New Mexico's Morning Star

For thousands of years people have touched this land, each adding to its story in their own way. Los Luceros is a place where the memories of those past have been preserved on the landscape, and its story is one unique to New Mexico. As Los Luceros enters a new era as an officially designated New Mexico Historic Site, we invite you to explore the deep and complex histories of this beautiful property.

The picturesque 148-acre ranch is located north of Alcalde on the east bank of the Río Grande. Upon arriving at the site visitors quickly realize why people have called the beautiful property home for more than six hundred years. The centerpiece of Los Luceros Historic Site is a magnificent Territorial-style Hacienda that houses centuries of history within its walls. The property also includes an 18th century Capilla (chapel), Victorian cottage, carriage house, guesthouse, and farmyard.

In a state blessed with numerous cultural gems, Los Luceros Historic Site is surely one of New Mexico’s most scenic and historically rich properties.

Visiting Information


Hours and Days of Operation:

Open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Admission:

$7 for adults. Free for children 16 years and younger. NM residents with ID admitted free the first Sunday of every month. NM Seniors are free on Wednesdays. Admission is also included with Museum of New Mexico Foundation membership. To take advantage of these days and benefits please do not purchase tickets online, just check-in at the Visitor Center. We do not have timed entry.

Phone: 505-476-1165

Purchase Tickets

Our Designations

Designations are official recognitions of natural and historic resources that document a property's significance and why it is worthy of preservation.


New Mexico Historic Sites

New Mexico
Historic Site

2019

Important Bird Area

Audubon Important
Bird Area

2001

National Registry

National Register
of Historic Places

1983

State Registry

State Registry of
Cultural Properties

1970


Guiding Principles

The Department of Cultural Affairs and New Mexico Historic Sites' missions combined with deed restrictions for the property, and multi-cultural stakeholder consultation resulted in the following four principles upon which all site programs are planned and evaluated:

Preservation and Interpretation of Cultural Resources

Preserve and maintain the historic structures on the property and provide for opportunities to foster and interpret the history of the property.

Continuation of Traditional Agricultural Practices

Preserve the agricultural use of the property, specifically the apple orchard and pasture within the view shed of the Hacienda.

Conservation of the Natural Environment

Provide for the protection of the environmental elements on the property, specifically the irrigated lands, the Bosque, and the Rio Grande.

Community Engagement

Manage the property to enhance the quality of life and economic well-being for the local community and the State of New Mexico (residents and visitors).