Tularosa, New Mexico, is known as one of the friendliest towns in the entire state, and it’s actually a village! Found in the southern part of the state, Tularosa is located in the Tularosa Basin next to the Sacramento Mountains. With a population of just over 3,000 people, this city is a great place to stop in for a quick visit—and you know you will be greeted with a smile.

The name Tularosa comes from the red reeds that grow all along the banks of the Rio Tularosa.

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The village is also well known for its annual Rose Festival that is held on the first weekend of May.

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As you know, luminaries are an important aspect of the holidays throughout New Mexico. However, Tularosa is probably best well known for their incredible luminary display on Christmas Eve as thousands of these paper bag lanterns light up this tiny and joyous town.

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The Salado Canyon Trail can also be found in near Tularosa. This trail is an easy one, that will take you through the mountains surrounding the village.

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Just 17 miles north of Tularosa you can find the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. Here, you can view more than 21,000 petroglyphs right off Highway 54. Experts believe these petroglyphs were left by the Jornada Mogollon People thousands of years ago between 1000 and 1400 AD.

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Finally, Tularosa is known for its many cottonwood shade trees that are scattered throughout the village.

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There are plenty of small cities, towns, and villages spread all across the great state of New Mexico. While all are wonderful, Tularosa stands above them as one of the friendliest. Whenever you need to be greeted with a friendly smile, it could be a great time to visit the small town of Tularosa.

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Address: Tularosa, NM 88352, USA