23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Santa Rosa (NM)

The city of Santa Rosa is the county seat of Guadalupe County, New Mexico, United States. The city had a population of 2,846 in 2021. Santa Rosa has numerous things to offer to tourists.

Whether you are looking for scenic outdoor attractions, route 66 diners, or historical landmarks, you will find them here.

Grab the whole family and jump into the beautiful Blue Hole or allow the kids to play with the water in Park Lake.

Are you planning a trip to Santa Rosa? Here are the best and fun things to do in Santa Rosa, NM.

Things to Do in Santa Rosa, NM

1. Go hiking at Santa Rosa Lake State Park

Among the fun things to do in Santa Rosa, NM, is to partake in outdoor activities at Santa Rosa Lake State Park.

Santa Rose Lake State Park, centered around Santa Rose Lake, is the best way to experience the stunning desert scenery.

One of the primary reasons for visiting this tourist attraction is outdoor recreation.

Some popular activities include horseback riding, fishing, hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.

Santa Rosa Lake State Park contains many hiking and walking trails.

Guests can walk through the desert landscape and grassland plains to view the flora and surplus wildlife.

The trails are carefully-marked, making reaching the various points of interest easy, including fantastic lake views and other natural scenery.

You can go fishing in the Lake if you want something more casual. Although artificial, it is a famous fishing spot for locals and tourists.

Stand on the shore or take a boat into the Lake to find the perfect place to catch fish. It is home to various species of catfish, bass, perch, and more.

Santa Rosa Lake State Park is open throughout the year.

Address: NM-91, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

2. Go scuba diving in Blue Hole

One of the fun things to do in Santa Rosa, NM, is to swim in Blue Hole.

This secluded crystal blue diving spot in Santa Rosa offers a one-of-a-kind scuba diving experience. This fantastic diving spot is the ideal place to get into the water.

Visitors can dive into the Blue Hole throughout the year thanks to the frequent spring flow that maintains the water at 61 degrees.

The water is approximately 4,600 feet above sea level, meaning that you can get to an altitude of 8,000 feet if you are driving immediately after, so it is advised that you make a safe dive plan.

This tourist attraction also offers the best in-land scuba training for interested visitors.

Address: 1085 Blue Hole Rd, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

3. Eat at Joseph’s Bar & Grill

Joseph’s Bar and Grill is a well-loved eatery for authentic New Mexican food.

They offer burgers, sandwiches, pizza, classic diners like fried chicken, and lots more.

Regardless of what you are craving, they have something you would enjoy.

For over 60 years, the owner of this eatery and his family has served the finest burgers, fajitas, pizza & beer in the city.

Their menu includes everything from cowboy-cut steals to fresh salad and Mexican food.

They also have a full bar, so you can enjoy their cocktails with your food.

Joseph’s Bar and Grill is suitable for your family to visit, whether you are a local or a tourist.

Address: 1775 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

4. Visit the Janes-Wallace Memorial Park and Power Dam

The Janes-Wallace Memorial Park and Power Dam is a popular lake destination for locals and visitors.

It is among the best fishing spots in the city, although there are many talks about enhancing the site.

Janes-Wallace Memorial Park and Power Dam were constructed in 1929. This spring-fed Lake initially spanned nine acres, making it a crucial regional aquatic habitat.

Due to the water pressure and depth, it was founded as a power dam to produce hydroelectric power for neighboring cities.

The power dam operated for many decades until it was destroyed during a storm in 1999.

Despite the site’s present state, Janes-Wallace Memorial Park is among the best places to visit in Santa Rosa, NM, for fishing, particularly fly fishing.

Fishing is a popular activity for the Santa Rosa locals thanks to the many lakes, but the Janes-Wallace Memorial Park constantly provides the most incredible experience.

People continue to frequent this Lake because of the variety of fish. Some frequently caught fish include bass, rainbow trout, catfish, and crappie.

