Jun 2, 2023

Planning some time away and looking for inspiration? Start with this list of our three favorite weekend getaways within a reasonable drive of Las Cruces, NM.

1. Truth or Consequences

You only have to drive for a little over an hour to get to Truth or Consequences from Las Cruces. This resort town of about 8,000 residents is best known for its many natural hot springs and spas. In fact, it’s sometimes called the most affordable spa getaway in the nation. We recommend scheduling your weekend trip around the Second Saturday Art Hop, when you can browse the local art galleries and enjoy food and live music.

If you want to spend some time in nature during your weekend in Truth or Consequences, you can access the Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway for hiking and biking. Stop by the trail visitor center at 301 S Foch in the Lee Belle Johnson Center to get your trail map.

2. Elephant Butte Lake State Park

This New Mexico state park is about a 1.5-hour drive from Las Cruces. When you arrive, you’ll be at the state’s largest lake, one of the most popular places for boating, fishing, swimming, and a wide range of water sports. If you want a more relaxing trip, you can spend time on the sandy beaches and enjoy the fresh air. Elephant Butte Lake State Park has campsites, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and RV hook-up sites with water and electricity.

Other activities at this spacious state park include birdwatching, hunting, scuba diving, and volleyball. You can explore 15 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails or go back in time at several historic interpretative sites on the grounds. Elephant Butte Lake State Park is located at 101 NM-195.

3. El Paso

If you don’t mind crossing state lines for your weekend trip, you can be in this Texas city in less than an hour. El Paso is home to many types of attractions, making it a great destination for almost any traveler. If you like spending time in nature, visit Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site or Franklin Mountains State Park. You’ll also find cultural attractions such as the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, and the Plaza Theater.

El Paso is also an excellent place to explore local history. You can take a stroll on the El Paso Mission Trail or spend time touring the Magoffin Home State Historic Site. The city’s proximity to the border means it has tons of authentic Mexican food to sample during your visit.

The luxurious GMC Acadia is the perfect road trip vehicle if you’re looking for an SUV with lots of amenities. Take a test drive today at Sisbarro Buick GMC.

Image by Ryan McGuire from Pixabay