be able to do here, you can also camp here ( see below ), bike, hike, view wildlife, and at night do some fantastic stargazing! A no-brainer place to experience on your own Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Make sure to check out the visitors center too, as there’s a good bit of hands-on stuff for kids, and also a number of free publications that provide interesting information about the area.

Deming Luna Mimbres Museum

One of the best ways to learn about Deming’s local history is to visit the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. Dedicated to sharing the day-to-day lives of the people of Deming as well as those living in the larger Mimbres Valley, this non-profit museum is certainly worth a visit. In addition, admission is on a donation-only basis and supports the continuance of this valuable public resource.

Rockhounding

If you’ve never heard the term “rockhounding,” don’t worry, neither had we before we visited New Mexico. All it means is rock collecting. In any case, you can basically pick any random patch of desert in the Deming area (just make sure you’re not on private property), and in a matter of moments, we’ll almost guarantee you’ll find rocks that you’ll consider to be keepers. We think you’ll really love doing this on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Some of our favorite rockhounding spots are spot 1, spot 2, and spot 3. In those spots keep an eye out for ruby red jasper, translucent orange carnelian, and even some translucent green or purple fluorite!

NOTE : It’s quite likely you’ll need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to access these spots. If there’s been any recent rain, the roads leading to these spots might be rutted out to the point where only a Jeep/high-clearance vehicle can safely pass.

Use your best judgment in accessing these spots, and if they seem too intense for your vehicle, TURN BACK. It won’t be fun to get your vehicle stuck in the middle of the desert, and it could be quite dangerous too.

If you didn’t already read our section on how to stay safe on this Southern New Mexico road trip, we suggest you take a moment to do so now.

Also, the phone service in the three spots we mentioned above is questionable at best, so if you haven’t already done so, we recommend you download the GuruMaps for offline navigation app.

Where To Stay In Deming

While there are a number of places to stay in Deming , if you’ve made it this far in our Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary, you’ll well know we LOVE our free boondocking/camping sites as well as the New Mexico State Parks. Below are a few of our favorite places to stay in/around Deming.

Hidden Valley Ranch RV Resort

Technically only a 55+ RV Park, we hesitate a bit to include this on our Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary, as we were lucky to be allowed to stay here. But…to make a long story short, the first time we stayed here, not realizing the 55+ detail, we booked over the phone, told them there would be 4-people in our party, and only once we had arrived at the office to check in did they realize (a) we are not over 55 and (b) that two of the people in our party were our kids! Taking a bit of pity on us, they allowed us to say, and ever since, we’ve been welcomed back.

If you’re over 55, we HIGHLY recommend you stay here. This remote desert RV park is scenic, affordable, and feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere, yet, you’ll have all the comforts of a full-hookup RV park.

If you’re under 55 we suggest you give them a call and see if they might allow you to do a short-term stay on a bit of a trial basis, and the same goes if you have very young kids.

The owners, Shannon and Jolene, told us their main concern is that the long-term residents have in the past been disturbed by kids running all over the park on their own. So, if your kids are too young to be left unattended, you’ll likely have a better chance of being allowed to stay here. If you have tweens/teens, it’s likely they won’t grant you an exception.

Again, as a New Mexico State Park, the price here to camp is certainly affordable, and the bathrooms as well as hot showers certainly add to the value of this experience. In addition, the campsites at City Of Rocks State Park are literally nestled in between the massive volcanic rock columns that are the main feature of this park, so camping here is quite a unique experience whether you’re on an extended Southern New Mexico road trip with kids or even just out for a weekend.

NOTE : If you’re bringing your RV here, make sure to check the length of the site you’re reserving. Some are quite small, and the largest is around 40 feet in length.

Another great place to stay in the Deming area is Rockhound State Park . By camping here, you’ll be able to watch sunsets and sunrises while being fully immersed in the Little Florida Mountains, and if you do choose to camp here, you’ll be able to be the first one on the hiking trails both here and at the nearby Spring Canyon Recreation Area.

Old Classic Deming Eateries

Tacos mirasol.

It’s no surprise that you’ll be able to tuck into some delicious tacos at Tacos Mirasol in Deming, and you’ll be able to do so at a very affordable price. We suggest you try the carne asada tacos, any of their burritos, and their carne asada tortas too!

3 Questions Coffee Shop And Living Harvest Bakery

We’ve put the Three Questions Cafe And Living Harvest Bakery in the Deming section, but it’s actually a place you’ll most conveniently be able to enjoy if you take a bit of a roundabout route to Silver City , as it’s located in San Lorenzo, NM. In any case, it’s well worth a visit on your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

The quaint family-owned and operated bakery has been in operation since 1996, and the cafe has been open since 2012.

Even though it’s a bit of a detour if you’re starting in Deming and heading to Silver City, we think it’s worth mentioning because the food and baked goods here are EXCELLENT (we highly recommend the cinnamon rolls), and because every Tuesday through Saturday from 7 AM-Noon the owner Amy puts out a large breakfast buffet, and the price is whatever you are able to donate. So, you can have a tasty meal, support a local business and then make your way to Silver City!

Silver City

We thought we’d make the last stop on this Southern New Mexico road trip with kids an action-packed one, as Silver City, New Mexico, gateway to the Gila (pronounced HEE-luh ) Wilderness is chock full of memorable and engaging experiences.

From casually strolling through the historic downtown to appreciate this mining town’s earlier days (it’s still home to the largest pit mines in the world) to enjoying a number of family-friendly hikes that are just minutes from town, you’ll have plenty to experience.

Further, there are other hikes and historic sites (Billy The Kid spent much of his childhood in Silver City) that are a bit more far-flung, and of course, there are a number of local and affordable eateries you’ll not want to miss.

In sum, you’ll have no trouble filling your days here, and in fact, you may have to save some of these experiences for the next time you visit Silver City.

Things To Do In Silver City

Boston hill open space.

Taking a hike or mountain bike ride in the family-friendly Boston Hill Open Space , which used to be an old mine, is a great way to kick off your time in Silver City.

The hill is right in the backyard of the downtown, so you’ll get a great view of the city and beyond. There are a number of ways to access the hill, so choose the one you find most convenient. We started from the Cooper Street Trailhead , but there is also the Cheyenne Street Trailhead , and the Spring Street Trailhead to name a few.

If you can get up here for sunset, it’s certainly an experience you’ll always remember from your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Dragonfly Loop Trail

Another family-friendly and scenic hike is the 3.3 mi (5.3 km) Dragonfly Loop trail that begins right off Elias Road. Keep an eye out for the petroglyphs about 2 miles from the trailhead, and if you’re here in the spring/early summer, keep an eye out for the many dragonflies that are endemic to this area. As an aside, you can also bike and ride horses on this trail.

If you’re keen to get your sweat on a bit and also experience some breathtaking and expansive views, consider hiking to the top of Gomez Peak. Starting from the Gomez Peak Day Use Area you’ll take the Pinion-Loop Trail to the Angel-Loop Trail to the Gomez Peak Trail.

Continental Divide Trail

In the course of your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids you’ll certainly not have time to hike the entire 3,100-mile Continental Divide Trail, but since it goes right through Silver City, why not do a small section hike? It’s scenic, easy terrain, and could inspire you and your family to try a thru-hike someday !

Historic Downtown And Riverwalk

The entire historic downtown of Silver City is well worth a good stroll. The eclectic collection of shops ranges from outdoor gear shops to thrift stores, to the interestingly stocked Silver City Food Co-op (which carries our favorite granola bars – Taos Bakes ), and many more.

The two main streets we suggest you wander down are North Bullard Street and North Texas Street. And once you’ve had enough of those, we recommend you stroll along the river walk that parallels both of those on the east. And make sure to read the mural along the riverwalk, as it’ll teach you a good bit about the city’s history.

If after all this walking and window shopping you’ve worked up an appetite, there are a number of great spots to eat right in the historic downtown, as well as others that are a bit off the main drag.

