10 Fun Things To Do Near Sunland Park, New Mexico (Doña Ana County)
If you’re looking for a sunny Southwest escape that still feels a bit like a hidden gem,
Sunland Park, New Mexico is a great place to start. Tucked in Doña Ana County, right on the Texas–New Mexico border and next to El Paso, this small city packs in big views, easy day trips, and a unique mix of cultures.
Whether you’re road-tripping through the Southwest, visiting family, or just curious about
things to do near Sunland Park NM, this guide will help you plan an easy, laid-back adventure.
1. Hike or Drive Up Scenic Drive Overlook (El Paso)
If you’re staying in or near Sunland Park, you’re only a short drive from one of the best views in the area. Head over the state line into El Paso and cruise up
Scenic Drive, a winding road that climbs the side of the Franklin Mountains.
At the overlook, you’ll get:
- Wide views of El Paso, Sunland Park, and Ciudad Juárez
- Beautiful sunsets and city lights after dark
- Easy access by car, plus short walking paths
It’s a simple stop, but it’s one of those places that makes you stop and say, “Wow.” If you’re traveling with kids or older family members, this is a great way to enjoy the desert landscape without a long hike.
2. Explore the Franklin Mountains State Park
Looking for a real desert hike near Sunland Park? Head to
Franklin Mountains State Park, just across the border in Texas, about a 20–30 minute drive depending on where you enter.
Here you’ll find:
- Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails
- Great rock formations and desert plants
- Trail options for beginners and more serious hikers
If you’re new to desert hiking, think simple and safe:
- Start early in the morning to beat the heat
- Bring plenty of water (more than you think you need)
- Wear a hat, sunscreen, and closed shoes
On a clear day, you can see the tri-state, tri-country region: New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico all at once. For outdoor lovers, this is one of the top
things to do near Sunland Park New Mexico.
3. Visit the Plaza and Museums in Old Mesilla
About 45–50 minutes north of Sunland Park, you’ll find
Mesilla, a historic village just outside Las Cruces. This is a wonderful half-day trip if you enjoy history, local food, and a relaxed small-town feel.
Around the classic plaza, you can:
- Wander through old adobe buildings and shops
- Step into galleries with local art and crafts
- Check out historic markers about Billy the Kid and the Old West
Grab a plate of
enchiladas or a bowl of
posole, then stroll the square with an ice cream or coffee in hand. The plaza really comes alive on weekends and around holidays.
4. Discover Downtown Las Cruces
While Sunland Park feels quiet and local, nearby
Las Cruces adds a bit more city energy. It’s still an easy drive (about an hour from Sunland Park), and it makes for a nice day trip.
Downtown Las Cruces offers:
- Colorful murals and public art
- Local shops and cafés
- Events and markets on select weekends
Try timing your visit with the
Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts Market (often held on Saturdays). You can sample local salsa, pick up handmade jewelry, and chat with friendly vendors. It’s a fun way to experience Doña Ana County’s creative side.
5. Wander Through the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum
If you like museums that feel hands-on and easy to understand, add this spot to your list. Just outside Las Cruces, the
New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum tells the story of farming and ranching in the state over thousands of years.
Inside and outside, you’ll find:
- Interactive exhibits about cowboys, ranch life, and early farming
- Live animals, like cows and sheep
- Historic equipment and demonstrations
It’s a great place for families and anyone curious about how people survived and thrived in this dry, beautiful landscape. Plan on 1.5 to 2 hours, especially if you like to read the signs and try all the hands-on displays.
6. Take a Day Trip to White Sands National Park
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther (about 1.5–2 hours from Sunland Park),
White Sands National Park is one of the most unforgettable places in the Southwest.
Picture this: miles and miles of soft, white gypsum sand dunes that look almost like snow. It’s surreal, bright, and incredibly photogenic.
Popular things to do at White Sands:
- Walk or hike along the marked dunes trails
- Try sand sledding (you can usually buy or rent sleds nearby)
- Stay for sunset when the dunes change color
Bring sunglasses—the white sand reflects a lot of light—and plenty of water and snacks. If you’re staying in Sunland Park for a few days, this is a perfect “big adventure” day trip.
7. Drive the Scenic Route Through the Mesilla Valley
Sometimes the best way to get to know a place is simply to drive with the windows down and take your time. The
Mesilla Valley, stretching around Las Cruces and south toward Doña Ana County, is filled with farms, pecan orchards, and chile fields.
A relaxed scenic drive might include:
- Roads lined with tall pecan trees
- Seasonal farm stands selling chiles, nuts, or local honey
- Views of distant mountains and big desert skies
If you visit in late fall or winter, you might see workers shaking pecan trees or gathering crops. It’s a simple, peaceful way to experience local life near Sunland Park.
8. Enjoy Borderland Flavors in and Around Sunland Park
One of the best
things to do in Sunland Park doesn’t require any tickets or tours:
just eat. Being so close to El Paso and the Mexican border means the local food is full of flavor and culture.
You can find:
- Classic New Mexican dishes with red or green chile
- Border-style tacos and burritos
- Tex-Mex favorites just a short drive away
If you love food, make it a mini “taco tour.” Try one spot in Sunland Park, another in west El Paso, and maybe a third in Las Cruces. Pay attention to how the flavors and salsas change slightly from place to place. That’s the fun of this borderland region.
9. Catch a Local Event or Festival in Doña Ana County
Depending on when you visit, you might stumble onto a local festival, market, or seasonal event in Sunland Park, Las Cruces, or Mesilla. These gatherings are some of the best ways to feel the community spirit.
You may find:
- Holiday events and light displays
- Chile or food festivals
- Art fairs and live music in plazas
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth doing a quick search for
events near Sunland Park NM or checking local tourism websites for Doña Ana County. A simple fair with live music and good food can end up being one of your favorite travel memories.
10. Take a Sunset Stroll and Soak In Desert Life
Not every activity has to be an all-day excursion. One of the most relaxing things to do near Sunland Park is also the easiest:
go for a sunset walk.
In the evenings, when the heat starts to fade, the desert air feels softer and cooler. The sky often turns shades of orange, pink, and purple. Whether you’re in a quiet neighborhood or at a nearby park, it’s a nice time to:
- Stretch your legs after a day of driving or sightseeing
- Listen for birds and desert sounds
- Watch the mountains darken as the sun goes down
It’s simple, but it captures what the Sunland Park area is all about—open skies, wide horizons, and a slower pace.
Planning Your Trip to Sunland Park, New Mexico
To make the most of your visit to Sunland Park and Doña Ana County, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Season: Fall, winter, and early spring are generally more comfortable than the hottest summer months.
- Car: Having a car makes it much easier to reach hiking areas, Las Cruces, and White Sands.
- Sun: This region gets a lot of sunshine—bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
From scenic overlooks to white sand dunes, from historic plazas to peaceful desert evenings, the area around Sunland Park offers a quiet, authentic slice of the Southwest—without the big crowds.
Share Your Sunland Park Experience
Have you been to
Sunland Park or Doña Ana County? Did you discover a great hike, a hidden food spot, or a favorite scenic drive?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—other travelers (and future you!) will thank you.
And if you found this guide to
things to do near Sunland Park, New Mexico helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a Southwest road trip. The more we share these lesser-known spots, the more people can enjoy them—respectfully and responsibly.
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