Mesilla, NM: A Step Back in Time with Adobe Beauty

The Basilica of San Albino , or Basílica de San Albino in Spanish, is part of the Las Cruces Roman Catholic Diocese, formerly called the San Albino Church of Mesilla. One of the reasons why this church is notable is that it was originally established in the county of Mexico, but due to territory transferred with the Gadsden Purchase, the church is now located within the United States. The site’s first church was constructed back in 1852, while the current Basilica of San Albino was built later in 1906. This historic church is also one of the region’s oldest churches.

2070 Calle De Santiago, Las Cruces, NM 88005, Phone: 575-526-9349

Mesilla Plaza in the old New Mexico town of Mesilla is the main central plaza in town. The plaza, as well as many of the surrounding buildings, are designated as a National Historic Landmark District due to its significant role in the power transfer that first brought the original New Mexico Territory, followed by the Gadsden Purchase, into the control of the United States. The town square was where the American flag was officially raised in November of 1854 to confirm United States sovereignty of the area. The Mesilla Plaza’s most notable building is the Basilica of San Albino.

2170 Calle De Parian, Las Cruces, NM 88005, Phone: 575-524-3262

Romantic Ideas:

The Rio Grande Vineyards and Winery can be found within New Mexico’s historic Mesilla Valley, a unique destination where Spanish priests initially established vineyards back during the early part of the 1600’s. With a location just a few miles outside of Old Mesilla and Las Cruces, the Rio Grande Vineyards is an ideal destination for both tourists and locals alike who are looking to have a “true New Mexico experience.” The vineyard is made up of twelve varietals, and the Tasting Room features numerous old photographs depicting the Mesilla area and grand views of the scenic Organ Mountains from the patio.

5321 Avenida de Mesilla, Las Cruces, NM 88005, Phone: 575-524-3985

The Fountain Theatre opened in the historic town of Mesilla, New Mexico back in the year 1905, making it the state’s oldest movie theater. Situated within the Old Mesilla historic district, the theater is located on the very same square as the jail from which Western Legend Billy the Kid had escaped in April of 1881. The Fountain family originally used the theater for vaudeville variety shows. Today, the Fountain Theatre is operated by the non-profit, all-volunteer Mesilla Valley Film Society and regularly shows art film and foreign films to the Mesilla community, with concessions including coffee, ice cream bars, and popcorn.

2469 Calle De Guadalupe, Mesilla, NM 88046, Phone: 575-524-8287