http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/new-mexico/ Sat, 19 May 2012 19:16:28 +0000 43200 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/new-mexico/small-town-ease-in-truth-or-consequences-new-mexico-r115
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico is the quintessential small south western United States town. Known as Hot Springs until 1950 when the town renamed itself in order to draw more tourism, Truth or Consequences persists as one of the most visited small town destination. With both natural and man made attractions bringing both new and die hard road trip enthusiasts to its streets, there is no end to the small town fun that can be had here.

The largest draw to the town, other than the unforgettable name, is the natural hot spring. While the area surrounding the spring has been developed with a resort and hotel for travelers looking for a higher end stay in the town, the natural beauty of the spring remains. Everyone, from busy businessmen to stressed moms, will find the healing waters of the hot spring exactly what they need to melt away the rigors of every day life.

Those interested in the rich history of Truth or Consequences and its surrounding areas should visit the Geronimo Springs Museum. This fun and education day trip destination teaches those who venture inside about how the area was settled and by whom. An impressive collection and native North American pottery is on display, along with vintage military garb and memorabilia.

While most of what makes Truth or Consequences great takes place during the day, there is one activity that wows and inspires tourists that can only happen at night. With the wide open skies and flat landscape, star gazing has become popular among visitors to the town. All it takes to feel as though you are among the stars is a telescope, a comfortable spot in the desert surrounding Truth or Consequences and a little imagination.

Dining options in Truth or Consequences are more varied than one would at first assume. There are the expected barbeque, Mexican and South Western cuisines, but also a handful of dining styles that may surprise visitors. Japanese, Italian and organic vegan fare can be found on the desert streets, right along with the vintage clothing stores and old time museum. Modern travelers who tend to stay away from the small town adventure due to lack of high end meal options should feel free to roam about the lesser populated areas with the knowledge that an espresso or sushi roll isn’t far away.

Lodging options in this gem are just about as varied as the cuisine. There are plenty of classy hotels with plenty of creature comforts to make guests feel taken care of. Yet, there is something more authentic about choosing to call on of the charming bed and breakfasts your home away from home. The lodges and bed and breakfasts in Truth or Consequences combine the natural beauty the landscape lends with a grass roots, 1960’s relaxed atmosphere that fits with the hot spring style of the town. Like with the resorts, calming hot spring water is channeled into some of these smaller lodging choices for personal bath use.

The allure of pre-Columbian history meets kitschy charm in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Road trippers seeking a small town excursion would be hard pressed not to include this infamous destination in their itinerary. So popular, many tourists who visit fall in love and never want to leave.]]> Mon, 06 Dec 2010 20:11:04 +0000 e19347e1c3ca0c0b97de5fb3b690855a