There are many kid friendly things to do in Raton, New Mexico. The Raton Museum is a great place to start, as it is filled with fun and educational exhibits. The Raton Aquatic Center is another great option, as it offers swimming lessons, open swim times, and water slides. The Raton Country Club is perfect for a day of hiking or picnicking, and the Raton Range offers great trails for exploring. For a more unique experience, kids can visit the Witches’ Hill, where they can learn about the history of the area and see some of the most famous witch sites in the world.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Raton, New Mexico
1. Visit the Raton Museum
The Raton Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Raton and the surrounding area. The museum has a variety of exhibits that focus on different aspects of the area’s history, from the early days of settlement to the present day. There are also a number of interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy, such as a simulated mining experience and a chance to try on old-time clothing.
2. Take a scenic drive
Raton is situated in a beautiful part of the country, and there are plenty of scenic drives nearby that are perfect for a family outing. A few of our favorites include the Raton Pass Scenic Byway, which takes you through the Raton Pass and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Raton National Forest Scenic Byway, which winds its way through the majestic Raton National Forest.
3. Go fishing
Raton is home to a number of great fishing spots, both in the city and in the nearby mountains. Trout, bass, and catfish are all commonly found in the area, so it’s a great place to take the kids for a day of fishing fun.
4. Camping
Raton’s proximity to the Raton National Forest makes it a great place to go camping. There are a number of campgrounds in the area, both in the forest and in the city, that offer a variety of camping experiences. Whether you’re looking for a primitive camping spot or a more developed campsite with amenities, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Raton.
5. Hiking
Raton is also a great place to go hiking, with a number of trails of varying difficulty level in the area. A few of our favorites include the Rattlesnake Trail, which takes you through a canyon with beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs, and the Sugarite Canyon State Park Trails, which offer a variety of different hiking experiences, from easy nature trails to more challenging hikes.
6. Go swimming
Raton is home to a number of great swimming holes, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. A few of our favorites include the Sugartree Swimming Hole, which has a rope swing and a platform for jumping into the water, and the City Pool, which is a great place for kids to splash around and have some fun.
7.Explore the Simon Canyon Petroglyphs
The Simon Canyon Petroglyphs are a fascinating archaeological site that features a collection of Native American rock art. The petroglyphs date back hundreds of years and provide a glimpse into the culture and beliefs of the people who created them. The site is located just outside of Raton and is easily accessible by car.
8. Visit the Raton Wildlife Refuge
The Raton Wildlife Refuge is a great place to see a variety of wildlife, from birds and mammals to reptiles and amphibians. The Refuge offers a number of different activities and programs, such as guided wildlife tours, educational programs, and more. The Refuge is located just outside of Raton and is a great place to spend a day for those interested in wildlife and nature.
9. Play golf
Raton is home to a number of great golf courses, perfect for a day out on the links. A few of our favorites include the Raton Country Club, which offers a challenging course with breathtaking views, and the Taos Country Club, which is a beautiful course set against the backdrop of the Taos mountains.
10. Go stargazing
Raton is situated in a dark sky area, making it a great place to go stargazing. The Raton Municipal Observatory is a great place to get started, with a variety of different telescopes and knowledgeable staff who can help you find your way around the night sky.
