Las Cruces Itinerary

How many days does your group have to explore Las Cruces?

One day? Two? Even more? You tell us and together we can pick and choose from the list below to create a fun and unique itinerary that makes the most sense for your group. 

Expand your Mind – Museums and Science

Meander through the Museums

Las Cruces’ portfolio includes the Branigan Cultural Center, the Museum of Art, Museum of
Natural History and the Railroad Museum. They feature historical, traditional, contemporary,
 scientific and environmental exhibits as well as interpretation, classes and special programs. 

The Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, part of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, exhibits include a number of permanent in- and out-door exhibits. Enhance your group’s visit with a guided tour, living history program or specialty demonstration.

Walk into Weapons – White Sands Missile Range Museum and Missile Park displays more than 50 rockets and missiles once tested on the range.

Sink in the Sand – 275 square miles of wave-like gypsum dunes that rise from the desert are protected by White Sands National Monument.

Soar into Space – New Mexico Museum of Space History and IMAX Theater highlights the state’s role in the development of the US Space Program.

Coming Soon – Spaceport America groundbreaking was June 2009, tours start late 2009.

Work up an Appetite – Fun and Interesting Activities

Birding at the Bosque –See, hear and learn about the more than 250 migratory birds that can be found along the Rio Grande River at the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, New Mexico’s newest addition.

Hike to History – Visit the ruins of an 1870’s resort and later sanatorium at Dripping Springs.

Dive into the Desert – The Asombro Institute creates appreciation for the diverse Chihuahuan Desert environment that surrounds Las Cruces

Hop on a Horse – Explore and view the desert at a slower pace and from a new perspective.
 

Satiate your Hunger – Dining, Tours and Treats

Double Eagle and Peppers Café – The Crown Jewel of Historic Mesilla features award winning margaritas, the world’s largest green chile cheeseburger and fine dining in this 1840’s building showcasing antiques and a the story of romantic tragedy.

La Posta – Tropical birds and fish and rotating local artwork adorning the walls create the unique environment of this historic multi-room building that now serves great Mexican flavors within its adobe walls and temps diners with local crafts in its shops.

Flying P – Take a wagon ride to an outdoor steakhouse that features dinner accompanied by live country and bluegrass music.

Texas Roadhouse – Hand-cut steaks, hot rolls and icy margaritas are plentiful at this legendary restaurant.

Other options include Las Cruces’ fast-growing regional and international cuisine scene including homemade Italian dishes, Asian fare, authentic Hawaiian and our proximity to Texas is bringing more great barbeque all the time.

Chile capital of the world – Mexican restaurants, small and large, make our city the best place to eat Mexican food anywhere outside Mexico

Mangé – Local favorites Lorenzo’s, Sí or Rollie’s please the Italian palate

Prime rib, filet or porterhouse – Cattle Baron Steak and Seafood and Cattleman’s Steakhouse serve beef the way you like it

Try Caliche’s smooth, flavorful and fresh signature custard for an after dinner treat that hits the spot any time of year.

Chile Pepper Institute – International organization dedicated to research and education offers tours about the history, production, uses, and nutritional value of chile peppers (available anytime but most colorful during late summer and fall)

Fort Selden State Monument – Visitor Center exhibits and ruins echo the past. Period Cooking living history demonstrations available

Lyles Family Farms – U-Pick at the Gardens and wind your way through twists and turns of this cornfield that hosts the Mesilla Valley Maze (Wednesdays and weekends from Labor Day thru Halloween).

Rio Grande Winery – The only tasting room adjacent to its vineyard with the owner-host pouring your tasting. Several other wineries, tasting rooms and gift shops currently operate in the area and new ones are stomping more grapes all the time.

Stahmann Farms – Pecan grove, shelling plant and candy factory tours at the largest family-owned orchard (available by appointment, harvest in the fall).

Relax – Shop, Golf, Spa in Your Free Time

Craft and Farmers’ Markets – Open air farmers and craft markets four days a week year-round in downtown Las Cruces and on the Old Mesilla Plaza, both surrounded by unique locally-owned shops and galleries.

Galleries, art and jewelry – So many opportunities that the CVB has to publish a separate comprehensive brochure with descriptive listings and locations

Mesilla Valley Mall – Clothes, entertainment, housewares, jewelry, gift and specialty stores so you don’t go home empty handed

The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso – Open-air outlet center with great deals on name brands only 20 miles from Las Cruces

New Mexico State University – Golf, museums, athletic and cultural events

Sonoma Ranch Golf Course – Pro shop and Sunset Grill

Duncan Noble, Serenity, Fountain of Youth and Alegré Health Haven – Hair salons, variety of individual spa treatments or all day indulgence as well as some classes such as yoga and meditation

*Annual and special events year-round, check our comprehensive calendar at http://www.lascrucescvb.org/html/events_in_las_cruces__new_mexi.html
for what’s happening while your group is visiting Las Cruces.*