Maxwell New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Maxwell, New Mexico.
1. Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge
BIRDING PARADISE
Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary established in 1965 that spans over 3,700 acres of lakes, grasslands, and wetlands. The refuge is considered one of the top 10 birding hotspots in New Mexico, providing unique opportunities to view wildlife in various habitats including short grass prairie and playa lakes. Visitors can spot migratory birds, mule deer, coyotes, pronghorn antelope, and even elk throughout the year, with spring and fall migrations offering the best wildlife viewing experiences.
2. Whiteley Stage Ranch
EXOTIC CAMEL RANCH
Whiteley Stage Ranch is a unique private ranch that raises and sells Bactrian camels, an unusual sight in New Mexico. These two-humped camels, native to the steppes of Central Asia, create a surprising attraction for visitors passing through the area. The ranch also raises Highland Cattle, adding to its exotic livestock offerings.
3. Vermejo Park Ranch
LUXURY WILDERNESS RETREAT
Vermejo Park Ranch is a massive 596,000-acre property owned by Ted Turner that offers luxury villa getaways recognized by Forbes magazine. The ranch provides a wide range of outdoor activities including expeditions, fishing, and hunting experiences in the pristine wilderness. Elevations at Vermejo range from 5,850 feet near Maxwell to 12,931 feet at Big Costilla Peak, creating diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities.
4. Ritamae Inc
LOCAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Ritamae Inc is one of the main shopping venues in the small town of Maxwell. The store provides essential goods and services to locals and travelers passing through the area. It serves as a convenient stop for visitors exploring the Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge and other nearby attractions.
5. Cimarron Candle Company
ARTISANAL CANDLE SHOP
Cimarron Candle Company is a specialty shop offering handcrafted candles and unique gifts near Maxwell. The company creates artisanal candles using traditional methods and local inspirations. Visitors can browse a variety of scents and designs while supporting local craftsmanship.
6. Aztec Mill
HISTORIC MILL MUSEUM
The Aztec Mill is a specialty museum preserving the region's industrial heritage near Maxwell. The historic structure offers visitors insight into the area's economic development and early settlers' ingenuity. Museum exhibits showcase original equipment and tell the story of local commerce and agriculture.
7. Philmont Scout Ranch
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
Philmont Scout Ranch is a prestigious Boy Scouts of America high-adventure base that offers wilderness experiences on its vast property. The ranch provides challenging backpacking treks and outdoor programs that develop leadership skills and environmental appreciation. Visitors can explore nature trails, wildlife areas, and historical sites across the property's extensive grounds.
8. Capulin Volcano National Monument
DORMANT VOLCANO EXPLORATION
Capulin Volcano National Monument preserves a well-formed cinder cone volcano that last erupted approximately 60,000 years ago. Visitors can drive to the rim and hike around the crater or take trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes spanning four states. The monument provides educational exhibits about volcanic geology and the natural history of the region.
9. Aztec Ruins National Monument
ANCIENT PUEBLO DWELLINGS
Aztec Ruins National Monument preserves ancestral Pueblo structures dating back to the 1100s, including a reconstructed Great Kiva. The well-preserved ruins feature original timber roofing and provide insight into the sophisticated engineering and community planning of ancient Puebloan civilizations. Visitors can explore the site through self-guided tours and learn about the culture and daily life of its original inhabitants.
10. Bandelier National Monument
CLIFF DWELLING HERITAGE
Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged canyon and mesa country with evidence of human presence dating back over 11,000 years. The monument features ancestral Puebloan dwellings carved into the soft volcanic tuff of canyon walls, including the impressive Tyuonyi Pueblo and Big Kiva. Visitors can explore numerous trails that lead to archaeological sites, petroglyphs, and spectacular views of the surrounding Jemez Mountains.
11. Express St. James Hotel
HISTORIC HAUNTED HOTEL
The Express St. James Hotel is a historic lodging establishment dating back to 1872 that has hosted notorious Wild West figures including Buffalo Bill, Jesse James, and Wyatt Earp. The hotel is famous for its alleged hauntings and preserved bullet holes in the ceiling from wild gunfights during its frontier days. Visitors can stay overnight in the historic rooms, dine in the restaurant featuring southwestern cuisine, or take a ghost tour to learn about the hotel's colorful past.
12. Kit Carson Museum
FRONTIER LIFE EXHIBITS
The Kit Carson Museum preserves the historic settlement of Rayado and interprets the life of the famous frontiersman Kit Carson. The museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that depict life on the Santa Fe Trail during the mid-19th century. Visitors can explore the restored buildings and learn about the challenges and adventures of frontier life in the American Southwest.
13. UU Bar Express Ranch
WORKING RANCH EXPERIENCE
UU Bar Express Ranch is a historic working cattle ranch that offers authentic western experiences near Maxwell. The ranch combines traditional ranching practices with modern guest accommodations and activities including horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can immerse themselves in ranch life while enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery and open grasslands of northeastern New Mexico.
14. Cimarron Art Gallery
LOCAL ARTISTIC SHOWCASE
Cimarron Art Gallery showcases the work of local and regional artists inspired by the landscapes and culture of northeastern New Mexico. The gallery features a rotating collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and traditional crafts that reflect the area's rich heritage. Visitors can purchase unique artwork as souvenirs and meet local artists during special events and demonstrations.
15. Cold Beer Tavern
HISTORIC WATERING HOLE
The Cold Beer Tavern is a beloved local establishment offering refreshments to travelers along the historic Santa Fe Trail route. The tavern serves cold drinks and simple fare in a rustic atmosphere that preserves the character of old Maxwell. Visitors can mingle with locals, hear stories about the area, and enjoy a relaxing stop after exploring the nearby wildlife refuge.