31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Alamogordo, NM
Are you planning a trip to Alamogordo, New Mexico, and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll explore the 31 best and fun things to do in Alamogordo, NM, making your trip unforgettable.
Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of southern New Mexico, Alamogordo is a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty waiting to be explored. From its rich heritage to its stunning outdoor landscapes, this vibrant city has something to offer everyone.
Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural terrain with its geographic location and lovely ecosystem. The atmosphere in this town is superb and perfect to take your mind off the busy life in the city. Explore the New Mexico Museum of Space History, White Sands National Park, and other unique attractions.
31 Best and Fun Things To Do In Alamogordo, NM (2024)
1. White Sands National Park
Begin your journey at the crown jewel of Alamogordo, White Sands National Park, one of the world’s great natural wonders.
Spanning over 145,762 acres, this mesmerising natural wonder boasts the world’s largest gypsum dune field, with a depth of about 30 feet and dunes as tall as 60 feet. The park offers various activities like dune sledging, guided moonlight walks, photography workshops, Lake Lucero Tours, Mothapalooza, and various community events.
Visitors can hike the dunes in full moonlight, one of the most popular activities at White Sand National Park. The interplay of shadows, light, and pure white sands makes it a unique sight.
Address: New Mexico, United States
2. New Mexico Museum of Space History
One of the unique things to do in Alamogordo is to visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History. This premier tourist attraction seeks to educate visitors about history, science, and space technology.
The museum offers dedicated artifacts and displays related to space flight and the Space Age. It also included the International Space Hall of Fame and highlighted the role of New Mexico in the U.S. space program.
The museum’s outdoor exhibit includes a large Sonic Wind I rocket sledge ridden by Stapp and the Little Joe II rocket, the biggest rocket ever launched from New Mexico. It also features the Clyde W. Tombaugh IMAX Theatre, the Planetarium, the Astronaut Memorial Garden, and the Hubbard Space Science Research Building.
Address: 3198 State Route 2001, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
3. Alameda Park Zoo
Exploring the Alameda Park Zoo is one of the fun things to do in Alamogordo, NM, with kids. This family-friendly attraction is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts.
Established in 1898, the Alameda Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the Southwestern United States. The Alameda Zoo Park is also home to over 200 animals, including notable species like the White Sands pupfish, the Mexican wolf, the Hawaiin goose, and the Ring-tailed Lemurs.
The zoo also features several special exhibits that enhance visitor’s experiences. Some exhibits include a lemur exhibit, a birds of prey exhibit, and a butterfly garden.
Each of these exhibits offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with the animals and learn more about their behaviours and habitats.
Address: 1021 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
4. Audrey L. Dunn Sr. Visitor Center
One of the must-visit destinations in Alamogordo, NM, is the Audrey L. Dunn Sr. Visitor Center. Located in the Alamogordo Center of Commerce, the Alamogordo Visitor Center is a great place to find information about the town and regional area.
This tourist information center has experienced staff who provide tourists with recent information on the area. Information you could get at the center includes places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shopping, free maps, weather reports, and road conditions.
If you ever need help exploring Alamogordo, find your way to the Audrey L. Dunn Sr. Visitor Center.
Address: 1301 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
5. Flickinger Center for Performing Arts
One of the best things to do in Alamogordo, NM, at night is to catch a live performance or concert at the Flickinger Center for Performing Arts.
This 590-seat theatre showcases a diverse range of entertainment options, from live theatre productions, concerts, plays, dance recitals, and beauty pageants to musical concerts.
This attraction hosts over 40,000 guests annually and caters to people of all ages. To catch a performance, check their website for upcoming shows and make your reservations.
Address: 1110 N New York Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
6. Alamogordo MainStreet
One of the many free things to do in Alamogordo today is to take a leisurely walk through Alamogordo MainStreet. Alamogordo MainStreet is a central district and the community’s centrepiece, where you can find anything of choice.
The Alamogordo MainStreet features numerous retail stores, restaurants, entertainment centres, and museums, all of which aid in the economic development of the historic downtown district.
In this district, you can shop for anything, admire the historic architecture, and learn more about the community by interacting with the locals.
Address: 900 N New York Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
7. Alamogordo Family Recreation Center
One of the fun things to do in Alamogordo is to stay active and engage in recreational activities at the Alamogordo Family Recreation Center.
This state-of-the-art facility features a 7,000-square-foot gymnasium that accommodates basketball and volleyball, a swimming pool, a multipurpose room for meetings and special events, a fitness room, locker rooms, and showers.
Spend your day at this facility and engage in numerous recreational activities and community events catering to all age groups.
Address: 1100 Oregon Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
8. Founders Park
Alamogordo Founders Park is one of the best places to visit for fun family time in Alamogordo, NM. This memorial park contains plaques, statues, and murals commemorating the founders and early developers of Alamogordo.
