3 minute read
Silver City, NM
SILVER CITY
EXPLORE:
Silver City is referred to as the Gateway to the Gila National Wilderness. The Wilderness is also home to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, the Gila River and the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway which is a scenic mountain drive in the heart of the forests. In Historic Downtown Silver City, you can explore the thriving community of artists as well as enjoying the 74 murals done by local artists and The Youth Mural Project. The Silver City Museum will give visitors interesting insights to the town’s history while the Museum at WNMU displays the even older history of the Mimbres people through their unique pottery. For a more contemporary respite, see a first run movie in the recently restored art deco SILCO Theater or catch a concert or play on the WNMU campus. Silver City’s Historic Downtown is very walkable, and it’s shaded Big Ditch Park is a relaxing stroll along what used to be the main street. PLACES TO STAY:
Silver City offers lodging for all comforts and budgets. Bear Mountain Lodge is a historic bed and breakfast type of lodge that even has their own hiking trails. In the heart of Downtown you can stay at the Art Deco styled Murray Hotel or the historic Palace Hotel where Billy the Kid was a busboy before his more infamous career. Bear Creek Cabins in nearby Pinos Altos puts guests right at the edge of the Wilderness. Beyond, there are several camping areas for the more primitive camping experiences. The City of Rocks State Park offers enchanted camping among the boulders lit by clear starry skies.
FOOD & DRINK:
The Little Toad Creek Brewery is one of the go-to spots for locals and visitors. Drink and dine with live regional music on weekends and trivia nights on weekdays. You will quickly learn the locals love to dance like no one is watching. Many other restaurants and coffee shops which include Javalina Coffee House, Tranquil Buzz, Revel, Adobe Springs, Diane’s Restaurant & Bakery, Q’s Southern Bistro & Mick’s 33 will often host local talent whose songs drift down Bullard St. On one of our many sunny days treat yourself to truly homemade ice cream from The Ice Cream Emporium or The Mint Chip Creamery & Bakery; both offering popular and some very unique flavors.
OUTDOORS:
Nestled in the foothills between the mountains and the Arenas Valley, Silver City offers hiking trails for all adventures. From Downtown’s Boston Hill Greenspace to the Continental Divide Trail with hundreds, if not thousands, of trails in between. Hike to Lightfeather Hot Springs, search for petroglyphs and when it’s time to rest, perch on unique rock outcroppings for great views. Being close to several riparian areas, birdwatching is also a relaxing colorful surprise.
REASON TO VISIT:
Of course, Silver City is a great homebase to explore The Gila and all the outdoor adventure the wilderness offers. Located in the sunny Southwest and an elevation of just over 6,000 feet gives Silver City four mild seasons. The town hosts special events and festivals year-round. (The Tour of the Gila Bike Races, CDT Trail Days, Silver City Blues Fest, Taste of Downtown, Gila River Festival, SW Print Fiesta, Clay Arts Festival and the Red Dot Studio Tour, to name a few).
There are countless things to do. Be sure to stop by the Murray Ryan Visitor Center in Silver City to let us help you find your special place. We love telling people where to go!
For More Information: Murray Ryan Visitor Center
Silver City 575-538-5555