Old Mesilla
La Mesilla
A historic town with Spanish and Mexican character, with adobe houses surrounding its old plaza. It was once the site of the trial of the legendary Wild West outlaw Billy the Kid.
Mesilla was founded in 1848. After the Gadsden Purchase in 1854, it became part of the United States. It was once a transportation and trade center of southern New Mexico. The central Mesilla Plaza is surrounded by adobe buildings, which now house handicraft shops, chile sauce stores and Mexican restaurants. On the north side of the plaza stands the Basilica of San Albino. The famous gunslinger Billy the Kid was tried here in 1881, and the old courthouse, which is now a gift shop, is linked to that trial. Try the green chile stew and enchiladas at one of the long-established restaurants. It is about 5 km from downtown Las Cruces, and parking is free.
Opening hours
All day; shop approx. 10:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Basilica of San Albino
- Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
- Downtown Las Cruces & Farmers and Crafts Market
- New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument
- Aguirre Spring Recreation Area
- Fort Selden Historic Site