Start your trip at White Sands National Park, where you can explore sand dunes that spread over 275 square miles. You can take a walk, go sledding or have a picnic with your family while enjoying the breathtaking views. Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the park has limited amenities.
Explore one of the largest cave chambers in the world, located in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. You can choose to hike down the Natural Entrance or take an elevator to the Big Room where you will see impressive cave formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. If you are lucky, you might spot one of the park's bat colonies exiting the cave at dusk.
Complete your trip by visiting Albuquerque Old Town, the city's historic district. You can explore the San Felipe de Neri Church, shop for souvenirs at the local boutiques, and enjoy a meal with your family at one of the many restaurants. If you are interested in history, visit the Albuquerque Museum or take a guided walking tour.
Consider renting a car for the duration of your trip. It will provide you with flexibility and comfort. The cost of renting a car varies depending on the type of car and the season, but expect to pay around $80 to $120 per day. If you prefer not to drive, you can book a private tour or use public transportation.
If you have more time, consider visiting other attractions in the area such as White Sands Missile Range Museum and Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. On the other hand, if you have less time, prioritize visiting White Sands National Park as it is the main attraction of the trip. Don't forget to check the weather forecast for the duration of your trip, as it can affect your experience.
The main airport in New Mexico is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), located approximately 5 miles from downtown Albuquerque. Other airports include Roswell International Air Center (ROW), located 12 miles south of Roswell, and Las Cruces International Airport (LRU), located 14 miles west of Las Cruces.