Vacation Rentals in Las Cruces

Las Cruces has earned a reputation as one of the Southwest's most compelling destinations. Visitors can pick from a range of Holidu vacation rentals, some of which sport Craftsman or Tuscan-style architectural elements. Many offer amenities as high-speed internet, TV, and air-conditioning, and some even have pools to cool off in. Pet-friendly rentals with outdoor porches and gardens are perfect for large families and groups of friends. Concerning the location, rentals in Downtown Las Cruces will give you easy access to local restaurants, bars, and attractions such as the Railroad Museum and the Museum of Nature & Science. You could also book at the old town of Mesilla that oozes New Mexican desert charm. Finally, consider rentals near the White Sands dunes for an off-beat experience.

A good starting point to Las Cruces' cultural riches is the beautifully laid out New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum which chronicles the state's 3000-year-old rich ranching and farming history. The milking demonstrations and livestock tours are thoroughly engaging. The Las Cruces Museum of Fine Art and Culture is worth checking out for its lithographs, engravings, and fine art pieces. Adjacent is the small but insightful Las Cruces Museum of Natural History where you'll learn about everything from the Chihuahuan Desert to solar systems, fossil beds, and pre-historic track ways. Live exhibits of snakes and turtles liven up the museum experience. America's most impressive collection of petrified forests waits at the Zuhl Museum. The minerals and fossils here are jaw-droppingly beautiful.

A Las Cruces fixture for 30 years now, Dick's Café's red enchiladas, taco plates, and cheeseburgers never disappoint. Go local at the neighborhood La Nueva Casita Café - their homemade guacamole, chips & salsa, and chicken fajitas are just delectable. What about drinks? High Desert Brewing Co. proposes 25 chilled lagers and ales, or apple or pear-based hard cider for something different. Caliche's Frozen Yogurt is no average joint - this quirky little parlor serves up frozen custards with fudge brownie, strawberry cheesecake, and even apple pies. Their gourmet sandwiches and hot dogs are equally enticing! Finally, take the wine-tasting tour at Rio Grande Vineyards and Winery. It lies in the heart of America's oldest wine-producing regions.

The city boasts an assortment of events and festivals all year round. Expect world-class independent cinema, workshops, and celebrity appearances at the Las Cruces International Film Festival held in February or March. The 4th of July Electric Light Parade is quite distinctive- Las Cruces' streets come alive with floats decorated with electric lights. Scintillating firework displays follow. Mexican Independence Day in September is your chance to catch traditional folklorico dances and groove to mariachi music. Finally, try coinciding your trip with the Day of the Dead (Dia de Los Muertos) celebrations in early November. Join candlelight processions where townsfolk pay homage to deceased ancestors or don a skeleton mask as revelers do. It's a very special atmosphere, comparable to a few!

Waste no time getting to the otherworldly White Sands National Monument - the world's largest rare gypsum dune area. The shimmering white sands have beguiled travelers for eons. Sledding down the dunes makes for a memorable experience. Next is the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument with its jagged rock formations, well-preserved old buildings, and frequent antelope sightings. On your way down, soak in views of the golden sun sinking into the fiery dunes. An hour's drive from Las Cruces is the spa town of Truth or Consequences known for its natural hot springs that are said to have healing properties.

The quaint Old Town of Mesilla remains as it were 100 years ago thanks to its well-preserved New Mexico-style buildings. The plaza is a wonderful spot for people-watching. Bargain for unique bric-a-brac with the convivial vendors, and dine at the town's many family-owned eateries before heading back to Las Cruces.

Built in 1926, this historic theater in downtown Las Cruces has been wonderfully restored whilst still retaining its nostalgic air. Air-condition and state-of-the-art acoustics make any theatrical production or concert a pleasure to watch.

Las Cruces has a bi-weekly market that takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the North Downtown Hall. Local vendors bring along homemade specialty foods, Native American handicrafts, and the ubiquitous long strings of red chilies (ristras) that you'll notice hanging on most archways and doors. Street performances and live concerts add to the electric atmosphere.

This 19th-century basilica in Mesilla's old town square merits a visit for its Holy Statues, beautiful altar, and stained glass windows. The architectural details are intriguing and the light is just beautiful. The sense of community and history is palpable as a sense of nostalgia descends on visitors.

The lush gardens provide a much-needed escape from New Mexico's heat. While the garden is small, the plants are clearly labeled, and visitors can enjoy a moment of tranquility at the benches. Make sure to get a picture of yourself against the backdrop of the pretty gazebo.