Tucked between the desert and the craggy peaks of the Organ Mountains is the perfect quick getaway: far enough out of town to feel like a true escape but close enough to be doable for a weekend jaunt. Swing onto I-25 South and point your wheels toward Las Cruces.
Why winter is the best time to go
● Daytime highs in the 60s make for comfortable hiking and outdoor exploration.
● Off-season means fewer humans and easier dining and hotel reservations.
● Easy and scenic 3.5-hour drive from Albuquerque.
Stay: Traditional comfort or unique and offbeat
Whether you seek a hotel or a quirky, design-forward Airbnb, Las Cruces offers a range of accommodations, from charming boutique stays to shipping container homes and sun-kissed adobe casitas.
Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
This cozy hotel offers onsite dining and an outdoor pool. The comfortable guest rooms feature Spanish Colonial decor and local art. 705 S Telshor Blvd.
Hacienda de Mesilla
This boutique inn seamlessly blends inspired dining with thoughtful architecture, offering rooms with views of the Organ Mountains. For added seclusion, choose the Casita King Suite.1891 Avenida de Mesilla.
Lundeen Inn of the Arts
This owner-operated, hundred-year-old restored Mexican inn has one of the Southwest's largest fine art galleries. Stay in one of seven charming guest rooms named for different artists. Breakfast included. If you fancy a stay with a B&B vibe, this is one to check out. 618 S Alameda Blvd.
Spa with an “ahh”
Las Cruces’ spa scene is robust enough for a wellness-focused trip or to simply inject a little self-care into your vacation time. Post-hike hot stones.
Spaology
This boutique spa offers a range of packages and à la carte services designed to promote relaxation and balance. Enjoy the tranquil outdoor lounge post-treatment.1730 Tierra de Mesilla Suite 7
The Spa Downtown
This urban spa has a full menu that includes every type of spa and salon treatment you’ve ever heard of and maybe a few you haven’t. The “Downtown Diva” is a full-day head-to-toe experience for ultimate pampering. 440 N Main St.
Ruby Sun
Treat yourself to a massage or facial or mix things up with something a bit outside the box, like a Thai yoga and reflexology session. 570 W Griggs Ave.
Dwell Yoga
The downtown studio offers a variety of techniques and unique ways to practice yoga, including yoga set to live music, or try a sound bath. 424 N Main St.
Hit the Trail
Cool, sunny days call for layers, trail shoes, and exploring the area’s abundant natural beauty.
Dripping Springs Natural Area
Over four miles of easy hiking trails with scenic views, ideal for beginners and families.
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
Peaceful trails and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Slot Canyon
Winding pathways and surreal rock formations, an A+ choice for adventurous hikers.
Follow a different kind of trail
Swap switchbacks for sips on Las Cruces’ wine or ale trails. Las Cruces has six wineries, six breweries, and two distilleries, plus pubs serving libations from around Southern New Mexico. Explore on your own or hop on a tour with Mesilla Valley Wine and Brew Tours.
Las Cruces’ Art and Culture Scene
Las Cruces museums are a mix of arts, history, and local traditions, bringing plenty of ways to connect with this creative and diverse community. There’s a quarterly 21+ museum night featuring cocktails and food trucks.
The current exhibit (on through Jan 3) at Las Cruces Museum of Art features Paño Arte from the Rudy Padilla Collection. Paño Arte is a form of drawing and painting on a handkerchief, typically done by incarcerated individuals using rudimentary materials. Free admission. 91 N Main St.
Holiday Stays
Holiday fun in Las Cruces includes a production of White Christmas at the Las Cruces Community Theater, with performances running through December 21, and lots of twinkling lights against the desert backdrop, starting with the tree lighting in Old Mesilla on December 5.
Want to Auld Lang Syne Las Cruces style? Head to downtown’s Plaza de Las Cruces for the New Year’s Eve Chili Drop, where a giant, lighted chili pepper is lowered at midnight to welcome the new year.
Daytime winter highs in the 60s make for comfortable hiking and outdoor exploration.
Winding pathways and surreal rock formations, an A+ choice for adventurous hikers.