Las Vegas: The Charming Old Town on Route 66
Built in classic Spanish colonial-style architecture and heavily well-constructed against attacks, Las Vegas, NM was founded by a group of people who were given a grant from the government of Mexico in 1835. Before becoming a city and the county seat of San Miguel County of New Mexico, United States, it was part of Mexico until it was claimed part of America during the Mexican-American War in 1835. Las Vegas is a Spanish translation of The Meadows. The Gallinas River that runs between the two Las Vegas is what separates this Old Town from its glitzy counterpart. Las Vegas instantly became one of the biggest cities in the American Southwest during the railroad boom. This boost in the economy paved the way for modern amenities including the electric street railway, the Duncan Opera House, a Carnegie library, and the Hotel Castaneda. Today, despite a plateau in its population, the town of Las Vegas continues to draw in a notable number of tourists especially with the close proximity of Albuquerque International Airport.
Best Time to Visit
Summers in Las Vegas are temperate and winters considerably cold. Tourism in Las Vegas, New Mexico peaks in July. Hotel prices and airfares are reported to be the most expensive during this month. Those who are looking to avoid high foot traffic are discouraged to travel to Las Vegas, NM during this season. Instead, consider a trip between late May and early October when the weather is cooler but accommodations are 25% less compared to room rates in July. Temperatures hover in the mid-50s, a bit cooler than the low 70s during the high season.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Las Vegas provides an assortment of recreational opportunities. From bird-watching at the Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge to rummaging through old artifacts at the Rough Rider Memorial and engaging the children for some outdoor fun at the New Mexico Highlands University, and Villanueva State Park, Las Vegas does not have a shortage of new things to try. Get to stroll the halls of City of Las Vegas Museum. Travelers in town for business can also take a break at the Gene Torres Golf Course. For utmost comfort, guests may consider staying at the 137-year-old Historic Plaza Hotel or the modern Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Las Vegas.