Best Places to See When Driving from Artesia, New Mexico to Van Buren, Arkansas

If you're planning a road trip from Artesia, New Mexico to Van Buren, Arkansas, there are plenty of sights to see along the way. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and plenty of tourist destinations. Whether you're looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, or family fun, there are plenty of options to explore. Here are some of the top places to see when driving from Artesia, New Mexico to Van Buren, Arkansas.

1. White Sands National Monument

Located near Alamogordo, New Mexico, White Sands National Monument is a must-see stop on your road trip. The monument is one of the world's largest gypsum sand dune fields, covering over 275 square miles. The unique landscape offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and exploring. You can take a scenic drive through the dunes and stop at various points for activities like sledding and sandboarding. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls the dunes home, such as roadrunners and kit foxes.

2. Historic Route 66

As you travel east through New Mexico, you'll have the opportunity to follow the historic Route 66. The famous highway stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, and it's a road trip classic. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns, nostalgic roadside attractions, and historic landmarks. Some notable stops along the New Mexico stretch of Route 66 include Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, and the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa.

3. Cadillac Ranch

As you cross into Texas, don't miss the chance to see Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo. This public art installation features ten vintage Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and contribute to the ever-changing graffiti on the cars. The installation has become an iconic part of Route 66 and a popular photo opportunity.

##4. Hot Springs National Park

Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the United States. The park is home to natural hot springs that have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the historic Fordyce Bathhouse, which showcases the spa treatments and social customs of the early 1900s. There are also plenty of hiking trails, scenic drives, and visitor centers to explore.

5. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is an impressive collection of American art housed in a stunning architectural masterpiece. The museum features over 3 million square feet of gallery space, showcasing the works of American artists from the Colonial era to the present day. The museum also boasts a walking trail system that connects the galleries to the natural beauty of the surrounding Ozarks.

Conclusion

Traveling from Artesia, New Mexico to Van Buren, Arkansas offers opportunities for adventure, history, and culture. From the unique landscape of White Sands National Monument to the iconic Route 66, this road trip is full of exciting stops. Cadillac Ranch, Hot Springs National Park, and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art are just a few of the many highlights along the way. No matter what your interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this journey.