Carlsbad, New Mexico Tourism Facts

Carlsbad, New Mexico Tourism Facts

carlsbad lake image by louloua asgaraly from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Located in the southeast corner of the state, the city of Carlsbad, New Mexico sits along the Pecos River and has a population of 25,000. Tourists choose to visit Carlsbad for its recreational opportunities and low-key, "small town" vibe.

Access

Travelers can reach Carlsbad by U.S. Route 60/180 and U.S. Route 62/180.

Parks

Carlsbad is situated 27 miles from Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which offers visitors guided tours of 116 underground caves as well as hiking opportunities. It is also known for its enormous bat colony. Carlsbad is only 13 miles south of Brantley Lake State Park, where fisherman flock to catch bass, bluegill and walleye pike. On the northwest side of town, tourists can visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.

Local Scenery

The territorial-style aesthetic of Carlsbad attracts tourists looking for a leisurely vacation. Because of its location on the Pecos River, the town has almost three miles of beaches and riverside pathways, lined with elegant homes. In the town square, visitors can see a Pueblo-style courthouse designed by John Gaw Meem.

Christmas on the Pecos

From Thanksgiving to New Year's Eve, visitors pour into Carlsbad for "Christmas on the Pecos," a popular event where guests can enjoy nightly boat tours down the Pecos River, taking in the decorated backyards of local estates.

Accommodations

To accommodate tourists, Carlsbad has ample lodging including a Best Western Inn, the Ocatillo Inn and the Carlsbad Super 8. Restaurants in town provide cuisine including Chinese, Mexican and barbecue.

Article Written By Tom Ryan

Tom Ryan is a freelance writer, editor and English tutor. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English writing, and has also worked as an arts and entertainment reporter with "The Pitt News" and a public relations and advertising copywriter with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.

Write for Trails.com
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