Exploring the Nearby Towns Around White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park, known for its breathtaking gypsum dunes, attracts visitors from around the world. The park is fairly isolated, nestled in the Tularosa Basin of New Mexico's Chihuahuan Desert, but several nearby towns provide comfortable accommodations, delightful dining options, and a taste of local culture. This article explores the towns surrounding White Sands National Park, highlighting lodging and culinary delights.
Alamogordo, New Mexico
Alamogordo is the closest major town to White Sands National Park, located just 16 miles east of the park. As the commercial hub of Otero County, Alamogordo offers a variety of hotel options, including budget-friendly motels and quality chain hotels. Options like Fairfield Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express are known for their pleasant facilities.
Dining in Alamogordo is varied. Pepper's Grill is a local favorite, serving classic American cuisine alongside Mexican dishes. Don't miss trying the Green Chile Stew, a New Mexico staple made with roasted green chiles, tender pork, and potatoes, often accompanied by warm flour tortillas.
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Las Cruces is approximately 52 miles west of White Sands National Park. This city has a wider selection of accommodations, including the Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces and Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces.
While in Las Cruces, be sure to try chiles rellenos. These are green chiles stuffed with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried. A top spot to enjoy this dish is La Posta de Mesilla, located in the historic town of Mesilla, just a short drive from Las Cruces.
Tularosa, New Mexico
Tularosa offers a quaint experience, situated 20 miles north of White Sands National Park. This small town features historic adobe buildings and a cozy community vibe. Though accommodations are more limited, local bed and breakfast establishments provide a unique and intimate stay.
Dining in Tularosa may have fewer options, but the local cuisine is authentic. Casa de Sueños serves homemade New Mexican food, with red and green chile sauces that are must-try items on the menu.
Cloudcroft, New Mexico
Cloudcroft is a mountain village located 40 miles northeast of White Sands, sitting at an elevation of 8,600 feet. This town offers cooler temperatures and a selection of charming lodges and inns, including The Lodge Resort and Spa, known for its elegant accommodations.
For dining, Rebecca's at the Lodge is a popular choice. This restaurant serves sophisticated American cuisine, featuring local dishes like New Mexico Blue Corn Pancakes, which have the nutty flavor of blue cornmeal.
Regional Cuisine to Savor
The local cuisine around White Sands is rooted in New Mexican culinary tradition, featuring iconic dishes such as enchiladas, tamales, and sopapillas. Be sure to try both red and green chile when dining, as they are central to many traditional recipes. The question "Red or green?" signifies which type of chile you’d prefer, and asking for "Christmas" allows you to enjoy both.
If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss biscochitos, especially during the holiday season. These anise and cinnamon-flavored cookies are brittle, buttery, and pair perfectly with a strong cup of coffee after a day of adventure.
Helpful Websites for Planning Your Visit
For accommodations and dining options, consider visiting the following websites:
- Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce: alamogordo.com
- Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau: lascrucescvb.org
- Cloudcroft Chamber of Commerce: coolcloudcroft.com
- New Mexico Tourism Department: newmexico.org
The towns surrounding White Sands National Park offer lodging and dining options, providing a genuine taste of New Mexican culture and cuisine. Each town has its own charm and flavors awaiting discovery.