The Founders Park features local history presented through gorgeous paintings, beautiful plaques, bronze busts, and statues depicting the men and women who built the town.
The surrounding Sacramento Mountains give Founders Park a beautiful backdrop and set a pretty good atmosphere for family fun.
Address:946 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
9. Tularosa Basin Museum of History
Gaining a deeper understanding of Alamogordo’s rich tapestry of history at the Tularosa Basin Museum of History is one of the unique things to do in Alamogordo.
Established in 1970, the Tularosa Basin Museum of History houses over 3000 historical photographs, documents, native American artifacts, relics from Otero County, a pottery collection from the LaLuz Pottery Factory, and a bison trophy head.
On your visit, view the artifacts and listen to stories from the days of early man to Alamogordo’s role in the atomic and space ages.
Address: 1004 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
Are you exploring other attractions near Alamogordo? Why not check out some fun things to do in Las Cruces, NM, fun things to do in Roswell, NM and fun things to do in Ruidoso, NM?
10. International Space Hall of Fame
If you are a fan of outer space, visiting the International Space Hall of Fame should be on your checklist of things to do in Alamogordo.
Established in 1976, the International Space Hall of Fame recognises the efforts and achievements of those who have contributed to significantly advanced aerospace flight and technology.
Since its inception, over 200 individuals have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Some notable people initiated include Sir Isaac Newton, Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Yuri Gagarin.
The Hall of Fame is an integral part of the New Mexico Museum of Space History, which has many other significant exhibits concerned with outer space.
Address: 3198 State Route 2001, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
11. Desert Lakes Golf Course
One of the best things to do in Alamogordo, NM, this weekend is to visit the Desert Lakes Golf Course for a round of tee time.
Established in 1953, the Desert Lakes Golf Course features four sets of tees to cater to all levels of play. The 18-hole golf course also features numerous water hazards that come into play on eleven of the eighteen holes, making it challenging yet interesting and fun for players of all skill levels.
The Desert Lakes Golf Course also boasts a golf shop where you can get all your golf equipment and an onsite restaurant and bar where you can satisfy your cravings.
Address: 2351 Hamilton Road, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
12. Toy Train Depot
Exploring the Toy Train Depot is one of the fun things to do in Alamogordo, NM, with kids. This charming museum is dedicated to model trains and railroads using an actual depot.
The museum displays RR operations with preserved, restored, and operating models of locomotives, freight cars, and passenger trains. Onsite is America’s Park Ride Train Museum, which functions as a narrow-gauge railway that provides visitors with a train ride at an affordable price.
This intricately detailed layout showcases miniature landscapes and bustling train stations, offering a delightful journey through railroading history.
Address: 1991 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
13. Bridal Veil Falls
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then add a visit to the Bridal Veil Falls to your list of things to do in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
This 7.7-mile loop trail near High Rolls Mountain Park is an excellent destination for hiking. On your visit, explore the beauty of Salado Canyon, featuring a restored trestle, riparian wildlife, a desert stream, and a beautiful view of Bridal Veil Falls.
Remember your camera, as the scenery here is nothing short of spectacular.
Address: 10-20358, Alamogordo, NM 88310
14. Kids’ Zone
One of the kid-friendly things to do with kids in Alamogordo, NM, today is to visit the Kids’ Zone, one of Alamogordo’s newest kid’s playgrounds.
The playground features three distinct areas for toddlers and older children and a parkour-style obstacle course. It also has two pavilions with picnic tables and grills, permanent cornhole boards, concrete ping pong and game tables, and some ADA-accessible specialty swings and equipment.
If you’re travelling with your family, stop at Kids’ Zone and let your children engage in numerous fun activities available at the park.
Address: 1950 Oregon Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
15. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
One of the many fun things to do in Alamogordo for nature lovers and history enthusiasts is to find solace at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Sacramento Mountains, the park offers a network of hiking trails that grant breathtaking panoramic views.
Spanning 640 acres, the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park features a historic ranch house, quiet camping in the Chihuahuan Desert, and pools of water under the cottonwood trees of Dog Canyon.
This park provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, camping, wildlife viewing, and tours of the ranch house.
Address: 409 Dog Canyon Road, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
16. Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
Just a 40-minute drive from Alamogordo, the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is one of the must-visit attractions near Alamogordo, New Mexico.
At this historic site, over 21,000 petroglyphs, including masks, sunbursts, wildlife, handprints, and geometric designs etched into volcanic rocks, provide a window into the spiritual and artistic expressions of indigenous people who inhabited the area centuries ago.
Many petroglyphs can be viewed from a trail open to the public that meanders through the rocks for about a mile. You can take a guided tour of this site, and interpretative signage enhances the experience.