Stroll Around Western New Mexico University Campus

Another good place for a stroll is in and around the Western New Mexico University Campus, and in particular their small but beautiful gardens. And who knows, maybe you’ll like this quaint public university so much that you’ll consider applying to one of its many programs!

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

While the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a 90-minute drive from Silver City, if you have even the slightest interest in archelogy and first-hand experiences of ancient cultures, we HIGHLY recommend you set aside some time to check out this spectacular site during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids. (As an aside, if you find the drive a bit too much for a day trip from Silver City, consider staying at the Gila Hot Spring Ranch , a fantastic accommodation located about 10 minutes from the national monument.)

In short, a very long time ago groups of nomads took shelter in the many caves located high above the Gila River. And, while most of these folks were simply passing through, and thus were in the area on a temporary basis, in the late 1200s the Mogollon people (Southern Ancestral Pueblo), who had agricultural tendencies, posted up here for nearly 100 years.

During that time they constructed rooms up on the cliffs, made pottery, and raised nearly two generations of children. Then, in about 1300 they moved on due to a suspected drought. What they left behind, is what you’ll be able to experience today.

Gila Hot Springs

If you choose to venture to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, you’ll be right near some excellent hot springs. If you’re not planning to spend the night in the area , the Gila Hot Springs Campground offers day passes to its hot springs. Who wouldn’t like a nice hot spring soak during their Southern New Mexico road trip with kids?

Gila Catwalk Recreation Area

If you have decided to head all the way up to the Cliff Dwellings, you won’t want to miss the Gila Catwalk Recreation Area. This 0.5 mi (0.8 km) bridge has been built right into the wall of the Whitewater Canyon, so it’ll allow you to get up close and personal with this beautiful natural feature. As an aside, it’s handicapped-accessible, so it’s certainly something everyone can enjoy.

Where To Stay In Silver City

There are a plethora of places to stay in Silver City , so you’ll have many options to choose from.

Rose Valley RV Ranch

The Rose Val ley RV Ranch offers both RV spots as well as casitas (little cabins), so even if you’re not doing this Southern New Mexico road trip in an RV, you could certainly enjoy a stay here.

The park is just about a 6-minute drive from the historic downtown, so you’ll have easy access to that area at a fraction of the price of staying right downtown.

The entire park is tastefully full of trees and shrubs, so each site has quite a bit of privacy. The facilities are clean and well-maintained and even include a 0.5 mi (0.8 km) nature trail.

Gila Hot Springs Ranch

The Gila Hot Springs Ranch is not located in Silver City, but we wanted to include it because it’s near the Gila Cliff Dwelling National Monument, and if you do choose to stay in that area, we thought this would help.

This small family-owned and operated ranch has an on-site hot spring jacuzzi, RV sites, tent sites, and even a few self-catered apartments.

NOTE : If you do decide to stay here, make sure you stock up on all your groceries/supplies in Silver City, as there aren’t many options up in this area.

Old Classic Silver City Eateries

Adobe springs cafe .

If you chat with the locals in Silver City, they’ll likely tell you to try the tasty creations at the Adobe Springs Cafe . Given that it’s been serving the Silver City community for just about 25 years, we were eager to try what the locals have been loving for all that time. Of the many items to try, including their huevos rancheros and fried zucchini, if you have a titanic appetite, we recommend the El Fuego burger.

Diane’s Bakery And Deli

If you’re looking for something you can eat while you walk around the historic downtown , consider grabbing a sandwich and maybe even a cookie or two from Diane’s Bakery And Deli during your Southern New Mexico road trip with kids.

Fidencio’s Mexican Food

Located about 5-minutes away from the historic downtown area, Fidencio’s Mexican Food has been serving the folks of Silver City for over 30 years, so you can rest assured what they have to offer is delicious.

This no-frills burrito shack certainly did not disappoint us in both taste and value. We recommend the California burrito, but we’ve also heard that the carne asada burrito (if they haven’t sold out by the time you get there) is also a must-eat item! As an aside, the only seating here is outdoors and under a small carport-type thing, so if it’s chilly or wet, plan accordingly.

Grinder Mill

Care for some no-nonsense Mexican food, check out the Grinder Mill . Located right near the university , you could stroll around campus, and then eat here. Best known for its Menudo, chili, and tamales, this hole-in-the-wall eatery has been serving the university students and staff for ages, so you know it’ll be good!

Our Itinerary Route Map

Conclusion – Southern New Mexico Road Trip With Kids

If you’ve made it this far in our Southern New Mexico road trip with kids itinerary, we say, “Congratulations!” We realize that there is a TON of information in this itinerary, but again, we’re always aware that the more we experience, the more we know we haven’t experienced.

As we continue to explore Southern New Mexico, we’ll update this accordingly. And more importantly, if you have suggestions for what we might add to this guide (or maybe even subtract), leave us a comment below, and in the meantime, happy road-tripping!

+++BEFORE using this information, please read our Legal Disclaimer.+++

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• Homeroom Travel

7 Days in New Mexico: A Perfect One Week Itinerary

• May 19, 2021

New Mexico is a hidden gem of the Southwest and a great place to take a road trip. Full of hiking, outdoor wonders, and Native American sacred sites, you can easily spend 7 days in New Mexico. This one week New Mexico itinerary will stop you at some of the best sites and cities in New Mexico. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no cost to you!

Table of Contents

History of New Mexico

The first known people who lived in New Mexico were the Paleo Indians and the Pueblo People. From 1540-1542, the Spanish began exploring the area. The capital of Santa Fe was founded in 1610. The Mexican War of Independence in 1821 brought about the independence of New Mexico and grew to a population of over 25,000 people. 

In 1846, the Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo brought New Mexico into the United States as a territory. However, New Mexico was not admitted into the United States as a state until 1912, when it became the 47th state. 

Best Time to Visit New Mexico

The best time to spend 7 days in New Mexico is in October when the balloon fiesta takes place. The weather is also perfect then. Summers in New Mexico can be quite hot, so I would not visit during that time. Also keep in mind that winters can be a bit chilly, so do not visit in the winter months if you do not like the cold. 

How to Get to New Mexico

Albuquerque contains the largest airport in New Mexico and is the most convenient to fly into. You can get flights into Albuquerque from many major cities all over the United States. Flights from Los Angeles can sometimes be found for under $200 round trip. You will need a rental car to get around when spending one week in New Mexico. Opt to rent a car from Autoslash to find the best price. 

7 Day New Mexico Itinerary

Day 1: home to albuquerque to alamogordo, new mexico.

Drive Time: 3 hours, 6 minutes

Hotel: Hampton Inn Alamogordo

To start your 7 days in New Mexico, fly into Albuquerque and pick up your rental car. If possible, I recommend that you fly in the night before and spend the night in Albuquerque.This way, you can spend the morning exploring what Albuquerque has to offer before heading to Alamogordo. 

If visiting in October, make sure to check out the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This annual event will be the highlight of your 7 days in New Mexico. You will need to arrive at the fiesta grounds very early in the morning before dawn. Once sunrise begins, the sky will fill with balloons lifting off. There are usually about 500 balloons part of the fiesta each year. It costs $10 to attend this event. 

Afterwards, head to Sandia Peak to take the tram up to the top of the peak (about 10,378 feet). If you are lucky, you will still see balloons flying over Albuquerque. Spend some time wandering around the top before heading back down. 

Finally, depart Albuquerque for Alamorgordo. This is about a 3 hour drive. Along the way, make sure to take a rest stop at PistachioLand, home of the World’s Largest Pistachio. 

Day 2: White Sands National Park to Carlsbad, New Mexico

Drive Time: 3 hours, 17 minutes

Costs: $25/car or free with the America the Beautiful Pass

Hotel: Home2Suites Carlsbad

Today, spend the day exploring White Sands National Park . It will take 17 minutes to drive from Alamogordo to White Sands. White Sands National Park is composed of 145,762 acres of white sand made of gypsum crystals, thus giving it its white appearance. It became a National Monument in 1933, and a National Park in 2019. You can’t miss a stop here when spending 7 days in New Mexico. 

