Feeding the Masses
When you take a family vacation to Carlsbad Caverns, there are so many things that you have to think about. First, you must figure out how you plan to get there, especially since the closest major airport is in El Paso, TX. If you plan to fly to the area, you will certainly need to rent a car. Then you have to think about hotels in Carlsbad, NM or the surrounding area. Remember that Carlsbad is actually located over twenty miles from the entrance to the park, so you might need to search for towns that are closer, like Whites City.
Once you have arrived in Carlsbad, NM, you might think that all of the planning comes to an end, but you would be wrong. The first time someone mentions that they’re hungry, you’ll realize that there are several meals for which you will need to plan. Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants in the area and they are ready to cater to any taste and budget.
For your breakfast, you can check out the Blue House Bakery and Café for a range of excellent baked goods and pastries. The café serves up bagels, croissants, and breads that will go perfectly with your coffee. You can also try the No Whiner Diner for hot foods like pancakes and eggs.
If you enjoy an ethnic meal, then you can check out Mi Casita for some flavorful Mexican fare. You can find some stellar dishes at the Pecos River Café or the Cortez Restaurant, as well. These restaurants offer casual dining prices, too, so you can take the whole family without burning all the cash in your wallet.
Don’t forget to check out the true flagships of the Carlsbad dining experience. The Stock Exchange and Old City Hall is considered the best in Carlsbad, and the Trinity Hotel will take you back in time as you savor a gourmet meal.
September 8, 2010 No Comments
Entertaining the Kids
It’s something that every parent faces when planning the family vacation. What will keep the kids occupied and happy? You can certainly take care of your downtime by choosing Carlsbad, NM motels that feature swimming pools, fitness centers, cable television, and children’s activities. There are several hotels in Whites City and Carlsbad, NM that feature these amenities, and you might even find one that is located near a mini golf course or an ice cream parlor.
With your downtime taken care of, you then need to consider how to get the kids excited about the activities and learning experiences during the day. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is no stranger to kids at all, and there are dozens of activities that are designed specifically for kids under the age of sixteen. These learning experiences will teach your kids all about the ecosystems located in the park, the history of Carlsbad Caverns, and the wildlife that they might see.
You can’t forget the caves, too! The caves at Carlsbad Caverns are perfect for children with overactive imaginations. The Spider Cave is especially popular among children, because it gives them a chance to crawl around and squeeze through tight spots. Within moments, your young one will feel like a spelunker discovering his or her very first cavern.
Keep in mind that there are a few caverns that do not allow children under the age of twelve. When a park makes a rule that keeps children out, you can be certain that it is for the child’s safety. Encourage your children to obey all rules and listen to any Rangers when instructions are given. The Carlsbad Caverns are lovely, mysterious, and fascinating, but they can also be dangerous. The kids will love every second of the trip, as long as everyone stays safe.
September 4, 2010 No Comments
Do Something Different in Carlsbad
Everyone knows that Carlsbad Caverns National Park is the most popular thing to do in Carlsbad, NM. With thousands of acres to explore and hundreds of caverns to capture imaginations of the young and old, it’s no wonder that thousands of people flock to the area, book rooms in Carlsbad, NM motels, and spend their entire week at Carlsbad Caverns.
If you’re looking to do something a little bit different on your family vacation, though, then there are few spooky and spine-tingling things that you can find. With Halloween quickly approaching, ghosts and spirits can grab the imagination and not let go. Believe it or not, Carlsbad, NM is a hotbed of supernatural activity! Well, if you believe in that sort of thing, that is.
Carlsbad and New Mexico are both considered part of the Old West, which probably brings to mind visions of cowboys, lawmen, and saloons. You wouldn’t be too far from the truth, either. The city held onto its illustrious past for as long as it possibly could, and you can still see plenty of history around every corner. Carlsbad isn’t a large city by many standards, but there are plenty of buildings that house the past while welcoming the future.
For instance, the Trinity Hotel, which is located in the center of the city, was once an old bank building. It’s also notorious for the many spirits that supposedly still cling to it. The names aren’t known, but we do know that Pat Garrett, the man that killed Billy the Kid, used to have an office in the building. Perhaps the unusual sounds and inexplicable events are his doing? If it is him, then he’s a busy ghost. His house, which still exists in Carlsbad, is also reportedly haunted. When you add in the cemetery and a haunted hospital-turned-police department, then there are plenty of ghosts to keep you awake at night.
September 1, 2010 No Comments
Carlsbad NM Is for Lovers
New Mexico is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful states in the nation. The Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a popular destination for vacationing families, but the city can be a romantic getaway, too. With such beautiful surroundings and a night sky that will take your breath away, Carlsbad, NM might be just what you need to rekindle your romance.
There are dozens of things to see and do in the area, including the Carlsbad Caverns, which is surrounded by the gorgeous Chihuahuan Desert and the majestic Guadalupe Mountains. You and your loved one can while away the hours while observing the wildlife and indigenous plants, and then you can enjoy a picnic under the stars. There is also the Carlsbad River Walk, White’s Animal Kingdom, and the Living Desert State Park. The scenery is stark and beautiful, making it the perfect setting for a honeymoon or an anniversary trip.
