Moriarty New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Moriarty, New Mexico.
1. US Southwest Soaring Museum
AVIATION HISTORY ON DISPLAY
The US Southwest Soaring Museum showcases the rich history of glider and sailplane aviation in the American Southwest. Visitors can explore numerous restored vintage gliders and learn about the evolution of soaring through interactive exhibits. The museum offers a unique glimpse into this specialized form of flight that takes advantage of New Mexico's exceptional thermal conditions.
2. Lewis Antique Auto & Toy Museum
VINTAGE CARS AND COLLECTIBLES
Lewis Antique Auto & Toy Museum houses an impressive collection of classic automobiles and vintage toys. The museum takes visitors on a nostalgic journey through America's automotive and playtime history. Each exhibit is carefully curated to showcase the craftsmanship and design evolution throughout the decades.
3. McCall's Pumpkin Patch
SEASONAL FAMILY FUN
McCall's Pumpkin Patch is a beloved seasonal attraction offering fall festivities for the whole family. The farm features pumpkin picking, corn mazes, hayrides, and various agricultural activities that celebrate harvest season. This local landmark transforms the high desert landscape into a festive autumn wonderland each year.
4. Sierra Blanca Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Sierra Blanca Brewing offers visitors a taste of New Mexico's craft beer culture in the heart of Moriarty. The brewery produces a variety of handcrafted beers that often incorporate local ingredients and flavors inspired by the Southwest. Guests can enjoy brewery tours, tastings, and a relaxed atmosphere that highlights the region's brewing heritage.
5. Historic Route 66
AMERICA'S MOTHER ROAD
Historic Route 66 runs through Moriarty, offering travelers a glimpse into America's iconic highway history. The route features vintage signage, classic roadside architecture, and numerous photo opportunities that capture the spirit of mid-20th century road travel. Moriarty serves as a perfect stopping point to experience the nostalgia and cultural significance of this famous highway.
6. First Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
First Baptist Church stands as one of Moriarty's notable historical landmarks with distinctive architecture. The church represents an important part of the community's religious heritage and cultural development. Visitors can appreciate both the external design and the peaceful atmosphere that has served local residents for generations.
7. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
STRIKING GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument features remarkable cone-shaped rock formations created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The site offers hiking trails that wind through slot canyons and provide panoramic views of the unique landscape. These distinctive geological wonders, resembling tents with tapering ends, create an otherworldly environment that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
8. Tinkertown Museum
WHIMSICAL FOLK ART COLLECTION
Tinkertown Museum houses the eccentric folk art collection of Ross Ward, featuring intricate hand-carved figures and miniature scenes. The museum itself is constructed from over 50,000 glass bottles and other found objects, creating a magical environment that reflects one artist's vision and decades of creative work. Visitors can explore the detailed miniature circus, western town, and other fantastical displays that bring imagination to life.
9. Sandia Peak Tramway
BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The Sandia Peak Tramway carries passengers on a scenic 2.7-mile aerial journey to the top of the Sandia Mountains. At the summit, visitors are treated to spectacular panoramic views spanning over 11,000 square miles of New Mexico's dramatic landscape. This engineering marvel, one of the world's longest aerial tramways, offers both summer hiking opportunities and winter skiing access.
10. New Mexico Jeep Tours
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE EXPERIENCES
New Mexico Jeep Tours provides guided off-road adventures through the diverse terrain surrounding the Moriarty area. Experienced guides lead visitors to remote locations featuring stunning vistas, geological wonders, and historical sites not accessible by conventional vehicles. Each tour combines natural beauty with cultural and historical insights about the region's unique landscape and heritage.
11. ABQ Trolley Co.
CHARMING CITY TOURS
ABQ Trolley Co. offers entertaining and informative tours of Albuquerque aboard vintage-style trolleys. The tours highlight the city's diverse neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and filming locations used in popular movies and television shows. Guides provide engaging commentary about local history, architecture, and culture while passengers enjoy the nostalgic charm of the trolley experience.
12. Santuario De Guadalupe
HISTORIC SPANISH COLONIAL CHURCH
Santuario De Guadalupe is a historic church built in the late 18th century that now houses a significant collection of religious art. The building represents the oldest shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe in the United States and showcases traditional Spanish Colonial architecture. Inside, visitors can view remarkable retablos, santos, and other religious artifacts that reflect New Mexico's rich cultural heritage.
13. Puye Cliff Dwellings
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Puye Cliff Dwellings preserves the ancestral home of the Santa Clara Pueblo people, with cave dwellings carved into soft volcanic tuff. The archaeological site includes both cliff dwellings and mesa-top structures that were inhabited from the late 1100s to the late 1500s CE. Guided tours led by tribal members provide authentic insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this remarkable historical treasure.
14. Santa Fe Plaza
HISTORIC CITY CENTER
Santa Fe Plaza has served as the city's cultural heart since its founding in 1610, making it one of the oldest public spaces in the United States. The historic square is surrounded by adobe architecture housing museums, galleries, restaurants, and shops selling authentic Native American and Southwestern art. The plaza regularly hosts cultural events, markets, and festivals that celebrate the rich multicultural heritage of New Mexico.
15. Moriarty Foods
LOCAL GROCERY EXPERIENCE
Moriarty Foods serves as the community's essential grocery store, offering visitors a glimpse into local food culture. The store provides a selection of regional specialties alongside everyday necessities, making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through on Route 66. Visitors can find authentic New Mexican ingredients and products that reflect the unique culinary traditions of the area.