Tour Around Creative New Mexico: Southern New Mexico
By ERMW Team
Sunday May 4, 2024
On the last day of our tour we escape into the serene spaces and vibrant communities of Southern New Mexico, where a blend of cultures, vibrant artistic expression, and a healthy dose of quirky charm await. Embark on a journey to discover hidden gems, lively town squares, and a landscape that inspires artists from all walks of life.
Las Cruces: University Town with Artistic Flair
Rio Grande in Las Cruces by Ken Lund, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Las Cruces is a bustling university town with a growing arts scene. Explore the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum to connect with the state's agricultural roots. Stroll through the galleries and studios of the Downtown Arts District and uncover the work of local and regional artists. Don't miss the dynamic collection at the Las Cruces Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary art with a Southwestern focus.
Estimated Population (2024): 115,000
Climate: Desert, hot summers, mild winters, very low humidity
Geographic Area: 77.03 square miles
Industries:
Agriculture: The fertile Mesilla Valley supports diverse crops like pecans, cotton, and chiles.
Education: New Mexico State University is a major employer and research institution.
Aerospace and Defense: White Sands Missile Range provides jobs and economic impact.
Healthcare: Several hospitals and healthcare providers serve the region.
Tourism: Growing focus on history, outdoor activities, and proximity to Mexico.
Fun Fact: Nicknamed "The City of Crosses" due to the two white crosses atop nearby Organ Mountains, a popular hiking destination.
Silver City: Wild West Legacy Meets Creativity
Mural on the southside of the Silver City Daily Press building at 300 W. Market St by Matthew.kowal, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Next, journey west to Silver City, where its mining town history is now overlaid with creative energy. The galleries lining historic Bullard Street offer a delightful mix of traditional western art, fine crafts, and contemporary creations. Admire the architecture of the Silver City Museum, housed in a beautiful mansion, and delve into the region's rich history. Immerse yourself in unique events like the Silver City Blues Festival or the Kinetic Sculpture Race, where art becomes wacky and whimsical.
Estimated Population (2024): 9,500
Climate: Semi-arid, four seasons but milder due to elevation
Geographic Area: 10.14 square miles
Industries:
Healthcare: The regional hospital is a major employer and economic driver.
Education: Western New Mexico University provides jobs and draws students.
Tourism: Historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and art scene attract visitors.
Mining: Some continued mining activity, though less significant than in the past.
Government: County and town government provide employment opportunities.
Fun fact: Known as the "Silver Capital of the World" due to its rich history of silver mining, with remnants of the industry still visible today.
Ruidoso: Resort Town, Artistic Oasis
Sierra Blanca view from Ruidoso by Beatnik Photos, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Descend into the valley to Ruidoso, a lively resort town known for its outdoor adventures and diverse artistic offerings. Explore the galleries showcasing a mix of traditional Western art and contemporary creations. Delve into the Hubbard Museum of the American West, featuring collections that bring the region's history and spirit alive. The Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts offers a year-round calendar of music, theater, and cultural events celebrating the arts in this mountain setting.
Estimated Population (2024): 7,500
Climate: Mountain climate, cooler temperatures, four seasons, ample snow in winter
Geographic Area: 16.15 square miles
Industries:
Tourism: Skiing, hiking, outdoor recreation, festivals, and events draw year-round visitors.
Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and various services focused on tourism.
Horse Racing: Ruidoso Downs Race Track is a major attraction and economic driver.
Retail: Shops catering to tourists and residents.
Real Estate: Vacation homes, second homes, and resort development.
Fun fact: "Ruidoso" means "noisy" in Spanish, referencing the area's reputation for strong winds that howl through the nearby mountains.
Truth or Consequences: Hot Springs and Unexpected Art
Truth or Consequences by psyberartist, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Embrace the quirky charm of Truth or Consequences (T or C), a town known for its therapeutic hot springs and a charming artistic side. Walk the downtown district, where colorful murals, eccentric shops, and galleries inject a dose of fun into your explorations. Visit the Geronimo Springs Museum for a taste of history and local art. Time your visit with the annual T or C Fiesta or the Balloon & Music Festival for a burst of creativity and color.
Estimated Population (2024): 9,500
Climate: Semi-arid, four seasons but milder due to elevation
Geographic Area: 12.6 square miles
Industries:
Healthcare The regional hospital is a major employer and economic driver.
Education: Western New Mexico University provides jobs and draws students.
Tourism: Historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and art scene attract visitors.
Mining: Some continued mining activity, though less significant than in the past.
Government: County and town government provide employment opportunities.
Fun fact: Originally named Hot Springs, the town famously changed its name in 1950 to win a publicity stunt on a national radio show.
