Welcome to the Land of Enchantment, where the skies are turquoise, the chiles are spicy, and the history is rich. New Mexico is a state of natural wonders, artistic expression, and unique culture. From the birthplace of the atomic bomb to the home of the oldest capital city in the United States, there is no shortage of fascinating facts about New Mexico that will leave you in awe. So, put on your cowboy hat, and let’s explore 25 amazing New Mexico facts that will make you say, “¡Viva Nuevo México!”
1-5 Fun Facts About Mexico
1. New Mexico is the 5th largest state in the U.S., with an area of 121,591 mi² (314,918 km²), putting it between Montana and Arizona in terms of size.
2. It’s hard to imagine, but New Mexico is actually larger than the countries of Poland, the Philippines, and Oman.
3. Despite its vast size, New Mexico is home to only 2.1 million people, making it the 36th most populous state in the country.
4. Thanks to its vast size and relatively low population density, New Mexico is the 6th least densely populated state in the country, with around 17.5 people per mi2 (6.7 per km2).
5. The capital of New Mexico is Santa Fe, which is home to around 86,000 people. It’s a charming city with a rich history and vibrant arts scene.
6-10 Interesting Facts About Mexico
6. Did you know that one-third of New Mexico’s population speaks Spanish at home? That’s right, this state is a true melting pot of different cultures and traditions.
7. The state motto of New Mexico is “crescit eundo,” which means “It grows as it goes” in Latin. Meanwhile, the official state slogan is “The Land of Enchantment,” a nod to the state’s natural beauty and unique cultural identity.
8. New Mexico is home to around 6,000 black bears, and it’s no wonder they’re the official state mammal! These beautiful creatures are a beloved part of the state’s natural landscape.
9. Every year, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place in New Mexico. It’s the world’s largest hot-air balloon festival, with over 500 balloons take to the skies annually.
10. Major industries in New Mexico include the military, oil, gas, and tourism. This diverse economy helps to keep the state thriving and growing.
11-15 Surprising Facts About Mexico
11. New Mexico is home to more Ph.D. holders per capita than any other state in the US.
12. Microsoft was founded in Albuquerque, New Mexico back in 1975. Although it eventually moved to Bellevue, Washington in 1979.
13. Breaking Bad, one of the most popular and critically acclaimed TV series of all time was mainly filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Fans of the show can now take tours of various filming locations around the city.
Read More: 44 Addictive Breaking Bad Facts that every fan should know
14. Breaking Bad was originally supposed to be filmed in California. But due to financial reasons, they filmed the series in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The show even helped the city boost its tourism.
15. New Mexico is known for its mysterious and unexplained phenomena. The state records around 1,000 official reports of UFO sightings every year. It’s just one more reason why this fascinating state is a must-visit destination for curious travelers.
16-20 Insane Facts About Mexico
16. Did you know that it’s illegal to wear a sombrero while dancing in New Mexico? Yes, it’s an old law that’s still on the books!
17. Another strange law in New Mexico prohibits women from appearing in public unshaven. While it may seem outdated and odd, this law is still technically in effect.
18. Believe it or not, you can’t legally bet on camel or ostrich races in New Mexico. However, horse and bike races are fair game!
19. If you’re planning on tripping a horse in New Mexico, you might want to think twice. It’s not only a misdemeanor, but if the horse is hurt, it becomes a fourth-degree felony. So, it’s best to just leave those hooves alone.
20. After the Mexican-American War ended in 1848, the United States gained control of New Mexico. The New Mexico Territory was officially established in 1850, and the state has been an integral part of the country ever since.
21-25 Crazy Facts About Mexico
21. It’s completely legal for women to be topless in Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Utah.
22. Pluto was discovered by a 23 year old farmboy with no degree in astronomy who spent a year comparing photographs of the night sky, searching for a “star” that changed positions. He would later earn his Masters degree and teach at New Mexico State
23. Pluto still holds its status as a planet in New Mexico by law, despite the International Astronomical Union officially reclassifying it as a dwarf planet in 2006.
24. Following the Trinity nuclear test in New Mexico, a blind woman living 150 miles away from the site famously asked, “What’s that brilliant light?” demonstrating the power of the explosion.
25. New Mexico license plates are unique in that they are the only ones in the United States to feature the letters “USA,” which is believed to be because many Americans are unaware that New Mexico is, in fact, a state of the United States.
That’s it for this post guys, I hope you had fun while reading 25 New Mexico Facts For Kids.
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