Visit Raton New Mexico for a variety of fun-filled activities. This town has a lively Arts and Cultural District and is known as the “Center of the Arts” of Northeastern New Mexico. Visitors can enjoy performing and visual arts at the historic Shuler Theater and Old Pass Gallery. Historic First Street features galleries, museums and a dance school. If you love live theatre, there are several theaters in town. The Raton Amtrak Station stops in Raton.
The downtown area is reminiscent of the Old West. The architecture reflects this era. The town center remains the hub of economic activity. Shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment are located within walking distance of each other. The surrounding Southwestern vistas provide a breathtaking backdrop to this small town. There are plenty of ways to spend a relaxing vacation in Raton. In addition to dining, there are many art galleries in the area.
This city is located in northeastern New Mexico, about 93 miles from Colorado Springs and 135 miles from Pueblo. It was originally called Willow Springs, but in 1880, the city was incorporated into a larger city. The town was named after the Spanish word for mouse. It’s an important mining and ranching center in northeast New Mexico. Residents enjoy the natural beauty of the area and its unique landscape. The Raton Range is located in the north of the town, and it extends eastward from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Historically, the area around the Raton Pass is a historic location. Spanish explorers used the area and Native Americans lived there for centuries. In 1877, a post office was established in the town. It was originally called Willow Springs, but was renamed Otero and then Raton after the Santa Fe Trail ended in the town. A notable connection between the two is that the town was mentioned in the Jack Kerouac novel, On the Road.
There are several historical buildings in the city. In 1882, William Burbridge opened a bar called the Bank Exchange. He had brought his partner, Gus Mentzer, from Texas, who was prone to gambling and excessive drinking. This partnership dissolved, and Gus Mentzer was thrown out. However, he returned to the bar and opened the Saloon on June 26, 1882. Despite the troubles of Gus Mentzer and William Burbridge, the bar quickly became the center of Raton life.
The city’s population is younger than the state average, and its percentage of black people and foreign-born citizens is lower than the state average. Its median age is forty years, and its proportion of females to males is 94.5:1.
If you have time to spend some time in Raton, New Mexico, consider exploring the area’s history. It was once the gateway to the Santa Fe Trail, and now has a historic marker explaining the area’s history. Visit the Raton Museum, which traces the town’s rich history. In addition, Raton has numerous parks and hiking trails. If you have a taste for adventure, head to Raton Pass to take in the spectacular views.