Top 15 Places To Visit In Hobbs New Mexico

Hobbs is a city in Lea County, New Mexico, with a population of over 40,000 people. It is the principal city of the Hobbs, New Mexico micropolitan statistical area, which includes all of Lea County. Hobbs is a gateway to New Mexico, located in the Southeast corner of the state, just 4 miles from the West Texas Border.

From the adrenaline rush at the Hobbs Escape Room, the thrill of chance at Zia Park Casino, the artistic enrichment at the Center for the Arts, to the intellectual pursuit at New Mexico Junior College, Hobbs presents an intriguing mix of experiences.

Each corner of Hobbs holds an adventure, a story waiting to be discovered.

Key Takeaways

• Hobbs Escape Room is a unique and engaging attraction at the Museum in Hobbs, offering a combination of education and excitement through puzzles and clues.
• Zia Park Casino is a popular destination with a wide range of entertainment options, including slot machines, electronic table games, live racing, and a hotel.
• The Center for the Arts is a vibrant cultural hub in Lea County, showcasing diverse arts through visual, literary, and performing arts exhibitions, concerts, and performances.
• Hobbs New Mexico, offers a variety of dining experiences, including the craft beer and fine dining destination of Drylands Taproom and Beer Garden, the renowned Saxony Inn Steakhouse, Cassy’s Restaurant with its unique Coca-Cola collection, and the charming Iron Skillet Cafe with its old-fashioned charm and southern hospitality.

1. Hobbs New Mexico, Escape Room

In an intriguing exploration of fear and fun, the Hobbs Escape Room – a unique feature of the Goose Bumps! exhibit at the Museum in Hobbs, New Mexico, attracts an impressive array of visitors, with over 70% attendees aged between 12 and 30, suggesting a significant interest in experiential learning and interactive entertainment among the younger demographic.

This immersive event, held every Thursday night, effectively combines education and excitement by using a series of puzzles and clues to unlock five boxes within a 45-minute time limit.

While the room’s dim lighting may enhance the thrilling atmosphere, the experience is designed to be fun rather than genuinely terrifying, offering an engaging yet safe challenge.

The affordable ticket price and the potential to participate in a group make this a must-visit destination in Hobbs.

Address: 3209 N Dal Paso St Suite A, Hobbs, NM 88240-1502

Phone: +1 575-964-9090

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.hobbsescaperoom.com

2. Zia Park Casino

Offering a thrilling experience for gaming enthusiasts, Zia Park Casino boasts 750 slot machines encompassing a myriad of the latest games and classic favorites. This vibrant hub of entertainment also features the newest electronic table games. The excitement continues 24/7 with promotional activities and the potential for big jackpots.

An additional layer of exhilaration is provided by the Zia Park race track, offering live racing in the fall and simulcast races year-round. For culinary delight, visitors can dine at the Turf Club with a panoramic view of the picturesque race track. The property also features a comfortable 154-room hotel, adding convenience to the excitement.

This is one of many properties owned by Penn National Gaming, Inc., the nation’s third-largest gaming company.

Address: 3901 W Millen Dr, Hobbs, NM 88240-9106

Phone: +1 888-942-7275

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.ziaparkcasino.com/

3. Things To do in Hobbs NM – Center for the Arts

Brimming with a symphony of creative expressions, the Center for the Arts serves as a vibrant cultural oasis in Lea County, attracting art enthusiasts from near and far.

Located in the heart of downtown Hobbs, the Center is an integral part of the Lea County Commission for the Arts, a non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating diverse arts in the region.

The Center houses a variety of art forms, including visual, literary, and performing arts, providing a rich tapestry of artistic experiences.

The Center also hosts quality art shows, exhibitions, concerts, and performances that highlight the talent and cultural richness of Lea County.

It is a testament to the creative spirit of the community and a must-visit destination for those seeking artistic freedom and inspiration.

Address: 122 W Broadway St, Hobbs, NM 88240-6002

Phone: +1 575-397-2787

Email: [email protected]

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Center-for-the-Arts-163634130333363/

4. New Mexico Junior College

Nestled within a vibrant community, New Mexico Junior College serves as a beacon of higher education, upholding a commitment to academic excellence and fostering a spirit of intellectual curiosity among its diverse student body.

Situated in Hobbs, the public institution boasts a rich selection of research programs, covering areas such as nursing and criminal trials. This intellectual hub, founded by Dr. Kelvin Sharp, has been nurturing minds for over three decades.

The college’s academic structure operates on a semester basis, offering an intimate student-faculty ratio of 15-to-1. Affordability is a key component, with tuition and fees designed to be accessible to all.

New Mexico Junior College stands as a testament to the power of education, igniting the pursuit of knowledge in the heart of New Mexico.