Mesilla: Where History and Artists Meet
Old Mesilla by Roger Pierson, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the fertile Mesilla Valley, the traditional town of Mesilla exudes historic charm. Explore the plaza's shops and galleries, showcasing the work of local artisans inspired by the area's rich Hispanic heritage. Admire the architecture and history of the San Albino Basilica, and wander through the Mesilla Museum to uncover stories of the region. Join the festivities during the annual Cinco de Mayo or Diez y Seis de Septiembre celebrations, where cultural traditions come alive.
Estimated Population (2024): 2,200
Climate: Desert, hot summers, mild winters, very low humidity
Geographic Area: 5.68 square miles
Industries:
Tourism: The historic town square, with its shops, galleries, and restaurants, is the primary attraction.
Agriculture: Mesilla is surrounded by farmland, with related support industries present.
Small-scale Retail: Businesses catering to tourists and local residents.
Hospitality: Hotels, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants serve visitors and the local community.
Events and Festivals: Events focused on history and culture contribute to the tourism economy.
Fun fact: Home to the famous "Mesilla Chile" peppers, a local variety prized for their unique flavor and spice, celebrated annually at the Mesilla Chile Festival.
Hatch: The Chile Capital's Artistic Side
Hatch Municipal Building by AllenS, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Known as the "Chile Capital of the World," Hatch offers more than just flavorful peppers. Discover the vibrant murals showcasing the town's agricultural pride, and visit quirky shops filled with chile-themed art and crafts. Plan your trip to coincide with the annual Hatch Chile Festival, a celebration of food, music, and the creative ways this iconic ingredient finds artistic expression.
Estimated Population (2024): 1,700
Climate: Desert, hot summers, mild winters, very low humidity
Geographic Area: 3.066 square miles
Industries:
Agriculture: Hatch is known as the "Chile Capital of the World," with chile production central to the economy.
Food Processing: Facilities for processing and packaging chiles.
Small-scale Retail: Shops focused on chile products and other local goods.
Tourism: Some tourism related to the chile industry and festivals around the harvest.
Transportation: Logistics related to moving agricultural products.
Fun fact: While Hatch Green Chiles are most famous, the village also grows a variety of other chile peppers like jalapeños, Big Jims, Sandias, and even some super-hot varieties.
Carlsbad: Caverns and Creations
Carlsbad Caverns Bat Flight Amphitheater by Urban Versis 32, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Carlsbad is the perfect town to end our adventure with a grand finale exploring the otherworldly wonders of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where nature's art takes center stage. Back in town, discover the artistic side of Carlsbad at the Carlsbad Museum & Art Center, offering collections that highlight the region's diversity. Stroll through downtown and enjoy the sculptures of the Pecos River Art Walk, showcasing local artistic talent.
Estimated Population (2024): 31,000
Climate: Semi-arid steppe, hot summers, mild winters
Geographic Area: 31.79 square miles
Industries:
Oil and Gas: The Permian Basin is a major oil and gas production area, driving Carlsbad's economy.
Potash Mining: Large potash mines provide significant employment and economic activity.
Tourism: Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a major draw, with related hospitality industries.
Manufacturing: Support industries for oil/gas and mining, manufacturing equipment, and parts.
Agriculture: Some ranching and farming activity in the surrounding area.
Fun fact: Home to the enormous "Hall of the Giants," one of the largest cave chambers in the world. Visitors can witness the nightly bat flight, where millions of bats emerge from the caverns at dusk in a spectacular display.
Your Southern New Mexico Odyssey
Ristras by Christopher Holden from Albuquerque, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
We hope this tour has awakened your senses to the diverse and surprising creativity that thrives in Southern New Mexico. When you visit, be sure to get off the beaten path, attend local festivals, and interact with the artists themselves. Let the spirit of this unique region, from its vibrant towns to its expansive landscapes, infuse your own journey.
Tips for Your Tour
Embrace the Heat: Southern New Mexico summers can be hot, so plan your outdoor explorations accordingly.
Spice it Up: Sample the diverse culinary scene, featuring New Mexican cuisine at its finest.
Time it Right: Many towns host lively festivals and art events – plan your trip around these for an even more immersive experience.
Thanks for reading, we hope that you’ve enjoyed our Tour Around Creative New Mexico series. If you missed any of the other regions’ articles, you can check them out below!
Did we leave somewhere off the list?
Additional Notes:
Microclimates: Smaller towns can have localized weather variations due to their proximity to mountains, rivers, etc.
Local Resources: Some towns or counties might have their own population estimates and predictions.
Town vs. Surrounding Area: Census data may not distinguish between the developed limits of a town and the larger unincorporated area around it.
CDPs: The size of CDPs will vary depending on how the Census Bureau defines its boundaries
State Projections: The New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration might have population projections on their website (https://www.nmdfa.state.nm.us/).
More articles about Creative Towns in New Mexico:
