Visit Socorro

Visit Socorro Socorro is a traveler’s oasis: small town charm rich in history, culture and outdoor recreation. The name Socorro means “help” or “aid” in Spanish. The Karl G.

Truly a traveler’s oasis, Socorro has it all: small town charm rich in history and culture with an economy based upon cutting edge technology. Located in the hub of New Mexico off of Interstate 25, it is blessed with many restaurants, hotels and things to do and see. In 1598 the explorers of the Juan de Oñate expedition first gave this name to the Pilabo Pueblo because the Pueblo people gave them

needed food and shelter as they made their way north. That same year the Old San Miguel Mission was established by two Franciscan priests who arrived with Oñate. Rich in history, indigenous people traveled through Socorro along trails which eventually became the major highway: “Camino Real de Tierro Adentro”, or “Royal Highway of the Interior Lands”. Rich in science and technology, the New Mexico School of Mines (now the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology or NM Tech) was established in 1889. In 1945 the first atomic bomb was tested at Trinity Site, which is now White Sands Missile Range, just southeast of Socorro. Today, Socorro’s economy is fueled by technology based enterprises. Jansky Very Large Array radio telescopes, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology and White Sands Missile Range attract scientists and engineers from across the globe. Agriculture and commercial businesses bolster growth, and artists and musicians are attracted to Socorro’s southwestern charms. Socorro is home to a wide array of art, music, theater, golfing, biking, hiking, rock hounding, rock climbing, and gallery hopping, as well as, wildlife refuges, radio telescopes, a mineral museum, university, historical mission church and an incredible preforming arts series. Socorro’s many attractions include: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, New Mexico Tech Performing Arts Series, San Miguel Mission, Mineral Museum, Frank T. Etscorn Campus Observatory, New Mexico Tech Golf Course, Box Canyon, Escondida Lake, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, Quebradas Backcountry Byway, San Lorenzo Canyon, El Camino Real International Heritage Center, Socorro's Historic District, Trinity Site, Fort Craig and much, much more!

Step back in time in Socorro, a town steeped in history! From the beautiful San Miguel Mission to the iconic Plaza, ther...
01/10/2025

Step back in time in Socorro, a town steeped in history! From the beautiful San Miguel Mission to the iconic Plaza, there’s so much to discover.

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Craving authentic New Mexican flavors? Make sure to stop by El Camino Restaurant, known for their delicious, home-style ...
01/08/2025

Craving authentic New Mexican flavors? Make sure to stop by El Camino Restaurant, known for their delicious, home-style cooking and serving up everything from sizzling enchiladas to mouthwatering carne adovada.

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Did you know Socorro is part of New Mexico’s UFO-rich history? From alien sightings to mysterious landscapes, there’s pl...
01/05/2025

Did you know Socorro is part of New Mexico’s UFO-rich history? From alien sightings to mysterious landscapes, there’s plenty of space to explore and discover the unknown.

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Located in the heart of Socorro, the historic Knights of Pythias Hall is a must-see for history buffs and architecture e...
01/04/2025

Located in the heart of Socorro, the historic Knights of Pythias Hall is a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Built in 1889, this beautifully preserved building was once home to one of the earliest fraternal organizations in the U.S.

📸: on Instagram

Looking for fresh, local produce and crafts? Stop by the Socorro Farmers' Market every Saturday from 10 AM to 12 PM at t...
01/04/2025

Looking for fresh, local produce and crafts? Stop by the Socorro Farmers' Market every Saturday from 10 AM to 12 PM at the City of Socorro Youth Center. From fruits and veggies to homemade goods, it's the perfect spot to stock up on the best New Mexico has to offer.

📸: Socorro Farmers Market

01/03/2025
As 2025 approaches, be sure to add Socorro to your travel list. This vibrant destination offers rich history, stunning l...
12/31/2024

As 2025 approaches, be sure to add Socorro to your travel list. This vibrant destination offers rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions like Bosque del Apache and the New Mexico Mineral Museum.

Check out our tourist guide for insider tips and must-see sites to make the most of your trip. Start planning your Socorro adventure today. https://socorronm.org/

Photo: on IG.

Explore the wonders of the Very Large Array (VLA), featuring 27 radio telescopes arranged in a unique “Y” pattern across...
12/29/2024

Explore the wonders of the Very Large Array (VLA), featuring 27 radio telescopes arranged in a unique “Y” pattern across the stunning San Agustin plains, just 50 miles west of Socorro. As the world’s most utilized radio telescope, each impressive 82-foot dish weighs 230 tons.

Visit the on-site center and gift shop for engaging displays and videos about radio astronomy. For operation times and guided tour info, call 575-835-7000.

The 'M' Mountain Grill is the go-to spot in Socorro for delicious breakfast and lunch! Perfect for those gearing up for ...
12/28/2024

The 'M' Mountain Grill is the go-to spot in Socorro for delicious breakfast and lunch! Perfect for those gearing up for a day on the golf course or simply passing through, this eatery offers a tempting menu that’s sure to satisfy. Discover more about their offerings here: https://bit.ly/459h2Ry.

Photo: New Mexico Tech Dining

Discover your favorite type of art at 3 Cranes Fine Art Gallery in Socorro! Whether it's oil paintings, watercolor art, ...
12/27/2024

Discover your favorite type of art at 3 Cranes Fine Art Gallery in Socorro! Whether it's oil paintings, watercolor art, pen and ink drawings, or fine art photography, there's something for every art lover. Immerse yourself in the local art scene and find the perfect piece to take home.

May your holiday be merry and bright!
12/25/2024

May your holiday be merry and bright!