Start the day by hiking the Alkali Flats Trail, a 5-mile loop trail up and down the white sand dunes. Note that this is a very strenuous hike and it will be a workout! Make sure to bring plenty of water and dress appropriately. This is also the best place in the park for pictures. 

If a 5 mile hike is not your jam, you can opt to hike the 1-mile Dune Life Nature Trail instead. In this hike, you only have to climb two sand dunes. You could also opt to take the 2-mile Backcountry Camping Trail as well. 

After spending the morning hiking, grab a sled to sled down some of the infinite amount of sand dunes in the park. You can bring your own or buy one from the Visitor’s Center upon arrival. 

Then, head out to the Interdune Boardwalk for some more glimpses of the sand dunes before heading on a 3-hour drive to Carlsbad, New Mexico.  

Day 3: Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Drive Time: 25 minutes each way

Costs: $15/person or free for 4 people with the America the Beautiful Pass. 

Today, head to Carlsbad Caverns National Park , another unique National Park and a perfect addition to 7 days in New Mexico. These caverns were discovered in 1898 when a young teenager stumbled upon the caverns. It became a National Monument in 1923 and a National Park in 1930. About 400,000 people visit this park a year. 

Visitors can opt to take an elevator into the caverns, or hike the 1.25 mile Natural Entrance inside. I highly recommend hiking the Natural Entrance as you will see more of the caverns this way as well as walk into the cool entrance. 

A series of switchbacks takes you 750 feet into the cave known as Devil’s Den. From there, you will pass by a series of features such as Devil’s Spring, Green Lake Overlook, the Boneyard, and Iceberg Rock. Finally, you will arrive in the Big Room, the main feature of the Caverns. 

The Big Room is a 8.2 acre room with tons of natural features and the largest room of the caverns. The 1.25-mile Big Room Route loop takes you past features such as the Bottomless Pit, Giant Dome, Rock of Ages, and the Painted Grotto.

In the evenings from mid-May to October, make sure to catch the Bat Flight program where you can watch the bats fly into the night out of the cave. 

If you have extra time after the caverns or want to spend another day in Carlsbad, you can head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park . This park is located about 30 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park in Western Texas and is a great addition to 7 days in New Mexico.

Day 4: Carlsbad to Roswell to Santa Fe, New Mexico

Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Costs: $15 for museums

Hotel: Hampton Inn, Santa Fe South

Today, head from Carlsbad to Santa Fe. Along the way stop in the kitchy alien town of Roswell , a unique stop when spending 7 days in New Mexico. It will take about an hour and 15 minutes to get to Roswell from Carlsbad. Start the day by stopping at the “Welcome to Roswell” sign as you drive into the city. This will be your first sign of alien life. 

Next, grab some coffee from Stellar Coffee Company to kick start your morning. Take a stroll around downtown as you enjoy your beverage. Keep an eye out for aliens! Then, head to the UFO museum to learn about the history of aliens. This museum costs $5 and will take you about an hour to walk through. 

After the UFO museum, head to Pecos Flavors Winery and Bistro for lunch. Here you can try some local wines or brews while grabbing a delicious and inexpensive meal. Then stop at the “Flying Saucer” McDonalds to check out a McDonalds that is like a spaceship. 

This afternoon, opt to visit one of the local art museums. The Roswell Museum and Art Center focuses on Southwest art and history. It costs $10 to get in and you will spend an hour or two wandering through the exhibits. The other option in the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum is free to get into. It contains 12 galleries and 500 pieces of art. 

If you have time, you can also opt to visit the Roswell Spacewalk, an immersive art exhibit that makes you feel as if you are walking through space. Nearby is also the Bottomless Lakes State Park where you can hike, kayak, canoe, swim, or just relax on the shores of the lake. 

Once you have spent the day in Roswell, continue driving to Santa Fe. It will take about three hours to drive from Roswell to Santa Fe.

Day 5: Santa Fe

Drive Time: Local Driving

Costs: $17-$25 and up

Today, spend the day exploring Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico. This city is a must add to a 7 day New Mexico itinerary. Although not as large as Albuquerque, there are still plenty of things to keep you busy for the day or more. Start your morning with a visit to the Loretto Chapel ($5 admission). This chapel is known for its infamous helix spiral staircase. 

Then, head over to Santa Fe Plaza to grab some lunch at one of the multitude of restaurants in the area. The Santa Fe Plaza is also popular for its historical and traditional-style buildings. It was once the gathering place of town and known as the “heart of Santa Fe.”

After lunch, opt to visit one of the many museums in Santa Fe. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Museum of International Folk Art are two of the more popular choices. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum ($20 admission) is dedicated to the life of Georgia O’Keeffe and showcases some of her works. The Museum of International Folk Art ($12 admission) showcases various textiles, ceramics, and carvings from all over the world. 

Later, head to Canyon Road to check out the various architectural features and art galleries. This area is known as the arts district of Santa Fe. There are also a ton of dinner options in this area as well. 

Day 6: Santa Fe to Albuquerque, New Mexico 

Drive Time: 2-3 hours

Costs: $16-$25

Hotel: Hampton Inn Albuquerque Airport

A must when spending 7 days in New Mexico is a visit to a pueblo town. Today, opt to visit Taos or Acoma Pueblo.

If you opt to visit Taos Pueblo ($16/person), it is an hour and a half drive north of Santa Fe. Taos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited pueblos in the United States. It is also a UNESCO world heritage site. The Taos pueblo consists of 95,000 acres of tribal land and most of the area is kept pretty private. It is considered a very sacred and spiritual area to the Tiwa Native Americans. 

Acoma Pueblo is a 2 hour drive west of Santa Fe. It costs $25 to visit. This pueblo is made up of four villages: Sky City, Acomita, Anzac, and McCarthy. Visitors are able to wander around the pueblo area and see the various types of dwellings. There are also little shops with handcrafted goods. After your visit, you can also opt to walk down the cliffside. 

When visiting the pueblos, please remember to be respectful to the local residents and follow any rules. These areas are considered very special and sacred areas to the Native American groups. 

If you have more time, you can also opt to add in a trip to Mesa Verde National Park and the Four Corners monument. It is a 4-4.5 hour drive to Mesa Verde, so plan on having to add in a day or two to your trip.  

Day 7: Albuquerque

Drive Time: Local driving

Today, spend another day exploring the cheap things to do in Albuquerque . Start your day with breakfast at The Shop. This delicious American breakfast palace will keep you full and ensure you are fueled for the morning. Then head to Petroglyph National Monument. 

Petroglyph National Monument is the perfect place to spend a morning. This park is popular due to its 24,000 preserved petroglyphs carved by the Pueblo people. There are four sites you can visit: Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, Piedras Marcadas Canyon, and the Volcanic Day Use trails. I recommend the Piedras Marcadas Canyon trail. This 1.5-mile trail takes you past a ton of Petroglyphs and it is a relatively flat and easy hike. 

After viewing the Petroglyphs, head to Old Town Albuquerque. This is a great area to explore and grab a bite to eat. The main plaza has a ton of shops and restaurants. Then, head to one of the local wineries for wine tasting! I recommend Casa Rodena as it only costs $10 for a tasting and they have delicious wines. 

Finally, end your 7 days in New Mexico with dinner at Campo. Although a bit pricey, it is worth the splurge. It is located on a farm and many of the ingredients come from the farm or other local sources. They have a nice bar at the restaurant with tons of great cocktails. Make sure not to miss the charcuterie board. 

Day 8: Fly home from Albuquerque

Today, fly home from Albuquerque, or you can opt to fly home the evening of day 7. If you have more than 7 days in New Mexico, you should spend more time in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. You can also opt to pair it with one week in Arizona or head to Colorado. Mesa Verde National Park is only a 4 hour drive from Albuquerque.

Shaka Guide

Shaka Guide is a GPS self-guided audio tour that you can download to your phone. Currently, they have one for several of the National Parks. They provide great background information about the area. The best part is you do not need the internet to use them.

