The New Year is here, and we know you’re eager for a great adventure. You couldn’t pick a better place to kick off 2023 than Deming New Mexico.
Visit our treasured history museum and connect with nature in one of our three remarkable state parks. Spend some time with us in the new year and spark your spirit with elevated experiences you can only find in this sun-soaked region of the Southwest. Search for gems and local lore, sip wine and visit a nearby safe, vibrant Mexican town. Plan on coming out for The Rockhound Roundup March 9 thru the 12th.
Parque Estatal Ciudad de las Piedras
For a gorgeous hike, head to City of Rocks State Park 30 miles away. Dotted by incredibly sculpted boulders, some reaching 40 feet high, this magical place offers a 5.1-mile round-trip hike up Table Mountain.
Parque Estatal Rockhound
It’s easy to understand how this state park got its name. About 10 miles southeast of Deming set against the Little Florida Mountains, this park was the first in the nation to let visitors take rock specimens like jasper, quartz, geodes and crystals with them. Look for all of these as you explore the park’s three miles of hiking trails.
Parque Estatal Pancho Villa
In 1916, Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa raided Camp Furlong in Columbus, N.M., killing more than a dozen Americans. In retaliation, President Wilson sent troops and an airplane to the border but failed to capture Villa. Today, you can camp here and see professional exhibits on this little-known piece of history.
Museo Deming Luna Mimbres
From about 950-1200 A.D., Mimbres Indians lived in villages along the Mimbres River. Forty exhibits spanning three buildings showcase what they left behind, including pottery painted with birds and other animals. The pottery inspired architect Mary Colter to design a line of high-end dinnerware in the 1930s that was used in Harvey Houses across the West. Buy the replica line in the gift store.
Luna Rossa Winery
Founded in 2001, this winery is run by fourth-generation winemaker Paolo D’Andrea and his wife Sylvia D’Andrea. Raised in Friuli, Italy, Paolo D’Andrea’s vineyards produce chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, chenin blanc and more. The tasting room located at 3710 West Pine St. is open every day.
D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting Room
The Lescombes family moved from Burgundy, France, in 1981 and has been making wine in the state ever since. On Fridays, D.H. Lescombes Tasting Room in Deming (formerly St. Clair Winery & Tasting Room) offers live music and drink specials.
Puerto Palomas de Villa, Mexico
Travel internationally without boarding a plane when you drive 30 minutes to Puerto Palomas de Villa. Park your car in Columbus, N.M., bring your passport and walk across the border. The Pink Store is legendary for its authentic Mexican arts and crafts and its chile rellenos served with menonita, a type of cheese made at the local Mennonite community.