Discover the Beauty and Culture of the West
From the rugged Badlands of North Dakota and the wide-open landscapes of Wyoming to the vibrant Southwest culture of Texas and New Mexico, the American West offers travelers an unforgettable mix of adventure, history and authentic local flavor. This edition of TAP Into the West highlights inspiring destinations where groups can experience everything from Native American heritage and frontier history to outdoor exploration, iconic road trips and memorable culinary experiences. Whether savoring elevated street tacos in El Paso, hiking among the white gypsum dunes near Las Cruces, discovering conservation history in Medora or exploring Oklahoma’s legendary Route 66, these destinations showcase the spirit, diversity and timeless appeal of the West.
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New Mexico
LAS CRUCES, NM
New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum is 47 acres packed with real stories about real people. Visitors can stroll along corrals filled with livestock, enjoy several gardens and watch one of the museum’s many demonstrations. The interactive museum brings to life the 4,000-year history of farming and ranching in New Mexico.
Experience the world’s largest gypsum dune field located less than an hour from Las Cruces. Explore the exhibits, walk, sled, or picnic. Knowledgeable rangers help visitors learn about the hardy ecosystem through a variety of interpretive programs, guided hikes and seasonal programs that are suitable for visitors of all ages.
Located on the plaza in Mesilla, the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site embodies the rich history and heritage of the Southwest Borderlands. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and consists of two storefronts and a large residence that reflects the experiences of a multicultural family and community.
North Dakota
Medora ND
Step into conservation history at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, opening summer 2026 in the North Dakota Badlands. Explore immersive galleries, rare artifacts, and a recreated Elkhorn Ranch cabin while overlooking the Little Missouri River. Sustainable design and surrounding trails create an inspiring, shared experience rooted in place.
Explore the rugged beauty of the Badlands at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Spot wild horses and bison, hike colorful canyon trails and experience the landscapes that shaped Roosevelt’s conservation legacy. Scenic drives and overlooks create unforgettable shared moments in one of America’s most striking and uncrowded national parks.
Enjoy a cliffside Badlands evening at the Pitchfork Fondue and Medora Musical. Watch cowboy chefs cook steaks on pitchforks, enjoy a classic western barbecue buffet and live music, then experience an outdoor musical celebrating the spirit of the American West under the open Badlands sky.
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Oklahoma
At Quartz Mountain State Park, golden sunsets highlight rugged granite peaks and the shimmering waters of Lake Altus-Lugert. Guests at Quartz Mountain Lodge enjoy lakeside views, scenic hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and peaceful skies. Oklahoma has 37 State Parks to explore throughout the state.
Oklahoma’s Native American culture is vibrant and living, shaped by 39 Tribes whose traditions, art, and languages continue to thrive. At the First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City, visitors experience powerful stories of resilience and innovation. FAM is one of many Native American Cultural experiences in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma proudly boasts the longest drivable stretch of historic Route 66, spanning more than 400 miles of iconic Americana. From Weatherford’s towering Space Giant to neon-lit diners, vintage motor courts, and charming small towns, the Mother Road delivers authentic road trip nostalgia and unforgettable experiences across the state.
Texas
EL PASO, TX
A staple in the city’s taco scene, Taconeta elevates Mexican street food with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. Its vibrant atmosphere and inventive menu create a lively yet welcoming setting. Blending authenticity with innovation, Taconeta reflects El Paso’s dynamic food culture and is a must-visit and perfect for group dining.
Wyoming
This is where the West still lives. Stand alongside tribal nations, honoring deep-rooted traditions. Ride with working ranchers and cheer on generations of rodeo grit. Trace the emigrant trails and wander frontier towns that refuse to fade. In Wyoming, heritage is not history. It is a way of life.
Go where legends were made. Walk the grounds of frontier forts, restored main streets and pioneer settlements that shaped a nation. Come face-to-face with dinosaur fossils, outlaw lore and the railroads that pushed westward expansion forward. In Wyoming, history is not behind glass. It surrounds you.
Answer the call of open country. Climb wind-carved badlands, paddle high plains waters and roam mountain forests and desert basins without fences or limits. Watch pronghorn sprint across the prairie and wild horses run free. In Wyoming, adventure is not scheduled. It is discovered by those bold enough to seek it.
For more travel tips and ideas for groups, be sure to Download the June edition of Leisure Group Travel and Subscribe for FREE
