Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carlsbad, NM to Albuquerque, NM

If you're looking for an adventure, there's nothing quite like taking a road trip. And one of the best destinations to hit in the American Southwest is New Mexico. The state has all the ingredients you're looking for in an epic road trip: gorgeous landscapes, fascinating history, and all kinds of interesting stops along the way. One of the best places to start is in Carlsbad, NM, and then drive up to Albuquerque. Here are five unexpected places to stop on this road trip that you won't want to miss.

Fort Sumner, NM - Halfway Point of the Road Trip!

Fort Sumner is halfway between Carlsbad and Albuquerque, and it's a great place to stop and stretch your legs. This town has a rich history and is well-known for being the location where the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid was killed. You can visit the Billy the Kid Museum to learn all about him and see artifacts from his life. The town is also home to the Bosque Redondo Memorial, a site that honors the thousands of Mescalero Apaches and Navajos who were forcibly relocated to the area in the 1860s. If you're looking for a bite to eat, check out the Taqueria Los Angeles for some delicious Mexican food.

Place #1 - White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is a must-visit destination. The park is located about an hour and a half from Carlsbad and is home to the largest gypsum sand dunes in the world. The sand is pure white and incredibly soft, and the views are stunning. You can take a guided tour, go hiking, or even try your hand at sandboarding. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen because the sun reflecting off the sand can be incredibly bright and intense. After a day of exploring, head to the nearby town of Alamogordo for some authentic New Mexican cuisine at Casa de Suenos.

Place #2 - Roswell, NM

Roswell is famous for the alleged UFO crash that took place there in 1947. While it's unclear whether the incident was extraterrestrial or not, the town has fully embraced its association with aliens. You can visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center to learn all about the incident, see exhibits on UFO sightings, and more. If you're hungry, head over to Big D's Downtown Dive for some delicious burgers and shakes.

Place #3 - Santa Rosa Blue Hole

The Santa Rosa Blue Hole is a hidden gem in the middle of the desert. This natural swimming hole is fed by an underground spring and has crystal-clear blue water. It's a great spot to cool off on a hot day. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even go scuba diving in the hole. When you're done swimming, head to Joseph's Bar and Grill for some classic pub food.

Place #4 - El Malpais National Monument

If you're looking for some incredible landscapes, El Malpais National Monument is the place to be. This area has extensive lava fields, unique rock formations, and ancient trails that have been used by humans for thousands of years. You can take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the park and see all kinds of fascinating natural features. After your hike, grab a bite to eat at the Ancient Way Cafe for some tasty barbecue.

Place #5 - Sky City Cultural Center and Haak'u Museum

Sky City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Native American culture. This is the site of the Acoma Pueblo, which has been continuously inhabited for over 800 years. You can take a tour of the pueblo and learn about its history, see traditional pottery being made, and more. The Haak'u Museum is also located here and showcases the art and culture of the Acoma people. When you're ready for a meal, head to the Pueblo Harvest Cafe for some delicious, authentic Native American cuisine.

Conclusion

If you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, look no further than New Mexico. This state has all kinds of interesting stops to explore, from historic sites to natural wonders. Whether you're interested in aliens, ancient cultures, or just some good food, New Mexico has something for everyone. So why not embark on an adventure and drive from Carlsbad to Albuquerque? You won't regret it.