Interested in other road trip ideas?

Head to Arizona for some other amazing road trips. If you have even more time than 7 days in New Mexico, opt to head to California for a week or head to Utah to visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.

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5 thoughts on “7 Days in New Mexico: A Perfect One Week Itinerary”

We have yet to explore New Mexico, but it looks like there is so much to do! The balloon fest is on our “list,” though I would love to visit the sand dunes as well!

Hi Francesca! We followed your route in New Mexico and had an amazing time. You pin pointed the most exciting places! We added a day in Taos and visited the historical plaza, the Earthships, and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Thank you!

Yay! So glad you were able to use it and had the best time. Taos sounds like a great addition!

This looks like a fascinating trip! If you start with the balloon festival, do they send up balloons every day of the week, or only on certain days? Thank you.

During the fiesta time they have the balloons up every day! They will list it on the website which days you can buy tickets.

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Hi! I’m Francesca, a native Californian and history teacher who loves to travel. I’ve been to 66 countries across 7 continents and all 50 United States.

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Traveling around New Mexico is an opportunity to explore one of America’s most unique destinations. The connection to the land is clear, and kid-friendly activities abound, like whooshing down white sand dunes or hiking through aspen forests. This Southwestern state also retains a great deal of its indigenous culture, and children love the chance to experience this in a hands-on way, whether through art lessons, dance and folklore performances or bread-baking classes. New Mexico is one of the best locations in the world to try out a hot air balloon ride; indeed, this makes a fitting finale to a New Mexico vacation. We can recommend kid-friendly accommodations throughout the state, like well-located, family-oriented resorts and intimate luxury hotels that pamper beyond expectations.

Experience the Best of New Mexico with Kids

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17 Fun Things to Do in Taos with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

By: Author Violet Baker

Posted on Published: June 25, 2021  - Last updated: October 25, 2023

The villages and towns of Taos County are perfect for exciting vacations when you’re in New Mexico.

You and your entire brood won’t have a dull day here thanks to the attractions for kids available, from exploring world heritage sites to experiencing art-filled afternoons.

And if you prefer a slow-paced trip, the rural vistas of this county make for awesome scenic drives and hikes.

Staying here in Taos is definitely a new experience if you’re used to the busy city.

Here are some fun things to do in Taos with kids to help you get started.

1. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge — Embudo

US-64 W Embudo, NM 87529 (575) 758-8851

The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a 650-feet high and 1,280-feet wide bridge located on the western part of US Highway 64 above the Rio Grande.

You can find it about 16 minutes away from Taos.

Why We Recommend This Kid Friendly Activity

Travel along the super-long steel bridge for a quick and fun experience.

You can also stop by at the nearby parking lot to take beautiful photos with this iconic bridge.

If you have more time, you can even walk on the bridge and stop in the middle for incredible views of the gorge.

The exciting cross is guaranteed fun for teens and tweens alike.

Recommended Ages

You will find the bridge on a highway, so it’s best to cross it with older kids who know not to leave the sidewalk.

Children ages 10 and up will enjoy seeing the magnificent river views from way up top.

2. Taos Pueblo

120 Veterans Highway Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-1028

Taos Pueblo is an ancient, small city that belongs to the Tiwa people, a Native American tribe of Puebloan descent.

The old pueblo is about 19 acres big.

History enthusiasts and little adventurers will enjoy exploring one of the oldest inhabited cities in the country.

Checking out the thousand-year-old stone abodes in this town is an excellent addition to your list of family activities in Taos.

You can choose this among the things to do in Taos with toddlers as it’s a slow-paced activity that they can join in.

But it’ll be the older tweens and teens about 12 and up who will truly appreciate the significance of the abodes and the pueblo.

Related: Best Things to Do in Taos

3. Enchanted Circle Drive

US-64, NM-38 & NM-522 Taos, NM 87571

The Enchanted Circle Drive is an 83-mile scenic byway that connects different areas of New Mexico, including Taos, Questa, Arroyo Seco, and more.

This highway offers impressive nature vistas with scenes of lakes, mountains, and forests that the whole tribe can enjoy, whether you’re with a baby or teens.

When it comes to what to do in Taos with kids, driving on this road is also a great way to make stops in the different attractions of Taos County, like Taos Pueblo, Red River, and Eagle Nest.

This activity is age-friendly.

You can take your newborn’s all the way to your 17-year-olds on this trip, and everyone will still find something that interests them.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Monte Sagrado Resort & Spa

4. High Road to Taos — Various Locations

NM-76 Taos, NM (800) 732-8267

The High Road to Taos is a 105-mile scenic byway that starts from Santa Fe.

It takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

Weave through the roads of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and enjoy the incredible alpine landscape this weekend.

This route offers some cheap road trip family-fun as you’ll be traveling from city to city in New Mexico while being surrounded by 360-degree panoramas of rolling mountains and fascinating historic buildings.

Bring your whole brood on an incredible road trip when you use this byway.

Older kids ages 6 and up will fare better with the 2-hour drive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Taos

Also See: Kid Friendly Things to Do in Albuquerque Things for Kids to Do in Las Cruces

5. The Low Road from Taos and Santa Fe — Various Locations

US-84, US-285 & NM-68 Taos and Santa Fe, NM

The Low Road is a more direct 70-mile route between Santa Fe and Taos.

It takes about 1.5-hours to complete.

Another fabulous addition to your list of free kid-friendly things to do is to travel to Sante Fe through the winding roads of this road.

You’ll see an amazing panorama of the Rio Grande and towering canyons.

Since this route is shorter, you can take your toddlers with you during the road trip.

The 1.5 hour-long drive can easily be appreciated by children as young as 4 years old.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn on La Loma Plaza

6. Wild Rivers Recreation Area — Questa

1120 NM-378 Questa, NM 87556 (575) 758-8851

Wild Rivers Recreation Area is inside the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument in north-central New Mexico.

Spending the day exploring the grounds of this area is one of the best things to do in Taos with kids today, thanks to its impressive views of the Rio Grande and Red River.

You can also go hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, and camping while you’re here.

Some activities suit different age groups better.

You can do camping and hiking the easier trails with little explorers as young as 6 years old.

More challenging paths and whitewater rafting are more appropriate for older teens, 15 years old and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Austing Haus

Also See: Things to Do in Roswell for Kids Kids Activities: Ruidoso

7. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument — Embudo

US-64 W, NM-68 Embudo, NM 87531 (575) 758-8851

The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is a 242,550-acre wildland near Embudo in Taos County.

This national monument is among the places to take kids in Taos if you’re an active and outdoorsy family.

Enjoy traversing through the broad, open fields and snaking rivers found inside this mountainous area.

You can trek through the rugged paths for beautiful canyon views or go kayaking and paddling on the rivers.

The activities that you can do in this location are best suited for older kids.

Younger kids, about 6 to 10 years old, can definitely do the easy trails, fishing, kayaking, and camping.

More extreme activities like strenuous mountain trails, whitewater rafting, and biking are better for 15-year-olds and older.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Luna Mystica

8. Field Institute of Taos — El Prado

9 D Ben Romero Road El Prado, NM 87529 (575) 770-2391

The Field Institute of Taos is a youth organization focusing on outdoor activities between El Prado and Taos Ski Valley.

Let your tiny adventurers explore the lands of Taos while making friends when you join this outdoor day camp.

Some of the best activities in Taos, NM, can be experienced here, like mountain biking, river swimming, hiking, and more.

The day camps are designed for kids ages 6 to 12 years of age.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel La Fonda de Taos

9. Cooking Studio Taos — Arroyo Seco

Arroyo Seco, NM (575) 776-2665

Cooking Studio Taos offers hands-on cooking classes that teach different cuisines using organic ingredients.

You’ll be able to learn both regional and international recipes with help from chefs when you join these classes.

Some cuisines you’ll learn are New Mexican, Cuban, Thai, Turkish, and more.

