28 Amazing Things To Do in Alamogordo, NM
In search of exciting and unique things to do in Alamogordo, New Mexico? Fortunately, I have you covered. I was looking for activities to do in the neighborhood while my husband was at Holloman Air Force Base for a training session. I had plenty of time to explore Alamogordo and its surroundings, and I discovered some incredible locations.
Exploring the stunning natural region surrounding the city is highly recommended. These suggestions are also excellent if you’re trying to find activities close to Holloman AFB.
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I’ve put together this comprehensive list and travel guide to Alamogordo so you can make the most of your trip to the adorable tiny city. Now let’s get started!
Things To Do in Alamogordo
1. The White Sands National Park
It takes approximately 15 miles to reach the White Sands National Park from Alamogordo. The drive from the city is just a few minutes. One of my favorite activities in Alamogordo, New Mexico, is this.
It is among the world’s most underappreciated national treasures. The stunning white desert is made up of 275 square miles of sand made of gypsum. There is nowhere else where you can enjoy an experience like this.
The White Sands National Park has a lengthy and fascinating history. There in the park is where the oldest human footprints have been discovered. This indicates that there have been people residing there for 23,000 years.
White Sands National Park at dusk, a lovely green plant with a few frozen blossoms in focus against the white dunes in the background
The author is seated among the dunes of White Sands National Park in New Mexico, surrounded by white sand. National Park of White Sands
Take advantage of the fantastic offer of FREE guided tours and walks with park rangers by signing up for a guided tour in the park. We joined a park ranger for a twilight stroll and gained a great deal of knowledge about the area’s history, flora, and wildlife. At dusk, the park is quite breathtaking!
Take a hike on the Interdune Boardwalk, one of the park’s main footpaths. It stretches for about 0.3 miles (0,5 km). It leads to an amazing vantage point. Additionally, the Playa Trail has a length of 0.5 kilometers or 0.3 miles. With a length of about 4.3 miles (7 km), the Alkali Flat route is an excellent choice for experienced hikers.
Rent plastic sleds at the visitor’s center and use them to slide down the white dunes in the park.
Visit the White Sands National Park Museum to learn everything there is to know about the park and its surroundings. The museum is interactive and well-planned.
There are numerous facilities spread out throughout the park; bring some meat and enjoy a BBQ there.
Head out camping
Riding a horse, explore White Sands National Park
Walking under the full moon is one of the most amazing things to do in Alamogordo at night.
The White Sands National Park’s weather
A cold semi-arid climate (BSk) is the classification given to the climate in White Sands National Park.
Additionally, the weather is almost entirely desert-like. It can get extremely hot from June to August during the summer. There are times during the winter when the temperature drops below freezing.
You can go to the park practically every day because it doesn’t rain very often where you live.
Here are my recommendations for the ideal times to visit White Sands National Park.
How can I travel to the National Park of White Sands?
It is approximately 15 miles (24 km) from the city of Alamogordo. To go from the city to the Park, you need a car.
Drive along US Route 70. You must drive the 8-mile (13-kilometer) dune road toward the park’s interior after making a brief stop at the visitor center.
The cost of entry into the National Park is twelve dollars for walk-in or bicycle visitors and twenty-five dollars for cars. The 45 USD yearly pass is a wonderful alternative if you intend to visit more frequently.
2. Plateau Espresso
One of my favorite spots in Alamogordo, New Mexico, on a beautiful Sunday morning, is Plateau Espresso. My husband used to take me there once a week for coffee and a sandwich.
The cafe is a wonderful place to visit because of its breathtaking outlook over the valley. The ambiance is pleasant and the staff is really friendly.
Plateau Espresso is undoubtedly a location for the young and old, and it occasionally even features live music. In addition, the drinks are far less expensive here than at the nearby Starbucks.
3. A day trip to Cloudcroft
Cloudcroft is a quaint little mountain community. It’s situated inside the National Forest of Lincoln.
The elevation of Cloudcroft is 8,676 feet. It’s a fantastic site to see on your journey and rather near to Alamogordo. About 700 people are living in this quaint little community.
In Cloudcroft, there are tons of exciting and enjoyable things to do. Both young and old adore this charming small mountain town.
The town’s surroundings are well-known for their hiking routes. In an open forest, the majority of them lead. You can take in the breathtaking vista of the valley and the city of Alamogordo after a fantastic walk or hike.
We spent the winter at Cloudcroft. I thought it was magical to stroll among the snow-capped mountains. Afterward, we relaxed with a hot drink in the charming town center. It boasts excellent dining options, adorable stores, and a fascinating historical museum about the Mountains.
Fans of winter sports will enjoy visiting Cloudcroft for the day. Activities in Cloudcroft include mountain tubing, ice skating, and skiing, to name a few.
