Page 7 - 2019 Las Vegas & San Miguel Co. Visitors Guide

bookstores, a gifts and paper goods store, a candy shop, and several owner/operated jewelry and spe- cialty stores. When possible – in addition to other merchandise – these entrepreneurs feature locally sourced arts, crafts and homemade goods. It’s shop- per heaven!
Turn right on 12th Street off Bridge Street and find a unique dining experience in a renovated trol- leybuilding that now houses a contemporary art venue eatery. Head onto to Douglas Avenue, past two more exceptional restaurants: one known for its contemporary American cuisine and hand-craft- ed cocktails, and another where traditional north- ern New Mexico foods and freshly prepared baked goods are served up daily. Cross over Grand where you will find a busy antique shop that houses sev- eral vendors under one roof. The newest addition to fine eateries, located in the Castaneda Hotel, fea- tures the culinary offerings of restauranteur Sean
Fourth of July Fiestas in Plaza Park
Sinclair, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef with roots in Northern New Mexico.
Things to do year round
In warmer weather, bands play in the bandstand at Plaza Park, a popular venue for weddings and other celebrations, like the Fourth of July Fiestas. Thousands flock to the park to watch folklorico dancers and listen to musicians playing traditional salsa, Northern New Mexico, Mexican and Tejano music. Over the three- to four-day event, there is a 5K and 10K race, and additional activities designed for families. The food booths rival anything you’ll find at a state fair anywhere in the country. Green Chile Cheeseburger anyone?
The Fourth of July Fiesta is one of several events held throughout the year to celebrate the heritage, culture, architecture, and creative gifts of Las Veg- ans. Seasonal events include the Rough Rider Mo- torcycle Rally in late July; Heritage Week, the San Miguel County Fair, and Places with a Past Historic Homes Tour in August; Highlands Homecoming in September, and the annual Light Parade and Historic Homes Holiday Tour in December. From September through late May, student and profes- sional performances are staged at the historic Ilfeld Auditorium and in Wilson Complex at Highlands University. During the year, professors give lectures open to the public, the Kennedy Hall Art Gallery mounts curated art shows, the Dr. Robert Bell Col-
lection is available for viewing, and the Media Arts Center, housed in the Joe McCaffery Historical Trolley Building, showcases the work of students and faculty. The Kluge Auditorium at the United World College in Montezuma, also sponsors lec- tures and performances from September to May, which are open to the public.
Nightlife
The Indigo, a 50-seat boutique theater on Bridge Street, features first run films. Housed in a re- claimed and renovated commercial building con- structed in the early 1900s, the theater is open seven days a week. Check their website for show times, www.indigotheater.rocks
On a schedule that begins in mid-April, the Castañeda Hotel, restaurant, and lounge will begin inviting guests to enjoy its Northern New Mexico hospitality. What better way to celebrate the history and mystery of Las Vegas than in this fully-restored railroad era hotel?
Dine the new-fashioned way at Dick’s Pub and Restaurant on Douglas. The owners serve contem- porary American cuisine and hand-crafted cock- tails in a renovated 1800s building. The Serf Events Center often brings name bands to town for enter- tainment and dancing.
The Skillet, on 12th Street, is a unique dining ex- perience amid a collection of art works by owners Isaac and Shawna Sandoval. The menu features tasty fusion foods served in an art-filled venue where you can often catch bands playing live music.
Borracho’s Craft Booze & Brew is a boutique bar where craft libations are dispensed with flair and style. Located in the heart of old town, Borracho’s serves classic cocktails, practices the art of mixol- ogy and serves New Mexico craft beer and spirits.
Pizza and bowling are a hit at J.C.’s New York Piz- za Dept., across from Plaza Park. The eatery spe- cializes in hand made pizzas, a full menu of Italian comfort foods and a full bar. And if you’re up for bowling, there’s a three-lane alley for family and friends’ fun and games.
Enjoy a variety of libations at Byron T’s Saloon in the Plaza Hotel. With views of Plaza Park in
Above the bar at La Castañeda Hotel
the background, experience hospitality in a set- ting where customer satisfaction is the highest priority. Foodies will appreciate the décor while immersing themselves in Las Vegas hospitality.
For just a cup of coffee or comfort food to eat in or take out, remember Dicho’s at the Historic El Fidel Hotel, Charlie’s Bakery and Café on Douglas Avenue, The Range Café at the Plaza, El Encanto, Traveler’s Café, The Coffee Shop, El Rialto, Taco King, and Olivia’s in the Plaza/Bridge Street district, and the Roadrunner Bar & Grille at the golf course.
Historic Plaza Hotel, courtesy Harold Garcia
Las Vegas has more to do than can be con- tained here. Know this. When you come to Las Vegas you can expect to find more than you bargained for, and it is a bargain. Central- ly located off a major highway, Las Vegas is more than an overnight stop; it is a destination.
For a complete listing of events, check out the cal- endar of events, pages 44-50.
Borracho’s Craft Booze & Brew on Bridge St.
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