Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Las Cruces, New Mexico

By taking an extensive drive from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Las Cruces, New Mexico, travelers make the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a mix of cultural experiences, unique history and beautiful scenery. The trip lasts approximately one day and 23 hours, and the halfway point is Kerrville, Texas. Here are the top five things to do along the way:

Visit the San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is a must-see attraction for anyone who is embarking on a road trip. With beautiful architecture, restaurants, and shopping, visitors can easily be enchanted by the scene. The Riverwalk features a network of walkways along the banks of the river, which are open daily and offers a variety of things to do, including cruises, sightseeing tours, and walking tours. It's also a great place to come at night when the bridges are lit up and live music is playing. Fun fact: The Riverwalk is home to one of the largest urban ecosystems in the nation.

Explore the Carlsbad Caverns

The Carlsbad Caverns are a natural wonder that millions of people visit every year. Located in the Chihuahuan Desert in southeastern New Mexico, the Carlsbad Caverns offer breathtaking views of intricate limestone formations that took eons to form. Visitors can take an elevator down to the Big Room or participate in a guided tour, but all visitors will be amazed by the sheer beauty of the caverns. Fun fact: The Calcite Springs is the most extensive formation and the longest continuous gap in the caverns.

Relax at White Sands National Park

Driving through New Mexico should always include a stop at White Sands National Park. The stunning gypsum white sand dunes will dazzle anyone, especially at sunset when they are bathed in golden hues. The park also offers activities that include hiking and guided tours. Don't forget to experience the thrill of sledding down the dunes if visiting during the winter. Fun fact: White Sands is the world's largest gypsum dunefield.

Reverence at the Chapel of San Elizario

The Chapel of San Elizario is one of the oldest standing missions in the United States, located in El Paso County, Texas. It was founded in 1789 and restored in the 1990s, and now operates as a historical and religious landmark. Visitors can catch a glimpse of its remarkable history and immerse themselves in its cultural appeal. Fun fact: In 1968, the chapel was proclaimed a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

Experience the Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a fantastic destination to experience the great outdoors. This park features the highest peak in Texas and provides excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through the 80-mile stretch of road in the area. Fun fact: The park has the world's most extensive Permian fossil reef.

In conclusion, traveling from Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Las Cruces, Mexico was an unforgettable and worthwhile endeavor. While there are plenty of fascinating stops along the way, these five notable destinations provide fantastic road trip experiences that everyone should experience. At approximately 1 day and 23 hours of travel time, adventurers should make sure to take their time and enjoy the journey, as well as the various destinations along the way.