Discover the New Mexico Mineral Museum, established to highlight the state’s rich natural mineral resources and preserve...
12/22/2024

Discover the New Mexico Mineral Museum, established to highlight the state’s rich natural mineral resources and preserve materials of historical, aesthetic, and cultural significance. If you appreciate geology and natural beauty, this museum is right up your alley.

Isidro Baca, namesake of the park in front of the Socorro County Courthouse, lost his life on August 21, 1967, while ser...
12/21/2024

Isidro Baca, namesake of the park in front of the Socorro County Courthouse, lost his life on August 21, 1967, while serving with the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam. At just 19 years old, he was ambushed near the DMZ in Quang Tri Province after only six months in the country.

Isidro Baca Park honors all Socorroans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and features a fragment of “Jumbo,” the steel casing of the first atomic bomb detonated at Trinity Site. The park also includes the Isidro Baca Park Memorial, the World War II Bataan Memorial, and a Blue Star Memorial. Families will enjoy the children's play area, equipped with military-themed structures.

If you're visiting Socorro, take a moment to visit this meaningful memorial and reflect on the legacy of Isidro Baca.

Since 1896, Capitol Bar & Brewery has been a cornerstone of the historic Socorro Plaza. Enjoy their fantastic local brew...
12/18/2024

Since 1896, Capitol Bar & Brewery has been a cornerstone of the historic Socorro Plaza. Enjoy their fantastic local brews and live music for a perfect Friday night out. It’s the place to be for good times.

Photo: on IG.

Searching for a unique Christmas gift?Harolds SW Gifts has just what you need! With a wonderful selection of arts and cr...
12/17/2024

Searching for a unique Christmas gift?

Harolds SW Gifts has just what you need! With a wonderful selection of arts and crafts, decor, and clothing featuring that charming New Mexican aesthetic, you’re sure to find something special that will brighten anyone’s holiday.

🎄✨ What an unforgettable Saturday on the Socorro Historic Plaza! ✨🎄  Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate thi...
12/16/2024

🎄✨ What an unforgettable Saturday on the Socorro Historic Plaza! ✨🎄

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate this year’s Luminarias on the Plaza and Holiday Light Parade—you all made it a magical evening filled with joy, community, and holiday spirit. Here's what made the night so special:

🎅 Holiday Light Parade: The beautifully decorated floats lit up the streets, and the creativity from all participants was truly inspiring! A big thank you to everyone who joined the lineup and helped make the parade a huge success.

🔥 Fire Department Matanza: Delicious food for a great cause! Thank you to the Socorro Fire Department for helping bring holiday cheer to local children through this wonderful tradition.

💃 Et Alia Dance Troupe: Their mesmerizing performance added an extra sparkle to the evening.

🎄Tree Lighting Ceremony: Former City Councilor Gordy Hicks brought the holiday magic by lighting the Plaza tree. We thank him for his continued City devotion!

📸 Pictures with Santa & Cousin Eddie: Families enjoyed memorable moments with Santa and the hilarious Cousin Eddie from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

✨ A HUGE thank you to all the vendors, performers, volunteers, and attendees who made this night one to remember. Stay tuned for more events coming soon, and until then, happy holidays from all of us here in Socorro! 🎁🌟

Our website just got a fresh new look! Check it out at socorronm.org for the ultimate guide to must-see attractions, top...
12/16/2024

Our website just got a fresh new look!

Check it out at socorronm.org for the ultimate guide to must-see attractions, top restaurants, comfortable places to stay, and local tips in Socorro. Whether you're into history, adventure, or just relaxing, there's something for you to enjoy. Happy exploring!

Photo: on IG.

Address

217 Fisher Avenue
Socorro, NM
87801

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+15758358927

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Truly a traveler’s oasis, Socorro has it all: small town charm rich in history and culture with an economy based upon cutting edge technology. Located in the hub of New Mexico off of Interstate 25, it is blessed with many restaurants, hotels and things to do and see. The name Socorro means “help” or “aid” in Spanish. In 1598 the explorers of the Juan de Oñate expedition first gave this name to the Pilabo Pueblo because the Pueblo people gave them needed food and shelter as they made their way north. That same year the Old San Miguel Mission was established by two Franciscan priests who arrived with Oñate. Rich in history, indigenous people traveled through Socorro along trails which eventually became the major highway: “Camino Real de Tierro Adentro”, or “Royal Highway of the Interior Lands”. Rich in science and technology, the New Mexico School of Mines (now the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology or NM Tech) was established in 1889. In 1945 the first atomic bomb was tested at Trinity Site, which is now White Sands Missile Range, just southeast of Socorro. Today, Socorro’s economy is fueled by technology based enterprises. The Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array radio telescopes, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology and White Sands Missile Range attract scientists and engineers from across the globe. Agriculture and commercial businesses bolster growth, and artists and musicians are attracted to Socorro’s southwestern charms. Socorro is home to a wide array of art, music, theater, golfing, biking, hiking, rock hounding, rock climbing, and gallery hopping, as well as, wildlife refuges, radio telescopes, a mineral museum, university, historical mission church and an incredible preforming arts series. Socorro’s many attractions include: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, New Mexico Tech Performing Arts Series, San Miguel Mission, Mineral Museum, Frank T. Etscorn Campus Observatory, New Mexico Tech Golf Course, Box Canyon, Escondida Lake, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, Quebradas Backcountry Byway, San Lorenzo Canyon, El Camino Real International Heritage Center, Socorro's Historic District, Trinity Site, Fort Craig and much, much more!