Top 10 Things To Do In Clovis, New Mexico

1. Relive the history of the "Clovis Sound" at Norman Petty Studios

A musician and a record producer, Norman Petty established his own recording studio in 1955. He recorded talented musicians and he would later be associated with rock and roll legends, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly - both of which recorded in his studio. Inside the Norman Petty Studios, visitors will witness the recording equipment used by Buddy Holly, The Fireballs, and other rock and roll stars that helped bring about the birth of the “Clovis Sound.” The recording studio was kept as it was during the 1950s so those who visit can really experience the history of rock and roll. Tours are accommodated by appointment only and should be scheduled two weeks before the intended trip to ensure availability. People from all over the world come to see Norman Petty Studios so make sure to add this to your itinerary.

Norman Petty Studios

Address: 1313 W 7th St, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Norman Petty Studios

Opening hours: By appointment only

2. Come for the animals and stay for the fun at Hillcrest Park Zoo

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Having operated since the 1930s, Hillcrest Park Zoo houses plenty of animals, even wild and exotic ones. In the 1950s, they moved to their current location within Hillcrest Park, making them the second-largest zoo in New Mexico. Visitors get to observe and even interact with the animals. Wild animals such as giraffes, reptiles, a Bengal tiger, and so much more can be found in this zoo. When you’re done at the zoo, there are other places in the park to enjoy, especially if you are traveling with your kids, such as the playground, the Splash Pad, and the picnic areas. There is also a Sunken Garden for weddings or even just for admiring the serenity of nature. Hillcrest Park Zoo is sure to provide some educational and wholesome fun whether you are traveling alone, with your friends, or with your family.

Hillcrest Park Zoo

Address: 1208 N Norris St, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Hillcrest Park Zoo

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Age 2 & under: Free; Age 3 - 11: 2 USD; Age 12 & up: 4 USD; Seniors (60 & up): 3 USD; Military with ID: 0.50 USD discount; Group rate per person with reservation (recognized educational, church, and scout groups): 1 USD

3. Bask in the musical legacy of the Petty couple at Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

Just like the Norman Petty Studios, Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum also features a collection of things that have been used by the legendary rock and roll stars who have recorded in their studio. The collections that can be found at this museum reminds its visitors of how today’s rock and roll music came to be. It gives them a glimpse into the recording process that artists who created the “Clovis Sound” used. Thanks to establishments like Norman and Vi Petty, the legacy of the musical genre will live on.

Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

Address: 105 E Grand Ave, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 12pm, 1pm - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 6 USD

4. Test your problem-solving skills at Under Lock and Key

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Under Lock and Key is an escape room center that currently offers three themes that are perfect for you and your friends. Sometimes, going to a lot of tourist destinations during a vacation can be exhausting, too. This is a simpler yet highly interactive activity than going to the tourist spots, trying to see everything in one day. Think solving puzzles is fun? Then you’ll love it here! This is a great way to test your teamwork. Don’t worry, though! If you don’t escape the room, it’ll still be an amusing experience. This, for sure, will make your trip an unforgettable one!

Under Lock and Key

Address: 2909 N Prince St suite e, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Under Lock and Key

Opening hours: Sun, Wed - Thu: 12pm - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 8pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 25 USD

5. Create memories at St. Bernard Farms

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Though a seasonal destination, St. Bernard Farms is always worth the wait. How often do you see corn mazes when you travel? It’s not just that. There are also other captivating attractions here that get visitors to really be excited about visiting. The place offers a viewing of their lovely animals. It is also mostly visited by families because they have fun, wholesome games such as giant Jenga and giant chess. If you are up for a little sightseeing, then you can ride their zip line. There is also the Haunted Maze if you just want a little scare.

