Free (or Nearly free) Things To Do in Las Cruces

Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts MarketLas Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market

For those looking for a free activity that will get you outdoors, and up close and personal with the locals, try browsing through the Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market in downtown Las Cruces. It’s open year-round every on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Plaza de Las Cruces and spans seven city blocks. There is a small market on Wednesdays located on Plaza de Las Cruces. Packed with the best of local fresh produce, local arts and crafts, and lots of handmade products, you’re sure to learn more about the local culture even if you don’t buy a thing.  Listen to live music and other entertainment while you browse, grab a snack and shop.

 

Mesilla

Take a step back in time. Located just 5 minutes south of Las Cruces, Mesilla is a picturesque southwestern town is home to bright and colorful ristras, charming adobe homes, decorated with red chile strung together, and lots of history and lore. This combination creates a charming and vibrant ambiance while taking you back to bygone times. In 1848, Cura Ramon Ortiz was commissioned by the Mexican Government to settle Mesilla. Here, he brought families from Paso del Norte, as well as New Mexico. By 1850, there were more than 800 people in the area. In 1854, after the Gadsden Purchase, Mesilla officially became part of the United States. With a central, historic plaza surrounded by shops, restaurants, galleries, wineries and more, it's not a bad way to spend a day. 

 

MuseumsMuseum of Nature and Science

The Las Cruces Museums Systems consists of four museums mainly situated in the downtown Las Cruces area. They are City-run and are free admission. 

  • Museum of Art

  • Branigan Cultural Center

  • Museum of Nature and Science

  • Railroad Museum

 

New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum

This interactive museum brings the history of farming and ranching to life. Watch a cow being milked, visit the corrals of livestock and experience hands-on exhibits of blacksmithing, quilting and more. The Ranch welcomes guests from all over the world. Sitting on 47 rural acres of land, the main building is 24,000 square feet of space where, aside from the exhibits, there is a catering and events center. Children and adults can visit the corrals where livestock thrive, as well as the beautiful gardens that dot the area. It is located at 4100 Dripping Springs Road in Las Cruces and is open to the public on daily. The fee starts at $2 for veterans, $3 for children from 4 to 17, $4 for senior citizens, and $5 for adults.

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Plaza de Las Cruces SplashpadPlaza Splashpad

The summer months bring the heat in Las Cruces. Located in the heart of Las Cruces, take the kiddos to cool off at the city’s main Splash Pad. Open during the summer months.

Movies in the Park

The City of Las Cruces Parks & Recreation Department presents Movies in the Park. The summer program starts at dusk on Saturdays from June through August at Young Park, 1905 E. Nevada Ave. Free to attend and family friendly.

Music in the Park

The Music in the Park summer series highlights the talent and diversity of New Mexico’s musicians. More than 70 percent of the musicians are from the Las Cruces area and the rest are artists from throughout the region, state and country. The series kicks off with the Mayor’s Jazz Fest on Memorial Day weekend and continues through August. 

For more information of these free outing, visit www.lascruces.gov.