Address: El Rito St, Off Route 91, south of the city, Santa Rosa

5. Golf at Tres Lagunas Golf Course

Golfing at Tres Lagunas Golf Course is one of the best things to do in Santa Rosa, NM. If you want a break from exploring the city attractions, it is an enjoyable activity.

Tres Lagunas Golf Course is among the few golf courses you will find in the city, but it’s a great course, so you won’t need many other alternatives for golfing.

Tres Lagunas Golf Course, founded in 1972, is a private course that offers several fun activities when you visit.

Many people see it as a great value golf course, thanks to the fantastic staff, affordable prices, and fun environment.

The primary attraction at the Tres Lagunas Golf Course is the 9-hole golf course.

The ideal time to visit the course is in the morning when only a few people are around.

Address: Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

6. Camp at La Loma RV Park

La Loma RV Park is among the top-tier RV parks in Santa Rosa, NM.

The park is one of the top options for visitors or travelers looking to spend a night in the city with a well-furnished park and easy access to numerous local attractions.

La Loma RV Park was established as a motel in 1943 before it expanded and added an RV Park.

It still provides motel rooms, but the RV park is preferred, thanks to modern amenities.

The park contains 24 gravel sites for pull-thru cars, including larger RV rigs or motorhomes.

Each site comprises a full hook-up of electricity, cable TV, and sewage. There is also a high-speed wireless network throughout the park.

The park is overseen by an attentive staff in the office or on call if you intend to arrive last.

Address: 1709 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

7. See the Pecos River Bridge

The Pecos River Bridge is among the best places to visit in Santa Rosa, NM.

The Pecos River Bridge is a picturesque railroad constructed almost 50 feet above the river.

It is one of the most historic bridges in the city and a popular local attraction.

The Pecos River Bridge was constructed in 1892 to let freight passage over the Pecos River.

It continued to service freight trains until the 1900s, making it a long-lived bridge and valuable even now.

Address: 1079 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

8. Stroll around Route 66 Auto Museum

One of the top things to do in Santa Rosa, NM, is to tour the Route 66 Auto Museum.

The Museum is a haven for car lovers and those who want to relive a crucial era in automobile history.

Route 66 Auto Museum began as a business for refurbishing cars which operated for over 40 years.

The owner, Bozo Cordova, grew his love for automobiles alongside his family to create a unique local attraction.

Enter the checker-floored garage to find the best-preserved vintage collection worldwide.

Over 30 privately-owned cars line the garage, displaying a blend of famous and rare vehicles from the days of Route 66.

The Route 66 Auto Museum also features vintages, retro, classic, and street rods in impressive condition.

The restoration skills of the owner bring cars back to their original glory.

You will discover fairly-used Mustangs, Corvettes, COE trucks, Roadsters, Woodys, etc.

Guided tours are available, where you will get a personal stroll around the garage from the owner to hear tales about every car.

Address: 2436 Historic Rte 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

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9. Lodge in Hampton Inn

One place that can accommodate visitors holidaying in Santa Rosa is Hampton Inn.

The Hampton Inn offers superior rooms with King and queen-sized beds and suites.

They also offer an indoor pool with a sauna and spa, exercise rooms, a game room, and a meeting room.

Additional amenities include a coffee maker, a hardwood desk, a cable TV, and free WIFI.

Hampton Inn’s game room has a billiard table, and the onsite gym features full-length mirrors and a mounted flat-screen TV.

The hotel serves a continental breakfast in the mornings.

Relax and have a great time at the Hampton Inn Santa Rosa.

Address: 2475 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

10. Visit the Bless Me Ultima Park

When you visit Park Lake, you should not forget to see one of the magnificent public displays in Santa Rosa.

Bless Me Ultima Park contains a section of Park Lake at the junction of Historic Route 66 and Lake Drive.

It is a landscape park in honor of Rudolf Anaya and his most popular novel, Bless Me Ultima.

The author is a well-known public figure who spent his childhood in Santa Rosa and incorporated the city as the main setting in the book.

