A 30-MINUTE SCENIC DRIVE. That’s all it takes to get from the Grant County Airport to Silver City’s historic downtown and its wealth of museums, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

“We serve all of Grant County,” says Grant County Airport manager Rebekah Wenger.

Ideal for a family trip or a quick getaway, Silver City provides stylish lodgings like the Art Deco–themed Murray Hotel and the Bear Creek Motel & Cabins, located just on the outskirts of the 3.3-million-acre Gila National Forest.

Tuck into a cowboy-cut rib eye at the Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House in Pinos Altos, and stick around for live music and dancing on Saturdays. In Silver City, try local favorite Jalisco Cafe with a scoop of Hatch Chile Chocolate at the Ice Cream Emporium.

Then check out the Silver City Museum’s collection of photographs and artifacts from the town’s mining past, and pick up a pamphlet for a self-guided walking tour of the town’s historic district. Plus, the Western New Mexico University Museum contains the largest and most complete array of Mimbres materials, including pottery, in the world.

Before you go, peruse the local shops and galleries, including Made in Silver City, Silver City Trading Co. Antique Mall, Pink Store, and Light Art Space.

In a hurry to get back to the city life? (We know you’re not.) The Grant County Airport has direct flights to Albuquerque, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.

EXPLORE MORE

Touch down in the Gila National Forest.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Get a glimpse into the homes and lives of the Mogollon people.

Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway. Travel the 93-mile loop through the Gila.

Gila Hot Springs Campground. Chill out near hot springs pools.