Grants can be explored through several themes: early aviation and navigation, uranium mining, Route 66, and the history of Cibola County. Museums, a gallery, the Route 66 Neon Drive-Thru Arch, and Riverwalk Park offer different ways to explore. Bluewater Lake State Park is also 25 miles west of Grants. When planning, you can first decide whether cultural history, Route 66, or outdoor activities should take priority.
Museums and History in Grants
The Western New Mexico Airways Heritage Museum tells the story of early aviation, navigation, and the people who made it possible. Its themes connect technological development with the people behind it. Aviation enthusiasts can also place navigation within this history.
The Cibola County History Museum is housed in Grants' historic library. Its exhibition topics include early pioneer life, Indigenous cultures, ranching, and mining. Mining is presented alongside three other topics, so the museum's perspective on Cibola County encompasses several cultural and economic aspects rather than focusing on a single area.
The New Mexico Mining Museum offers a tour through a simulated mine. The museum also displays historical artifacts related to uranium miners, who helped shape the history of Grants. The tour and artifacts offer different points of focus: a simulated mine as a guided experience alongside historical connections to the miners. If you are especially interested in uranium mining, this museum combines an activity with a connection to local history.
Route 66: Collections, Art, and Landmarks
The Route 66 Vintage Museum displays historical artworks, postcards, photographs, and other antiques from Route 66's heyday. The Double Six Gallery and Museum presents local art, photography, and creative exhibitions along historic Route 66. Your choice depends on what you want to see: historical artworks, images, and antiques from Route 66's heyday, or local art and creative exhibitions.
The Route 66 Neon Drive-Thru Arch is an 18-foot-tall landmark featuring neon lighting, painted flames, and classic sign design. Along historic Route 66, it offers an opportunity to take photos as you drive through. This designed landmark adds another visually focused perspective to the Route 66 themes explored in the museums.
Parks and Activities West of Grants
Riverwalk Park features ponds, an amphitheater, a playground, and picnic tables. This sets it apart from museums and galleries: the focus here is on parkland and these amenities rather than exhibitions. If a playground or picnic tables are important to your plans, these specific features are useful points to consider.
Bluewater Lake State Park is 25 miles west of Grants and offers camping, hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, and fishing. This gives it a different focus from the museums, gallery, and Route 66 attractions in Grants: outdoor activities rather than cultural and collection-based themes. If you are considering the park, check current park conditions before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Mesita, Pueblo Of Acoma.
For the broader travel overview: Cibola County.
