Belen New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Belen, New Mexico.
1. Belen Harvey House Museum
HISTORIC RAILWAY MUSEUM
The Belen Harvey House Museum is a specialty museum that showcases the area's rich railway history. It is open Thursday through Saturday and features the onsite Whistle Stop Cafe staffed by volunteers. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the importance of the railroad to Belen's development.
2. Jaramillo Vineyards
FAMILY WINEMAKING TRADITION
Jaramillo Vineyards is a 10-acre vineyard and winery located in Belen where visitors can sample locally produced wines. Robert Jaramillo, a New Mexico-born pilot-turned-vintner, continues his family's grape growing and winemaking traditions. The vineyard offers wine tastings and opportunities to learn about the winemaking process.
3. Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area
NATURAL WETLAND HABITAT
Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area provides a natural setting to observe birds, wildlife, and flora in their wetland habitat close to the Rio Grande. The conservation area features walking trails and educational displays about local ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and photography in this preserved natural environment.
4. Through The Flower Art Space
WOMEN'S ART GALLERY
Through The Flower Art Space is a gallery dedicated to countering the erasure of women in art history. Founded to continue Judy Chicago's legacy, the space focuses on education, exhibition, and preservation of women's artistic contributions. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions that celebrate female artists and their work.
5. Southwest Model Railroad Museum
MINIATURE RAILWAY DISPLAYS
The Southwest Model Railroad Museum houses detailed model train displays showcasing the region's railroad heritage. The museum is located on the same site as the unique M.190 Articulated Diesel Electric Motor car known as the 'Doodlebug.' Visitors can see intricate miniature landscapes and working model trains that celebrate Belen's connection to railway history.
6. Bugg Lights Museum
HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAY
The Bugg Lights Museum preserves and displays the famous holiday light collections that were once a popular attraction in Albuquerque. This history museum features elaborate Christmas displays and decorations that delight visitors of all ages. The museum typically operates seasonally and offers a nostalgic look at holiday traditions.
7. Chavez Brothers Winery
LOCAL WINE PRODUCTION
Chavez Brothers Winery is a local establishment continuing the tradition of winemaking in the region. The winery produces various wines using techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can sample wines and learn about the winemaking process specific to New Mexico's climate and soil conditions.
8. Hub City Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Hub City Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere in Belen. Named after the city's nickname as the 'Hub City,' this brewery serves a variety of beer styles made on-site. Visitors can tour the brewing facilities, sample flights of beer, and enjoy the casual taproom environment.
9. Pete's Cafe
BELOVED MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Pete's Cafe is a popular dining establishment serving Mexican and Southwestern cuisine with vegetarian-friendly options. The restaurant has earned a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike for its authentic regional dishes. Pete's Cafe provides a taste of traditional New Mexican flavors in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
10. Tierra Del Sol Country Club
SCENIC GOLF EXPERIENCE
Tierra Del Sol Country Club offers a well-maintained golf course with affordable rates and friendly staff. The club provides both golfing opportunities and a social gathering space for relaxing with friends. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices, welcoming atmosphere, and beautiful desert landscape views throughout the course.
11. Belen Art League
LOCAL ARTISTS SHOWCASE
The Belen Art League promotes local artists and provides a venue to display their creative works. The gallery features rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms by regional artists. Visitors can view and purchase unique artwork while supporting the vibrant artistic community of Belen.
12. Eagle Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Eagle Park serves as a community gathering place offering recreational facilities for Belen residents and visitors. The park provides green spaces, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families to enjoy. Its central location makes it a convenient spot for outdoor activities and community events throughout the year.
13. Grounded Bookstore and Coffee Shop
BOOKS AND BREWS
Grounded Bookstore and Coffee Shop combines literature and caffeinated beverages in a cozy environment. The shop offers a selection of books alongside freshly brewed coffee and light refreshments. Visitors can browse reading materials while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere designed for both socializing and quiet contemplation.
14. Rita's New Mexican Restaurant
TRADITIONAL REGIONAL CUISINE
Rita's New Mexican Restaurant serves authentic regional dishes with vegetarian options in a family-friendly setting. The restaurant specializes in traditional New Mexican flavors using local ingredients and recipes. Diners can experience classic dishes like enchiladas, chiles rellenos, and sopapillas in a casual, welcoming environment.
15. Silver-Bar Studios
CREATIVE ART SPACE
Silver-Bar Studios provides a gallery space showcasing works by local and regional artists in various media. The studio contributes to Belen's growing arts district mentioned in the city's tourism initiatives. Visitors can explore contemporary and traditional artwork reflecting the cultural diversity and artistic heritage of the region.