Introduction
When I first drove into Santa Rosa, New Mexico, it was as if I entered a pleasantly surprising crossroads: part historic Route 66 stop, part outdoor-adventure haven. I expected maybe a quick rest-stop town—you know, fuel up, stretch your legs, and move on. Instead, I found a place that pulled me in for a stay of a few days. Between the shimmering blue spring, the winding back roads, and the friendly small-town feel, Santa Rosa turned into one of my favorite spontaneous getaway spots. With that in mind, here are 12 of the best & fun things to do in Santa Rosa, NM, drawn from my personal explorations and discoveries.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Santa Rosa, NM (2026)
1. Dive into the Famous Blue Hole
One of the first stops I made—and one I’d recommend to anyone—is the legendary Blue Hole (Santa Rosa). This natural spring is 61 °F year-round, about 80 feet wide at the surface and up to 130 feet wide at the bottom, with visibility of 100 feet or more.
I arrived early on a warm afternoon, donned swim gear, walked down the steps, and found myself floating in the clearest water I’ve ever seen—not typical desert scenery. If you like swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking in something memorable, this is it.
Tip: Bring a towel, water shoes, and if you’re into diving, check for permit/gear options. They allow cliff jumping, too (with care, of course).
See Also: 12 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montana
2. Enjoy Family Fun at Park Lake & the Water Park
Right near town is Park Lake—a spring-fed lake that turns into a lively water-park zone in the summer. I spent an afternoon renting a paddleboat, watching kids splash about on the floating obstacle course, and relaxing under a shade tree with a picnic.
It’s great if you’re visiting with family or just want something more relaxed than the “extreme clear spring” vibe of the Blue Hole.
Tip: Go early in the day to beat the heat and claim a good picnic spot.
3. Explore the Outdoors at Santa Rosa Lake State Park
For a broader outdoor escape, head to Santa Rosa Lake State Park (about seven miles north of town). With a large reservoir carved out behind a dam, you’ll find boating, fishing, hiking trails, bird-watching (even bald eagles), and scenic mesas.
I took a late afternoon stroll near the water, spotting wildflowers and listening to the breeze—such a contrast to the highway hustle just minutes away.
Tip: Whether you camp overnight or just visit for a few hours, bring binoculars if you’re into wildlife.
4. Drive & Discover Route 66-Era Downtown
Part of what charmed me in Santa Rosa was its place on U.S. Route 66. Walking the downtown streets (Route 66 frontage) you’ll find vintage neon, historic motels and the Route 66 Auto Museum filled with classic cars and memorabilia.
I took a slow walk, stopped for photos, browsed vintage signage, and felt like I was slipping back in time to the golden age of the American road-trip.
Tip: Look for small shops and diners—some of the best finds and meals were just off the main drag.
5. Visit the Route 66 Auto Museum
If you’re a car enthusiast—or just love cool retro stuff—this museum is worth the stop. The Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa showcases restored classic cars, motorcycles, old gas pumps, and Route 66 relics. According to local listings, “car buffs will love this museum… dozens of restored classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles.”
I found myself spending more time than planned here, photographing details and chatting with the curator about the stories behind the cars.
Tip: The museum is indoors—a good backup if you need a break from sun/wind. Ask about any guided tours or special exhibits.
6. Try Diving, Snorkeling & Water Sports
What surprised me most about Santa Rosa was the depth of aquatic activity. From scuba-diving in the Blue Hole to jet-skiing or wind-surfing at the lake, there are serious water-sports options. The website notes scuba training is offered, and at Perch Lake near town you’ll find sunken objects for experienced divers.
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, you’ll find something unusual and fun. I tried paddle-boarding for the first time at the lake—gliding gently over calm water with desert hills behind me.
Tip: If you plan diving, book ahead; check altitude and equipment needs (the site mentions high-altitude diving tables).
7. Hike, Bike & Ride the Back Roads
Away from the water, Santa Rosa offers the kind of wide-open country that invites exploring: the Trail of the Forty‑Niners, mesas, ranch trails, and even horseback riding options.
One morning, I rented a bike (via a local provider) and followed a quiet dirt road along the Pecos River, then paused for a coffee in town—just perfect.
Tip: Bring sturdy shoes or pedals; if you ride in the afternoon, bring a hat and plenty of water—shade is limited.
8. Local Dining & Taste of New Mexico
A destination is never complete without good food, and Santa Rosa delivered. I found restaurants serving authentic New Mexican cuisine—green chile stew, tender pork, fresh tortillas—and classic diners along Route 66 for roadside burgers and shakes. One local highlight: Joseph’s Bar & Grill, open for decades and beloved by locals.
On one evening, I sat on a patio under string lights, green chile aromas around, and thought: yep, this is exactly the kind of small-town food culture I love.
Tip: If you see “green chile stew” on the menu—order it. And plan dinner with time to wander the downtown afterward.
9. Visit Historic Buildings & Architectural Gems
History isn’t hidden in Santa Rosa—it’s visible. The Guadalupe County Courthouse (built 1909 in red sandstone) and the J. Julian Moise House (built in 1904) are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
I spent a quiet hour wandering the downtown side streets, discovering details of stonework, architecture, and historic signage.
Tip: Stop at the local visitor center and ask for the historic-buildings self-guided walking map—it’s a nice way to stretch your legs between meals.
10. Attend a Route 66-Era Event or Classic Car Show
If your timing is right, you can catch live events tied to the heritage of Route 66. The town is part of the Route 66 Centennial celebrations (2025–2026), featuring classic car shows, parades, and downtown festivities.
I happened to stumble upon a small photo-op event of vintage cars parked along Main Street—such a fun unscheduled moment.
Tip: Check the official Santa Rosa tourism website before your trip to see what calendar events are coming up—some weekends feature car shows or outdoor concerts.
11. Relax by the River or in Lakeside Wildness
Sometimes the best moments came when I simply slowed down: sitting by the Pecos River, watching a bald eagle in the distance, or enjoying a lakeside sunset at Santa Rosa Lake State Park. The park’s description mentions antelope, deer, mountain bluebirds and bald eagles.
Bring a chair or blanket, and carve out a quiet hour. It’s these un-planned peaceful stops that often become the favorite memory.
Tip: If you stay into evening, the desert-sky stars are something to behold with minimal light pollution.
12. Stay Overnight & Soak in the Small-Town Vibe
Rather than just passing through, I opted to stay a night in Santa Rosa—and that made all the difference. Whether you choose a retro Route 66 motel, an RV park by the lake, or a friendly inn downtown, staying overnight lets you enjoy the town in quiet hours (early morning coffee, late-night walk) and see it from a slower rhythm.
Tip: Book ahead for weekends, especially in summer or during events tied to Route 66. Staying out near the lake gives great sunrise access.
Final Thoughts
Santa Rosa, New Mexico, surprised me—in the best way. I came expecting perhaps a brief stop, but left with a sense of place: one that combines natural wonder (Blue Hole, lake, river), classic Americana (Route 66, vintage cars), and authentic small-town warmth (local diners, historic buildings, outdoor fun). My favorite moments? Wading into the Blue Hole’s icy-clear deep water, sunset reflections on Santa Rosa Lake, chatting with locals at a diner downtown, and cruising the back roads with no destination but the open air.
If I were to offer one single piece of advice before your visit: stay at least two days. It gives you enough time to explore water, trails, town, and food—without feeling rushed. Take a slower pace, allow for spontaneity (you might stumble into a car show or a cliff-jump spot), and be open to the unexpected. Because in Santa Rosa, the best fun is sometimes just around a bend.