Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and national forest, Las Cruces is part of a prosperous agricultural area, where you’ll find some of the best culinary experiences and farmers markets in the United States. Outdoor recreation is a popular pastime, along with wine tastings and exploring Mexican culture and history.

Things to do

Las Cruces is known for its farmers and crafts markets, especially the twice-weekly Las Cruces Farmers Market, held on every Wednesday and Saturday morning. Considered one of America’s best farmers markets, it features a range of handicraft stalls, artist displays, food vendors and local produce. The “Walk of Flame” is perfect for spicy food lovers, comprised of numerous restaurants known for their green chilli-infused food and drinks.

Are you an outdoor adventurer? Experience the surrounding New Mexico nature with a hike around the Dona Ana Mountains, which also has mountain biking and horse riding trails. You can also go birdwatching in Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, which boasts wetlands and Chihuahuan Desert landscapes.

Learn more about local wildlife and the region’s natural history at the informative Museum of Nature and Science, which also has live amphibians, reptiles and insects. Art exhibitions from local and national artists are showcased at Las Cruces Museum of Art, which also boasts regular classes.

Immerse yourself in the history and old-world farming practices of New Mexico at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, where you can see livestock and take part in hands-on farming workshops. Alternatively, take the kids to Young Park for a day of fishing on the pond. There’s also a playground and barbecue facilities.

Getting around

Las Cruces is about one hour’s drive from El Paso International Airport, which has regular domestic and international flights. You can get around the city by using the local RoadRUNNER Transit bus services or hailing a taxi, but will need a vehicle to explore the surrounding region.