In 2008, Bless Me Ultima Park was dedicated to the writer and the novel for its local appreciation.

It perfectly portrays Santa Rosa in the era while providing fame for the city, thanks to the writer’s success.

Bless Me Ultima Park has several exciting details mirroring the novel’s themes while showcasing the city’s beauty.

The park’s primary feature is the life-sized statue of Rudolfo Anaya, sculptured and designed by Reynaldo Rivera.

The Rudolfo Anaya sculpture is a precise representation of the author.

The statue sits on top of a tree stump as Rudolfo writes his novel on a notepad.

Address: Santa Rosa, New Mexico, United States

11. Marvel at dinosaur fossils at Mesalands Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory

Mesalands Dinosaur Museum is an excellent place to visit for those curious about life during old times.

The Museum, located on the historic Route 66, features authentic fossil displays collected by college students admitted to the Mesalands Community College’s Paleontology Program.

Besides the fossils displayed in the Museum, you shouldn’t miss seeing the life-sized bronze dinosaur sculptures crafted by the College’s Fine Arts Bronze program students.

If you visit with kids, this is also a delightful way to expose them to art and history since they can touch and interact with the displays.

The Museum even has a children’s corner where they can simultaneously learn and have fun.

The Museum is not large but features many exhibits that adults and kids will enjoy.

Expect to see dinosaur eggs, rock collections, and interactive areas.

A lovely gift shop is also available on the premises if you feel like doing a small shopping after touring the Museum.

Mesalands Dinosaur Museum is in Tucumcari, 52 minutes from Santa Rosa, NM.

Address: 222 E Laughlin Ave, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States

12. Tour the Historic Guadalupe County Courthouse

The Historic Guadalupe County Courthouse is among the most important architectural works in Santa Rosa.

It was constructed as the first courthouse in the city after the county seat moved to Santa Rosa.

The First Guadalupe County Courthouse is situated in Puerto de Luna, the first county seat.

It was used until the El Paso and Northeastern Railroad building in the early 20th century, which attracted much of the attention from Puerto de Luna to Santa Rosa.

With the city declining and losing its regional stature, the county seat moved to Santa Rosa.

Wrecks from the first courthouse remain in Puerto de Luna, a famous visitor destination.

The Courthouse is most popular for its architecture. It was designed by John C. Hill and Frank Ogden, who used a Richardson Romanesque-style architecture.

The Courthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places list in 1987, cementing its significance to New Mexico.

Address: State Rte 91, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

13. Browse through Tucumcari Ranch Supply

Another place worth a visit is Tucumcari Ranch Supply, owned by Jimmy and Stella Watson, which has been running for over 25 years.

Tucumcari Ranch Supply sells many locally made products, from home products to jewelry, perfect for tourists who love to shop.

If you are also searching for a place to spend quality time with your family over a delicious meal, this is a lovely spot to visit, as it houses the popular Watson’s BBQ.

Not only do they offer detectable meals here, but they also sell freshly baked bread, which is ideal for those who desire an easy breakfast.

So if you want a delicious meal and lovely locally-made items, visit this establishment.

Address: 502 South Lake St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States

14. Admire the beautiful architecture of Jesus M. Casaus House

Among the top things to do in Santa Rosa, NM, is to tour the Jesus M. Casaus House.

Architecture lovers will want to drive past Jesus M. Casaus House to admire its breathtaking architecture.

Jesus M. Casaus was a well-known figure in Guadalupe County politics, and his house is among the best examples of a Bungalow style of American architecture.

Even though the house remains a private abode owned by one of Casaus’s descendants, it is still an impressive site to drive past and take pictures in admiration of the architecture.

The Guadalupe County Courthouse listed Jesus M. Casaus House on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The listing comprises the house, the stone garage, and the storage building on the premises.

It also mentions three structures- an underground water cistern, the water pump, and the covering.

The house’s beauty, mixed with the Casaus family’s credibility, makes it a vital part of New Mexico’s history.

