I really love to look up and find new, interesting places! I like to find places that aren’t as well known for new ideas of places to go some day! I have found some pretty interesting places and slightly weird towns! So, I decided to do a little series of interesting places that are worthy of a visit!
This week: Truth or Consequences, NM
The name of Truth or Consequences is what drew me into this town. It’s a very odd name for a town! Once I starting looking at it though, I was really drawn to it.
A little history on this town. Truth or Consequences was not always called Truth or Consequences. Originally, this town was named Hot Springs. I am guessing it was named Hot Springs due to the number of hot springs that are in the town. But, the town changed their name in 1950 after the popular radio/TV show Truth or Consequences. The show wanted to shoot their anniversary addition of the show in an American town but wanted that town to change their name to the name of the show. In a majority vote, the town decided to change their name from Hot Springs to Truth or Consequences so they could host the show. Pretty odd in my opinion!
Truth or Consequences was big in the 1920’s – 1950’s. Their claim to fame was their hot springs and the “21 Day Soak”. It was thought if you soaked int he hot springs for an hour a day for 21 days all your ailments would be cured. Today, there are quite a few new and modernized hot spring spas and also many of the original ones have been restored.
So what is there to do in Truth or Consequences?
Hot Springs/ Bathhouses
Obviously if you are going to travel to Truth or Consequences, you have to check out their hot springs and bathhouses. Some of the motels eve have baths inside the rooms! Which means you get a private little spa inside your hotel room!
Truth or Consequences sits along a rift int he Rio Grande that allows deep waters to come to the surface but retain their minerals and heat. The temperatures of water can range from mid 80’s to 115 degrees. It is said that there is no odor to the water and it naturally contains chloride which purifies it.
So, if you are looking for a little spa retreat or some R&R, this is your spot!
Downtown Shops
Photo credit: Psyberartist, Found at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/psyberartist/43538488170/in/photostream/
Just like pretty much any town, Truth or Consequences has a downtown area with shops! Their shops range from cute little boutiques to art shops to grocery stores. They also have a farmers market from May to October!
Along with shopping, there is a lot of art to see downtown. Every second Saturday, the shops downtown will open from 6-9pm. There is typically music, drinks, performances, food, and lots of art! If you happen to be there on the second Saturday of the month, make sure you check it out!
The Rio Grande
The Rio Grande provides lots of fun water activities for everyone! You can float, fish, kayak, tube, swim, and so much more! There is even a company that will rent you tubes, kayaks, and rafts! Then once you’ve made it down the river, they will pick you up on the River Rat Express!
The river would be a great activity for those hot summer days when you just want to cool off. It can get pretty hot in New Mexico! Plus floating is one of my favorite activities!!
Fiesta
Truth or Consequences holds an annual Fiesta every year in their town. It looks and sounds like absolute fun!! Fiesta is essentially their town’s annual celebration. Fiesta includes: open museums, a parade, BBQ, food, sports competitions, a junk boat race, a music lineup, a car show, fishing, duck races, and they crown Miss Fiesta!
Fiesta usually happens in early May! It is packed with so many activities that it’s guaranteed to be a good time!
So, there you have it. Truth or Consequences. A place you may of may not have heard of bu somewhere definitely worth checking out! And if you have visited already, let me know any insights!!