Roadside Attractions in New Mexico

Worth the detour in New Mexico

Tee Pee Curios

Tucumcari, New Mexico

This iconic Route 66 souvenir shop welcomes travelers with a whimsical concrete teepee entryway. Originally built as a gas station in the 1940s, it evolved into a beloved curio shop famous for its brilliant neon sign. It stands today as one of the last original operating shops on New Mexico's Mother Road.

World's Largest Pistachio

Alamogordo, New Mexico

This towering 30-foot concrete monument stands as a tribute to Alamogordo's thriving pistachio groves. Erected in memory of the orchard's founder, it is one of America's most beloved roadside oddities. Best of all, you can celebrate your visit with pistachio-flavored ice cream and wine tastings right next door.

International UFO Museum and Research Center

Roswell, New Mexico

Housed in a historic 1930s movie theater, this quirky museum is the epicenter of the 1947 Roswell UFO incident lore. It features timeline exhibits, alien models, and crop circle theories, making it a must-visit for believers and skeptics alike. Don't miss the delightfully retro animatronic alien display in the center of the room.

Tinkertown Museum

Sandia Park, New Mexico

Tinkertown Museum is a whimsical folk-art wonderland featuring a massive collection of hand-carved miniature wood figures and animated scenes. Created over 40 years by artist Ross Ward, the museum's walls are crafted from over 50,000 glass bottles. It is a delightfully nostalgic journey into one man's creative obsession.

Capulin Volcano National Monument

Capulin, New Mexico

This dramatic cinder cone volcano rises abruptly from the high plains of northeastern New Mexico, offering visitors the rare opportunity to drive right to the rim and walk inside an extinct volcanic crater. A paved two-mile road spirals up the mountain, leading to panoramic views that stretch across five states on a clear day.

Blue Swallow Motel

Tucumcari, New Mexico

This historic Route 66 motel has welcomed weary travelers since 1939 with its iconic, buzzing neon sign. Lovingly restored, it features classic motor-court garages and cozy rooms that transport you back to the golden age of American road trips.

Browse by town in New Mexico

The busiest town here is Tucumcari (2). Every listing has photos, opening hours, admission and directions, and the directory grows whenever somebody searches for a stop that isn't in it yet.