10 Fun Things To Do Near Los Lunas, New Mexico (Valencia County)
If you’re planning a trip to
Los Lunas, New Mexico, or maybe you’re just driving along I-25 and wondering what’s around, you might be surprised by how much there is to see and do nearby.
This small town in
Valencia County sits just south of Albuquerque, but it has its own flavor: desert views, riverside trails, local history, and easy day trips. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, local food, or quirky roadside stops, there’s something here for you.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Los Lunas that are perfect for a weekend getaway, a family road trip, or even a quick afternoon escape.
1. Walk Back in Time at Tomé Hill
Just a short drive east of Los Lunas,
Tomé Hill is one of the area’s most meaningful landmarks.
You’ll find it right off Highway 47, rising out of the Rio Grande valley. It’s not a huge mountain, but it’s a powerful place.
- A short but steady hike to the top (about a mile or so, depending where you park)
- Religious crosses and shrines at the summit
- Wide views of the Rio Grande, fields, and distant mountains
Many locals climb Tomé Hill on Good Friday, but it’s a peaceful spot any time of year. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and go early in the morning if you’re visiting in the summer—New Mexico sun is no joke.
If you like places that mix history, faith, and scenery, this should be at the top of your Los Lunas bucket list.
2. Explore the Rio Grande Bosque Trails
Los Lunas sits right along the
Rio Grande, and that means you’ll find quiet riverside paths hidden behind the main roads.
The cottonwood forest along the river is called the
bosque. It’s a completely different world from the open desert—shady, green, and full of birds.
Look for local access points like:
- Trails near the Rio Grande bridges
- Informal paths used by walkers, runners, and cyclists
You might spot:
- Roadrunners darting across the path
- Hawks circling overhead
- Ducks and geese along the water
This is a great place for an easy walk, a leisurely bike ride, or just to sit and listen to the river flow. If you’ve been driving for hours on I-25, a simple stroll in the bosque can feel like a reset button.
3. Check Out the Los Lunas Area Museum of Heritage and Arts
Want to understand what makes Los Lunas and Valencia County unique? Stop by the
Los Lunas Area Museum of Heritage and Arts in the village center.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Displays on local Native American history
- Stories of early Spanish settlers and ranchers
- Exhibits on Route 66, railroads, and farming
It’s not a huge museum, but that’s part of the charm. You can see everything in under an hour and still come away with a real sense of place.
If you’re traveling with kids, the hands-on feel and smaller scale can be less overwhelming than big city museums. Ask the staff what’s new—exhibits often rotate and highlight local artists and historians.
4. Take a Scenic Drive Along Highway 6 (Historic Route 66)
Did you know
Route 66 used to pass right through this area? In Los Lunas, parts of
New Mexico State Highway 6 follow the path of the original Mother Road.
If you’re a fan of classic road trips, this is a fun and easy drive:
- Head west from Los Lunas on Highway 6
- Watch as the town slowly gives way to wide-open desert
- Enjoy long, straight stretches with big-sky views
You’ll get that classic New Mexico feeling—endless horizon, orange dirt, and far-off mountains. Throw on some music, roll down the windows, and imagine what it was like to drive this route in the 1950s.
If you’re coming from Albuquerque, this is a simple way to add a “Route 66” experience to your day without heading all the way to other famous sections of the highway.
5. Visit Historic Belen, the “Hub City”
About 10–15 minutes south of Los Lunas is the town of
Belen, another key stop in Valencia County. If you like trains and old downtowns, you don’t want to skip it.
Highlights include:
- Belen Harvey House Museum – A restored Harvey House that served railroad passengers in the early 1900s. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on railroad life, Harvey Girls, and local history.
- Downtown Belen – A small but charming district with murals, local shops, and cafes.
- Active rail lines – You’ll probably see long freight trains rolling through town. If you’re into railroads, this is heaven.
Belen makes a great half-day trip from Los Lunas. Grab lunch, wander the museum, and feel the old railroad energy that gave the town its nickname: the “Hub City.”
6. Hike or Bike Around El Cerro de Los Lunas Preserve
If you’re in Los Lunas and you see a big, rocky hill rising to the west, that’s likely
El Cerro de Los Lunas.
