Five Best Things to do in Las Vegas, NM

     Sometimes Northern New Mexico towns get ignored, and we at NewMexi.co don’t think that’s right. Starting this week, we will begin a month long series showing off some of the amazing things these towns have to offer. This week’s edition will start out in historic Las Vegas, NM.

Montezuma Hot Springs

     Montezuma Hot Springs, another place that proves New Mexico has the best selection of mineral hot springs in the US, are located about six miles north of Las Vegas. Located in the beautiful Sangre de Cristos, the southern-most range of the Rocky Mountains, these springs are truly a gift from nature. The springs vary in temperature, from mildly warm to what locals call a “lobster pot” and are located by Gallinas Creek to cool off if you need to. Many people argue that these springs have healing powers, but one things for sure, it’s a great place to relax.

Photo courtesy of Jeanne George Weigel

Dwan Light Sanctuary

     The Dwan Light Sanctuary, opened in 1996 by Virginia Dwan, Charles Ross, and Laban Wingert. The word “sancturary” has never been more fitting. Located in the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this spectacular setting is something you’ve never seen before and will never see again in another area. The walls and ceiling are covered in prisms that cover the walls and floors in rainbows and is our top pick in New Mexico for a serene place to meditate. The Dwan Light Sanctuary is open to the public, but located on a private campus so be sure to check in at the welcome center at United World College. For more information, click here.

Photo courtesy of Jeanne George Weigel

Rough Rider Memorial Collection at the City of Las Vegas Museum

     Anyone interested in US or Southwestern history absolutely must see the Rough Rider Memorial Collection at the City of Las Vegas Museum. Las Vegas was a central recruiting area for the Rough Riders, formally known as the 1^st United States Volunteer Cavalry, made famous by soon-to-be president Theodore Roosevelt. The Rough Riders were vital to the efforts of the Spanish American War and fought mainly in Cuba and was made up largely of ranchers. After the war, Rough Riders routinely met in Las Vegas and the Rough Rider Memorial Collection is one of the best places to learn about them. For information, click here.

Photo courtesy of the City of Las Vegas Museum

Charlie’s Spic & Span Bakery and Café

     Charlie’s, a Las Vegas Staple, is known across the American Southwest as an amazing place to eat breakfast and indulge in a freshly made desert. Extra-large portions and extraordinary flavors put Charlie’s in a league of their own. Their H-Art Attack plate is especially famous and is truly a “Can’t Miss” when traveling through Northern New Mexico. When you’re ready for a sweet treat after your meal, Charlie’s has a wide selection of home-baked goods that are irresistible.

Photo courtesy of Charlie’s Spic & Span Bakery and Cafe

4^th of July Fiestas

     Northern New Mexico is known for its Fiestas and Las Vegas is no exception. The 4^th of July Fiestas, a multi-day event, is a great way to spend Independence Day. 4^th of July Fiestas has been held since 1888 and features live music and great food. 2017’s edition features a tribute to the “Evolutionary Women” who’ve changed Las Vegas for the better. We highly recommend visiting not only for the cultural experience but for the temperate climate and lack of 100+ degree weather common in the central and southern parts of the state. For more information and a full calendar of events, click here.

Photo by: Edewaa Foster