Address: 455 3 Rivers Road, Tularosa, NM 88352, United States
17. Fort Stanton State Monument and Museum
The Fort Stanton State Monument and Museum is one of the top attractions near Alamogordo, New Mexico. Established in 1855 by the United States Army, Fort Staton is one of the most intact 19th-century military forts in the United States.
Sitting on 240 acres, Fort Stanton is best known for its role in the Indian Wars and the Civil War. On this historic site, there are 88 buildings built of local stones.
Today, visitors can explore the grounds, visit the old hospital, and even see re-enactments of historical events.
As part of the fun things to do near Alamogordo, you can take a self-guided or guided tour of the museum and Visitors Center, featuring historic exhibits, an introductory video, and a gift shop featuring Fort Stanton souvenirs and books.
Address: 104 Kit Carson Road, Fort Stanton, NM 88323, United States
18. Grindstone Lake
Located in Ruidoso, New Mexico, Grindstone Lake is one of the top attractions near Alamogordo. This pristine 500-acre lake is a sanctuary for outdoor fun activities.
The lake is a hot spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, or fishing for rainbow trout, catfish, and smallmouth bass. The surrounding trail system is excellent for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, offering views of the lake from various vantage points.
As one of the many unique things to do near Alamogordo with family, you can explore this beautiful lake for fun outdoor activities. You can also play golf with your friends and family at the 27-hole disc at Grindstone Lake.
Address: 111 Wiggins Way, Ruidoso, NM 88345, United States
19. White Sands Mall
One of the romantic things to do in Alamogordo, NM, for couples is to enjoy shopping at White Sands Mall, one of Alamogordo’s premier shopping destinations.
JC Penney’s, Beall’s, and BigKmart are the three anchor stores of White Sands Mall, which spans 266,366 square feet. The mall also houses Cinema 5, Footlocker, Zales Jewelers, Maurices, Burke’s Outlet, GNC, Payless Shoes, Sally’s Beauty Supply, Claire’s Boutique, Coach House Gifts, and others.
Address: 3199 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
20. Red Sands OHV Area
Looking for unusual things to do in Alamogordo? Then head to the Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area. This area is made up of primarily mesquite coppice dunes that range from one metre to several metres in height.
There are more than 100 miles that users have created over time. Most trails are used during organised motorcycle races; however, other users can drive cross-country.
Beyond biking, the area is also ideal for camping, but you must bring your supplies.
Address: Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
21. Shroud Exhibit and Museum
A visit to the Shroud Exhibit and Museum is one of the free things to do in Alamogordo, New Mexico. This museum showcases a life-size, research-grade colour photograph of the famous Turin Shroud.
The museum also features an original replica of the Holy Shroud, an in-depth explanation of its history, and 3D models of the Crown of Thorns and other instruments.
Tour a true mystery connected to scientific discoveries and testing at the museum.
Address: 923 N New York Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
22. Rocket City Family Fun Center
One of the family-fun things to do in Alamogordo today is to experience a thrilling adventure at the Rocket Family Fun Center.
Sitting on 35,000 square feet, this multipurpose bowling facility features 20 bowling lanes along with a 4-lane VIP room for those seeking intimate gatherings, a laser tag arena with a variety of battling options, and an arcade with modern and classic games in its entertaining space.
Beyond bowling, the entertainment center also offers an onsite restaurant serving favourites like tater tots, burgers, and Caesar salad. The facility also has provisions for private events like birthdays.
Address: 3751 Mesa Village Dr, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
23. Grindstone Stables
Just a few minutes’ drive from Alamogordo, exploring the Grindstone Stables in Ruidoso, NM, is one of the adventurous things to do near Alamogordo.
This horseback-riding agency offers professional and experienced guides. Even if you’ve never ridden, the guides will ensure a comfortable and memorable ride.
The trail rides take you through the beautiful Lincoln National Forest, giving you breathtaking views of Grindstone Lake and the surrounding mountains.
And if horses aren’t your thing, Grindstone Stables also offers carriage and sleigh rides, perfect for a romantic evening or family fun.
Address: 523 Resort Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345, United States
24. Heart of the Desert
One of the best things to do in Alamogordo, NM, today for wine lovers is to visit the Heart of the Desert. The Heart of the Desert is a functional pistachio ranch and vineyard that makes the best of wines and tasty pistachios.
The popular pistachio brand is based at Eagle Ranch, a self-contained pistachio farm and production facility. Their award-winning pistachios come in nine unique flavours.
On your visit, you can take a free guided tour around the farm and learn how the pistachios are grown and processed. During the tour, you will visit the processing plant, the pistachio field, and the packaging and shipping areas, giving you a full overview of the process.
