Magdalena, NM

Travel Guide

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

Surrounded by towering mountains, this colorful 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 neighborhoods 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 center. 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 kilometers) 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 A in Magdalena's Center!
Tiny home Unit A in Magdalena's Center!
Magdalena
$145 nightly
The price is $155 total per night from Aug 3 to Aug 4
$155 total
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Total includes taxes and fees
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 ...
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!
Best Western Socorro Hotel & Suites
Best Western Socorro Hotel & Suites
2.5 out of 5
1100 N California St, Socorro, NM
$111 nightly
The price is $128 total per night from Jul 25 to Jul 26
$128 total
Jul 25 - Jul 26
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Socorro. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Sedillo Park and Gabaldon ...
8/10 Very Good! (763 reviews)
"I think for such a ugly city prices are to steep."

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2025

Best Western Socorro Hotel & Suites
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 ...
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!
Aragon Hunting Lodge
Aragon Hunting Lodge
Aragon
Stay at this vacation home in Aragon. Enjoy laundry facilities, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker.
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"We loved staying at your cabin and had such a blessed time! Thank you so much"

Reviewed on Jun 15, 2025

Aragon Hunting Lodge
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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