Hobbs, New Mexico: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Hobbs, New Mexico

Looking for things to do in Hobbs, New Mexico and the surrounding Lea County area? Whether you’re road-tripping through southeast New Mexico, visiting family, or here for work in the oil and gas fields, Hobbs has more to offer than you might expect at first glance. From racing and casinos to wide-open desert skies and family-friendly parks, this corner of New Mexico is full of surprises. Let’s dive into 10 things to do near Hobbs, NM that are actually worth your time.

1. Feel the Speed at Zia Park Casino, Hotel & Racetrack

If you like a bit of excitement, Zia Park Casino is one of the top attractions in Hobbs. You’ll find:
  • Live and simulcast horse racing during the season
  • Slot machines and table games in the casino
  • On-site hotel and restaurants
The racetrack has a fun, high-energy vibe, especially on race days. Even if you’re not a big gambler, it’s easy to enjoy a few hours watching the horses, grabbing a bite, and people-watching. Want a tip? Head out to the rail early, pick a favorite horse based on the name or colors, and cheer like you’ve bet your life savings… even if you only put down a couple of dollars.

2. Explore the Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame

Curious about what life was like in this part of New Mexico “back in the day”? The Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame on the New Mexico Junior College campus is a must. Here you can:
  • Learn about cowboy culture and rodeo legends from Lea County
  • Walk through historic exhibits about ranching, oil, and local life
  • Enjoy rotating art and history displays
The museum is small enough to explore in an hour or two, but detailed enough to keep history buffs happy. It’s also a great way to get out of the heat on a hot summer afternoon.

3. Catch a Show at the Lea County Event Center

Right across from Zia Park, the Lea County Event Center hosts:
  • Concerts and touring shows
  • Sporting events and rodeos
  • Fairs, conventions, and community events
If you’re planning a visit to Hobbs, it’s worth checking the event calendar ahead of time. You might land in town on the same weekend as a big country concert, a family-friendly expo, or a bull-riding event. There’s something special about seeing a big show in a smaller town—parking is easier, crowds are friendlier, and you feel closer to the action.

4. Hit the Greens at Rockwind Community Links

Golfers, this one’s for you. Rockwind Community Links in Hobbs is one of those “hidden gem” golf courses people love to talk about. What makes it special?
  • Well-maintained 18-hole course with desert views
  • Practice facilities and driving range
  • Walking paths and outdoor space the whole family can enjoy
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, spending a morning or late afternoon here is a relaxing way to enjoy the clear New Mexico sky. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—the sun here doesn’t play around.

5. Unwind at Harry McAdams Park & Lea County Fairgrounds

Need some fresh air? Head to Harry McAdams Park, just south of Hobbs near the Lea County Fairgrounds. You’ll find:
  • Shady areas perfect for picnics
  • Walking spaces and open fields
  • Easy access to seasonal events at the fairgrounds
When the Lea County Fair & Rodeo is in town, this whole area comes to life with rides, food stands, livestock shows, and rodeo action. If you’ve never watched a rodeo under a big New Mexico sky, add it to your list.

6. Road Trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park

If you’re willing to drive a bit, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the most incredible day trips from Hobbs. It’s roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, but it’s worth every mile. At Carlsbad Caverns, you can:
  • Walk down into the massive underground “Big Room”
  • Take ranger-led tours to more remote sections
  • Watch the evening bat flight (in season) as thousands of bats swirl out of the cave
It feels a bit like stepping onto another planet: towering formations, cool underground air, and echoing chambers. Just wear comfortable shoes—this is more of a walk than a casual stroll.

7. Visit the Petroleum Museum in Midland, Texas

Hobbs sits in the heart of oil country, and you can see that history up close by driving east to Midland, Texas, about 2 hours away, to explore The Petroleum Museum. Highlights include:
  • Historic drilling equipment and pump jacks
  • Interactive exhibits about how oil and gas are discovered and produced
  • Stories of the people who helped build the Permian Basin
Even if you’re not “into oil,” it’s fascinating to see how this industry shaped communities like Hobbs and the rest of Lea County. It gives you a new appreciation for the tankers and pump jacks you pass on the highway.

8. Stargaze Under the Desert Sky

One of the most underrated things to do near Hobbs? Look up at night. Thanks to the wide-open spaces of Lea County and relatively low light pollution outside town, you can see:
  • A carpet of stars stretching from horizon to horizon
  • Clear views of the Milky Way on dark nights
  • Occasional meteor showers, if you time your visit right
Drive just a few miles out of Hobbs in almost any direction, pull safely off the road, and let your eyes adjust for 15–20 minutes. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, shut off the car lights, and enjoy the show. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s a great chance to point out constellations and talk about how big the universe really is—nothing too fancy, just simple “wow” moments.

9. Splash and Play at Local Parks & Recreation Spots

When the New Mexico sun is blazing, you’ll be glad Hobbs has several parks and recreation areas to cool off and burn some energy. Around town you can:
  • Let kids run around at neighborhood playgrounds
  • Check out community sports fields and courts
  • Look for seasonal splash pads or pools through the city’s recreation department
One thing I’ve noticed in small towns like Hobbs: local parks often turn into community gathering spots. You’ll see families grilling, teens shooting hoops, and dogs chasing tennis balls. It’s an easy way to feel the local vibe if you’re just passing through.

10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Lea County’s Oil & Ranch Land

This one might sound simple, but it’s one of the most “New Mexico” experiences you can have near Hobbs: just drive. Head out on the highways that stretch through Lea County and you’ll see:
  • Endless pump jacks slowly bobbing on the horizon
  • Ranch land and wide-open prairies
  • Big, dramatic sunsets that light up the whole sky
Bring a camera—or just your phone—and time your drive for late afternoon. When the sun drops low, the entire landscape glows gold and orange. It’s the kind of simple beauty you remember long after the trip is over.

Planning Your Trip to Hobbs, New Mexico

Hobbs might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of New Mexico travel, but that’s part of the charm. You get:
  • Less traffic and fewer crowds
  • Affordable hotels and dining
  • Easy access to both outdoor adventures and local culture
Whether you’re staying a night or a week, you can mix and match these activities:
  • Combine Zia Park and the Event Center for a full “entertainment day.”
  • Pair the Western Heritage Museum with an evening of stargazing.
  • Make a full-day loop to Carlsbad Caverns or Midland and back.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Hobbs Favorites!

Have you spent time in Hobbs or Lea County, New Mexico?
  • Do you have a favorite local restaurant?
  • Know a hidden hiking trail or photo spot?
  • Have a fun story from Zia Park, the fair, or a rodeo?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover more things to do near Hobbs, NM. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a New Mexico road trip or passing through southeast New Mexico for work. You never know—they might just fall in love with this little corner of the desert.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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