For hotels in Carlsbad, NM, you can choose one of several bed and breakfasts that are located in the area or the sumptuous Hotel Artesia, which is located just a short drive away. There are dozens of Carlsbad, NM motels from which to choose, and many of them offer excellent amenities, such as fitness rooms, spa tubs, and swimming pools. You and your loved one can relax after a long day under the New Mexico sun.
The restaurants are top-notch, as well. You can choose romantic dining at the Trinity Hotel, or you can seek out casual eateries where you can really let your hair down. There are ethnic restaurants, steakhouses with prime cuts of beef, award-winning barbecue joints, and classic bakeries that serve up pastries and delicious coffee. With all of these amazing perks, why wouldn’t you consider Carlsbad, NM for your next romantic getaway?
August 30, 2010 No Comments
Where to Stay in Carlsbad, NM
If you are planning a trip to Carlsbad, NM, then you are surely looking for the best hotels and motels in the area. A good night sleep in a comfortable and quiet room is just as important as any other aspect of a journeyer’s voyage.
For one of the best motels in the area, you might turn your thoughts to the Super 9 Motel Carlsbad, which is just a short distance from the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. You will enjoy a free hot breakfast buffet every morning of your stay here, as well as an outdoor pool, patio, and a few picnic tables. Other Carlsbad, NM motels include Motel 6, the Caverns Motel, and America’s Best Value Inn.
A fantastic hotel in the area is the Comfort Inn Carlsbad. This hotel located right by the Pecos River offers hot coffee, newspapers, as well as a scrumptious breakfast bar. M You can enjoy the indoor heated pool all year long, as well as the bubbling Jacuzzi. For those of you worried about your waistlines (even on vacation!) the hotel also has a gym available. This hotel does offer some pet-friendly rooms in case you are traveling with Fido. Other hotels in Carlsbad, NM include the Best Western Stevens Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, the Trinity Hotel and the Great Western Inn.
Other places you may consider staying in are the area’s local bed and breakfast inns. Heritage Inn is a charming gem. Romantic rooms and modern amenities like cable and Internet make this selection a great choice. Other places in the Carlsbad area that you may wish to look into include local cabins and cottages. If you are more adventurous, you might want to look into camping out under the vast New Mexico sky. You can even camp in the backcountry of Carlsbad Caverns once you obtain a permit.
No matter where in Carlsbad you stay, you are sure to find the hospitality pleasing and your trip memorable.
August 18, 2010 No Comments
What is the Weather Like in Carlsbad, NM?
If you are planning a vacation to Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico then you are probably wondering what the best time of the year is to go, and what to pack for your journey. The caverns stay a chilly 56-degrees all year long. Yes, that means even in the hottest of hot summer months. Even if you are arriving on one of the blazing hot days, remember to carry a sweater with you if you are venturing down into the caves. No matter when you come down, remember to wear comfortable and sensible shoes. You don’t want to walk down potentially slippery paths in ten-inch high heels! If you are going on one of the more in-depth tours, other items such as hiking boots, gloves, and flashlights may be required.
The summer’s average high temperature’s range from the low to mid 90’s and there is a higher chance of rain, so be sure to pack accordingly. Summer time brings with it beautiful dessert wildflowers and blooms. You might be more apt to spot wildlife in the evening hours when things have cooled off, but be sure to keep your eyes peeled all day long. If you will be in the park in the months of July and August do not miss the nightly flights of the bats!
What about the fall months? Fall is such a lovely time of year with the crisp days and chilly nights and Carlsbad, NM is no exception. Pack for weather in the 70’s or below. You can even camp in the area up to seven days once you have obtained a permit. There is nothing like cool fall nights spent under a blanket of endless stars.
For more information on weather and other advice, be sure to visit the Carlsbad Caverns National Park website. The best advice for packing is: don’t forget that camera!
August 16, 2010 No Comments
The Ins and Outs of Traveling to Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Are you excited about going to see the Carlsbad Caverns? There is plenty to like about this natural attraction. It’s just as exciting as any roller coaster. In fact, it’s like the perfect combination of a suspenseful “ride” and a relaxing nature walk. Here are some pointers to keep in mind.
You can find a snack bar and cafeteria at the visitor’s center of the park. The Big Cave area has a lunchroom within its chambers. Note that food isn’t allowed in the rest of the cave area. You can also find numerous restaurants around White City and right before the park entrance.
What about Carlsbad, NM motels and luxury hotels in Carlsbad, NM? White City is the best place to go, as it is right before the park’s entrance and has many modern conveniences. Some of the most notable names include Best Western Guadalupe Inn (with pools, spas, etc.), Days Inn and Comfort Inn. One of the greatest joys when you come to the park is camping, not luxury living. While you cannot camp out in an RV or car inside the park, backcountry camping is allowed. However, you have to exercise caution in these circumstances.
