When you are ready for some fresh air, beautiful skies, and award-winning wines, Deming in Southern New Mexico is the ideal place. You’ll also find evidence of the state’s history and cultures, an abundance of outdoor activities, dining, and a variety of places to stay, including more than 20 RV parks.
Deming’s history includes being home to the Mimbres people known for their famed black-and-white pottery adorned with birds and animals. Deming was also a place where captured outlaws were exiled to during the notorious Wild West days. It was home to a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach line, and where the Southern Pacific met the Santa Fe to complete the nation’s second transcontinental railroad.
Walk around the historic downtown and stroll past 37 buildings with historical significance, including 16 on the State Historic Register and four on the National Register of Historic Places. Just off the main street sits a red brick National Guard Armory that is now home to the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. This local treasure houses hundreds of items ranging from Mimbres pottery, a world-class doll collection, military vehicles and gear, western heritage items, and a collection of minerals and gems. All the items in the museum were donated.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of options. From the mesmerizing landscape of Cook’s Peak, the Florida Mountains and City of Rocks, Deming is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, picnickers, birdwatchers, and wildlife viewers. Rockhound State Park to the east features 29 tent sites and 23 electric sites for camping. Hike the Spring Canyon Trail into the Florida mountains and you might glimpse Persian Ibex goats in the only place you can see them living freely.
South of Deming is another state park, Pancho Villa State Park. Named for the Mexican revolutionary who attacked the then Camp Furlong, the site features campsites, picnicking and hiking trails. In season, you’ll find a large showing of prickly pear blossoms and other cactus flowers. Be sure to visit the Columbus Museum housed in the historic railroad station. 
Deming is home to two world-class wineries. Luna Rossa on the west side of town, and D. H. Lescombes on the east side. Both offer tasting rooms and samples of their award-winning wines.
To get the best experience in Deming, plan to stay for more than a day. There’s plenty to see and do. Come to Deming and discover adventure in wide-open spaces.
This article was posted by Cheryl Fallstead