It is listed on the register to allow visitors to see one of the preserved architectural marvels that adorned the neighborhoods in Santa Rosa.

Address: 628 S 3rd St, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

15. Engage in Water activities at Park Lake

The second you arrive at Park Lake, you will feel a deep rush of excitement as you look upon the fun waiting for you there.

Park Lake is among the most frequented attractions in the city for its outdoor water fun for the entire family.

The perfect time to visit Park Lake is in summer. Although it is open throughout the year, most of the activities last between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During these months, you will find lifeguards onsite and life jackets offered to guests.

Whether you are an adult or a kid, Park Lake is the ideal place to spend your day with the whole family.

The Lake offers many water activities, including boating, swimming, a diving board, a water slide, and an inflatable obstacle course.

Park Lake is also among the best local places for a picnic in the city.

During the summer, food trucks are constantly set up onsite so you can buy local edibles to munch on in between swims.

Address: Park Lake, New Mexico, United States

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16. Walk the street of Puerto de Luna

The community of Puerto de Luna is located along the Pecos River. It is a must-visit destination when touring Santa Rosa.

It was the old county seat before it moved to Santa Rosa. Today, this small town is an excellent place for sightseeing and reliving the region’s history.

The name Puerto de Luna means “Gateway of the Moon.” It gets its name from one of the first European settlers who allegedly camped at the location during the exploration of the West.

A Spanish explorer, Francisco Vasquez, recorded his views of a full moon one night above the hilltops.

Additional suggestions of the names come from the popular Luna family, who resided at the Puerto River’s mouth.

The area was not inhabited until around 1848 when a group of families began to build a livable community.

Over the next few decades, different structures were constructed, including stores, a courthouse, and a post office.

Puerto de Luna is not a ghost town but only maintains less than 200 people.

Its history draws many visitors to explore the once-prosperous community.

Puerto de Luna is 17 minutes from Santa Rosa, NM.

Address: Puerto de Luna, New Mexico, United States

17. Spend the night at Santa Rosa Campground & RV Park

Thanks to spots like the Santa Rosa Campground & RV Park, you will never lack places to camp.

It is among the most extensive campground in Santa Rosa, NM, with the perfect facilities whether you are spending the night or for a few days.

You will find Santa Rosa Campground along the historic Route 66. It is not just an RV park, as it contains spaces for tents and a cabin.

The ample space is suitable for fifth wheels, motorhomes, and larger campers.

It contains pull-through parking on level gravel, and several spots have tree shade.

Santa Rosa Campground and RV Park is designed as a contemporary RV Park.

Many camping sites include a full hook-up with sewage and different electricity power. There are also many guest facilities, including a shower, restroom, pool, and laundry.

The onsite staff aids in maintaining the grounds and provides extra services if requested.

Among the best additions to the RV park is the tasty BBQ restaurant.

Eat-in or order from the numerous menu items for delivery to your Rv. Some items on the menu include tasty briskets, chicken, or ribs.

Address: 2136 Historic, U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

18. Dine at Comet II Drive-In

Comet II Drive-in, founded in 1927, was the ideal place for drivers on the go. It provided drivers with the choice of take-out or eat-in.

Although both options are still available, stopping for a few hours and enjoying the place will be a wonderful experience.

Comet II Drive-In does not have all the tricks for drawing hungry travelers. Instead, it depends on tasty meals to keep visitors returning.

If you want some spicy local favorites, this is the right place. Some recommended dishes include Chile Rellenos, Chimichangas, chile verde, or fried chicken.

Make sure you order salsa to complement your meal, and you won’t regret it.

Address: 1257 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

19. Go camping at Ramblin Rose RV Park

If you are looking for what to do in Santa Rosa, NM, check out this excellent value RV park in Santa Rosa.

Ramblin Rose RV Park has all the things you need to spend a night or a couple of days in Santa Rosa.

From the moment you check in and settle into your spot, you will feel the city’s peacefulness to relax onsite or explore.

