Artesia, New Mexico, a gem nestled in the southeastern part of the state, proudly embraces its title as #AbsolutelyAttractive. For those living here or planning a visit, Artesia offers a wealth of picture-perfect spots and experiences. The city thrives thanks to its robust oil and gas industry, alongside dedicated farming, ranching, agriculture, and railroad sectors, all contributing to the vibrant and appealing atmosphere of Artesia, New Mexico.
Named for World-Famous Artesian Wells and More to Explore
Artesia Chamber and Visitors Center
Founded in 1905 and named after its abundant artesian water wells, Artesia, New Mexico, boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round. Begin your exploration at the Artesia Visitor Center, where you can pick up a Walking Tour guide. This guide will lead you through the city, uncovering impressive bronze statues that narrate Artesia’s rich history. Don’t miss Heritage Walkway, a captivating display of murals and tile work depicting the city’s past. In the summer evenings, Heritage Walkway transforms into a family-friendly outdoor movie venue. For a moment of reflection, pay a visit to Baish Veterans Park, a place of respect and remembrance.
For sports enthusiasts, cheering on the Artesia High Bulldogs is a must. Experience the excitement at the World Famous Bulldog Bowl, a football stadium recognized in a 1993 issue of National Geographic. Jaycee Park, spanning over 180 acres, offers a wide array of recreational facilities, including sports fields, a ¾-mile track, workout equipment, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Eagle Draw has evolved into another popular outdoor space, featuring a 3.2-mile paved trail perfect for walking, jogging, or training. To beat the New Mexico heat, the state-of-the-art Aquatic Center provides a refreshing escape with its modern facilities. Artesia also hosts free outdoor festivals like Red Dirt Black Gold and the Balloons and Tunes Festival, drawing families from near and far. Even on less sunny days, Artesia provides excellent indoor attractions.
Delve into local culture at the Artesia Historical Museum and Art Center and the Artesia Public Library, recognized as “New Mexico’s Most Beautiful Library.” After enjoying dinner at one of Artesia’s local restaurants, complete your evening with a show or concert at the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center, the perfect culmination to a date night or day of exploration.
Discover the Charm of Artesia MainStreet
Artesia MainStreet offers a diverse shopping and dining experience, providing almost anything you could desire without the typical mall environment. This vibrant district is where community life, business, art, and entertainment converge. Downtown Artesia’s eclectic mix of businesses and organizations forms the heart of the city, driving the economic, civic, and creative energy that the community proudly showcases.
A stroll along Main Street reveals eleven life-size bronze statues, each a piece of art depicting a chapter of Artesia’s history. Along with these artistic landmarks, you’ll discover numerous eateries, unique shops, and comfortable lodging options. If your itinerary allows, attending a performance at the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center is highly recommended. Originally a movie theater from 1932, the Ocotillo underwent significant renovations in 2008 and now hosts a variety of performances, from touring professional entertainers and world music to children’s productions, dance performances, and educational and cultural events for all ages.
Reflecting its community-focused mission, the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center is also available for rent, ideal for private events, business meetings, and presentations, making it a versatile venue in Artesia.
Artesia: Home to New Mexico’s Most Beautiful Library and Unique Attractions
Just a short distance from Main Street, the Artesia Public Library stands out with its distinctive roofline, designed to mirror the mountain horizon to the west. Inside, visitors can admire a significant fresco mural by renowned New Mexico artist Peter Hurd. This mural, created in the Fresco-buon style in the 1950s, was originally housed in a building in downtown Houston. Measuring approximately 47 feet wide and 15 feet tall and weighing nearly 25 tons, it is a must-see artwork when visiting Artesia. Be sure to inquire about the fascinating journey of this mural from Houston to its current home in New Mexico.
Artesia’s new Aquatic Center also incorporates local history into its design. It features thrilling tube slides, an oil derrick-themed splash pad, two indoor pools, and an outdoor, bulldog-shaped pool complete with a lazy river as its collar—a playful nod to the Artesia High School mascot. The Aquatic Center also offers indoor space for private rentals, suitable for events, training sessions, and business gatherings.
Plan your visit to Artesia and Southeast New Mexico around the numerous events hosted throughout the year. The calendar is filled with parades, fairs, car shows, fireworks displays, BBQ competitions, red dirt concerts, craft shows, sporting clay events, and even hot air balloon festivals. Check the local website calendar for specific details and dates to make the most of your trip.
When you combine all that Artesia, New Mexico offers, you’ll find the perfect Southwestern adventure awaiting you in the heart of the Pecos Valley.
