10 Awesome Things To Do Near Grants, New Mexico (Cibola County)
If you’ve ever driven west on I-40 through New Mexico, you’ve probably passed a little city called
Grants without thinking much about it. But this small Route 66 town, tucked in Cibola County, is surrounded by lava flows, volcanoes, sandstone bluffs, and some of the darkest night skies you’ll ever see.
Whether you’re on a cross-country road trip, exploring Route 66, or planning a weekend escape from Albuquerque, Grants makes an easy and affordable base.
Below are
10 fun things to do in and around Grants, New Mexico that show off the best of this rugged, beautiful corner of the Southwest.
1. Walk on Ancient Lava at El Malpaís National Monument
Just south of Grants, you’ll find
El Malpaís National Monument, one of the most unique landscapes in New Mexico.
Picture this: miles and miles of black, twisted lava rock, frozen in time from eruptions that happened thousands of years ago. It feels a little like walking on another planet.
Top things to do at El Malpaís:
- Hike the El Calderon Trail (about 3.5 miles round-trip) through old lava flows and past sinkholes.
- Walk the Sandstone Bluffs Overlook for huge views over the lava fields.
- Check out the La Ventana Natural Arch (more on that next).
The monument is managed by the National Park Service, and it’s an easy 20–30 minute drive from Grants. Stop by the visitor center for maps, trail advice, and to ask about current conditions. Lava rock can be rough and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
2. See La Ventana Natural Arch Up Close
If you love dramatic rock formations, you’ll want to make time for
La Ventana Natural Arch, one of the largest and most beautiful natural arches in New Mexico.
It’s located in the El Malpaís National Conservation Area along Highway 117, just south of I-40.
What to expect:
- Short, easy walk from the parking lot (great for kids or road-trippers who need to stretch their legs).
- Shaded picnic tables where you can enjoy lunch with a view.
- Gorgeous sandstone cliffs glowing orange and red in the late afternoon light.
If you can time your visit for late afternoon or just before sunset, the arch and surrounding cliffs really light up. It’s a simple stop, but honestly, it’s one of the prettiest views near Grants.
3. Step Back in Time at El Morro National Monument
About 45 miles southwest of Grants,
El Morro National Monument is a must-see if you love history and scenic hikes.
For centuries, travelers stopped here at a reliable waterhole at the base of a sandstone bluff. Over time, they left behind a record of their presence carved right into the rock.
You’ll see:
- Petroglyphs left by Native Americans.
- Spanish inscriptions from as far back as the 1600s.
- American pioneer names from the 1800s.
There are two main trails:
- Inscription Trail – About half a mile, mostly easy, passes the waterhole and carvings.
- Headland Trail – About 2 miles round-trip, leads to the top of the bluff with sweeping views and the remains of an ancient pueblo.
If you’re road-tripping from Grants, you can easily combine El Malpaís and El Morro into a full-day loop with some very scenic driving.
4. Explore the Mining & Route 66 Past at the New Mexico Mining Museum
Grants has a big story for a small city. It was once a major
uranium mining town and a busy stop on historic
Route 66. You can learn all about it at the
New Mexico Mining Museum, right in town.
The highlight is the
underground mine tour—a realistic, walk-through reproduction of a uranium mine. You head down a “shaft” and see old mining equipment, tools, and displays that show what life was like for miners in their day-to-day work.
Expect:
- Family-friendly exhibits that are easy to understand.
- A good introduction to how mining shaped the whole region.
- Plenty of local history, photos, and artifacts.
If you’re staying in Grants, this is a perfect first stop. It gives you context for everything else you’re seeing around Cibola County.
5. Cruise Old Route 66 Through Grants
If you’re into classic Americana, neon signs, and road trip nostalgia, you’ll enjoy a slow drive along
Route 66 through Grants.
While some of the old motels and diners have faded, there are still enough signs, murals, and roadside relics to bring that “Mother Road” feeling to life.
Fun ideas along Route 66 in Grants:
- Look for classic retro motel signs and snap a few photos.
- Grab a meal at a local diner and imagine what it was like in the 1950s when the road was packed.
- Visit any downtown murals or Route 66 markers you spot while exploring.
It doesn’t take long to cruise through town, but if you slow down, you’ll find lots of little details that make for fun photos and memories.
6. Hike, Bike, or Ride at Bluewater Lake State Park
About 30 minutes east of Grants,
Bluewater Lake State Park is a peaceful escape for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Set in rolling hills at about 7,400 feet, the lake and surrounding grasslands offer a nice change from the lava fields and desert near town.
Things to do at Bluewater Lake:
- Fishing for catfish, tiger muskie, and trout (check local rules and seasons).
- Camping with lake views—choose from primitive sites or developed campgrounds.