A view of a valley from atop a mountain, with the city of Alamogordo in the distance and mountain ranges on either side
A few residences and a saloon can be found in this small American village CloudcroftView from Cloudcroft
4. Visit the World’s Largest Pistachio in Alamogordo, NM
The largest pistachio in the world may be found in Alamogordo, NM. I’ll tell you a secret, though: It’s not a genuine pistachio!
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Alamogordo, New Mexico, this structure is 30 feet high and situated in what is known as PistachioLAND. This farm boasts more than 12.000 pistachio trees!
The farm is situated on 90 acres of land. A 14-person open-air shuttle takes guests around the more than 12,000 pistachio plants. My particular favorite is the breathtaking vineyard vista!
There is a gift shop on the farm. There are wine tastings you can attend. The ice cream parlor will be fun for smaller visitors.
Address: Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310, 7320 US-54 #70
Hours of operation: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
5. Alameda Park Zoo
Both young and old will enjoy visiting the Alameda Park Zoo in Alamogordo, New Mexico. 1898 saw the founding of it. It is therefore among the US’s oldest zoos. In the zoo, there are over 265 animals representing 90 distinct species.
Particularly well-known residents of the zoo include the Mexican gray wolf, lemurs, and pumas. Not to mention adorable are the Hawaiian geese and the White Sands pupfish. Visitors can discover a great deal about the animals at the Educational Center.
Operational hours: 09 am to 05 pm
Cost: USD 4,00
1321 N. is the address. Address: 88310 White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo, NM
6. Trinity Site
An intriguing historical location is the Trinity Site. In 1945, the first-ever atomic bomb went off at this location. It is a highly fascinating location in Alamogordo, New Mexico. and you can discover a great deal about the area’s past.
Only on designated open days in April and October is the site accessible to tourists.
7. The White Sands Missile Range Museum
Many historic missiles can be found at the White Sands Missile Range Museum. It was established in 1994 as an armed forces museum to preserve vintage missiles and historical items.
You can travel through time and learn a great deal about historical combat at the museum. Among the several items visible are:
The New Mexico Frontier Army, 1806–1880
Ranching in the Tularosa Basin in the past
The Rocket V-2
Trinity Test and the Manhattan Project
March of Death in Bataan
The WSMR Cold War
Testing of missiles and rockets during the Vietnam War
NASA
The White Sands “Desert Navy”
An image showing massive white missiles in front of the White Sands Missile Range Museum in Alamogordo, New Mexico
White Sands Missile Range, NM 88002; War P Rt. 1
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday
8. Visit the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
In Alamogordo, New Mexico, the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is a fantastic site to visit.
Its goal is to protect Oliver Lee’s former ranch house from the 19th century. It passes through the Sacramento Mountains’ canyon.
For those who enjoy being outside, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is fantastic. Take a stroll around the park, go camping, go trekking, or simply just watch some animals.
The park has a few pleasant walking pathways. The Dog Canyon National Recreational Trail is one of the park’s most breathtaking paths. The visitor center is where it begins. almost a distance of around 5.5 miles, the trek ascends almost 3,000 feet up the canyon wall, providing breathtaking views of the Tularosa Basin.
Beautiful canyon at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park with grass and flora in the foreground
The address is 409 Dog Canyon Road, NM 88310 in Alamogordo.
9. Visit the Toy Train Depot
Since 1898, the Toy Train Depot has drawn attention to Alamogordo. The museum is housed in a refurbished former railroad terminal. A few of the original elements have survived and are being maintained.
The Toy Train Depot has a collection of passenger trains, freight cars, and locomotive models. In the on-site Park Trip Train Museum, you can even take a train trip.
Cost:
Train Fare: USD 5 for each passenger
Tour and Museum: $5 per person
Combination Train Ride + Museum: $8 per person
Toy Train in New Mexico Alamogordo’s Station Toy Train Depot
Opening hours:
Thursday 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Saturday.
Sundays, 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
1991 N is the address. Address: 88310 White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo, NM
10. Visit the Tularosa Basin Museum of History
For those who enjoy history, one of the most alluring activities in Alamogordo, New Mexico is visiting the Tularosa Basin Museum of History. It will be a pleasure to drive to Tularosa because the town is quite charming.
The Museum features a sizable collection of diverse antiquities, objects from the history of the area, and displayed papers.
The almost 3,000 historical photos and the prehistoric Native American artifacts are particularly fascinating. The La Luz Pottery Factory’s assortment of pottery is very fascinating to view.
The 47-star US flag that is on display in the museum is another extremely fascinating object. The display honoring the Holloman Air Force Base was our favorite.
Opening hours:
Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–4 p.m.
The address is 1004 N. Address: 88310 White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo, NM
11. The Desert Foothills Park
The Desert Foothills Park is one of my favorite natural attractions in Alamogordo, New Mexico. At the foot of the Sacramento Mountains is where you may find it.
