Looking for an escape? A small mountain town destination with tons to do, beautiful weather and never any crowds? Silver City is the perfect anecdote to our busy often stressful lives with dark skies, a pleasant climate, abundant sunshine, 339 species of birds, five life zones, and enough precipitation to transform the high desert hillsides into a gorgeous, lush landscape from summer through fall. At 6,000 feet above sea level, Silver City’s mountainous air maintains a moderate temperature year-round, yet the town experiences four distinct seasons.
Nature wows visitors to Silver City. Animal lovers and bird watchers in the area can observe the life that animates riverbanks, the forests, and the parks each season. Astronomers can set up shop under the Milky Way, as observatories are sprinkled throughout the county, and star parties occur regularly. Some stargazers might want to spend a couple of nights at the Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary, which is an easy drive from town. The people make the place, and Silver City’s population of 10,000 is a tight-knit community that welcomes strangers as family. You’ll anticipate friendly conversation, as well as recommendations on best places to eat, hang out, and relax at one of our locally owned coffee shops.
For the outdoors enthusiasts, Silver City is a sprawling playground of activity. Explore the vast 3.3 million-acre Gila Wilderness, the first wilderness designated by congress. Hike, bike, fish, or relax in natural hot springs, or take it to the next level with rock climbing. Discover the hidden, secret places in cliff walls and marvel at the natural beauty of the Catwalk National Recreation Area or the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, which was home to ancestral Mogollon people. City of Rocks State Parks offers otherworldly rock formations. One of only six areas in the world with this type of rock formations—created by volcanic ash and sculpted by weather—City of Rocks State Park is a must-see destination, providing hours of hiking or biking fun, as well as camping, bird watching, picnicking and star gazing.
The area’s small town charm shines through its eclectic art community. With over 30 art galleries and studios, as well as annual arts-focused festivals and public art installations, Silver City draws in art lovers and aspiring artists each year. Plan your visit around iconic events like the Silver City Clay Festival, Southwest Print Fiesta, Silver City Blues Festival, Fiesta Latina, or the Silver City Film Festival. Then, stick around town to shop for locally made jewelry, pottery, and more. Be sure to swing by the Farmer’s Markets to enjoy local produce and hand-crafted items.
While visiting Silver City, explore the area’s storied past as a mining town. Get a glimpse of Silver City in years gone by while you stroll through the historic downtown area, which showcases architecture and remnants, including the preserved Victorian homes along Bullard Street. Take a morning or an afternoon to visit the Silver City Museum and view over 20,000 objects relating to the history of southwest New Mexico.
Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, you’re sure to find delicious offerings at local restaurants to treat your palate. With a variety of locally owned options, you’ll have the chance to dine like the locals do and experience mouth-watering flavors. Be sure to try some of the area’s famed New Mexican cuisine like enchiladas, tamales, and green chile relleños.
Silver City is not just a destination, but an experience and an opportunity to immerse into the history, art, and culture of The Land of Enchantment.
To plan your visit, go to VisitSilverCity.org