Family-Friendly Road Trip in White Sands, NM

Day 1: White Sands Exploration

White Sands, New Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in White Sands to fuel up for a day of adventure.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Included in Hotel Stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore White Sands National Monument

Spend the day exploring the stunning white gypsum sand dunes of White Sands National Monument. Take a scenic drive, hike the trails, and enjoy a picnic amidst the unique landscape.
White Sands National Monument is a 15-minute drive from most hotels in the area.
Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle, 4-6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Picnic Area

Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the surreal beauty of the white sand dunes. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and savor the moment with your family.
Head to a designated picnic area within White Sands National Monument.
Cost of Packed Lunch, 1 hour

2:00PM

Sand Sledding and Playtime

Rent sand sleds and have a fun-filled afternoon sliding down the dunes. Let the kids enjoy playing in the sand and making unforgettable memories.
Rent sand sleds at the visitor center and find a suitable dune for sledding.
Sled Rental: $10 per sled, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax and Enjoy Sunset

Find a serene spot to relax and witness the breathtaking sunset over the white sands. Take photos and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the desert.
Drive to a scenic viewpoint within the monument for the best sunset views.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious dinner after a day of exploration. Try local Southwestern cuisine and unwind with your family.
Drive to a recommended restaurant in the area.
Approx. $20-30 per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Nearby Attractions & Return

White Sands, New Mexico

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with another delicious breakfast at the hotel, preparing for a day of exploring nearby attractions.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Included in Hotel Stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit White Sands Missile Range Museum

Learn about the history of the White Sands Missile Range at the museum. Discover fascinating exhibits and artifacts related to missile testing and space exploration.
The museum is a 30-minute drive from White Sands National Monument.
Free Admission, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming local cafe near the museum. Taste some regional specialties and relax before heading back.
Drive to a recommended cafe in the vicinity.
Approx. $15-20 per person, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Alkali Flat Trail

Take a scenic hike on the Alkali Flat Trail, known for its unique terrain and panoramic views. Capture the beauty of the desert landscape and enjoy some family bonding time.
The trailhead is a short drive from the museum.
Free, 2-3 hours

4:00PM

Return Journey to El Paso

Bid farewell to White Sands as you start your journey back to El Paso. Reflect on the amazing experiences and memories created during your family road trip.
Drive back to El Paso, which is approximately a 1.5-hour journey.
Gas and Travel Expenses, 1.5 hours
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