The classes are best done with older kids, about 15 and up, who can cook on their own.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Club Wyndham Taos

Also See: Things to Do in Santa Fe with Kids

10. Taos Clay Studio — El Prado

1208 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte El Prado, NM 87529 (575) 654-2919

Taos Clay Studio is a small contemporary ceramics studio located in the high mountain desert of El Prado.

When it comes to creative stuff to do with kids near you, you can check out the different ceramic artworks displayed in the gallery.

Or, if you want to be more active, join the cool pottery classes and workshops held here by notable regional artists.

Some of the pottery classes held in the studio are perfect for young artists ages 9 and up.

11. Williams Lake — Taos Ski Valley

Williams Lake Trail Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525

Williams Lake is an alpine lake located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Wheeler Peak in Carson National Forest.

The hike up to the lake is about 6.4 kilometers long and has tons of amazing views of the mountains and forests.

There are waterfalls, streams, and of course, the lake at the end.

You might even see some wildlife and birds on your way.

For those reasons and more it’s one of the best things to do in Taos with kids.

The trail is relatively easy to do so young hikers can also trek it up to the glacial lake.

Try hiking up the paths with kids as young as 8 years old.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Alpine Village Suites

Related: Best Restaurants in Taos

12. Mountain Skills Rock Guides, LLC — Arroyo Seco

544 Hondo Seco Road Arroyo Seco, NM 87514 (575) 776-2222

Mountain Skills Rock Guides is a rock climbing tour operator that provides trips to the mountains near Arroyo Seco.

Among the most fun things to do in Taos with kids is to experience nature from new heights when you join the rock climbing tours with this guide.

They’ll help you scramble up rocks so that you can have all the fun while remaining safe and secure.

Young climbers are welcome to join the tours.

But if it’s their first time, it might be best to do this activity with older kids 13 years old and up.

13. Taos Plaza

113 N Plaza Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-8234 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Taos Plaza, the “Heart of Taos,” is a bustling hub with 300 years of history. 

Originally a defense area built by Spanish colonists, it now features shops, eateries, and historical monuments.

Taos Plaza has a smorgasbord of activities for families, offering an endless selection of fun things to do in Taos for kids.

Kids can run around the open spaces, explore the monuments, and maybe even catch a live performance. 

With all these options, it stands out among our list of Taos kids activities.

Parents will also appreciate the variety of shops and the chance to taste authentic New Mexican cuisine at Ranchos Plaza Grill.

A trip here is ideal for all ages. 

The plaza has something for toddlers to teens and even moms and dads.

14. Millicent Rogers Museum

1504 Millicent Rogers Rd El Prado, NM 87529 (575) 758-2462 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Millicent Rogers Museum is a treasure trove of Native American artifacts and art collected by socialite-turned-activist Millicent Rogers.

Exploring the Taos area and wondering what are some interesting “things to do with kids near me”?

Just 6 minutes from the city, this museum is a journey through art, history, and activism. 

Millicent Rogers used her influence to advocate for civil rights and left behind a rich legacy displayed in the museum.

Kids will be captivated by the colorful Native American crafts, intricate jewelry, and even glamor shots of Millicent Rogers herself. 

The museum does an excellent job of making history and cultural appreciation accessible and engaging for young minds.

This museum is a hit for kids 7 and up with a budding interest in history, art, or social justice.

Recommended Hotel Nearby:

15. Kit Carson Home & Museum

113 Kit Carson Rd Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-4945 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located on Kit Carson Road, this Pueblo-style home showcases the life of an American legend through artifacts, paintings, and interactive exhibits.

Step back in time at the Kit Carson Home and Museum. 

It’s one of the most kid friendly things to do in Taos, where you can turn a history lesson into an interactive adventure. 

The whole family will learn about Kit Carson’s roles as a mountain man, Indian guide, and Civil War hero. 

Also, you’ll appreciate the rich historical context and the fact that children 12 and under get in for free. 

If you’re on the hunt for exciting things to do with kids, Taos has your back.

This museum is perfect for kids 6 to 12, especially those interested in history or adventure stories. 

Parents and older siblings will find plenty to engage with as well.

16. Hacienda de Los Martínez Museum (Also Known As Martinez Hacienda)

708 Hacienda Rd Taos, NM 87571 (575) 758-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Step into the 1800s at Hacienda de Los Martinez, an adobe house turned museum. 

This historical gem showcases life in the early 19th century through authentic furnishings and artifacts.

Kids will feel like they’ve traveled back in time as they explore the rooms filled with period-appropriate furniture and artifacts. 

It’s a tactile history lesson that’s far from boring. 

Have a budding historian or just a curious little one?

The museum experience is one of the best indoor kids activities Taos, New Mexico has in store for families.

Additionally, the museum hosts special events like craft fairs and historical reenactments, adding extra excitement to your visit.

The museum is best suited for kids 6 and up who are curious about history or love to play pretend. 

It’s an educational experience that parents will find rewarding, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Don Fernando De Taos, Tapestry Collection By Hilton

17. Kit Carson Park

211 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte Taos, NM 87571 (575) 751-2001 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Spanning 19 acres, Kit Carson Park is a playground for all ages, complete with a walking trail, sports fields, and dedicated kids’ play areas.

Not sure where to start?

You can never go wrong with Kit Carson Park—your one-stop shop for outdoor and family fun. 

Kids can sprint around the soccer field, hit some hoops at the basketball court, or swing to their heart’s content in the play areas. 

The 3/4-mile walking trail is perfect for a family stroll or a mini nature lesson. 

Let’s not forget the bandstand, where live performances often take place, adding a dash of culture to your outdoor day.

If you’re still looking for fun things to do in Taos with kids, make sure to visit this place.

Kit Carson Park is suited for all ages, making it one of the top fun things to do in Taos with kids. 

Whether you have a toddler who loves the sandbox or a teen who wants to shoot some hoops, there’s something for everyone.

17 Fun Things to Do in Taos with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Visiting Taos! What should we do? by u/spctraveler in taos

Taos Kids Activities: 17 Family Things to Do for [currentyear]

• Rio Grande Gorge Bridge — Embudo
• Taos Pueblo
• Enchanted Circle Drive
• High Road to Taos — Various Locations
• The Low Road from Taos and Santa Fe — Various Locations
• Wild Rivers Recreation Area — Questa
• Rio Grande del Norte National Monument — Embudo
• Field Institute of Taos — El Prado
• Cooking Studio Taos — Arroyo Seco
• Taos Clay Studio — El Prado
• Williams Lake — Taos Ski Valley
• Mountain Skills Rock Guides, LLC — Arroyo Seco
• Millicent Rogers Museum
• Kit Carson Home & Museum
• Hacienda de Los Martínez Museum (Also Known As Martinez Hacienda)
• Kit Carson Park

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Break Out for Family Fun

Make the most of spring break with these trips full of inspiration, learning, and great times for all.

Artist Virgil Ortiz’s new room, Sirens: Secret Passkeys & Portals, debuted at Meow Wolf in September. Photograph courtesy of Meow Wolf/Virgil Ortiz.

The Inspiration: At Meow Wolf ’s House of Eternal Return , parents can indulge their kids’ curiosities at Santa Fe’s 70-room immersive art experience. Step into the refrigerator, duck under the mantel, slide into the washing machine, touch an art exhibit with your bare hands, and stare at every angle of yourself in wall-to-wall hexagonal mirrors. Plus: The installations are wondrous feats of art and engineering, tied together through a mysterious narrative.

Day 2: Spring makes a great time to take Sky Railway ’s two-hour Santa Fe Scenic ride to Lamy, because it’s warm enough to enjoy the open-air flatbed car—the most popular spot for families. “Kids just want to stay out there and take in the views,” says Bryan Deutsch, Sky Railway director of onboard operations. “The engineer will give kids a full tour of the engine and let them sit in the conductor seat.”

Side Trip: Bask in the 95-degree pools of Spence Hot Springs in the Jemez Mountains.

