Alamogordo, New Mexico: 10 Unforgettable Things To Do Nearby

on

10 Amazing Things To Do Near Alamogordo, New Mexico (Otero County)

If you’re dreaming of wide–open desert skies, bright white dunes, and small–town charm, Alamogordo, New Mexico deserves a spot on your travel list. Tucked in Otero County, this friendly town is the perfect base for exploring some of the most unique landscapes in the Southwest. Whether you’re driving in from El Paso, road–tripping across the USA, or planning a family vacation, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Alamogordo that show off the best of southern New Mexico.

1. Wander the Otherworldly White Sands National Park

About 15 minutes west of Alamogordo, White Sands National Park feels like you stepped onto another planet. Instead of brown or red desert, you get miles and miles of soft, white gypsum dunes. What can you do there?
  • Sled down the dunes – Bring a plastic sled or buy one at the visitor center.
  • Walk or hike – Try the Dune Life Nature Trail or the Alkali Flat Trail for more of a workout.
  • Catch sunset – The dunes glow with soft pink and purple light in the evening.
  • Stargaze – On clear nights, the sky feels endless.
Tip: The sand can reflect a lot of light and heat. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and more water than you think you need. Even in cooler months, that New Mexico sun is no joke.

2. Step Back in Time at the New Mexico Museum of Space History

Alamogordo has a surprising claim to fame: it played a role in the early days of American space exploration. The New Mexico Museum of Space History sits on a hill above town and is easy to spot from the highway. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Exhibits on the U.S. space program and early rocket tests in New Mexico.
  • Space suits, rockets, and real artifacts from NASA missions.
  • Stories about the famous Ham the Chimp, one of the first “astronauts.”
It’s a great stop for kids, science fans, or anyone who grew up watching the space shuttle on TV. Allow 2–3 hours if you like to read and explore the displays.

3. Ride the Desert Rails on the Train at Alameda Park Zoo Area

Right in central Alamogordo, Alameda Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the Southwest. While it’s small, it has a laid–back, hometown feel that makes for an easy morning or afternoon visit. Highlights include:
  • Desert animals like mountain lions, birds of prey, and reptiles.
  • Shady walkways perfect for hot days.
  • A mini train ride (seasonal) that kids love.
The zoo is just off White Sands Boulevard, so it’s easy to combine with lunch in town or a stroll through local shops.

4. Taste Local Flavor on the Pistachio Trail

If you’ve ever seen a giant pistachio statue on social media, chances are it was near Alamogordo. This area is known for its pistachio orchards and vineyards, and they’re only a short drive from town. Two popular stops:
  • Heart of the Desert – Sample pistachios and local wines, walk through the orchards, and pick up gifts.
  • McGinn’s PistachioLand – Home of the huge roadside pistachio, orchard tours, tastings, and plenty of quirky photo ops.
You can try flavored pistachios, from classic roasted and salted to spicy chile varieties. It’s a tasty way to support local farms and experience a different side of New Mexico beyond the usual “chile and tacos” image.

5. Drive the Scenic Route into the Sacramento Mountains

One of the best surprises about Alamogordo, NM is how quickly you can go from desert to forest. Head east on Highway 82, and in about 16 miles you’re up in the cool pines of the Sacramento Mountains. Along the way you can:
  • Stop at scenic pullouts to look back over the Tularosa Basin and White Sands.
  • Visit old railroad tunnels and viewpoints just outside nearby High Rolls and Cloudcroft.
  • Enjoy a temperature drop of 15–20 degrees on hot summer days.
If you like classic New Mexico road trips, this drive is simple, beautiful, and easy to do in a half–day.

6. Escape the Heat in Cloudcroft

About 30–40 minutes from Alamogordo, the mountain village of Cloudcroft feels like a different world. At around 8,600 feet above sea level, it’s a cool retreat from the desert floor. Things to do in and around Cloudcroft:
  • Hiking in Lincoln National Forest – Try easy trails like Osha Trail with great views.
  • Picnic areas and campgrounds in the tall pines.
  • Small local shops and cafes in the village.
  • Winter activities when there’s snow, like sledding and sometimes skiing nearby.
If you’re staying in Alamogordo for a few days, plan at least one afternoon or full day up here. It’s a nice break, especially in July and August when the desert can be very hot.

7. Explore Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

About 12 miles south of Alamogordo, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park sits at the base of the rugged Dog Canyon. It’s quieter than some of the big national parks but offers beautiful scenery and good hiking. What you’ll find:
  • Dog Canyon Trail – A challenging hike with big views over the basin.
  • Shaded picnic spots and a small visitor center with local history.
  • Camping for tents and RVs, if you want a home base outside town.
This park mixes desert plants, rocky cliffs, and a bit of greenery around the seasonal stream. If you enjoy less crowded places and don’t mind some uphill walking, it’s worth your time.

8. Stroll Through Alamogordo’s Historic Downtown

You don’t have to leave town to enjoy your trip. Take a couple of hours to wander downtown Alamogordo, especially along New York Avenue and nearby streets. You’ll find:
  • Local shops selling artwork, gifts, and Southwestern decor.
  • Murals and public art that make for fun photos.
  • Cafes and restaurants where you can grab green chile burgers, tacos, or a slice of pie.
If you like to slow down and get a feel for a place, this is where you’ll meet locals, chat with store owners, and taste a bit of everyday life in Alamogordo.

9. Visit the Tularosa Basin Museum of History

To really understand Otero County and the Tularosa Basin, stop by the Tularosa Basin Museum of History in downtown Alamogordo. Inside, you can learn about:
  • The early days of ranching and farming in the area.
  • Local Native American history and culture.
  • The impact of railroads, military bases, and nearby missile ranges.
This is a small, community–focused museum, but that’s part of its charm. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to know the story behind a place, you’ll appreciate it.

10. Catch a Show or Event at the Flickinger Center for Performing Arts

If you’re spending the night in Alamogordo, check the schedule at the Flickinger Center for Performing Arts downtown. It’s a cozy venue that hosts:
  • Live music
  • Plays and community theater
  • Film screenings and special events
There’s something nice about watching a performance in a small theater, then stepping outside into the New Mexico night air. It’s a relaxed way to finish a busy day of hiking, sightseeing, or dune–sledding.

Planning Your Trip to Alamogordo, New Mexico

A few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild temperatures. Summer can be very hot in the basin but cooler up in Cloudcroft.
  • Getting around: You’ll want a car. Most attractions, like White Sands and Oliver Lee State Park, are an easy drive from town.
  • What to pack: Sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and layers for cooler mountain evenings.
Alamogordo works well as a weekend escape, a stop on a longer Southwest road trip, or a base for exploring southern New Mexico, including places like Ruidoso and Las Cruces.

Have You Been to Alamogordo?

Have you sledded down the dunes at White Sands, or tried green chile pistachios at a local farm? Did you discover a hidden gem in downtown Alamogordo? I’d love to hear your stories. Drop your favorite things to do in Alamogordo, NM or Otero County in the comments, and feel free to add tips I may have missed. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a New Mexico road trip. The more people discover this corner of the state, the better.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment