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
First: White Sands National Monument
Walk along shimmering dunes and enjoy breathtaking desert landscapes.
Second: New Mexico Museum of Space History
Explore space exhibits and learn about pioneering astronauts and technology.
Third: Alameda Park Zoo
Discover diverse animals and enjoy a fun family outing.
Fourth: The Toy Train Depot
Explore vintage model trains and enjoy a nostalgic train ride.
Fifth: Tularosa Basin Museum of History
Discover local history and explore fascinating regional artifacts.
Sixth: White Sands Missile Range Museum
Learn about missile technology and explore military history exhibits.
Seventh: Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
Hike scenic trails and enjoy peaceful desert camping.
Eight: Heart of the Desert/Eagle Ranch Pistachios Farm Tour
Tour a working pistachio farm and savor delicious local treats.
Ninth: International Space Hall of Fame
Honor space pioneers and explore remarkable contributions to space exploration.
Tenth: Shroud Exhibit and Museum
Examine intriguing exhibits and learn about the mysterious Shroud of Turin.
Where to Eat in Alamogordo, NM
- Hi-D-Ho Drive-In – A beloved burger and chili spot with old-school vibes and Green Chile Cheeseburgers.
- Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ – Laid-back eatery serving smoky meats, hearty sides, and local flavor.
- Rizo’s Mexican Restaurant – Family-run spot with homemade tortillas, tacos, and generous plates.
If you are interested in local events:
- White Sands Balloon & Music Festival (September) – Hot air balloons, live music, food, and fun against the white dunes backdrop.
- Otero County Fair & Rodeo (August) – A classic county fair with livestock shows, rides, and rodeo events.
- Christmas on the Canyon (December) – Holiday lights and festivities at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Alamogordo, New Mexico:
- Cloudcroft (30 min) – A quaint mountain town in Lincoln National Forest with hiking, skiing, and cool alpine air.
- Sunspot Solar Observatory (30 min) – Learn about the sun and gaze through massive solar telescopes at this mountaintop research center.
- La Luz Trailhead (25–30 min) – Begin hikes into the Sacramento Mountains with sweeping desert valley views.
- Three Rivers Petroglyph Site (30 min) – Walk among over 20,000 ancient rock carvings left by early Native cultures.
- McGinn’s PistachioLand (10–15 min) – Snap a photo with the world’s largest pistachio, take a tour, and enjoy fresh-grown nuts and wines.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Question: Where is Alamogordo located?
- Answer: Alamogordo is a small, friendly city in the Tularosa Basin in Southern New Mexico. The city is flanked by White Sands National Monument and White Sands Missile Range on the west and the Sacramento Mountains on the east.
- Question: What makes Alamogordo an interesting place to visit?
- Answer: The proximity to the missile range has caused the city and surrounding area to have quite a few interesting attractions related to science and space.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert landscapes.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Alamogordo – A comfortable stay with great amenities.
Visit White Sands National Park – Hike or sled down the stunning gypsum dunes.
Summer (June-August) – Hot but great for stargazing and evening explorations.
Hampton Inn Alamogordo – A convenient stay near local attractions.
Explore New Mexico Museum of Space History – Learn about space exploration and see real rockets.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alamogordo – A modern stay with easy access to downtown.
Attend the White Sands Balloon & Music Festival – Experience hot air balloons soaring over the dunes.
Winter (December-February) – Mild days and cool nights, great for sightseeing.
The Classic Desert Aire Hotel – A budget-friendly option with a Southwestern feel.
Visit the Alameda Park Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the Southwest with unique wildlife.
Plan Your Trip
