The Country's Most Impressive Rest Stop Is Hiding Right Here In New Mexico
By Melissa Mahoney|Published March 18, 2024
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
When taking a road trip, stopping along the way is a necessity. Whether it’s for a pit stop or to stretch our legs, taking breaks is all part of the journey. Not all rest stops are created equal, however. Some offer gas, provisions, and fast food options while others have the bare essentials like restrooms and, if we’re lucky, vending machines. And then there are the rest stops that offer so much more than we could ever hope, and these are always a nice surprise. For example, the best rest stop in New Mexico happens to have some of the best views in the state.
Of all the rest stops to spend time at in the Land of Enchantment, make it a point to stop here. Located off the I-10 eastbound at Mile Marker 135 is the Scenic Overlook Rest Area in Las Cruces.
This rest area also has picnic tables where you can sit and eat and enjoy the views. Dining with a view is always an incredible experience so remember to take a picnic with you.
This rest stop area is also home to the famous Recycled Roadrunner Sculpture. Made in 1993 out of a variety of recycled garbage by local artist Olin Calk, this 20-foot sculpture stands out among the landscape of Las Cruces.
Chances are you've never been to an award-winning rest area before. But one visit here and you'll understand why the Scenic Overlook Rest Area is considered the best rest stop in New Mexico.
Have you ever been to the Scenic Overlook Rest Area in Las Cruces? Would you agree that it’s the best rest stop in New Mexico? Let us know in the comments!