Get outside and explore Las Cruces

With over 320 days of sunshine, Las Cruces is teeming with outdoor activities that make it easy to get outside and enjoy everything the area has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back morning or a full day of adventure, there’s something here for everyone.

Start your day with a walk through the Farmers & Crafts Market in downtown Las Cruces. Grab a coffee or a refreshing drink, browse local arts and crafts vendors and pick up a treat to sip and munch on while you explore. When you need a break, find a shady spot to sit and take it all in.

The market happens every Saturday morning, year-round, making it a go-to for both locals and visitors, and it’s fur-baby friendly, so bring your four-legged companion along.

If you’re craving a little nature, head just southwest of Mesilla to Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. This underrated spot is perfect for soaking up the sun, spotting wildlife and walking self-guided trails through the Chihuahuan Desert.

Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna, then explore the native plant garden for a closer look at the landscape.

Looking for something more adventurous? Book an experience with Southwest Expeditions and explore the outdoors in a whole new way. From ghost towns and paranormal investigations to kayaking on the Rio Grande and star parties under the desert sky, there’s an option for every kind of explorer.

No visit is complete without a trip to White Sands National Park. Pack your sleds, drinks and something yummy to eat, then spend the day exploring miles of stunning white gypsum dunes. It’s an out-of-this-world experience and a bucket-list stop that’s fun for the whole family.

Back in town, keep the momentum going with even more ways to get outside. Hit the batting cages, grab your clubs for a round of golf or challenge friends to a game of pickleball. As temperatures rise, cool off with a dip in one of the city’s pools or splash pads.

For a different kind of adventure, take a public art hunt through Las Cruces. Discover colorful murals and unique sculptures throughout the city, especially downtown. From well-known pieces like “Lady of Las Cruces” to the iconic Recycled Roadrunner, it’s a fun way to explore while snapping a few photos along the way.

After all that activity, recharge with patio dining at one of the many local spots around town. It’s the perfect way to relax, refuel and soak in the views.

Las Cruces makes getting outside feel easy, with a mix of adventure, creativity and everyday moments that invite you to explore a little more.