Ramblin Rose RV Park has 23 sites with plenty of space for motorhomes, travel trailers, and a fifth wheel.

Every spot features a full hook-up in the middle of the site for easy access.

You will have sewage, electricity, cable TV, and a high-speed wireless network.

The RV park provides many guest facilities for a comfortable stay.

This pet-friendly park also has a clean restroom and showers.

Their staff are available during open hours to help ensure that you have a pleasant stay.

Address: 602 Black St, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

20. Buy unique shoes at Bishop’s Handmade Boots

If you are searching for something special to buy for a loved one or want something you can’t find elsewhere, you should head to Bishop’s Handmade Boots.

Not only is this shop perfect for cowboy boot lovers, but it’s for everyone who wants an excellent pair of fashionable shoes.

Every boot is custom-made based on your preferences, so you are guaranteed to get a pair of boots that will match your tastes perfectly.

Here, you can pick from various toe styles, heel styles, top styles, and colors.

If you would like to buy custom-made boots, feel free to go to their shop or call them first to talk with them about what you are looking for, and they will be happy to help you out.

For those who already know the boot they want, make sure you schedule an appointment for your fitting first before heading to their store.

Address: Tucumcari, New Mexico, United States

21. Enjoy the luxuries of Comfort Inn City of Natural Lakes

Another place where tourists can stay during their vacation in Santa Rosa is Comfort Inn City.

This hotel offers many amenities, including free wireless high-speed internet access, free local calls, an indoor heated pool, and an indoor hot tub.

They can also enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast featuring meat, eggs, cereal, fresh fruit, and more, including your preferred hot waffle flavor.

The onsite business centers provide visitors with extra conveniences like access to copy and fax services.

The Comfort Inn has a meeting and banquet room that can house up to 150 people for most events and occasions.

Rest and unwind in the oversized guest rooms with features like a 32-inch flat-screen LED television with 130 DIRECTV channels, coffee makers, refrigerators, pillow-top mattresses, hair dryers, curved shower rods, and more.

This pet-friendly hotel also features coin-operated laundry and provides valet cleaning services.

Surplus parking is provided and can accommodate almost all vehicles.

Finally, The Comfort Inn provides quick access to numerous attractions and local points of interest.

Address: 2524 U.S. Rt. 66, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

22. Check out Tucumcari Historical Museum

Tucumcari Historical Museum is nestled in a building that is packed with history.

The building once served as a schoolhouse in 1903: then later, it was a soup kitchen during the Great Depression.

Over time it was utilized by the military. It also served as a hospital.

When you step into the Museum, you will discover other intriguing things besides the building.

The Museum features numerous things that will keep you fascinated, from a roulette wheel from one of the old gambling halls to Prized bowling balls.

It also has a water pipe made from a hollowed tree trunk and a collection of patented barbed wires.

With many captivating artifacts available here, don’t be shocked to see everything you hope for.

An exhibit in the yard can also entertain you during your visit.

Address: 416 S Adams St, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States

23. Visit the Tucumcari Railroad Museum with your family

Another fantastic place to stop by with your loved ones is Tucumcari Railroad Museum.

They contain many interactive exhibits that will help you know more about the railroad industry In New Mexico starting from the 1800s until the present day.

Have firsthand experience in operating a GP-38 diesel by trying out the train simulator that is being manipulated by a real hands-on stand.

Tucumcari Railroad Museum also displays the people who played an essential role in building the railroads and those that made the way to what the industry is today.

Before going home, relax by the benches outside the Museum and pose for a picture in front of the building, as it is an excellent backdrop for some stunning photos.

Address: 100 W Railroad Ave, Tucumcari, NM 88401, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Santa Rosa

Wondering what to do in Santa Rosa, NM, with your friends and family? This article is here for you.

Santa Rosa, NM, is an affordable travel destination with many things to do or attractions that won’t dent your pocket.

It is a destination for everybody. You will have lots of fun whether you are visiting for a day or days.

Why don’t you start preparing for your trip now?