Tatum New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tatum, New Mexico.
1. Footprints in the Sand Monument
MOVING PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION
The Tatum Footprints in the Sand Monument is a public artwork created by American artist Jim Gary, consisting of two large concrete footprints measuring approximately 16 feet long by 6 feet wide. The footprints are spaced about 10 feet apart and represent a person's footsteps in the sand. This monument was dedicated on September 11, 2011, exactly ten years after the 9/11 attacks.
2. Poor Boy's Metal Art
LOCAL ARTISAN METALWORK
Poor Boy's Metal Art showcases intricate metal designs that can be seen throughout Tatum, adorning street signs, business signs, and other structures. Visitors can admire the beautiful craftsmanship that has become a distinctive feature of the town's aesthetic. The detailed metalwork represents local artistic talent and contributes to Tatum's unique visual identity.
3. Hinsley Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Hinsley Park serves as a central gathering place for Tatum residents and visitors alike. The park offers recreational facilities and open green spaces for outdoor activities and community events. It provides a pleasant environment for families to relax and enjoy nature within the town.
4. Tex Ritter Museum
COUNTRY MUSIC HERITAGE
The Tex Ritter Museum is dedicated to the life and career of country music legend Tex Ritter, featuring artifacts and memorabilia including stage costumes, instruments, awards, and personal belongings. Visitors can explore audio and video recordings of Ritter's performances, as well as photographs and other archival materials. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with free admission for all visitors.
5. Belmont Inn and Suites
COMFORTABLE LODGING OPTION
Belmont Inn and Suites offers travelers a comfortable accommodation option while visiting Tatum and exploring the surrounding attractions. The hotel serves as a convenient base for tourists interested in experiencing the local culture and sights. Guests appreciate its proximity to various points of interest in the area.
6. Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
NATIVE WILDLIFE SHOWCASE
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park, located approximately 70 miles from Tatum, features native wildlife and plants of the Chihuahuan Desert. Visitors can explore well-maintained walking trails that wind through various habitats showcasing regional flora and fauna. The park provides an educational experience about desert ecosystems through its exhibits and knowledgeable staff.
7. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND WONDERS
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, about 80 miles from Tatum, is home to over 119 limestone caves formed when sulfuric acid dissolved the surrounding limestone. The Big Room is one of the largest natural limestone chambers in the world and offers visitors an awe-inspiring underground experience. Daily bat flights (seasonal) provide a natural spectacle as thousands of bats emerge from the cave entrance at dusk.
8. Hobbs Western Heritage Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Hobbs Western Heritage Museum, approximately 30 miles from Tatum, preserves and displays artifacts related to the cultural and historical development of the region. Exhibits showcase the ranching, farming, and oil industry heritage that shaped this part of New Mexico. Visitors gain insight into the pioneering spirit and everyday life of those who settled the area in earlier times.
9. Lea County Event Center
REGIONAL ENTERTAINMENT HUB
The Lea County Event Center hosts a variety of entertainment options including concerts, sporting events, trade shows, and community gatherings. Located in Hobbs, about 30 miles from Tatum, this modern facility attracts visitors from throughout the region. The venue's calendar features diverse programming that appeals to different interests and age groups throughout the year.
10. Harry McAdams State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Harry McAdams State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts fishing, picnicking, and walking trails just a short drive from Tatum. The park features a lake stocked with fish and scenic areas ideal for family outings and nature appreciation. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wildlife viewing opportunities in this natural setting.
11. Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack combines gaming excitement with horse racing in a comprehensive entertainment destination near Tatum. The facility features slot machines, table games, seasonal live horse racing, and multiple dining options under one roof. Visitors can enjoy the hotel accommodations and entertainment offerings for a complete leisure experience.
12. Lovington Mainstreet
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Lovington Mainstreet, about 20 miles from Tatum, offers visitors a charming downtown area with historic buildings, local shops, and eateries. The district hosts community events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals that showcase local culture. Visitors can experience small-town New Mexico while browsing unique stores and enjoying local cuisine.
13. Lea County Museum
REGIONAL HISTORICAL COLLECTION
The Lea County Museum in Lovington preserves the rich history of the region through exhibits housed in historic buildings including the old courthouse. Displays feature artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of settlement, ranching, and the oil boom in southeastern New Mexico. Visitors gain appreciation for the area's development and the diverse cultures that have contributed to its heritage.
14. Maddux Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Maddux Park in Lovington provides recreational facilities including playground equipment, sports fields, and picnic areas for families. The well-maintained grounds offer a pleasant environment for outdoor activities just a short drive from Tatum. Community events and gatherings frequently take place in this popular park throughout the year.
15. Blackwater Draw Museum
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
The Blackwater Draw Museum, located about 60 miles from Tatum, showcases artifacts and exhibits from one of North America's most significant Paleoindian archaeological sites. Visitors can learn about the Clovis culture and early human occupation in the region dating back more than 13,000 years. The museum provides fascinating insights into prehistoric life through professionally curated displays and educational materials.