White Sands Missile Range occupies a substantial portion of southern New Mexico, and it is a major national resource for testing defense systems such as the PATRIOT and THAAD missiles. The range is very busy and is tightly controlled for security reasons, but you can still access the missile range museum and missile part. The base gate is located about 5 or 10 minutes south of Highway 70 and is clearly marked as you descend the pass.
The missile park allows you to walk up close to a variety of missiles, test drone aircraft and other vehicles associated with the range. This can be done quickly with a few photos along the way. The museum closes at 4:00 pm on weekdays and is open from 10:00 to 3:00 on weekends. Remember, as always in Las Cruces, to check the roadblocks on Highway 70 before planning your day.
This museum is probably best seen as a side trip on the way to or from the National Monument as it on the way and does not take long to visit See www.wsmr-history.org for photos and more information or call 505-678-8824.