Since the majority of the trails are paved or have smoothed surfaces, the Park is perfect for youngsters, leashed dogs, walkers, runners, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. For me, the park’s picnic area was my favorite part!
Gorgeous yellow flowers in front, with the Sacramento Mountains Valley in the distance
2510 E. is the address. Road 1st, Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310
12. The American Armed Forces Museum
In 1997, the American Armed Forces Museum officially opened. Its primary objective is to gather, store, and exhibit military artifacts.
There are numerous sections devoted to each of the military’s several branches. The museum’s primary goal is education. The sentiment of serving your country and the sacrifices are emphasized in particular.
The museum’s display of vintage uniforms was quite interesting to us. The messages and pictures in particular were moving.
Open from Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Address: Alamogordo, New Mexico, 88310, USA; 144 US-82
13. See the Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls in Alamogordo, New Mexico is a great place for hikers and photographers to explore. The walk is appropriate for both experienced hikers and novices.
Bridal Veil Falls is surrounded by stunning scenery, and the sound of the running water is very soothing. The 7.4-mile (12.4-kilometer) Bridal Veil Falls & Grand View Trail offers breathtaking views.
14. Play golf at the Desert Lakes Golf Center
For a nice tee time, check out Desert Lakes Golf Center. For a little bit of a challenge, this 18-hole golf course offers well-maintained fairways with elevation changes and water hazards.
In addition, there is a bar and seating space, perfect for a pleasant gathering after a sporting event.
Hours of operation: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Address: Yuma, AZ 85365, USA; 1245 W Desert Hills Dr.
15. See the Three Rivers Petroglyph site
Visit the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site to view more than 21,000 petroglyphs.
It is situated halfway between Tularosa and Carrizozo in Three Rivers, New Mexico. When visiting Alamogordo, this is a fantastic location to go.
Amazing specimens of Jornada Mogollon rock art from prehistory can be found in the Petroplyphs. Weapons, handprints, masks, and sunbursts are all visible.
Take a stroll along the 0.5-mile Petroglyph route or stroll the short route to view the partially excavated prehistoric settlement.
The address is 455 3 Rivers Road, Tularosa, New Mexico 88352, USA.
Opening hours:
(Thurs–Sun) 8:00 am to 9:00 pm
Mondays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
closed on Wednesdays and Tuesdays
16. Check out the Rocket City Family Fun Center
For both kids and adults, the Rocket City Family Fun Center in Alamogordo, New Mexico, is a fantastic destination. More than 35,000 square feet of pure, enjoyable entertainment are available there!
Explore some truly amazing spaces, such as an arcade, bowling, laser tag, and much more. Individuals have been there for hours without growing bored!
Even better, The Center has an Italian restaurant attached so you can eat well after a tiring day of exciting games!
3751 Mesa Village Drive, Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310 is the address.
Opening hours:
10:00 p.m. (Tuesday through Thurs)
4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. (Friday)
11:00 am to 1:00 am on Saturday
Sun., 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Mondays are off.
17. Heart of the Desert/Eagle Ranch Pistachios Farm Tour
I have enjoyed going on a wine-tasting excursion at Heart of the Desert because I am a huge wine enthusiast. It’s a pistachio ranch as well as a vineyard.
Try some of their award-winning wine, cheese, and pistachio selections. Savor the sampling while taking in the breathtaking view of the winery from the lovely patio.
For every palate, this winery in Alamogordo has something to offer. They have an unexpectedly large assortment of wines to sample.
Of course, taking a tour of the vineyard and learning about the processes involved in harvesting and producing is also an option.
Address: 7288 US-54, United States, Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310
Hours of operation: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Four wine glasses for a barrel-aging wine-tasting
18. Shroud Exhibit and Museum, Alamogordo, NM
To educate tourists about the Shroud of Turin and its significance to New Mexico history, the Shroud Exhibit and Museum was established in Alamogordo, NM.
Research materials, information, and exhibits can provide visitors with a better understanding of the Shroud of Turin.
923 N. New York Avenue, Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310, United States
Opening hours:
1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Sundays from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Wednesday ended
19. New Mexico Rails-to-Trails
An organization called Rails to Paths works to protect various kinds of paths that are used along nearby train tracks. Excellent hikes in the New Mexico region are also available.
There are a few different trails in the vicinity that you can explore. They are easy to advance and appropriate for a variety of ability levels.
For first-timers, the Grand View Trail is fantastic. It involves some easy hiking through the woodlands of Juniper and Pinon.
The Bridal Veil Falls Trail and the Soldado Canyon Trestle Trail are ideal for more experienced hikers.
20. Sacramento Mountains Museum, Alamogordo, NM
The Mescalero Apaches were the first people to settle in the area, and their tale is told in the Sacramento Mountains Museum in Cloudcroft.
