As summer rolls in and schools let out, a road trip across the Southwestern United States can satisfy any traveler’s needs! Located in Southwest New Mexico, close to the Arizona border, Silver City can be a great town to stop at for a weekend trip. Read more to find out the top activities and things to do:
Continental Divide Trail
If you enjoy hiking and sweeping views, check out the Continental Divide Trail access point in Silver City, located in Gila National Forest. This trail goes from Chihuahua, Mexico to Alberta, Canada, measuring a little more than 3,000 miles. While many do take the time to hike the entire trail (which can take about 5 months), a more casual hiker can enjoy the 10 miles located near Silver City.
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
While you’re in Gila National Forest, check out the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Nearly 800 years ago, the Mimbres people made the caves here their home, and today people can see how they may have lived. The hike to the dwellings is about one-mile round trip by foot. Due to COVID precautions, visitors can no longer enter the dwellings, but are able to walk right up to the area.
Western New Mexico University Museum
Complete your hiking adventures with a stop by Western New Mexico University Museum, home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of Mimbres artifacts and pottery in the world. The Mimbres were first started making pottery in the region around 200 C.E. By the time they had created the Gila Cliff dwellings that you have already visited, they were creating the black-on-white pottery they are remembered for today. The University’s museum also features Pueblo pottery, Navajo rugs, and historic Silver City photographs.
a)sp.”A©e Studio Art Gallery
When walking around downtown, it will be hard to miss the brightly colored a)sp.”A©e (pronounced “A Space”) Studio Art Gallery. Home to contemporary art featuring local artists, this gallery wants to patrons to have a one-of-a-kind art experience by showcasing outsider, outlaw, and unconventional pieces. Lovers of all art forms can find paintings, sculptures, collages, and mixed-media pieces. They even offer opportunities for adults and children alike to create their own art to take home!
The Jalisco Café
No trip to New Mexico would be complete without visiting an authentic Mexican restaurant. Located near Town Hall, the Jalisco Café’s menu includes New Mexican staples such as green chile dishes, and classic favorites like enchiladas, tacos, and tostadas. Stop in to cool off after a long day exploring!
Bear Mountain Lodge in Silver City
If you can’t get enough of Silver City, head over to Bear Mountain Lodge. Located less than 5 miles from the city center, this bed and breakfast in a restored 1928 lodge bordering Gila National Forest is pet friendly and offers Wi-Fi and free breakfast. There are 3 hiking trails onsite for guests to enjoy the scenery and wildlife after exploring the lodge’s café and art gallery!
Check out more things to do in New Mexico here. Also, check out this for even more ideas!
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