This area has become a popular spot for:
- Short hikes with sweeping views
- Mountain biking on desert trails
- Sunset watching over the Rio Grande valley
The trails are generally moderate, but the desert terrain can be uneven, so good shoes are important. From higher points, you can see Los Lunas laid out below, with the river and fields stretching off into the distance.
If you’re looking for something active to do near Los Lunas without driving far, this is a solid choice. Plus, the light at sunrise or sunset can be incredible—great for photos.
7. Cool Off and Play at Daniel Fernandez Park
Traveling with kids or just want a relaxed local park? Head to
Daniel Fernandez Park in Los Lunas.
Here you’ll find:
- Playgrounds for children
- Open fields for tossing a ball or frisbee
- Walking paths for an easy stroll
- Seasonal events and community activities
On a road trip, simple stops like this can be lifesavers. Let the kids run off some energy while you stretch, sip a drink, and enjoy the mountain backdrop.
If you’re staying nearby, check local listings—sometimes there are festivals, sports games, or outdoor events going on here.
8. Discover Local Flavors at Los Lunas Restaurants & Breweries
New Mexico is famous for its
red and green chile, and Los Lunas is no exception. One of the best things to do here is simply
eat like a local.
Around town you’ll find:
- Family-owned Mexican and New Mexican restaurants
- Local diners serving hearty breakfasts and stacked burgers
- Breweries and taprooms pouring craft beer and sometimes hosting live music
If you’ve never tried it, order something “
Christmas” style—that means both red and green chile on your plate. It’s a New Mexico classic.
Tip: Ask your server what they recommend for first-timers. Locals are usually happy to steer you toward their favorite dishes.
9. Take a Day Trip to Albuquerque (Less Than 30 Minutes Away)
One of Los Lunas’ biggest advantages is its location. You’re only about a 25–30 minute drive from
Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city.
That makes Los Lunas a great home base if you want a quieter stay but easy access to big-city attractions, such as:
- Old Town Albuquerque – Adobe buildings, shops, galleries, and museums.
- ABQ BioPark – Zoo, aquarium, and botanic garden.
- Sandia Peak Tramway – A stunning ride up the Sandia Mountains (check altitude if you’re sensitive; it goes over 10,000 feet).
- Local breweries and restaurants – Tons of choices, many with patios and views.
At the end of the day, you can retreat to Los Lunas and skip the heavier city traffic and noise. It’s the best of both worlds.
10. Go Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting Along the Rio Grande
If you enjoy nature, bring a pair of binoculars. The
Rio Grande corridor near Los Lunas and down through Belen is a natural highway for birds and other wildlife.
Depending on the season, you may see:
- Sandhill cranes and snow geese passing through the valley in winter
- Hawks, falcons, and vultures riding the thermals
- Songbirds tucked into the bosque trees
- Rabbits, coyotes, and other desert animals at dawn and dusk
For more serious birding, many people continue south to
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge (a bit farther, but still a classic New Mexico trip). But even near Los Lunas, the river and fields can surprise you with how alive they are.
If you’re looking for calm, slow travel experiences, this is a simple joy—no tickets, no lines, just you and the landscape.
Final Thoughts: Why Los Lunas Deserves a Spot on Your New Mexico Itinerary
Los Lunas might not be the first place you think of when you plan a trip to New Mexico, but that’s exactly why it’s special.
You get:
- Easy access to Albuquerque and major highways
- Authentic small-town New Mexico life
- Desert hikes, river walks, and big-sky views
- Local history, Route 66 vibes, and great food
Whether you’re passing through on a road trip or staying for a few days, these
10 things to do near Los Lunas can help you turn a simple stop into a memorable part of your New Mexico adventure.
Share Your Los Lunas Experience
Have you been to
Los Lunas or
Valencia County? Did you hike Tomé Hill, grab a bite at a local diner, or check out the old Harvey House in Belen?
I’d love to hear about your favorite spots and hidden gems.
- Drop a comment with your tips and stories.
- Share this post with friends or family planning a New Mexico road trip.
Your ideas can help other travelers discover new things to do in and around Los Lunas, New Mexico!
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