Want to explore dazzling dunes, desert skies, and Southwest history? Head to Alamogordo! Located at the edge of the Tularosa Basin, Alamogordo is the gateway to White Sands National Park and a hub for space history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. "
On my first trip, I only had eyes for White Sands National Monument. It's stunning and like nothing else on the planet. But beyond it, Alamogordo delights with great food, art, space history, animals, camping, history, and scenic drives. Don't forget stargazing! You can just look up at night - the sky is spectacular.
What I like about Alamogordo, NM:
- For Families: Visit White Sands National Park – Sled down brilliant white dunes and hike family-friendly desert trails.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike in Lincoln National Forest – Escape the desert heat in nearby mountain trails filled with pines and wildlife.
- For Kids: Play and learn at Alameda Park Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the Southwest with animals, shaded paths, and a children’s playground.
- For an Adventure: Stargaze at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park – Hike desert canyons by day and stay for stunning night skies.
- For Shoppers: Browse Southwest gifts and art – Local galleries and shops offer Native American jewelry, pottery, and desert-themed décor.
Best Time to Visit Alamogordo, NM
The best time to visit Alamogordo is from October through April. These months offer cooler temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration. Visit in spring for wildflowers or fall for stunning sunsets and crisp desert air.
How to Get to Alamogordo, NM
- If you are traveling by car: Alamogordo is located on U.S. Route 54 and U.S. Route 70, about 1.5 hours northeast of Las Cruces and 3.5 hours south of Albuquerque.
- By Air: El Paso International Airport (ELP) is the nearest major airport, about 1.5 hours away by car.
- By Train: The nearest Amtrak stations are in El Paso or Las Cruces. Driving is recommended for flexibility.
Where to Stay in Alamogordo, NM
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Modern hotel with free breakfast, pool, and close to White Sands.
- The Classic Desert Aire Hotel – Comfortable accommodations with vintage charm and mountain views.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Centrally located with updated rooms and convenient highway access.
Best Things to Do in Alamogordo, NM
White Sands National Monument - Walk along shimmering dunes and enjoy breathtaking desert landscapes.
New Mexico Museum of Space History - Explore space exhibits and learn about pioneering astronauts and technology.
Alameda Park Zoo - Discover diverse animals and enjoy a fun family outing.
The Toy Train Depot - Explore vintage model trains and enjoy a nostalgic train ride.
Tularosa Basin Museum of History - Discover local history and explore fascinating regional artifacts.
White Sands Missile Range Museum - Learn about missile technology and explore military history exhibits.
Oliver Lee Memorial State Park - Hike scenic trails and enjoy peaceful desert camping.
Heart of the Desert/Eagle Ranch Pistachios Farm Tour - Tour a working pistachio farm and savor delicious local treats.
International Space Hall of Fame - Honor space pioneers and explore remarkable contributions to space exploration.
Shroud Exhibit and Museum - Examine intriguing exhibits and learn about the mysterious Shroud of Turin.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • White Sands National Monument
- • New Mexico Museum of Space History
- • Alameda Park Zoo
- • The Toy Train Depot
- • Tularosa Basin Museum of History
- • White Sands Missile Range Museum
- • Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
- • Heart of the Desert/Eagle Ranch Pistachios Farm Tour
- • International Space Hall of Fame
- • Shroud Exhibit and Museum