Bonus Points: Santa Fe Children’s Museum and Albuquerque’s Explora Science Center .

Ride the Sky Railway. Photograph courtesy of Sky Railway.

HIGH FLIERS

The Inspiration: Depending on when the large colony of Brazilian free-tailed bats return to Carlsbad Caverns National Park from their southern migration, visitors can watch as the speedy fliers (some reach up to 99 mph) soar from the mouth of the park’s namesake cavern each evening to hunt.

Day 2: The New Mexico Museum of Space History , in Alamogordo, is your launchpad to rockets, astronauts, moon rocks, Star Trek , and more. (Shhh, that means video games!) “Spring break visitors are very interested in the films and live shows at our New Horizons Dome Theater and Planetarium,” says museum spokesperson Cathy Harper. The photo ops—think of your kiddos dressed as astronauts—alone are worth a visit.

Side Trip: Older kids can let their imaginations soar with virtual reality simulations at Spaceport Roswell , near the legendary UFO crash of 1947.

Bonus Points: Roswell’s International UFO Museum and flying saucer–shaped McDonald’s .

Explore Carlsbad Caverns. Photograph courtesy of Alamy/Chris Howes/Wild Places Photography.

GYPSUM GANG

The Inspiration: In addition to sledding and climbing White Sands National Park ’s gypsum dunes, families can join guided once-a-month full-moon hikes and ranger-led tours of the dry bed of Lake Lucero, where selenite crystals contribute to the dunes’ formation. Don’t miss the family-friendly Dune Life Nature Trail, where 14 interpretive signs teach you about the animals and plants living here.

Day 2: Even toddlers can go snow tubing at Ruidoso Winter Park , which offers gradually longer chutes for anyone at least three feet tall. “Tubing is a family activity that requires no special equipment or skills,” says owner Tom Dorgan. Want even bigger thrills? The park’s new, 5,100-foot-long Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster is slated to open in March.

Side Trip: Hit the slopes of Ski Apache with lessons for beginners, or just take in the views with a scenic gondola ride.

Bonus Points: The 30-foot-tall pistachio marking McGinn’s PistachioLand , in Alamogordo .

Venture back in time at Chaco Culture National Historic Park. Photograph by Minesh Bacrania. Minesh Bacrania

The Inspiration: Ancestral Puebloans chose the landscape now called Chaco Culture National Historic Park as their society’s hub. Walk among the great houses—multistory stone structures oriented to take advantage of the sun’s power and to mark yearly astronomical events. In the spirit of the theory that Chaco Canyon drew people of all clans together, mingle with travelers from near and far.

Day 2: A textbook example of a melted cinder cone and a 12-foot wall of 3,400-year-old ice sit on the same property at the Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano , near El Malpais National Monument , which reopens March 1. “The ice formations are beautiful,” says Debbie Reinschmidt, the fifth-generation owner. Seventy-two steps lead to a platform over the ice floor. Another path takes hikers around and into the volcano, which is nearly 1,000 feet deep and 14 feet across.

Side Trip: Romp and play among the fascinating sandstone formations of the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area , once an ancient inland sea.

Bonus Points: Book a 4x4 off-road excursion with Black Bear Unlimited , based in Farmington.

The Eis Haus skating rink at Taos Ski Valley is fun for all. Photograph courtesy of Taos Ski Valley. Photograph courtesy of Taos Ski Valley.

AIRBORNE ADVENTURERS

The Inspiration: Floating over the Río Grande del Norte National Monument at sunrise, your family will feel the pull of the Land of Enchantment even while defying gravity. “With mountains on either side, we have one of the most unique flights in the country,” says Rio Grande Balloons owner and pilot Sol Lothe.

Day 2: While the chairlifts might be crowded now, the trout streams are not. “In March, fishing gets good,” says Nick Streit, who owns Taos Fly Shop . “Our guides are well versed in teaching people how to fly-fish.”

Side Trip: Tackle the snowy terrain on a guided snowmobile tour by A.A. Taos Ski Valley Adventures .

Bonus Points: Get cozy by the built-in fireplaces at the Eis Haus Skating Rink at Taos Ski Valley .

Read more: 10 great camping spots throughout New Mexico for your next outdoor adventure with the family.

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• Ski Vacations

6 Best Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in New Mexico

May 17, 2011

See recent posts by Karon Warren

Landing at Albuquerque International Sunport, passengers get a birds-eye view of the mountains they’re about to explore. Often referred to as the “Land of Enchantment,” New Mexico has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, from red cliffs to snow-capped peaks.

Perched on the edge of the Rockies, the area offers light, powdery snow and pure-blue skies, making it a top choice for family ski vacations . Families also like New Mexico ski resorts for their good value and kid-friendly atmosphere.

Eight major alpine ski resorts are located in New Mexico, many in the Northeast area of the state, as this is where most snow accumulates. Here are some of the best family-friendly ski resorts in New Mexico.

1. Taos Ski Valley

Rich with history and historical prevalence, Taos Ski Valley is one of the few family-owned and operated ski resorts in America. Originally a ski-exclusive resort, Taos opened its doors to snowboarding for the first time in 2008. Today, avid skiers and snowboarders flock to this snow-covered mountain for some of the best trails and riding experiences around. With more than 1,200 acres, 110 trails and 14 lifts, this New Mexico family ski resort features a variety of terrains for all skill levels. The resort’s trails are evenly dispersed, with beginner and intermediate terrains making up 49 percent, with the other 51 percent on advanced and expert terrain.

This family ski resort in New Mexico features a children’s center offering a variety of fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. The nursery staff offers childcare to children 8 weeks to 3 years. Indoor activities, snow play and tasty snacks are provided for children ages 1 to 3, with half- and full-day sessions available. Kids age 3 and up can participate in a variety of ski and snowboarding programs, allowing them to learn the basics of riding and work on new skills and abilities.

With plenty of lodging throughout the area, families can easily find something that will fit their needs and budget. From hotel rooms, suites and chalets to two- and three-bedroom ski-in/ski-out condo units.

Recommended Hotel: The Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant

2. Angel Fire

Consistently rated one of the top family ski areas in the Southern Rockies, Angel Fire offers tons of terrain for tubing and skiing.

Beginner and intermediate trails make up more than 75 percent of the mountain’s terrain, making it great for those just starting out. For more experienced riders, there are several expert trails along the back of New Mexico’s tallest mountain. More than 80 trails are accessed by seven chair lifts, overlooking Moreno Valley and Wheeler Park and three terrain parks.

Music is pumped out on the trails from sound systems under the lifts, adding a festive vibe. A timed NASTAR race course is just above the 8,600-foot elevation base, offering recreational racing for anyone on a huge slalom format. The Polar Coaster is a four-lane trail down 1,000-foot hills, perfect for tubing. The freestyle terrain parks have jumps, rails and boxes, putting Angel Fire on the top for snowboarding in New Mexico. The mountain’s lower front side, home to the easier trails, is lit up and open for night skiing on select evenings.

Children ages 3 to 12 can learn to ski in one of four full- or half-day classes, split by age. In the ski programs, all children are encouraged, not forced, to ski or snowboard. Classes include lunch, snacks , rentals and free lift ticket. Select classes are for first-time skiers only.

Recommended Hotel: Angel Fire Resort Lodge

3. Ski Santa Fe

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Ski Santa Fe is a family ski resort in New Mexico with runs for beginners and a few challenging runs for more advanced riders. Deemed one of the highest ski areas in the United States, the resort has a base elevation of 10,350 feet. The Millennium Triple Chairlift takes visitors to a soaring 12,075 feet over 660 acres of gorgeous scenery, 1,725 feet of vertical skiing and 86 well-groomed trails that appease skiers of all levels.

With seven chairlifts total, don’t expect to be waiting in lines at Ski Santa Fe. A freestyle terrain park, known as “The Bone Yard,” contains boxes, ramps and jibs for all riding enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy smooth runs up to 3 miles long, narrow chutes, and more challenging black diamond trails.