The museum features several displays that highlight the hardships and efforts faced by those attempting to construct new homes in the region.
The gift shop next door has some excellent mementos for sale as well. There are also accessible guided tours.
1000 US-82, Cloudcroft, NM 8831 is the address.
Opening hours:
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday are closed.
21. Grindstone Stables, Ruidoso, NM
One of my favorite activities to do in Alamogordo, New Mexico, as a horse enthusiast, is horseback riding at the Grindstone Stables near Ruidoso.
To ensure you have the greatest riding experience possible, both novice and expert riders are watched over by a knowledgeable and experienced guide.
Beginning at Grindstone Lake, the guided horseback journey ascends to Townsend Ridge. There are some breathtaking photo ops over the about three-mile tour.
Four exquisite horses standing over a fence in a field
Address: 523 Resort Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico 88345, USA
22. Grindstone Lake
In Alamogordo, New Mexico, Grindstone Lake is a breathtaking, remote mountain lake that is a favorite destination for hikers, anglers, and naturalists.
The 18-mile GRINDSTONE LAKE RECREATION AREA AND TRAIL SYSTEM is made up of five distinct trails.
These paths offer a variety of enjoyable activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian riding. Dogs are even welcome in this region.
Fishermen will also find the lake to be a wonderful location. In non-motorized boats, they can locate rainbow trout, bass, and catfish on the lake.
An image of Grindstone Lake, a fun frozen lake with trees, close to Alamogordo, New Mexico
Entry is free, parking is $10 per day.
Grindstone Canyon Road, Ruidoso, NM 88345 is the address.
23. Noisy Water Winery
Another fantastic site to visit in Alamogordo, New Mexico is the Noisy Water Winery. The shop there, which sells a variety of artisan wine and cuisine, is one of my favorite things about the winery.
The winery offers a variety of wines, all of which are made from grapes that are grown nearby in southern New Mexico.
They even provide guests with a well-known selection of their cheeses. I love wine and cheese, so this restaurant is like heaven on earth for me.
Ruidoso, New Mexico 88345; address and phone number: 575-257-9335
Opening hours:
10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Sun through Thurs)
10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. on Friday
Sat. 10:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
24. The New Mexico Museum of Space History
Founded in 1976, the New Mexico Museum of Space History is a fascinating destination to visit in Alamogordo, New Mexico, with an emphasis on the state’s contribution to the growth of the US Space program.
The Space History Museum is accessible from the building. Visits to the Hubbard Space Research Center, an Astronaut Memorial Garden, a dome theater and planetarium, and the International Space Hall of Fame are all available.
You can visit it on various occasions because there are numerous exhibitions on display. What a fascinating museum in New Mexico!
Costs: (adults only)
Just for the museum: $8.00
Feature-length movies: $8
Planetarium Programs: $6
Opening hours:
10 a.m. – Five P.M. from Wednesday through Saturday.
noon until five o’clock in the evening. Sunday
ADDRESS: ALAMOGORDO, NM 88310, 3198 STATE ROUTE 2001
25. Flickinger Center for Performing Arts
Art enthusiasts should check out the Flickinger Center for Performing Arts in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
What’s not to love? A variety of live musicals, music concerts, holiday event shows, and dance recitals are being presented. To see upcoming shows, be sure to visit their website’s event calendar.
By hosting performances by local artists, the Flickinger Center is renowned for supporting them in Alamogordo.
The website is where reservations are made.
1110 N New York Ave., Alamogordo, NM 88310 is the address.
26. Shop and Dine at the Alamogordo Main Street
The best location to eat and shop in Alamogordo is on Main Street. Numerous stores are relics from the city’s past.
Main Street hosts events for the community as well. Local goods are available at several of the stores and make wonderful mementos.
A trip to Main Street Alamogordo would undoubtedly not be complete without a stop there.
Address: United States, Alamogordo, New Mexico
27. Tunnel Vista Observation Site
Situated next to the US82, the Tunnel Vista Observation Site provides a breathtaking perspective of the Tularosa Basin.
Take a hike on the Tunnel Vista Trail while you’re in the region. Starting close to High Rolls Mountain Par, the 0.8-km out-and-back track takes around 20 minutes to finish.
28. International Space Hall of Fame, Alamogordo, NM
The International Space Hall of Fame recognizes and rewards people who have worked tirelessly to expand our understanding of the cosmos and space exploration. The program was started in 1976 and is the only one in the globe that honors women and men who have contributed significantly to space exploration from all over the world. A few well-known people who have been admitted into the Hall of Fame are Sir Isaac Newton, Yuri Gagarin, and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin. The New Mexico Museum of Space History, which also houses several other fascinating space-related exhibitions, is home to the Hall of Fame.
3198 State Route 2001, 374–437–0318, Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310