Raton Area Immediate Vicinity
Day Trip

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Raton | Angel Fire | Cimarron | NRA | Maxwell | Sugarite | Capulin

How do you describe it?
Newcomers and natives alike agree: there's something special about Raton. Perhaps it's the famous Southwest hospitality of its people, or the ever-changing sky, or the shocking view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, or the 4.5-minute daily commute, or the fresh, abundant water, or the pure air at 6,600 feet.

Perhaps it's a little of all these things. Or perhaps it's something you can't name but just have to feel.

Whatever drew you to Raton, we hope you enjoy your stay. In this section of the site, you'll learn about many fascinating adventures waiting for you in the Raton area. But here we'd like to tell you a little about life in the city that's always "your first step toward enchantment."

Finding the right place to stay is easy with 23 hotels and motels, ranging from budget to national-award-winning. Raton offers 30 restaurants, from recognized fast food leaders to privately owned fine-dining establishments. More than 400 business provide everything from clothing, electronics and antiques to hairstyling, sporting goods and souvenirs.

Art lovers are crazy about the Old Pass Gallery, a standard in Northeast New Mexico for high-profile regional paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more. For history lovers, the Raton Museum has condensed the early mood and flavor of Raton and the surrounding area within one building.

Play nine holes at the Raton Municipal Golf Course and try not to let the mountain view or the cool, breathable air or the abundant local wildlife that skirts around the links throw you off your game. It's the premier 9-hole course in New Mexico, with clubhouse amenities, a pro shop and golf packages available through local motels. It's open all year, weather permitting.

The historic Shuler Theater, considered by many to be the single most important man-made structure in Northeast New Mexico, maintains the classy charm of a forgotten era. Built in 1915, the Shuler is home to plays, concerts, ballet, opera, children's theater and much more.

Raton has four parks with plenty to do for everybody. There's a seasonal public pool, lighted tennis courts, roller rink, indoor movie theater and one of the few drive-in theaters still standing in New Mexico.

What a great place to relax your mind and renew your spirit!

Asked to describe Raton for those who've never experienced it, Mayor Bob Caldarelli put it best: "It's God's country. There's no other term for it. This is as good as it gets."

There's so much to do, and it's all here for you in Raton!

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