- Hiking or horseback riding on trails around the lake.
- Picnicking with wide-open sky and mountain views.
If you’re traveling in an RV or camper, this is a great spot to set up for a night or two and use as a base for exploring Cibola County.
7. Drive the Scenic Route to the Zuni Mountains
Just south and west of Grants, forested ridges rise up into the
Zuni Mountains, a surprising contrast to the surrounding desert.
If you’re craving cooler air, tall pines, and a classic mountain feel, head into this area for a quiet half-day or full-day adventure.
Why the Zuni Mountains are worth the trip:
- Cooler summer temperatures than the lowlands.
- Forest roads perfect for leisurely drives and exploring.
- Opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
Many of the roads are gravel or dirt, so check conditions and your vehicle’s clearance. Ask locals in Grants or the Forest Service office for the best current routes and trail suggestions.
8. Stargaze Under Some of the Darkest Skies in New Mexico
One of the hidden gems of Grants and Cibola County is the
incredible night sky
The Milky Way stretching overhead like a pale, glowing river.
Countless stars, constellations, and even some satellites or shooting stars.
Best places to stargaze near Grants:
- Pullouts along Highway 117 near El Malpaís.
- Quiet spots at Bluewater Lake State Park.
- Remote forest pullouts in the Zuni Mountains (go with a buddy and use common sense).
Bring:
- A warm jacket (even summer nights can get chilly).
- A blanket or camp chair.
- A red flashlight (to protect your night vision).
If you’ve spent most of your life in or near big cities, the sky here will probably blow your mind.
9. Explore Local Flavors and Small-Town Eats in Grants
For a small city, Grants has a surprisingly wide mix of local restaurants, especially if you love New Mexican food.
This is the place to finally answer the famous local question: “Red or green?” (As in, red chile or green chile on your enchiladas, burrito, or burger.)
Food tips in Grants:
- Try a green chile cheeseburger—a New Mexico classic.
- Order a combo plate with enchiladas, beans, and rice to taste both red and green chile.
- Ask locals where they go for breakfast burritos or late-night comfort food.
Part of the fun of traveling through small towns is finding those low-key spots that don’t show up big on social media but serve up great, homemade food. Grants definitely has a few of those.
10. Take a Day Trip to Acoma Pueblo “Sky City”
About 40–45 minutes east of Grants, you can visit one of the most remarkable places in the Southwest: Acoma Pueblo, often called Sky City.
This ancient village sits on top of a sandstone mesa, high above the surrounding landscape. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States.
What to know:
- Visits are generally done via guided tours—check ahead for current hours, tour availability, and any cultural guidelines.
- You’ll learn about Acoma history, culture, and traditions directly from tribal members.
- There are chances to buy pottery and crafts made by local artists.
This is not just a “photo stop.” It’s a living community and a deeply meaningful place. Be respectful, follow all rules about photography, and listen carefully. It’s truly one of the most memorable experiences you can have near Grants.
Planning Your Visit to Grants, New Mexico
To make the most of your trip to Grants and Cibola County, keep a few basics in mind:
- Location: Grants sits right off I-40 in western New Mexico, about 80 miles west of Albuquerque.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal. Summers are warm but manageable; winter can bring cold and some snow, especially at higher elevations.
- Altitude: Grants sits around 6,400 feet above sea level, and many nearby spots are even higher. Drink water, take it easy your first day, and don’t push too hard if you’re not used to the elevation.
- What to pack: Layers, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), sturdy walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.
The beauty of Grants is that it still feels like a real town—not an overdeveloped tourist hotspot. That means fewer crowds, more space, and a down-to-earth vibe that many travelers appreciate.
Final Thoughts: Why Grants Deserves a Spot on Your New Mexico Road Trip
Grants, New Mexico may not be the first name you hear when people talk about the Southwest, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
Within an hour of this small city, you can:
- Walk on ancient lava flows.
- Read 400-year-old inscriptions etched in stone.
- Stand under a massive natural arch.
- Camp under bright stars by a quiet lake.
- Visit one of the oldest communities in the country.
If you’re planning a trip along Route 66 or between Albuquerque and Arizona, don’t just gas up and keep driving. Give Grants at least a full day—ideally two or three—to explore everything Cibola County has to offer.
Share Your Experience Near Grants, NM
Have you visited Grants or Cibola County before?
Did you hike in El Malpaís, visit El Morro, or stop at a great local restaurant in town?
I’d love to hear your stories.
Drop a comment with:
- Your favorite thing to do near Grants.
- Any hidden gems you discovered.
- Tips for first-time visitors.
And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a New Mexico road trip. The more people discover this underrated corner of the state, the better it is for local businesses—and for travelers looking for something real and unforgettable.
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