Address: 5317 N Lovington HwyHobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 392-4510

Website: https://www.nmjc.edu/

5. Drylands Taproom and Beer Garden

In the realm of craft beer and fine dining, Drylands Taproom and Beer Garden emerges as a must-try destination for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Located on Navajo Street, Hobbs, New Mexico, this establishment specializes in serving Drylands craft beers, flavorful brick oven pizzas, and fine New Mexico wines.

The beer selection includes a wide range of ales, lagers, stouts, and porters. To truly indulge in the fantastic selection of beers, the Craft Beer Flight is highly recommended which allows sampling of four different beers at once.

Furthermore, the establishment’s menu offers tantalizing appetizers including Italian Nachos and Fried Pickles. Drylands Taproom and Beer Garden is, indeed, a haven for those seeking relaxation and a unique culinary experience in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Address: 502 W Navajo Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 964-8595

Website: http://drylandsbrewing.com/

6. Western Heritage Museum and Lee County Cowboy Hall of Fame

The Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame serves as a significant cultural institution, documenting and showcasing the rich Cowboy and Ranching Heritage of Southeast New Mexico and West Texas.

Located in Hobbs, New Mexico, on the New Mexico Junior College campus, it stands as a pivotal point of ‘Hobbspitality’ for locals and tourists.

The museum offers detailed exhibits that encapsulate the history, lifestyle, and contributions of the individuals who shaped the Llano Estacado region.

The institution’s dedication to preserving and highlighting this unique cultural heritage provides an enriching and educational experience.

Thus, this museum, steeped in the legacy of cowboy and ranching history, offers an insightful exploration into the past for those desiring to understand this region’s heritage.

Address: 1 Thunderbird CircleHobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 492-2678

Website: https://www.nmjc.edu/museum/

7. Saxony Inn Steakhouse

Transitioning from the historical and cultural immersion at the Western Heritage Museum and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, an exploration of Hobbs, New Mexico would be incomplete without a gastronomic adventure at one of its acclaimed restaurants, the Saxony Steak Room.

Renowned for its American and Steakhouse cuisines, the establishment is particularly noted for its exquisite ribeye, ribs, and prawns, perfectly complemented by a selection of wines, bourbons, and beers.

The establishment is not just about culinary excellence, it also offers a comfortable and warm ambiance, facilitated by courteous staff, live music, and splendid decor. It is wheelchair accessible, offers parking, and accepts reservations, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

With a remarkable 4.5 star rating, Saxony Steak Room stands as a testament to Hobbs’ thriving culinary scene.

Address: 501 N Marland Blvd Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 397-3251

Website: https://www.hobbsfamilyinn.com/

8. Cassy’s Restaurant

Cassy’s Restaurant Classic, a staple in Hobbs since 1977, stands as a gastronomic beacon that echoes the adage, ‘good food is good mood,’ with its fusion of American and Mexican flavors served in a unique ambiance embellished by one of the world’s largest Coca-Cola collections.

This renowned establishment, a brainchild of Malik Kenny Smith, honors the classic American diner tradition while incorporating a distinct Mexican touch. The menu, an ode to the diverse culinary landscape, offers a plethora of dishes ranging from old-fashioned hamburgers to hand-battered onion rings and delectable Mexican favorites.

The restaurant’s standout feature, however, is its Coca-Cola memorial, an impressive array of over 10,000 items, a feast for both the palate and the eyes, offering guests a unique dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Address: 209 W Broadway St Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 393-0308

Website: https://www.eatcaseys.com/

9. Iron Skillet Cafe

Iron Skillet Cafe, an epitome of old-fashioned charm and southern hospitality, offers an exceptional dining experience to its guests with its variety of American breakfast and lunch dishes.

Located on the bustling Lovington Highway, across from the serene Green Meadows lake, the cafe spans approximately 3,500 sq ft, nestled on a one-acre plot with a caliche parking lot.

The cafe’s interior resonates with a vintage aesthetic, complementing its archetypal menu. With a reputation for excellent customer service, the owner’s engaging persona adds to the cafe’s appeal as he ensures patrons feel welcome and valued.

The cafe, a turn-key operation, is sold inclusive of all its equipment, tables, and chairs, underscoring its established presence in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Address: 4428 N Lovington Hwy

Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 492-9321

Website: https://www.yelp.com/biz/iron-skillet-cafe-hobbs

10. PACIFIC RIM

Embodying a unique culinary experience, Pacific Rim Restaurant harmoniously fuses the vibrant flavors of East Asia with the boldness of New American cuisine. It offers an unforgettable gastronomic journey to its guests.

Situated in Hobbs, New Mexico, this 16-year-old establishment has a reputation for creating memorable moments through its exceptional dining experience.

With a diverse menu, patrons can indulge in a variety of dishes. These include sushi with meat and avocado tempura and fried salmon, shrimp, and pork meat dishes.

The restaurant also has a lounge bar and extra personal dining room.

