If you have only one day in Las Cruces to experience all this city has to offer, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re exploring the town for vacation or trying to decide on renting an apartment in Las Cruces or buying a home in Las Cruces, ApartmentGuide can help you plan the ideal day.
Throughout this article, you’ll find a treasure trove of restaurants, activities, and hikes handpicked by Las Cruces locals. Your task is to look through the list and select one item from each step to create your ideal itinerary. Feel free to choose more than one option if you wish! Think of this as a “Choose Your Own Adventure” for exploring a new city with the goal being for you to get a crash course in what it’s like to live in Las Cruces.
Step one:
Try a new experience
During your time in Las Cruces, make sure to take advantage of all the great experiences this city has to offer. Check below for a collection of experiences recommended by locals, from famous jails-turned-gift-shops to a unique makerspace run by a non-profit. Choose one or a few to explore during your stay.
Mesilla Plaza: “Stroll through the charming historic plaza, lined with adobe buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Visit the Billy the Kid Gift Shop which is the former Mesilla Jail where Billy the Kid was held before his trial. Enjoy some handcrafted European-style chocolates from the Chocolate Lady. Explore the Basilica of San Albino, a beautiful Spanish Colonial mission church built in the 1850s.” – Charlie Barks of Las Cruces Directory.
Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts Market Downtown: “This market is an active hub on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It’s full of fresh produce, tasty food, and handmade crafts. Plus, there’s usually live music, making it a lively spot to explore and shop.” – Jeremy Schofield of From Above Droneworks.
Cruces Creatives: “Tucked away at the edge of Downtown, our makerspace is the only one in town and it’s a true gem. It’s like a community tool box, offering all kinds of tools and equipment, along with classes and programs for people of all ages. We’re a non-profit makerspace committed to fostering economic development, furthering education, supporting the arts, protecting the environment, strengthening social connections, and advancing science and technology throughout New Mexico by connecting people with the tools, training, and community to make practically anything.” – Emmajean Smith of Cruces Creatives.
COAS Books: “If you’re looking to spend a delightful afternoon in Las Cruces, start with a visit to COAS Books. This sprawling bookstore, filled to the brim with new, used, and out-of-print books, is a paradise for any book lover. You can easily lose yourself for a few hours browsing through the collection, never knowing what literary treasure you might discover.” – Joy Nelson, Board Member for Children’s Reading Alliance.
See a show at one of Las Cruces’s theaters: “Enjoy live theater at the Black Box, Las Cruces Community Theatre, and the American Southwest Theatre Company at NMSU. Don’t miss free concerts year-round; participate in a community band, orchestra, or choral.” – Rorie Measure, Board Member for Children’s Reading Alliance.
Step two:
Get outside
While you’re in Las Cruces, make sure to take in the gorgeous weather and unique natural beauty of New Mexico. Choose one of the places below to explore.
Soledad Canyon: “One of my favorite places in the world is Soledad Canyon. It’s a beautiful but light hike with lots of shady spots, so my whole family can be active together.” – Steph at Hello Cakery & Macarons, LLC
Picacho Peak: “Many have made their post known, but this climb is always ready for the next ‘conqueror.’ The hike is free to do, but be mindful of the snakes and elements. Make sure to bring appropriate gear and refreshments. In the summer months, the earlier the better!” – Morgan Switzer of NM Vintage Wines.
New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum: “Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural history of the region at this living museum. See demonstrations of farming techniques, explore the recreated territorial-era town and ranch, and get up close with livestock like cattle, horses, and sheep.” – Charlie Barks of Las Cruces Directory.
Step three:
Enjoy the local food and coffee
Thinking of renting a home in Las Cruces? Make sure to try the local cuisine! Las Cruces does not disappoint with their incredible Mexican food and delicious pastries.
La Posta de Mesilla: “This iconic restaurant, housed in a former stagecoach stop from the 1840s, offers an authentic New Mexican dining experience. Savor their famous margaritas and dishes like carne adovada (pork simmered in red chile) or chile rellenos in the cozy adobe dining rooms or shaded courtyard.” – Charlie Barks of Las Cruces Directory.
Weck’s Las Cruces Restaurant: “A great spot for breakfast or brunch. It’s famous for big, hearty meals that mix New Mexican flavors with classic comfort food. Definitely a place to fill up and enjoy the local vibe.” – Jeremy Schofield of From Above Droneworks.
Andele’s Dog House: “You can’t go wrong with these tasty, savory snacks! A local favorite so it’s almost impossible to pick a dish that isn’t amazing!” – Morgan Switzer of NM Vintage Wines.
Indulgence Cafe: “Crazy good pastries, desserts, and more. Their service menu excites the palate with options not seen in this Valley, yet!” – Morgan Switzer of NM Vintage Wines.
Step four:
Grab a drink and reflect
Now that you’ve spent time exploring Las Cruces, it’s time to end the day with a drink and some time to reflect. What did you like about the city? What did you not like? Could you see yourself renting a house in Las Cruces or maybe you’re interested in more of a city feel and buying a home in Albuquerque is more your speed?
NM Vintage Wines: NM Vintage Wines offers a unique tasting experience featuring New Mexico wines, craft beers, and cigars in a historic Old Mesilla setting. The tasting room, located in a charming 1850s adobe building, provides a relaxing ambiance with a blend of local entertainment, including various music genres. They also host events and offer a variety of tapas and treats.
Spotted Dog Brewery: “This is the perfect place to grab a good local beer and wind down with a friend. Their green Chile Philly sandwich is amazing!” – Steph at Hello Cakery & Macarons, LLC.
Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery: “Take a stroll down Main Street to Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cold, refreshing drink. The craft beers, lively atmosphere, great food, patio seating, and friendly staff are worth a visit. Combining these two of my favorite places makes for an ideal way to spend a few hours in Las Cruces.” – Joy Nelson, Board Member for Children’s Reading Alliance.
Step five:
Don’t want to plan? Try a pre-made itinerary
If picking your own itinerary is overwhelming, the folks at Grounded Lounge in Las Cruces have you covered with a complete pre-made itinerary for the perfect day in Las Cruces.
“There is so much enchantment and charm to Las Cruces that is never-ending, but if you only had one day to capture it all, this is how to do it best:
First, start the day off with a beautiful, leisurely sunrise hike through Soledad Canyon where you’ll be able to experience the famous Organ Mountains and all their glory. Cool off and wind down with the best sourdough wood-fired pizza, specialty coffee, and natural wine for lunch at Grounded Lounge in LC’s downtown Main Street, where you can visit the local shops at La Esquina Plaza for all the post-lunch shopping you’ll need! And finally, end the day with margaritas, cornhole, and live music out on the patio at our favorite local bar Elephant Ranch!”