Chipmunk Corner Children’s Center caters to kids from age 3 months to 11 years. Full-day or half-day childcare is offered for kids’ up to 3 years old between 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Split into groups by age, kids are provided with snacks and lunch. Snowplay is a group for 3- and 4-year olds that provide children with outdoor games and movies the entire day. Lil’ Chips is a ski lesson program that takes place during snow play, so children can go in between groups as they wish. Kids between the ages of 4 and 11 can take skiing or snowboarding classes with peers in the same age group. These classes cater to kids of all levels; the center has its own conveyor lift.

Recommended Hotel: La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa

4. Pajarito Mountain Ski Area

With 44 trails for skiers and snowboarders of all ski levels, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area in Los Alamos welcomes families to come get their fill of winter sports adventures. Pajarito offers private and group lessons, or you can set off on your own. Kids will love Camp Bluebird, a skiing and snowboarding program for children ages 5 to 12 and of any skill level. All lessons take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a lunch break at noon.

Plus, this ski destination offers great deals for families. All kids ages 10 and younger receive a free season pass to Pajarito Mountain Ski Area. But it’s not limited to just Pajarito Mountain Ski Area. It’s also good at Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort in Taos, as well as the following resorts around the country: Purgatory Resort, Snowbowl, Nordic Valley, Hesperus and Spider Mountain. In addition, all fifth-grade students receive a free season pass for Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort and Hesperus. You should apply online for your kids’ free season passes prior to visiting the resort.

Recommended Hotel:  Pueblo Canyon Inn and Gardens

5. Ski Apache

Located in Alto, New Mexico—the state’s southernmost major ski area—Ski Apache offers 55 runs and trails in more than 750 skiable acres accessed by 11 lifts including a gondola. Families can sign up for private lessons with children age 4 and older or take group lessons for ages 7 and older. On holidays and weekends, kids age 4 and older can participate in Bear Cub Adventure, a morning or afternoon half-day program where they can enjoy indoor and outdoor play.

The resort also has experienced certified instructors and specialized adaptive equipment to ensure visitors with disabilities can ski and snowboard the mountain.

For those wanting a different perspective of Ski Apache, sign up for the three-part ZipTour. Open to all visitors ages 10 and older who weigh between 50 and 260 pounds and stand between 52 and 80 inches tall, this 1.5-hour adventure takes participants to new heights around Ski Apache.

Recommended Hotel:  Inn of the Mountain Gods

6. Red River Ski & Summer Area

Surrounded by the Southern Rockies in Red River, New Mexico, Red River Ski & Summer Area sits at an elevation of 8,750 feet. However, the top elevation reaches 10,350 feet with 209 skiable acres filled with 64 trails accessed by seven lifts. Snowboarders also can choose from three different terrain parks geared to all skill levels. When not on the slopes, visitors also can enjoy snow tubing.

For new skiers, head to the Youth Ski & Snowboard Center, which offers ski and snowboard lessons for children ages 4 through 12. Red River Ski & Summer Area also offers First Step ski and snowboard lessons for teens and adults. Parents can also take advantage of Buckaroo Day Care, a babysitting service for children ages 6 months to 4 years old. Here they’ll enjoy supervised play with activities such as story time, crafts and outdoor play.

Recommended Hotel:  Hotel Ryland

For nearly 20 years, Karon Warren has traveled the globe, searching for adventure, unique personalities, and a new perspective on the world around us. When she has the opportunity, Karon brings her family—husband William and children Elizabeth and David—along for the experience. You can follow her on Instagram , Facebook , and at her blog, This Girl Travels . 

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Girl’s ski outfit for the slopes, shop the look.

Bugaboo II Interchange Parka

Waterproof Snow Pants

Girls' Novelty Faux Fur Pom Hat

Chica Jr. Kids Skis with vMotion 7.0 Bindings

Hawx Girl 2 Girls Ski Boots 2020

Men’s/dad’s ski outfit for the slopes.

Chunky Rib Beanie

Firebird Bib Pant

Roswell Insulated Jacket

Grade-A Cashmere Crew

Allspeed Pro 120 Ski Boot

Women’s/mom’s ski outfit for the slopes.

Skylab Goggles

Shadow Insulated Jacket

Ribbon Cozy Chunky Beanie

A-CAD FUTURELIGHT Bibs

Pure Elite 90 Ski Boot

Boy’s ski outfit for the slopes.

Adventure Seeker 3-in-1 Parka

Snowshot Insulated Pant

Ski Goggles

Bantam Kids Skis 2020

Speedmachine J 2 Ski Boot - Kids'

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Ride the Historic Rails of New Mexico

If you're looking for a new vacation experience for the whole family, get out of the car and hop onto the train. .

Everyone can ride the rails in New Mexico. (Tip: Remember to always have your ticket on hand for the conductor.) Step back into a simpler time of the Old West with our locomotives, and see striking views of the vast and contrasting landscape. Or if you just want to get from Point A to B, we have that too. From historic railways to a 21st Century commuter train, New Mexico offers a plethora of destinations for rail fans.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

NORTH CENTRAL

To visit the C&TSRR, head to the village of Chama, 107 miles north of Santa Fe off U.S. 84. The railway was constructed in 1880 as part of the Rio Grande's San Juan Extension to climb the high mountain passages to the silver mining district in southwestern Colorado. Today it operates as one of the United State's highest railroads, reaching an elevation of more than 10,000 feet as it chugs though the Cumbres Pass. It's also the longest narrow gauge railway. The rails are only three feet apart, as opposed to the standard gauge of more than four feet. And the scenery is spectacular. Once the track veers away from U.S. 84, there's little evidence of modern civilization, giving you the impression you're seeing the landscape just as it was in the Old West.

The New Mexico Rail Runner Express also departs from the Santa Fe Depot, from which it travels south through Albuquerque to the end of its line in Belén. The Rail Runner began offering commuter train service in 2006 and completed its route along the heavily traveled central corridor in 2008. With a style reminiscent of the Super Chief trains that once toured the southwest, the trains boast double-decker seating where passengers can take in views of the Río Grande and Native American reservations while zipping along at a 21st-Century pace. Just hop aboard at one of the train's dozen stations (you'll buy your ticket on board) and get ready for adventure. Please note that while the train offers regular service, you should consult the schedule when planning your excursion.

The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society (NMSL&RHS) is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization preserving the history of New Mexico’s railway. NMSL&RHS recently restored an Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe 2926, 4-8-4 steam locomotive that was originally built in 1944 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. The 2926 locomotive is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized by the state’s legislature as the Official Steam Locomotive of New Mexico.

The NMSL&RHS restoration site is open to the public for free tours (weather permitting) every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Large group tours can be made by appointment any day.

One of New Mexico's 13 original Harvey Houses can be found in Belén just south of Albuquerque.

From 1908 to 1939 Belén's Harvey House Dining Room offered hearty fare and good service at reasonable prices to travelers heading into the Wild West. Today, the historic building houses the Harvey House Museum, which preserves Santa Fe Railway and Fred Harvey organization memorabilia. Visit the famous Harvey Girls' dormitories and the Belén Model Railroad Club's creations. Belén is located 30 miles south of Albuquerque off I-25. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Image Courtesy Palace of the Governors Archive

In March 8, 1881, in Deming, a silver spike joined the Southern Pacific Railroad to the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, creating the second transcontinental railway. Although there's relatively little to see where this monumental collision was marked, the town of Deming owes its existence to the railway. Named after Mary Deming Crocker, wife of a railroad tycoon, Deming was officially founded after the meeting of the two railways. A Harvey House quickly followed, and part of that original building still stands next to the town's Amtrak depot today.

Watch CBS News

American woman killed by elephant in Zambia, the second such attack this year

Updated on: June 21, 2024 / 2:36 PM EDT / CBS/AP

A New Mexico woman visiting Zambia was trampled and killed by an elephant on Wednesday, local officials said. It marked the second such attack in the country this year.

