Drive down historic Route 66 and you'll find yourself in a quaint small town with a rich history, vintage buildings and classic cars. Explore classic Americana, go scuba diving in the desert or just unplug and unwind and enjoy a New Mexico sunset in Santa Rosa.
Summer Warmth and Winter Snows
Santa Rosa's temperatures are slightly milder than most desert-like locales because the town sits at an elevation of nearly 4,600 feet. Average temperatures in the summer months are in the mid 70s, but that can spike up to the lower 90s between June and August. Summer nights offer long-sleeve weather, usually in the mid 50s. Rain is a rarity, with your best chance of finding some in late July and August when you might see up to 3 inches a month. The elevation also creates a moderate amount of snow, averaging up to 3 inches per month in December and January. You'll find abundant sunshine, and humidity stays low even in mid-summer.
Nostalgia and the Great Outdoors
One of the main attractions in Santa Rosa is Route 66 itself. The roadway heads past diners that look like you’re driving past a 1950s movie set. Head inside to find cozy booth seating and décor that fits right in with the "Happy Days" TV show. A visit to the Route 66 Auto Museum and its classic vehicle collection only adds to the time warp illusion. Go for a swim at the Blue Hole, a fresh water spring that's part of a system of underground caves. With its vibrant crystalline waters and 80-foot-depth, it's popular with swimmers and divers alike. Or check out Park Lark, home to the "wibit," a floating playground complete with a water slide that's a real hit with the kids.
Tourism is King in Sleepy Santa Rosa
Tourism is the leading industry in Santa Rosa. When you motor down Route 66 and stop for fuel, food or spend a night or two, you are helping the local economy. Auto repair shops and convenience stores also contribute to the tourist trade. Things aren't as busy as they once were here, but attractions like the Blue Hole and the eye-popping desert scenery are keeping the town on the map.
Cruisin' to Santa Rosa
The best way to get to Santa Rosa is by car. If you don't want to drive the length of Route 66, consider flying in to Albuquerque International and renting a car. From there, Santa Rosa is about 120 miles, just under a two-hour drive on Interstate 40. Switch to Route 66 when you get to Santa Rosa, then explore the roadway in either direction. That's enough to give you a real feel for the desert landscape. Getting around town is easiest by car, since Santa Rosa has no public transit service.
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