Engaging Learning Opportunities for All Ages Create Exciting, Multi-Generational Itineraries
Alamogordo, NM – July 1, 2019 – This summer, pack up the kids and bring grandma and grandpa along for a multi-generational experience that’ll transform your adventures into immersive learning opportunities for inquisitive kids and kids at heart. A cultural and historical gem of southern New Mexico, Alamogordo offers a wide array of interesting attractions—from museums and tours to strolls down a historic main street—that’ll allow you to step away from phones and computer screens and discover an enchanting area offering explorations for every member of the family.
“Alamogordo is the epicenter of the Tularosa Basin,” said Michelle Brideaux, Communications & Marketing Administrator for the City of Alamogordo. “It is the ideal base to dive into all that our historic region offers. In addition to the impact the Native American culture and landscape have on our region, you can also learn how Alamogordo played an important role in the atomic and space ages. With many families seeking vacations and getaways that inspire and engage everyone in their party—spanning generations—Alamogordo offers cultural adventures that’ll wow adults and provide history lessons for kids to have a blast, while avoiding the summer academic backslide.”
The Tularosa Basin itself presents an opportunity to learn. Part of the Chihuahuan Desert, this region was once grasslands controlled by Apache. The “basin” in its name comes from the fact that it is a limited drainage basin that normally retains water into lakes and allows no outflow to other bodies of waters like rivers or oceans. This now arid region is bordered on the east by the Sacramento Mountains and to the west by the Organ Mountains.
The Tularosa Basin Museum of History is an eye-opening starting point to learn more about the depth of the area’s past. The museum preserves and promotes the local history of Sacramento communities, including Alamogordo. Here you can learn about the early Native Americans who lived in the area and gain information on other local attractions—like White Sands National Monument and La Luz Pottery—as well as see artifacts and read stories from the days of early man to Alamogordo’s role in the atomic and space ages.
Blast off into an expedition on Alamogordo’s role in the space age at the New Mexico Museum of Space History. This world-class museum is devoted to the history, science and technology of space travel. See rare replicas of the first man-made satellites, Sputnik and Explorer, and an authentic “moon rock” before taking in the permanent exhibits showcasing the history of rocketry. While there, enjoy a family favorite—trying on space suits to see how you’d look as an astronaut. An integral part of the museum, the International Space Hall of Fame recognizes the accomplishments of people around the world who have contributed to the quest for space. Established in 1976, the institution inducts at least one person each fall. Past inductees include New Mexican astronauts Harrison Schmitt from Silver City and Edgar Mitchell from Artesia.
While your head is still in the stars, visit the museum’s New Horizons Dome Theater and Planetarium to take in a show on the world’s first Spitz Scidome 4k Laser full-dome planetarium projection system that showcases the vast beauty of the universe in a whole new way. The theater offers two digital planetarium shows daily, as well as a live star show and giant screen films. Museum educators are available to help you explore the solar system, stars and the universe. You can learn about the constellations, the causes of the seasons, and even why some planets appear to move backwards in the night sky.
When you’re ready to come back to earth, there are plenty of activities in and around Alamogordo. Stroll down the historic MainStreet that is being restored back to its original grandeur for a glimpse of the town’s past.
For art lovers, the La Luz Pottery Tour is a must-see. This 150-acre property in La Luz New Mexico featured a factory that created over 90 styles of pottery that were actively collected around the world before it closed in 1949. Built in 1930, many of the original buildings and equipment are still intact, and tours of the property are available through the Tularosa Basin Museum of History.
“Whether you’re a history buff, science geek or an art lover, Alamogordo has something for everyone,” added Brideaux. “And, most of all, it’s a great place to spend time together, while sharing learning experiences with your kids and making incredible memories. We have everything you need to make your vacation an adventure tailored to your unique interests.”
Alamogordo offers activities, amenities and attractions for the entire family. Complete your visit by enjoying locally grown nuts and local wines, treating the family to a visit to the new Rocket City Fun Center, visiting the Toy Train Depot Museum, exploring the world-famous Alameda Park Zoo, or learning about the military at the American Armed Forces Museum.
For more information on all there is to see and do in Alamogordo, or to plan your summer vacation, go to www.alamogordonmtrue.com.