Ten of New Mexico's Strangest Roadside Attractions That Are Worth Taking a Break for

New Mexico’s highways are dotted with quirky, creative, and downright bizarre roadside attractions. Whether you’re a road trip veteran or a curious traveler, these stops are sure to add a dose of wonder and weirdness to your journey.

1. Recycled Roadrunner Statue (Las Cruces)

A massive 20-foot-tall, 40-foot-long roadrunner made entirely from recycled materials, including shoes, cell phones, and scrap metal. This iconic bird stands at a rest area along I-10, offering both a unique photo op and a reminder of the power of recycling.

2. World’s Largest Pistachio (Alamogordo)

Standing 30 feet tall, this giant pistachio was built as a tribute to the founder of PistachioLand. It’s a must-see for fans of oversized roadside oddities and nutty photo ops.

3. “Chevy on a Stick” (Albuquerque)

A life-sized 1954 Chevrolet perched atop a giant stick, this public art piece—officially titled “Cruising San Mateo”—is a surreal sight in Albuquerque’s International District.

4. VW Spider (Alamogordo)

A Volkswagen Beetle transformed into a giant spider sculpture, lurking near the abandoned sawmill in Alamogordo. It’s a favorite for fans of car art and the delightfully strange.

5. World’s Largest Chile Pepper Sculpture (Las Cruces)

A 47-foot-long red chile pepper welcomes visitors to the Big Chile Inn. It’s a spicy tribute to New Mexico’s love affair with chiles and a fun stop for a quick selfie.

6. Cowboy Ruckus (Corona)

Two 18-foot-tall cowboy sculptures locked in a mid-brawl stand along Highway 285. This playful installation is impossible to miss and makes for a memorable roadside break.

7. Fox Cave (Ruidoso Downs)

A quirky curio shop and museum built into the face of a cave, Fox Cave is a nostalgic stop filled with oddities, souvenirs, and a touch of Old West charm.

8. Tee Pee Curios (Tucumcari)

A classic Route 66 stop, this teepee-shaped building is both a souvenir shop and a piece of roadside Americana, complete with neon lights and kitschy charm.

9. Route 66 Musical Highway (near Albuquerque)

A stretch of Route 66 where rumble strips are engineered to play “America the Beautiful” when you drive over them at the right speed. It’s a delightfully odd, musical experience for travelers.

10. Apple Boy (High Rolls)

A cheerful, apple-headed mascot stands outside the Old Apple Barn, waving travelers in for sweets and vintage finds. This whimsical figure is a local favorite and a fun photo stop.

These attractions are just a taste of New Mexico’s offbeat spirit. Each one offers a unique story and a perfect excuse to pull over, stretch your legs, and experience the Land of Enchantment’s wonderfully weird side.

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