Top Five Popular Attractions on a Road Trip Between Carlsbad, NM and Mesilla, NM

Are you planning a road trip through southern New Mexico? If you are, you must stop between Carlsbad and Mesilla to see some of the state's most popular attractions. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy on a journey through this region. Here are the top five places to visit.

Salt Flat, TX

The midpoint between Carlsbad and Mesilla is Salt Flat, Texas. Here, you'll find a small community of people who call the Chihuahuan Desert their home. There's not a lot to see or do aside from enjoying the sparse beauty of the desert, but it's a great place to take a break during a long drive. Plus, the town's name is "Salt Flat." How cool is that?

Top Five Places to See

1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-see attraction in southern New Mexico. It's home to one of the most extensive cave systems in the world, with over 119 caves. You can explore the underground formations by walking along a network of trails that take you through chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. If you're lucky, you might even see some of the park's resident bats!

2. White Sands National Monument

White Sands National Monument is a vast expanse of white gypsum sand dunes that stretch for miles. The sand is so pure that it feels like you're walking on snow. This unique landscape is perfect for photos, picnics, and sandboarding. There's also a visitor center that provides information about the area's plants, animals, and geology.

3. Spaceport America

Spaceport America is the world's first commercial spaceport and the first facility built specifically for launching private spacecraft. It's located in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin and is the launch site for Virgin Galactic's space tourism program. You can take a tour of the facility that includes the hangar, mission control, and vertical launch area. It's an experience of an entirely different kind and one that's worth checking out.

4. Billy the Kid Museum

The small town of Fort Sumner, NM, is the final resting place of the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid. The Billy the Kid Museum has a collection of artifacts, photos, and documents related to his life and death in the area. You can also visit his grave, which is located nearby. This museum is a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West and a must-see for history buffs.

5. Mesilla Plaza

Mesilla Plaza is the heart of Mesilla, NM, a charming town with Spanish colonial architecture and rich history. The plaza is surrounded by shops, galleries, and restaurants that serve traditional New Mexican cuisine. It's a great place to visit during the day or night, with plenty of festivals and events happening throughout the year.

Best Route for This Trip

The best route for this road trip is to start in Carlsbad and head west on US-62W. From there, you'll pass through White Sands National Monument and then continue west to Spaceport America and the Billy the Kid Museum. After that, head south on NM-185 S to reach Mesilla and Mesilla Plaza. Plan to spend at least two days on this trip, with an overnight stay in Alamogordo or Las Cruces.

In conclusion, a road trip between Carlsbad and Mesilla is an adventurous way to experience the beauty and diversity of southern New Mexico. There are many attractions to see along the way, from natural wonders like White Sands National Monument to cultural landmarks like the Mesilla Plaza. Take your time, enjoy the sights, and embrace the spirit of the Wild West.