Interesting places to visit near Las Cruces, United States

Location: White Sands National Park is located near Alamogordo in southern New Mexico, USA. This extraordinary natural area features vast dunes of brilliant white gypsum sand, creating a surreal landscape unlike any other.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Photography, Family-Friendly, Dog-Friendly (on leash), History Enthusiasts

Why it's a great detour: White Sands National Park offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the world's largest gypsum dune field, a dazzling expanse of white sand stretching over 275 square miles. Its unique environment provides a striking contrast to typical desert landscapes, making it a memorable stop for travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park's accessibility and variety of activities make it an excellent detour for families, pet owners, and history buffs alike.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking on several marked trails, sledding down the soft dunes, wildlife watching, and photography of the stunning white sands at sunrise or sunset. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits on the geology, ecology, and cultural history of the area, including Native American heritage and Cold War military history.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very family-friendly, offering safe, easy trails and fun activities like sand sledding that children will love. Educational programs and ranger-led walks provide engaging learning experiences suitable for young explorers.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on leash in the parking areas and along the main road, but not on hiking trails or in the dunes themselves, so pet owners should plan accordingly. The open spaces near the entrance provide some room for pets to enjoy fresh air safely.