Who would have guessed that a city named Las Vegas could be both sleepy and a hidden gem? The one here in the Land of Enchantment certainly lives up to that identity. With over 900 historic buildings, you could say there are quite a few things to see in Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Sitting in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Las Vegas is just lively enough to have a population of over 13,000 but still maintain a small-town feel.
Its location helps, but the biggest factor is the large number of historic buildings scattered throughout town.
Actually, large is an understatement. Las Vegas has more than 900 buildings on the historic registry, making it easy for visitors to get lost in the history here.
Wandering through town, you’ll encounter beautifully ornate brick buildings ranging from bustling banks to elegant hotels.
The buildings here are colorful and feature intricate details that whisk you back to their Victorian origins.
Part of the reason so many original buildings still stand is thanks in part to the city’s boom and bust.
The city became rich and one of the largest in the Southwest following railroad construction in the 1880s. It continued to thrive until the industry began to decline in the 1950s. Since fewer companies were coming into town, there was no reason to bulldoze buildings for new developments. So the old buildings sat undisturbed.
Thanks to restoration efforts, today you can enjoy the charming views on guided or self-guided tours to learn about the buildings and the people worked, lived, and loved inside.
On tours, you’ll have a chance to see charming, well-maintained Victorian homes in the Queen Anne style or bungalows.
Even the interiors of some homes and commercial buildings maintain a vintage ambiance, where you’ll feel like you stepped back in time.
Have you had a chance to explore the beautiful history in Las Vegas?
You can learn more about the city of Las Vegas by visiting the town's tourism website.
Looking for a bite to eat while you're in town checking out these historic buildings in New Mexico? Check out The Skillet, located on 12th Street! Read more in This Funky Small Town Restaurant In New Mexico Is Incredibly Unique.
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