Tularosa offers a lush environment by the desert
When Tularosa blooms, it's an unmissable experience. A 19th-century irrigation system still feeds water into the heart of this small New Mexico community, allowing for vegetation so lush that locals can smell the sweet scent of roses emanating from the area’s abundant bushes in the spring. “It’s this green, luscious, beautiful place in the middle of the desert. Because the ditch water comes down. That’s unique to the area,” says Kara Cochran of Future Real Estate, a lifelong Otero County resident and a Realtor since 2018. Tularosa also features a collection of historic homes, respected local restaurants and is close to myriad hiking trails.
Some present-day homes represent Tularosa’s past
Founded in 1863, Tularosa was initially organized into a series of 49 blocks. The homes in that district get water from the original ditch network. The original blocks were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Some of the existing houses date to the 1800s, including classic Pueblo-style options. “Just really cool architecture,” Cochran says. “There are some homes that have like 2-foot-thick adobe walls. And those are just fun to walk through.” Tularosa also has a plethora of bungalows and ranch-style houses built over the 20th century. Homes that need work go for $40,000 to $100,000, while those in better condition sell for $140,000 to $410,000.
Outdoor activity is accessible from James Vigil Park to the mountains
Some residents are within walking distance of places like James Vigil Park, which features a playground and picnic tables tucked among homes. The same goes for Tularosa Childrens Park. Veteran Park includes basketball and tennis courts and neighbors the Tularosa Community Center. Many head to the Sacramento Mountains for more recreation, Cochran says. The communities of Ruidoso and Cloudcroft are within 35 miles and can offer an escape from the summer heat in Tularosa with elevations of 6,920 and 8,600 feet, respectively. “The Sacramento Mountains are just beautiful,” Cochran says. “And there’s so many amazing hiking trails, and camping spots in the mountains. Me and my buddies, we like to go for hikes on the weekends.” Tularosa is also just about 30 miles from the 145,762-acre White Sands National Park and its signature white sand dunes. The park hosts monthly Full Moon Night programs from May to October, when visitors can come out for live music under a full moon. “It’s fun for the kids, and it’s not as hot,” Cochran says.
Mexican food is a signature of Tularosa’s dining scene
Restaurant options in Tularosa include mainly a mix of local spots, rather than chains. “There’s excellent Mexican food options,” Cochran says. Yum-Yum’s has popular brisket tacos and burritos, plus homemade doughnuts. Loredo's Bakery is one of Cochran’s favorites. “I would eat it every day if I could,” she says. Besides pan dulce and other baked goods, Loredo’s serves up tamales, menudo, taco plates and more. Locals can head to Tularosa Distillery to grab a drink. “It’s a fun little chill spot, with beautiful mountain views and delicious cocktails,” Cochran says. Tularosa has a Lowe’s Market for groceries, across from a Family Dollar. Alamogordo has more big-box retail, including Walmart Supercenter, Marshalls and The Home Depot. “Alamogordo is more where you go for your shopping and your errands,” Cochran says. “But it’s nice that you don’t have to drive to Alamogordo if you’re like, ‘Shoot, I need a gallon of milk.’” Alamogordo is also home to the 99-bed CHRISTUS Health hospital.
Duck race incorporates the signature irrigation system
The springtime Tularosa Duck Race is one of the area’s annual traditions. It’s a relatively new event, dating to 2023, but it's already popular. Participants pay to adopt rubber ducks, which race along the community’s historic ditch system. Proceeds benefit the Tularosa Arts and History Council. “I could not believe the crowd,” Cochran says of a recent Duck Race. “My daughter is in 4-H, so we sell drinks and volunteer there. And it was so busy. It was awesome, it was fun.” Other area events include an annual Wine & Music Festival in the spring, which is organized by the Tularosa Rotary Club and features selections from multiple New Mexico wineries.
Tularosa school system offers sports programs year round
The Tularosa Municipal School District has a C-plus grade on Niche. The B-rated Tularosa Elementary includes kindergarten to second grade and the B-minus-rated Tularosa Intermediate covers Grades 3 to 6. Students at both can take part in a co-ed summer flag football league that benefits the Tularosa High football team. Tularosa Middle has a B-minus grade and offers its own football, volleyball, basketball and track teams. Tularosa High also carries a B-minus rating, and its boys and girls basketball teams have recent district championships to their names.
Drivers can use Route 54 to get to multiple places
U.S. Route 54 bisects Tularosa and provides a direct connection to Alamogordo, located 13 miles south. Cloudcroft is about 25 miles away on Route 54 and Route 82, and the El Paso International Airport is a 100-mile trip on Route 54. Ruidoso is 35 miles away using Route 70.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
