New Mexico doesn’t do ordinary. Out here, aliens crash-land in the desert, giant pistachios rise from the dust, and roadside stops feel more like scenes from a fever dream than your average travel guide.
This isn’t your typical road trip—it’s weirder, wilder, and way more fun. One minute you’re snapping selfies with a UFO. The next, you’re staring up at a 40-foot roadrunner made of junkyard scraps.
New Mexico throws out the rulebook and dares you to enjoy the ride. These ten offbeat gems prove that the Land of Enchantment leans hard into the enchanting—and then adds a little alien spice for good measure. Buckle up. Strange has never looked so good.
The World’s Largest Pistachio
Standing tall in Alamogordo, the World’s Largest Pistachio is a nutty delight for travelers. This 30-foot sculpture captures attention with its sheer size.
Visitors can enjoy a photo-op with this oversized snack and learn about its creation. Constructed in honor of Tom McGinn, a local pistachio farmer, it pays tribute to the region’s agricultural roots.
The adjacent pistachio farm offers tours, showcasing the nutty world of pistachio farming. Don’t miss tasting the farm’s flavored pistachios, adding a crunchy twist to your road trip adventure.
Roswell UFO Museum
In the heart of Roswell, the International UFO Museum delves into the mysterious 1947 incident that put the town on the map.
Alien enthusiasts and skeptics alike can explore exhibits featuring eyewitness accounts, photographs, and artifacts.
The museum invites visitors to ponder extraterrestrial life in an engaging and educational manner. With its quirky displays, the museum offers a glimpse into the world of UFO conspiracy theories. Children and adults will find themselves enthralled by the tales of interstellar intrigue.
Carlsbad Caverns
Journey beneath the Earth to Carlsbad Caverns in southeastern New Mexico. This natural wonder features extensive limestone caves filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Guided tours reveal the geological marvels sculpted over millennia. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing bat flight at dusk, a spectacle not to be missed.
The caverns’ cool, dark environment offers a serene escape from the desert heat. Whether you’re an avid spelunker or a curious traveler, Carlsbad Caverns promises an awe-inspiring experience.
The Blue Hole
Santa Rosa’s Blue Hole is an unexpected oasis in the arid landscape. Known for its astonishingly clear water, this natural swimming pool attracts divers from around the world.
Plunging to a depth of 80 feet, it offers a unique diving experience. The constant water temperature makes it a year-round destination.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply marvel at its tranquil beauty. This geological gem is a true testament to nature’s ability to surprise and delight.
Tinkertown Museum
Tinkertown Museum, nestled in the Sandia Mountains, is a labor of love created by artist Ross Ward. This eccentric museum features over 20,000 glass bottles in its construction.
Inside, whimsical displays of animated figures and folk art captivate visitors. Ward’s dedication shines through in the handcrafted miniatures and intricate dioramas.
The museum’s vibrant atmosphere is infectious, sparking creativity and wonder. Tinkertown’s charm lies in its celebration of imagination and individuality, offering a delightful detour from the conventional.
White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park offers a surreal landscape of glistening white dunes. Located in southern New Mexico, this natural wonder is the world’s largest gypsum dunefield.
Visitors can hike, sled, or simply bask in the beauty of the shimmering sands. The stark contrast of white sand against the blue sky creates breathtaking photo opportunities.
This unique environment provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, adding to its allure. A visit to White Sands promises a blend of adventure and tranquility.
The Lightning Field
The Lightning Field, a land art installation by Walter De Maria, is an intriguing confluence of nature and human creativity.
Located in Catron County, this installation features 400 stainless steel poles arranged in a grid over a vast area. Visitors can witness the interaction of weather and art, especially during thunderstorms when lightning strikes the poles.
The experience is both meditative and exhilarating, offering a profound connection to the elements. The field’s remote location ensures a serene encounter with this unique artwork.
Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return
Santa Fe’s Meow Wolf offers an unparalleled artistic experience. This interactive art installation, known as the House of Eternal Return, submerges visitors into a fantastical world.
Each room presents a new dimension of creativity, blending art, technology, and storytelling. The narrative-driven exhibits invite personal exploration and discovery.
Both young and old find themselves captivated by the imaginative prowess on display. Meow Wolf challenges perceptions of what art can be, making it a must-see for anyone visiting New Mexico.
The Very Large Array
Situated in the remote plains of San Agustin, the Very Large Array (VLA) is a significant astronomical observatory. Comprising 27 gigantic radio antennas, the VLA probes the mysteries of the universe.
Visitors can explore the site and learn about its role in groundbreaking astronomical discoveries.
The stark beauty of the surrounding landscape enhances the experience, offering a sense of cosmic wonder. For those fascinated by space and science, the VLA is an inspiring destination.
Pie Town
In the heart of New Mexico lies Pie Town, a delightful destination for dessert lovers.
Famous for its homemade pies, this small town celebrates its sweet heritage with an annual Pie Festival. Visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors, from traditional apple to unique chili-infused creations.
The welcoming community atmosphere adds to the town’s charm. Pie Town is a testament to the joy of simple, delicious pleasures, making it a memorable stop on any road trip.