Lake Arthur New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lake Arthur, New Mexico.
1. Ozark Trails Marker
HISTORIC HIGHWAY MONUMENT
The Ozark Trails Marker is a 21-foot tall obelisk built in 1921 that stands at the junction of Main and Broadway Streets in Lake Arthur. It recognizes the Ozark Trail, an early roadway supported by state-level automobile associations, and is the only surviving marker in New Mexico. This rare artifact of early highway development was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.
2. Lake Arthur Elementary School
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL LANDMARK
Lake Arthur Elementary School, built in 1906, is the oldest continuously used school building in the state of New Mexico. The historic building features its original bell tower and has been memorialized on the register of historic places. It stands as an iconic piece of Lake Arthur history and represents the educational heritage of the community.
3. Street Sculptures
PUBLIC ART DISPLAY
Street Sculptures in Lake Arthur offer visitors an artistic outdoor experience with a 4.7/5 rating from 127 reviews. These monuments and statues are scattered throughout the town, adding cultural and artistic value to the community. Visitors can enjoy these public art displays while exploring the streets of Lake Arthur.
4. Artesia Public Library
MODERN COMMUNITY RESOURCE
Artesia Public Library serves as a contemporary community resource center near Lake Arthur with extensive collections and services. The library offers a welcoming space for readers, researchers, and community members to gather and access information. Its modern facilities include digital resources, community programs, and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
5. Pecos River Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RIVER ACTIVITIES
The Pecos River Recreation Area provides multiple outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, and hiking near Lake Arthur. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Pecos River while exploring the surrounding landscape and wildlife. The recreation area serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor adventures in southeastern New Mexico.
6. Artesia Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Artesia Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region surrounding Lake Arthur. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits highlighting the oil industry, ranching heritage, and pioneer life in southeastern New Mexico. Visitors can explore the evolution of the area from its early settlements to the present day through engaging displays and informative presentations.
7. Heritage Walkway
DOWNTOWN HISTORICAL PATH
Heritage Walkway in downtown Artesia offers a self-guided tour through the area's history with bronze sculptures and informational plaques. The walkway features artistic installations depicting significant historical figures and events relevant to the region including Lake Arthur. Visitors can stroll through this outdoor gallery to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of southeastern New Mexico.
8. Ocotillo Performing Arts Center
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Ocotillo Performing Arts Center serves as the cultural hub for the region including Lake Arthur, hosting live performances, concerts, and theatrical productions. The renovated historic theater blends vintage charm with modern amenities to provide an exceptional entertainment experience. The center's diverse programming includes local talent showcases, touring artists, and educational workshops throughout the year.
9. Artesia Country Club
GOLF AND RECREATION
Artesia Country Club offers a scenic 18-hole golf course and recreational facilities accessible to visitors from Lake Arthur and surrounding communities. The well-maintained grounds feature challenging fairways, practice areas, and a clubhouse with dining options. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the beautiful desert landscape views while playing a round on this premier course in southeastern New Mexico.
10. Cottonwood Wine and Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEVERAGES
Cottonwood Wine and Brewing creates handcrafted wines and beers using traditional methods and local ingredients near Lake Arthur. The establishment offers tastings in a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can sample unique regional flavors and learn about the brewing and winemaking processes. Their selection includes award-winning varieties that showcase the distinctive characteristics of New Mexico's terroir.
11. The Wellhead Restaurant
OIL-THEMED FINE DINING
The Wellhead Restaurant combines fine dining with oil industry themes in a unique culinary experience near Lake Arthur. The menu features premium steaks, seafood, and southwestern specialties prepared with local ingredients and creative flair. Diners enjoy the distinctive atmosphere that celebrates the region's petroleum heritage through thoughtful décor and memorabilia displays.
12. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
MAJESTIC DESERT WILDERNESS
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located within driving distance of Lake Arthur, features the four highest peaks in Texas and showcases stunning desert landscapes. The park offers over 80 miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems including woodlands, canyons, and desert terrain. Visitors can explore Guadalupe Peak, El Capitan, McKittrick Canyon, and ancient fossil reef formations from the Permian period.
13. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
NATIVE WILDLIFE SHOWCASE
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park exhibits native plants and animals of the Chihuahuan Desert in naturalistic habitats near Lake Arthur. Visitors can observe species such as mountain lions, bison, elk, and various reptiles while walking through carefully designed botanical gardens. The park combines entertainment with education through interactive displays and guided tours focusing on desert ecology and conservation.
14. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Carlsbad Caverns National Park features over 119 limestone caves formed millions of years ago, accessible as a day trip from Lake Arthur. The Big Room, a massive underground chamber, showcases spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and other dramatic formations illuminated by strategic lighting. Visitors can choose self-guided or ranger-led tours through the caverns and witness the evening bat flight program during summer months.
15. Roswell UFO Museum
EXTRATERRESTRIAL INVESTIGATION CENTER
The Roswell UFO Museum and Research Center documents the famous 1947 UFO incident and subsequent investigations within driving distance from Lake Arthur. Exhibits display newspaper clippings, affidavits, personal accounts, and physical evidence related to the alleged alien spacecraft crash. The museum attracts visitors from around the world interested in UFO phenomena and has become an iconic cultural destination in New Mexico.