Officials said Friday that 64-year-old Juliana Gle Tourneau was killed when an elephant that was part of a herd the tourists were watching attacked their vehicle in the Zambian city of Livingstone. Tourneau was thrown from the vehicle and trampled by the elephant.

Tourneau was part of a group that had stopped near the Maramba Cultural Bridge due to the traffic caused by the elephant herd near the bridge, officials added.

"Juliana Gle Tourneau, 64, of New Mexico, United States of America, died on Wednesday around 17.50 after being knocked from a parked vehicle which had stopped due to traffic caused by elephants around the Maramba Cultural Bridge," Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka told the Zambian national broadcaster, ZNBC.

It is the second such attack this year after another American tourist was killed in March this year during a game drive in Zambia's Kafue National Park . In that incident, an elephant charged a truck, flipped it over, killed the tourist, and injured five others.

Family members confirmed that Gail Mattson, a 79-year-old Minnesotan, was killed in the attack. In a post on Facebook, Rona Wells said her mother died in a "tragic accident while on her dream adventure."

The attack was captured in a harrowing cellphone video. The clip, shot by tourists, begins inside an open safari vehicle during the game drive.

In the distance, a large bull elephant can be seen coming toward the vehicle. The vehicle's occupants cannot be seen in the video clip, but someone is heard, saying "Oh my goodness," before a man says, "It's coming fast."

The vehicle stops and then another voice, presumably the game ranger, tries to ward off the elephant verbally as the large pachyderm hooks its tusks onto the vehicle and rolls it several times.

Zambian authorities have called on tourists to exercise extreme caution while observing wildlife around the country.

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Bear destroys family’s van on camping trip, defecates inside: ‘It stinks in there’

BASS LAKE, Calif. (KCRA) – A family’s minivan is a mess after a bear broke into it Tuesday.

The incident happened at Bass Lake in California, just south of Yosemite National Park.

Irik Edens and his family from Folsom, California, were on their annual anniversary trip to the lake.

Edens said he noticed something was moving inside the van.

“It’s like, wait a minute. All the kids are down there… who’s in the car? And then I see the silhouette to the bear in the back window, and it’s like, ‘Holy cow! There’s a bear in our car!’” Edens said.

The bear was stuck, and authorities had to bust one of the van’s windows to help it escape.

Although the bear wasn’t inside the vehicle for long, it did a fair share of damage, destroying everything inside.

Edens said he made sure to capture everything on video to have proof for insurance purposes.

The family thinks that their morning pancakes were the draw.

“I think he spent most of his time licking up syrup and then trying to get out, and he was trapped in there and probably started freaking out, started tearing the place apart,” Edens said.

The bear also left another surprise behind.

“Beyond all the damage he did with his claws just destroying the car, but he also defecated and urinated in the car, and so it stinks in there,” Edens said.

The family said this year’s trip might just require a re-do.

“It’s an anniversary trip for the books,” Mellissa Edens said. “We will always remember this one.”

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One of the best luxury family resorts in the world is less than three hours from hollywood.

Four Seasons Punta Mita is a go-to spot for vacations that indulge kids and adults equally (yes, really) in the starry seaside destination beloved by Halle Berry, Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyoncé and many other stars.

By Alesandra Dubin

Alesandra Dubin

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Fresh off awards season, Hollywood parents are jumping right into … summer vacation season. For those looking for a family-friendly luxury destination within an easy nonstop flight from the industry grind, look to a White Lotus -approved getaway in star-loved Punta Mita , Mexico.

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Related: The Hollywood Travel Guide to Punta Mita, Mexico

Four Seasons Punta Mita (rooms from $1,035; more booking and price options at Booking.com , Expedia and Hotels.com ) is just a 45-minute drive from Mexico’s Puerto Vallarta airport, less than three hours from LAX. Tucked into a cloistered 1,500-acre gated resort community, the Four Seasons and its team coddles families completely, starting with airport pickup including car seats — a gear-schlepping game changer. It has every comfort of home available at the ready — from swim diapers and wipes to stroller loaners to kiddie cutlery and tear-free toiletries — all offered with anticipatory hospitality.

In short, it feels like a dreamy, glorious vacation — even for parents of young kids, for whom such a vibe can feel supremely hard to come by. It offers red carpet treatment for kids and adults equally — so the grownups get to have a proper vacation rather than sacrificing theirs to suit their kids’ preferences. 

The property recently finished a long, phased renovation, and along the way unveiled even more luxurious and family-friendly offerings that have grown and evolved. Below, keep reading to see what’s new at the Hollywood-loved seaside retreat, plus find a few travel essentials to shop for the short plane ride .

Revamped Kids’ Programming

On check-in, expect surprises like bath sponges arranged to spell out kids’ names alongside tear-free bath amenities, and personalized passports to record the highlights of their visit.

The Four Seasons brand’s kids club, called Kids for All Seasons, has arguably the best programming and staff of any resort kids club in the world. Even by those standards, Punta Mita stands out: It has recently launched its new KidsWell program , offering activities focused on overall wellness, relaxation and self-care for kids. Think sound healing workshops, bubble-blowing breathwork and gratitude journaling (all very on-brand for Hollywood types).

Kids can make Mexican chocolate in the on-site cultural center, or enjoy a private piñata party on the beach for some kid-friendly cultural infusion.

The kids club offers programming for kids aged 5 through 12 (with a structured activity lineup and an organized system for checking in and out), and an additional game room is designed for teens to visit unattended.

It’s a sprawling space outfitted with air hockey, ping pong, coin-free vintage arcade games, modern gaming systems and even a dark theater. And it’s located right off two of the main restaurants (including the beachfront Bahía by chef Richard Sandoval). So the kids can conveniently vanish after inhaling their meals, leaving their parents in peace, instead of whining all the way through a coursed meal.

Overall, Four Seasons Punta Mita is a place where conditions support a family vacation that suits everyone — not just the kids to the exclusion of the adults. It’s a place that will keep you dreaming about coming back throughout the seasons of family life — and an easy getaway accessible by way of a short, direct flight from LAX.

Special Occasion Travel

For special occasions (such as birthdays and anniversaries), expect the A-list treatment: think cupcakes and a sparkler on a platter emblazoned with your name in chocolate, or a torch-lit dinner on the beach with a happy birthday message scrawled lovingly in the raked sand. Upon returning to your room, your bed might be festooned with balloons spelling out “feliz cumpleaños” for you to discover.

What to Bring on Vacation to Punta Mita, Mexico

Sun bum mineral broad spectrum spf 50 sunscreen lotion.

A good reef-safe mineral sunscreen is always recommended for beach vacations. Sun Bum’s broad spectrum SPF 50 daily lotion is formulated without octinoxate and oxybenzone (which are harmful for the ocean) — and glides onto the skin easily. The three-ounce size makes it the perfect travel option if you’re only bringing a carry-on suitcase (or squeeze it into a travel-friendly reusable container such as Cadence’s magnetic capsule if you prefer to travel even lighter).

Cuyana Packable Ecuador Hat

A chic packable chapeau — such as Cuyana’s suitcase-friendly Ecuador hat — saves space and your skin under the sun.

M. Gemi x Cosabella The Matilde Tan Leather Sandals

Comfortable walking shoes are also a must-have for summer beach getaways. These stylish Italian leather Matilde sandals from M. Gemi’s new collaboration with Cosabella boast a comfy molded footbed and a lightweight sole to make your feet feel like they’re floating all vacation long. (The footwear brand has been worn by model mom Gigi Hadid and other stars.)

Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan

When there’s not enough beach breeze, keep cool with a handheld mini fan . This three-in-one device by Jisulife is less than five inches high and weighs four ounces. It spins for up to 21 hours on a single charge, and you can even use it as an external backup power bank to charge your phone in a pinch. Another bonus: It’s got a built-in flashlight for when you need to dig through your bottomless bag on the plane.

MAGEASY Sacoche Crossbody Bag

Go hands-free with Mageasy’s Sacoche crossbody bag that has enough room for your phone, hotel key card, ID, credit cards and other essentials.

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