St. Bernard Farms

Address: 849 SR 77, Clovis, New Mexico 88101

Website: St. Bernard Farms

Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 1pm - 9pm (closed from Mon - Fri)

Price: General maze admission: 3 & under: Free, 4 & up: 10 USD; Non-maze admission: 3 & under: Free, 4 & up: 6 USD

6. Catch a glimpse of the alpacas at Windrush Alpacas

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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At Windrush Alpacas, visitors get to see alpacas and interact with them. They also sell merchandise such as their original socks made from their own alpacas’ fibers. This is perfect for families and animal lovers. This tourist destination also wants their alpacas to find a genuine and loving home so if you are interested in doing just that, you can apply for a thorough screening. Contact the farm to book an appointment and make sure to bring your cameras with you when you do drop by Windrush Alpacas. You would surely want to document these lovely creatures when you see them. The place is highly accessible as well, so there really shouldn’t be any worries as to how you’re going to get there.

Windrush Alpacas

Address: 770 Curry Rd M, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Windrush Alpacas

Opening hours: By appointment; Open farm day: 2nd Sat of every month except July and Aug

Price: Free

7. Have a blast at Clovis Fun Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you are looking for a place where there are tons of interesting activities for all ages, then this is definitely it. Clovis Fun Center offers bumper boats, go-karts, and even miniature golf, which could all be perfect for those who are traveling with their families. Make your bonding even better by going for paintball or you could test your strength and accuracy at the batting cages. Tourists really stop by to experience all the captivating activities this center has to offer. You can also visit the center to celebrate an occasion or schedule an outing with your friends and your family, which will surely make it even more memorable.

Clovis Fun Center

Address: 700 Fair Ln, Clovis, NM 88101, United States

Website: Clovis Fun Center

Opening hours: Fri: 5pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 2pm - 10pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

Price: Free entrance (Fees are per attraction)

8. Challenge yourself at Clovis Rock Gym

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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An interesting destination for adults and kids alike, Clovis Rock Gym is there to encourage you to challenge yourselves. Don’t have climbing experience? There is no need to fret as there are lower and less difficult walls specifically made for beginners so rest assured their team will also be helping you get through your first climb. Some even bring their kids to the gym as there is also a wall specifically designed for them so they are sure to have fun as well. What the guests also appreciate about the gym is that they offer internet connection, which means you can enjoy your breaks at the lounge with ease.

Clovis Rock Gym

Address: 400 Commerce Way, Clovis, NM 88101, USA

Website: Clovis Rock Gym

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm

Price: Day pass: 10.99 USD; group rate: 8.99 USD/climber; 8-visit pass: 69.99 USD

9. Be enchanted at Enchantment Vineyards

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A 20-minute drive from Clovis, Enchantment Vineyards boasts wines that are inspired by New Mexico itself. You can have a taste of their selection of various wines. It is up to you to take your pick. The grapes that Enchantment Vineyards use are locally grown by them so you can really taste and savor their wines. Along with wine, you can opt to order food pairings as well. They have both sweet and savory light foods that are just waiting to delight you. Have a nice time by indulging in the wines Enchantment Vineyards has tastefully crafted.

Enchantment Vineyards

Address: 2102 E. 3rd Street, Portales, New Mexico, 88101

Website: Enchantment Vineyards

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 12pm - 8pm (closed from Sun - Wed)

10. Uncover prehistory at Blackwater Draw Museum

Another great destination nearby Clovis, New Mexico, is Blackwater Draw Museum. While most of the museums we visit are to discover history, this museum shows exhibits that date back to prehistory. It is fascinating that a 13,000-year-old mammoth’s bones can be found here and the museum even allows its visitors to come and experience carrying them as they have a touch-and-feel collection. Beautiful and creative paintings that accurately depict the prehistoric times can also be found at Blackwater Draw Museum so you can really maximize your visit experience.

Blackwater Draw Museum

Address: 1500 S Avenue K, Portales, NM 88130, United States

Website: Blackwater Draw Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Under 6: Free; Children (6 - 15 years) and students/military: 1 USD; Adults (16 - 59 years): 3 USD; Seniors (60 & up): 2 USD

Savor the culture of Clovis, New Mexico

Organizing a trip can be invigorating and difficult at the same time so planning ahead is essential. With its rich history, it’s clear to see why tourists spend their time exploring the culture and attractions of Clovis, New Mexico. While you’re there, don’t forget to try different restaurants such as Red Lobster and Taqueria Jalisco, and if you’re into shopping, have a go at their shopping centers, too.