Please ignore any vendors trying to sell you cave formations along the way to the park. They are not authorized and are little more than “cave vandals.” Is the Carlsbad Caverns safe? Yes, most of the rooms are completely safe, if a bit challenging because of the hike. There are some parts of the trail that may be steep (and wet). If you are doing some “backcountry” style visiting, then make sure you come properly equipped. Rock climbing by nature can be dangerous. However, there certainly is an abundance of touristy areas throughout the caverns.
Come see the modern miracle that is Carlsbad Caverns National Park!
August 13, 2010 No Comments
The Basics for Enjoying Your Trip to the Carlsbad Caverns
If you are planning a trip to the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you are sure to have a fantastic time. However, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to make your trip go smoothly.
The fees to enter the Carlsbad Caverns Park are six dollars for adults. Children below the age of 15 get in for free. There is an additional cost for ranger-guided tours. You can pack your lunch and enjoy the provided picnic tables outside while enjoying the beautiful weather. If you are traveling with young ones (or the young at heart) you may want to try out the food in the underground lunchroom. There is also a restaurant in the visitor’s center. Remember to pack your camera, as they are allowed inside the caverns. Cameras are restricted during nightly bat flights, however.
If you were thinking about getting a hotel in the park, think again! There are no hotels or motels inside the park, other than camping ground. A permit is required if you decide to stay and camp. There are Hotels in Carlsbad, NM outside of the park. Your lovable pooch cannot go down into the caverns with you, unfortunately. Do not under any circumstances leave your beloved pet in the car! It can quickly reach killing temperatures, especially in the summer months. There is a kennel inside of the visitor’s center, which you can use for a very small fee. Guests in wheelchairs can enjoy the big room tour. There are pamphlets at the information center with the recommended routes, so you can avoid steep inclines.
Be sure to check ahead for special events that may be going on during your visit so that you can plan ahead and enjoy them! There is a bat flight breakfast (soon to be nearing its 54th year of watching the bats fly home from a night of feasting) as well as star parties, and lantern-guided tours.
Now you know the basics of Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, you can look forward to having a great vacation!
August 11, 2010 No Comments
Road Tripping In New Mexico
Are you considering hitting the road and exploring the great wide open? New Mexico should definitely be on the top of your road trip list as there is plenty to see and do. The Roswell UFO Festival is sure to make for a memorable stop on your New Mexico road trip. Every year “true believers” as well as skeptics and the simply curious join together for an out of this world fun time! There are parades, fireworks, alien costume contests (how can you be sure those are just costumes?), as well as lectures and special guests.
Another must see stop for your road trip is the Carlsbad Caverns. Here you can take guided tours and learn all about the deep dark caverns. You can also hike desert trails and see thousands of bats take wing at dusk. Beautiful native foliage can be enjoyed year round, as well as spotting indigenous animal life. When you have had your fill of the park for the day or weekend (and the car has become too cramped) you can stop at any of the Carlsbad, NM motels or hotels in the area. There are also local area camping sites and RV parks if you decide you want to enjoy a little more than the city has to offer.
Another road trip adventure many are still enjoying is driving down old Route 66. You can drive through long abandoned ghost towns that died out when the highway was moved. Nearby fun stops are also La Bajada Hill, Uranium Café, the Blue Swallow Motel, Teepee Curios, and a hat shaped restaurant called La Cita. Every road tripper needs to have driven on Route 66 at least once in his or her life.
So whether it is Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Route 66, or Roswell, you now know that there is plenty of road trip fun to be had in New Mexico!
August 9, 2010 No Comments
Honeymoon Fun in Carlsbad, NM
Many brides are searching for a honeymoon destination not too far from home. If you are living in the beautiful state of New Mexico and have yet to enjoy the Carlsbad Caverns National Park then you are in luck.
At first, the thought of a “cave” doesn’t sound very romantic. However, when you arrive at the beautiful desert national park that is nestled in the Guadalupe Mountains, you are sure to change your mind. Walking arm-in-arm in the cool air with your beloved down a lit paved trail, gazing at the beauties of nature that took millions of years to create, you will appreciate the aura of romance the caves offer. Dazzling stalagmites and stalactites in such rooms as the King’s Palace are sure to impress. On the guided tours, the rangers will often turn off all of the lights and allow everyone to really get a feel for the true darkness of the cave. Sounds like the perfect time to steal a kiss from your honey!
For active couples Carlsbad, NM offers a lot of adventurous fun! Desert hikes and camping in the wild do have their appeal. Fishing and swimming in the Pecos River, as well as canoeing or boating can be a memorable honeymoon day. Then finish the day watching a flight of bats leave the caves at dusk! Even enjoying one of the park’s “Star Party” events can be a memorable night. There are over 350 different species of birds and 67 different types of mammals to look for. Wildflowers dominate the area in late summer after heavy rains, but the area is truly beautiful all year round.
When a day of sightseeing and fun in the park comes to an end, then you can head back to the comforts of the Hotels in Carlsbad, NM. Villas, cottages, hotels, motels, cabins, and bed and breakfasts are all abundant in the area.
Come explore Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico for the honeymoon adventure of your dreams!
August 5, 2010 No Comments