Address: 7288 US-54, Alamogordo, NM 88310
25. McGinn’s PistachioLand
One of the unique things to do in Alamogordo is to explore McGinn’s Pistachio Land, renowned for being home to the world’s largest pistachio.
Established in 1980, PistachioLand is home to over 12,500 trees and 7,500 grape vines. It is also home to a 30-foot pistachio monument, the World’s Largest Pistachio.
McGinn’s PistachioLand offers visitors guided tours of the pistachio farm and shares information about the cultivation and processing process.
On your visit, sample the delectable pistachio treats and pick up unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Address: 7320 US-54 #70, Alamogordo, NM 88310
26. American Armed Forces Museum
The American Armed Forces Museum is one of the must-visit attractions in Alamogordo, New Mexico, for history enthusiasts.
Established in 1997, the American Armed Forces Museum collects and preserves military memorabilia, represents all branches of service, and commemorates all wars and military engagements that the American Armed Forces fought.
This museum seeks to educate the public by displaying historical events in its exhibition. Visitors can take a tour of the museum and learn about the willing sacrifices of the military in keeping the nation safe.
Address: 144 US-82, Alamogordo, NM 88310
27. Sunspot Solar Observatory
Just a one-hour drive from Alamogordo, a visit to the Sunspot Solar Observatory is one of the unique things to do near Alamogordo, NM.
Established in 1947, the Sunspot Solar Observatory is home to many important scientific discoveries, unique solar observing facilities, and breathtaking views of the Sacramento Mountains.
Beyond the solar telescope, the Sunspot Solar Observatory, part of the Lincoln National Forest, also features a diverse collection of native plants and wildlife, including mule deer and over 200 species of birds.
The facility also has a Visitor Center, which provides an interactive astronomical experience through activities, displays, and informational exhibits. The Visitor Center showcases exhibits from the Dunn Solar Telescope, the Apache Point Observatory, and the Lincoln National Forest.
Guided tours of the site and the telescope are available only on Saturday and Sunday. However, self-guided tours are available during other times.
Address: 3001 Visitor Center Road Drive, Sunspot, NM 88349
28. Alamogordo Public Library
One of the best things to do in Alamogordo today is to visit the Alamogordo Public Library, a community hub that serves residents of Otero County and visitors alike.
Established in 1900, the Alamogordo Public Library has an extensive collection of newspapers, magazines, CDs, DVDs, a large print collection, books in Spanish and German, and materials related to the Western writer Eugene Manlove Rhodes.
The library also offers an extensive digital collection that includes eBooks, eAudiobooks, research databases, digital magazines, TV show and film streaming, animated books, online classes, music, and the Library of Things.
The library also has a children’s room that offers a selection of classic and contemporary books suitable for children of all ages.
Address: 920 Oregon Avenue, Alamogordo, NM 88310
29. White Sands Missile Range Museum
Founded in 1994, the White Sands Missile Range Museum preserves the artifacts and history of the Army and New Mexico.
The museum collects, preserves, interprets, and displays the Army’s story in New Mexico and its role in operating the Missile Range. The museum’s exhibits include the Frontier Army in New Mexico, early ranching in the Tularosa Basin, the V-2 Rocket, NASA, and the Bataan Death March, among others.
Visitors are expected to present a valid form of identification and pass an NCIC-III background check conducted at the Visitor’s Center or Las Cruces Gate.
Address: White Sands Missile Range, NM 88002, United States
30. Lincoln National Forest
Among the many things to do in Alamogordo, NM, for outdoor enthusiasts is to hike the Lincoln National Forest. Spanning 1.1 million acres, the Lincoln National Forest is home to three major mountain ranges: Sacramento, Guadalupe and Capitan.
The forest offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, camping, and dirt bike riding. Lincoln National Forest is also home to Smokey Bear.
Address: 3463 Las Palomas Road, Alamogordo, NM 88310
31. Sacramento Mountains Museum and Pioneer Village
Located in Cloudcroft, New Mexico, a visit to the Sacramento Mountains Museum and Pioneer Village is one of the unique things to do near Alamogordo.
This museum offers a fascinating story of the early settlers as they struggle against elements and against one another to tame the environs and claim a portion of it as their own. This living museum showcases exhaustive exhibits of the history of Cloudcroft.
Visitors can explore historic buildings, artifacts, and photos and learn about the early farming and ranching industries and way of life in a rugged log cabin.
Address: 1000 US-82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States
Plan Your Trip to Alamogordo, NM
Alamogordo, New Mexico, stands as a multifaceted destination, offering a cornucopia of attractions and activities that cater to a wide spectrum of interests.
From the enchanting landscapes of White Sands National Park to the profound history celebrated in museums and historic sites, Alamogordo offers a memorable experience. Whether exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in local culture, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the desert, Alamogordo promises an unforgettable journey.