A highlight of the Pacific Rim Restaurant is the handcrafted sushi rolls. Old and new are seamlessly integrated, promising an enjoyable and delightful dining experience.

Address: 1309 Joe Harvey Blvd Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 392-0030

Website: https://www.thepacrim.com/

11. Nipa Hut Restaurant

Nipa Hut Restaurant, a well-regarded Mexican eatery, has been a beloved weekend spot for the community for over three decades, specializing in breakfast and lunch dishes. Their signature burritos, generously filled with a variety of ingredients such as eggs, beans, cheese, beef, and potatoes, are a testament to their commitment to quality and authenticity. These burritos consistently earn rave reviews from both locals and visitors alike.

Known for its homemade tortillas and customer-oriented service, Nipa Hut Restaurant has maintained its popularity since the 90s. The combination of fresh, delicious food, rapid service, and reasonable prices continues to make it a preferred destination for the residents of Hobbs.

Furthermore, the restaurant’s ability to adapt to the needs of its customers demonstrates its dedication to customer satisfaction. For example, they have created a take-out option to accommodate those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home. This flexibility has further solidified their reputation as a customer-focused establishment.

Address: 1105 s dal Paso St Hobbs, nm 88240

Phone: (575) 393-0816

Website: https://www.facebook.com/1975burrito/

12. Lea County Seat Lovington

Situated as the county seat of Lea County, Lovington serves as a significant hub, offering a variety of local attractions such as the Lea County Museum and Chaparral Park, contributing to the county’s cultural richness and recreational opportunities.

The museum, located at 103 Love Street, houses a plethora of exhibits and collections, elucidating the history and culture of Lea County and the Southwest.

The verdant expanse of Chaparral Park at 1001 South Commercial Street provides a tranquil retreat with amenities like a lake, sports courts, a theater, jogging paths, and an RV camp.

Enriched by flourishing industries and rich history, Lovington stands as a testament to the county’s dynamic present and past, offering visitors a unique mix of cultural and recreational experiences.

Address: 100 Main St #6C, Lovington, NM 88260, United States

Website: https://fifthdistrictcourt.nmcourts.gov/court-location-lea-county/

Phone: +1 575-396-8571

13. A Row Of Restaurants On Turner Street

An array of culinary destinations lines North Turner Street, presenting a vibrant selection of eateries ranging from authentic Mexican cuisine to delightful dessert options.

The corridor is home to Marina’s Burrito Express, known for its Mexican home-cooked meals from the Mexican Grill Popular.

Further down the street, Pizza Hut franchise Wing Street serves up delicious boneless wings, while Rancher’s Steak House and Buffet provide excellent home cooking and warm hospitality.

At 1801 North Turner Street, Buffet Time offers an authentic Chinese food experience, creating a festive atmosphere every day.

Additionally, Carnival, located at 1937 North Turner Street, entices dessert lovers with its snow-covered stand offering shaved ice.

These establishments collectively provide a diverse gastronomic landscape for food enthusiasts visiting Hobbs, New Mexico.

Address: 415 N Turner St, Hobbs, NM 88240, United States

Phone: +1 575-393-7780

14. Ball games at the Veterans Memorial Complex

Could there be a more engaging way to spend an afternoon than watching an exciting ball game at the Veterans Memorial Complex?

Located at 2501 East Sanger Street in Hobbs, New Mexico, the Veterans Memorial Complex offers a plethora of sports fields, 12 of which are dedicated to baseball and softball.

The city has invested a significant $5.2 million to install 12 acres of artificial turf, transforming these arenas into the home fields for the local youth baseball and softball leagues.

The complex has already been the site of major youth baseball and softball tournaments, attracting 70 teams in all.

With its all-weather design, it is anticipated that more major league events will be drawn to the complex, making it a sports destination worth visiting.

Address: 2502 E Sanger St, Hobbs, NM 88240, United States

Phone: +1 575-397-9291

Website: https://www.hobbsnm.org/vmc.html

15. Splash the aquatic space of CORE

Offering a unique blend of recreation and education, the aquatic space at CORE, known as Splash, features two 40-foot-long water slides, interactive play features for children, a large spa, and a lazy river with intricate currents.

Nestled at 4827 North Livington Highway, Hobbs, this aquatic center provides an enticing ambiance for adults and children alike.

The interactive elements are ingeniously designed to engage children, while the expansive spa and complex lazy river cater to the relaxation needs of the adult visitors.

Furthermore, the center encourages healthy competition and physical fitness through offering a multitude of sports, including basketball, indoor soccer, flag football, and racquetball.

Thus, Splash stands out as a must-visit destination in Hobbs, New Mexico, fostering an environment of fun, physical activity, and learning.

Address: 4827 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240, United States

Website: https://www.corehobbs.com/

Phone: +1 575-393-2673