Clovis, New Mexico (Curry County) 10 Best Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Clovis, New Mexico

Looking for a laid-back place with wide-open skies, friendly locals, and a surprising amount to do? Clovis, New Mexico, in Curry County, is one of those small towns that quietly wins you over. Whether you’re road-tripping across the Southwest, visiting family at Cannon Air Force Base, or just curious about eastern New Mexico, this guide covers 10 things to do in and near Clovis that are perfect for a weekend or short getaway.

1. Step Back In Time on Main Street: Historic Clovis Depot & Downtown

Clovis grew up as a railroad town, and you can still feel that history the moment you drive through downtown. Start at the Historic Clovis Depot, right by the train tracks. The old Santa Fe train station and nearby buildings give you a glimpse of what life was like when the railroad was king. As you wander downtown, look for:
  • Vintage brick storefronts that now house shops and local businesses
  • Mural art that tells the story of Clovis, the railroad, and the High Plains
  • Train-watching spots if you’ve got a railfan in the family
It’s an easy way to stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and start getting a feel for the town.

2. Explore the Gallery at Clovis – History, Art, and Local Stories

If you’re curious about the area’s past, stop by The Gallery at Clovis, a local museum-style space that often highlights both history and art. Inside, you might find:
  • Exhibits on early settlers and railroad days
  • Displays connected to nearby Clovis culture archaeological sites
  • Rotating shows from local and regional artists
It’s not a giant museum, but that’s part of the charm. You can take your time, read the stories, and then chat with staff or volunteers who are usually happy to share their own memories of Clovis.

3. Feel the Rhythm at the Norman & Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

Did you know Clovis has deep roots in early rock and roll? At the Norman & Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum, you can learn how this small town helped shape a big American sound. Producer Norman Petty recorded legends like Buddy Holly, and those sessions put Clovis on the music map. Inside the museum, look (and listen) for:
  • Vintage recording equipment and studio gear
  • Memorabilia from Buddy Holly and other artists
  • Old photos and stories from the early rock years
If you’re a music lover, it’s a must-see. Even if you’re not, it’s fun to realize that some of the songs you’ve heard on the radio for years were born right here in Curry County.

4. Chase Sunsets at Ned Houk Park

Need a break from driving? Pack a cooler and roll up to Ned Houk Park, about 8–10 miles north of Clovis. This huge park covers thousands of acres of open land and offers:
  • Lakes for fishing and bird-watching
  • Picnic areas with shade
  • Walking trails and dirt roads for exploring
  • Open space that’s perfect for flying kites or tossing a football
Because Clovis sits on the High Plains, the sunsets out here can be jaw-dropping. The sky turns orange, pink, and purple, and there’s almost nothing blocking your view. If you’re used to big cities, the quiet out here feels almost unreal.

5. Cool Off at Hillcrest Park & the Hillcrest Park Zoo

Traveling with kids? Put Hillcrest Park and the Hillcrest Park Zoo at the top of your list. Hillcrest Park is a large green space in town with:
  • Playgrounds
  • Walking paths
  • Sports fields
  • Plenty of room to let the kids run
Inside the same area, you’ll find the Hillcrest Park Zoo, a small but lovable local zoo. It usually features animals like:
  • Big cats and bears
  • Farm animals and petting-zoo favorites
  • Reptiles and birds
It’s an easy half-day outing that works well when you want something simple and family-friendly right in Clovis.

6. Experience the Sound of Freedom: Cannon Air Force Base Area

Just west of Clovis sits Cannon Air Force Base, home to the 27th Special Operations Wing. While base access is restricted, the presence of the Air Force is a big part of local life. From around town, especially on the west side, you might:
  • See aircraft training overhead
  • Hear the roar of engines during certain operations
  • Catch special events or open houses when announced
If you have a family member stationed here, you already know Cannon is a tight-knit community. Even visitors without base access can appreciate the patriotic vibe and the role the base plays in the local economy and culture. Tip: Check local event listings or the base’s official pages—sometimes there are air shows, community days, or holiday events that are open to the public.

7. Sample Local Flavor: Classic Diners, Burritos, and Barbecue

No trip to Clovis is complete without tasting a bit of eastern New Mexico comfort food. Around town, you’ll find:
  • Family-owned Mexican restaurants serving green chile smothered burritos, enchiladas, and tacos
  • Classic diners with chicken-fried steak, burgers, and all-day breakfast
  • Barbecue joints where the brisket and ribs are smoked low and slow
If you’ve never had New Mexico green chile, Clovis is a great place to start. It’s spicy, but not in a “dare” kind of way—more like a warm, addictive heat that keeps you going back for another bite. Ask your server where they go for breakfast or tacos. In small towns like this, word-of-mouth is often better than any app.

8. Take a Day Trip to Portales – College Town Vibes Nearby

About 20 miles south of Clovis lies Portales, another friendly community and home to Eastern New Mexico University. It’s an easy drive—roughly 25–30 minutes—and makes a nice day trip. In Portales, you can:
  • Walk around the ENMU campus and check out the fountains, statues, and open lawns
  • Visit small museums and galleries tied to the university
  • Stop at local coffee shops and diners that cater to students
The vibe in Portales is a little more “college town,” which pairs nicely with Clovis’s “railroad and Air Force” feel. Together, they give you a fuller picture of life in eastern New Mexico.

9. Hunt for Antiques and Local Treasures

If you enjoy poking around antique shops and thrift stores, Clovis will keep you busy for a few hours. Expect to find:
  • Vintage railroad items and farm tools
  • Old records and music memorabilia (no surprise, given the Norman Petty connection)
  • Retro furniture, dishes, and Western décor
Part of the fun is the hunt. Maybe you’ll walk out with a 1960s Buddy Holly album, a dusty cowboy hat, or a quirky road-trip souvenir you didn’t know you needed.

10. Soak in the Wide-Open Plains and Night Skies

One of the best things to do near Clovis doesn’t cost a cent: just step outside and look up. Because Curry County is mostly flat farmland and prairie, the views go on for miles. During the day, you’ll see:
  • Big, bright blue skies
  • Fields stretching out to the horizon
  • Clouds stacking up in dramatic layers, especially in summer
At night, away from town lights, you can often see a sky full of stars. Head slightly outside the city, pull over safely at a turnout, and let your eyes adjust. The Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars all feel closer out here. If you’re coming from a large city, this might end up being your favorite “activity” of the whole trip.

Planning Your Trip to Clovis, New Mexico

To make the most of your visit to Clovis and Curry County, keep these quick tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall usually bring mild temperatures and pleasant evenings.
  • What to pack: A light jacket for cool nights, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Getting around: Having a car makes it easy to reach Ned Houk Park, Cannon AFB area lookouts, and Portales.
  • Local vibe: Friendly, low-key, and proud of its railroad, military, and music history.
Clovis isn’t trying to be a big flashy destination. Instead, it offers simple pleasures: open spaces, small-town charm, and a few surprises—like its rock and roll roots—that make it worth a stop on your New Mexico adventure.

What Would You Do First in Clovis?

Would you start with the rock & roll museum? Head straight for Ned Houk Park to chase the sunset? Or take the kids to Hillcrest Park Zoo? I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences.
  • Have you visited Clovis or Curry County? Share your favorite spots in the comments.
  • Planning a trip? Drop your questions below and let’s figure it out together.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who might be driving through eastern New Mexico. Your shares and comments help more travelers discover the quiet charms of Clovis!
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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