Las Cruces

In 1848 the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American war, but rendered uncertain the sovereignty of Las Cruces. The Mesilla Valley ended up split between two nations, with the town of Mesilla on the west of the Rio Grande belonging to Mexico and Las Cruces, on the eastern banks of the river, belonging to the United States. The Gadsden Purchase in 1853 made the whole area U.S. territory and Las Cruces began its ascent as the area's power center. The railroad, irrigation, agriculture, and local ranching drove the city's growth. Much of the new city was built in the Territorial and Victorian styles popular at the time. The College of Las Cruces was founded in 1880 and eventually became New Mexico State University.

Mention Las Cruces to someone today and their reply is likely to be about its status as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States—second fastest in New Mexico, behind Albuquerque. With growth spurred by retirees looking for sun and mild winters, the defense and commercial business at White Sands Missile Range, the increasing strength of New Mexico State University, and its proximity to the business on the border with Mexico, this city of about 75,000 people is growing. Las Cruces is following the lead of many U.S. cities by pushing a major revitalization of its historic downtown. The district and its surrounding residential neighborhoods date back more than a century, and a casual walk around will show all sorts of renovation—from simple painting and planting to the restabilization of entire buildings. Despite the revitalization, greater Las Cruces tends to be a bit sterile as its historical district is surrounded by ever-expanding rings of strip malls and cookie-cutter subdivisions.

Many artists (painters, sculptors, actors, writers, metalsmiths) make their homes here not just because the surrounding area offers a perpetually inspiring palette, but also because the arts community is supportive and the town an affordable alternative to chic and expensive Santa Fe. Museums, a performing arts center, a renovated movie theater, and new shops and some cafés are draws. A farmers' market on the weekends makes for a fun way to spend a Saturday morning.

The Hispanic population in Las Cruces is comprised of descendents from the Spanish settlers as well as many Mexican immigrants; both influences add unique cultural elements to the community as well as some seriously spicy food. The emphasis on family is strong here, and kids are welcome just about everywhere.

Although Mesilla is listed separately, it's so close to Las Cruces that you can comfortably go back and forth to eat, shop, or enjoy a night out.