Carlsbad, NM: Gateway to the Beautiful Underworld
People converge on Carlsbad in Eddy County, New Mexico, usually for one thing: the famous Carlsbad Caverns National Park, one of the largest natural underground chambers in the world, with bat-filled caves and intricate cave formations. But that certainly is not the only thing you’ll fall in love with Carlsbad, NM. Fly directly to Carlsbad to Cavern City Air Terminal, which has a non-stop service from Albuquerque. Else, you can fly in via El Paso International then take a 2.5 hr drive east thru U.S. Highway 62.
Best Time to Visit
The semiarid climate of Carlsbad, NM makes it a year-round destination, though summer can be searing hot and crowded. It becomes quieter by October, with the quietest months being around January-February. This might give you the best travel deals for Carlsbad, NM hotels, but note that some services may shut down during this time.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Of course, you’re not going to Carlsbad, New Mexico, if not for the behemoth of a limestone cavern, claimed to be one of the most beautiful in the world. Explore any of over 80 caves within the park and gawk at the stunning cave formations. Still not tired? Head further west to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for stunning desert landscape and wildlife, or relax by the Sitting Bull Falls slightly north of the park. Closer to the city is Living Desert State Park, which features Maggie Oso, the painting bear. For the quirky traveler, head 80 miles north to the UFO mecca of Roswell. After all that great outdoors, reenergize yourself at the selection of hotels, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites Carlsbad or the Sleep Inn & Suites, then head downtown for shopping and dining (Mexican food!) options beside Lake Carlsbad Beach Park.