Magdalena Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Magdalena showing farmland and landscape views
Magdalena
Magdalena featuring an observatory
Magdalena showing a sunset, farmland and land animals
Magdalena showing an observatory, tranquil scenes and a sunset

Surrounded by towering mountains, this colourful town is known for its thriving art scene, eclectic festivals and eerie mining ghost town.

The village of Magdalena is an artistic hub with a Spanish-colonial past. Its name derives from the image of a lady’s face that Spanish soldiers saw in the mountain overlooking the town. Peruse the intriguing works of art on display at the various galleries as you explore Magdalena.

Stroll through the quaint neighbourhoods to gain a sense of the local culture and to gaze up at the Lady on the Mountain rock formation that looms over the village. Browse through mineral and rock shops that showcase the diverse stones of the area.

Look at works of art by local artists in the many galleries and shops around the commune’s centre. The annual festival of the Lady Magdalen Art Walk encapsulates the town’s creative flair. Attend the intriguing Old Timer’s Reunion in July, when locals exchange traditional stories and food.

The ghost town of Kelly is one of the eeriest attractions in the region. The town, which was set up in the gold rush period at the end of the 19th century, has been abandoned since 1945. Wander through the desolate village to see the ruins of the zinc mine and derelict buildings.

Several natural parks with picturesque terrain surround the town. Explore the Cibola National Forest on the northwestern outskirts of Magdalena for its grasslands and rocky peaks. The array of wildlife here includes bears, mountain lions and birds of prey. Hike along the paths that wind through the scenic areas of this enormous park.

Other picturesque areas include the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, which has sprawling fields and scenic water networks.

Magdalena is located in Socorro County in central New Mexico. Fly to the Albuquerque International Airport and drive south for 100 miles (160 kilometres) to get to Magdalena. Nearby towns include Truth or Consequences and Alamogordo. Anticipate hot summer days and cool nights from June to August, while winters see mild to cool temperatures in the afternoon and freezing evenings with snowfall.

Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!

Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!

Magdalena
Stay at this cabin in Magdalena. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Salome's Store and Kelly Ghost Town are located ...
Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!
Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!

Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!

Magdalena
Stay at this cabin in Magdalena. Enjoy patios, an in-room coffeemaker, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Salome's Store and Kelly Ghost Town are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Comfortable, cozy and Affordable. I stayed here alone, but it’s a great romantic getaway with a low sticker price. Near the Magdalena mountains if you want to get out, but also good for a night in if that’s more how you feel. Good amenities, I cooked every night and had no real issues. Couldn’t recommend ..."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Socorro

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Socorro

2 out of 5
713 N.W. California St, Socorro, NM
The price is AU$157 per night from 14 Nov to 15 Nov
AU$157
14 Nov - 15 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Socorro. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,011 reviews)
"Exceptional hotel off the beaten path! Older building on the main drag in town but completely renovated rooms.Excellent amenities, bed, pillows TV, USB charging port. Check-in was a breeze with a very courteous and friendly staff. Shopping and dining are close by and walk-able. Very quiet and comfortable ..."

Reviewed on 7 Oct 2025

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Socorro
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!

Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!

Magdalena
Stay at this cabin in Magdalena. Enjoy patios, an in-room coffeemaker, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Salome's Store and Kelly Ghost Town are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Comfortable, cozy and Affordable. I stayed here alone, but it’s a great romantic getaway with a low sticker price. Near the Magdalena mountains if you want to get out, but also good for a night in if that’s more how you feel. Good amenities, I cooked every night and had no real issues. Couldn’t recommend ..."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!
Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!

Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!

Magdalena
Stay at this cabin in Magdalena. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Salome's Store and Kelly Ghost Town are located ...
Tiny home Unit B in the center of Magdalena!
Lake Roberts  Cabin in the Pines

Lake Roberts Cabin in the Pines

Lake Roberts
Stay at this cabin in Silver City. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attraction Lake Roberts is located nearby.
9.6/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"Cabin was clean and plenty of room. Beautiful views! Lots of barking dogs in neighborhood so sleep with windows closed. Lots of mice inside so keep all food in refrigerator and rewash all dishes and kitchen counters before use. Bathroom is spacious but shower is tiny. I knocked my elbows against ..."

Reviewed on 22 Sept 2025

Lake Roberts Cabin in the Pines
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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