The Mesilla Valley Maze in Fairacres, New Mexico, is the state’s oldest giant corn maze and a popular fall attraction near Las Cruces. Open weekends in October, the farm features a five-acre corn maze, pumpkin patch, more than 30 family activities, seasonal festivals, and hands-on agricultural experiences for visitors of all ages.
The Mesilla Valley Maze in Fairacres, just west of Las Cruces, is one of southern New Mexico’s most popular fall attractions. Operating since 1999, the seasonal destination features a giant corn maze, pumpkin patch, outdoor games, and family-friendly activities throughout October. The attraction also provides opportunities to learn about farming and agriculture in the Mesilla Valley.
What is the Mesilla Valley Maze?
In short: The Mesilla Valley Maze is a seasonal farm attraction in Fairacres featuring New Mexico’s oldest giant corn maze, a pumpkin patch, family activities, and educational exhibits about agriculture.
The Mesilla Valley Maze in Fairacres was created by the Lyles family and has welcomed visitors each fall since 1999. The centerpiece is a five-acre corn maze with winding trails and interactive activities, but the attraction extends well beyond the maze itself. Visitors can spend several hours walking the grounds, playing games, and learning about agriculture, which has been part of the farm’s mission since it opened.
The Mesilla Valley Maze is located in Fairacres, only a few miles west of Las Cruces, making it an easy day trip for families visiting southern New Mexico.
What can you do at the Mesilla Valley Maze?
In short: Admission includes dozens of family-friendly activities, with additional optional attractions available for an extra fee.
The Giant Corn Maze is the main attraction, but general admission includes more than 30 activities throughout the property. Popular attractions include:
- Pumpkin Patch, where you can pick a pumpkin right from the vine
- Pumpkin Junction with pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, hay bales, and seasonal decorations
- Mini Maze for younger children
- Giant slides
- Hayrides
- Flower fields
- Mystic Walk
- Ring games
- Picnic areas
Several activities are also available for an additional fee, including face painting, gem mining, rope making, and rubber duck races.
The combination of outdoor play, seasonal decorations, and agricultural experiences makes the Mesilla Valley Maze a popular destination for families with children of all ages.
When is the Mesilla Valley Maze open?
In short: The Mesilla Valley Maze is open on weekends throughout October and hosts two seasonal festivals that are among the most popular fall events in Las Cruces.
For the 2026 season, the Mesilla Valley Maze welcomes the general public on weekends from October 3 through October 25, with hours from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Weekdays from September 24 through October 23 are reserved for scheduled school tours. Special events include the Fall Festival on October 3-4 and the Pumpkin Festival on October 24-25, both featuring entertainment and seasonal activities.
Admission fees:
- $20.69 for adults
- $17.58 for children ages 3-12
- Free for children 2 and under
- Active-duty military members and veterans receive a $2 discount with valid identification.
Because most attractions are outdoors, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and a camera is worth bringing to capture the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and seasonal displays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I arrive at the Mesilla Valley Maze?
The Mesilla Valley Maze in Fairacres is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays during its fall season. For 2026, the season runs from October 3 through October 25, with operating hours from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last admission ticket is sold at 6 p.m., and the final hayride departs at 6:15 p.m., so arriving earlier allows enough time to enjoy the attractions. During the week, the maze is reserved for scheduled school tours rather than general admission. If you’re planning a weekend trip from Las Cruces or elsewhere in southern New Mexico, check the official Mesilla Valley Maze website for current hours and any weather-related updates before visiting.
What is included with admission to the Mesilla Valley Maze?
Admission to the Mesilla Valley Maze includes access to more than 30 family-friendly attractions, making it easy to spend several hours on the property. Highlights include the five-acre Giant Corn Maze, hayrides, the Mystic Walk, flower fields, giant slides, playgrounds, climbing areas, trike trails, ring games, picnic areas, and a mini maze designed for younger children. Some optional activities, including gem mining, face painting, duck racing, and rope making, require additional activity tickets. Visitors may also buy pumpkins, food, and souvenirs separately while exploring the grounds.
Can I bring my own food, drinks, or pets to the Mesilla Valley Maze?
Yes, the Mesilla Valley Maze allows visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, making it easy for families to enjoy a picnic during their visit. However, glass containers and alcoholic beverages are not permitted anywhere on the property. The farm also offers concession stands with seasonal snacks, meals, and refreshments available for purchase. Pets are not allowed, although ADA-recognized service animals are welcome. The Mesilla Valley Maze also provides free parking and accepts cash, debit cards, and major credit cards for admission and purchases, except at food booths. ATMs will be available on-site.
Can I visit Pumpkin Junction without paying admission?
Yes. Visitors may shop at Pumpkin Junction without purchasing general admission to the Mesilla Valley Maze. Pumpkin Junction offers pre-picked pumpkins in a variety of sizes, along with gourds, hay bales, corn stalks, scarecrows, and other fall decorations. Because Pumpkin Junction is outside the admission area, visitors who do not buy admission cannot access attractions such as the hayride or Giant Corn Maze. This option makes it convenient for Las Cruces residents who simply want to buy pumpkins or seasonal décor without spending the day at the attraction.
Is the Mesilla Valley Maze accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The Mesilla Valley Maze works to make the attraction accessible for as many visitors as possible. Hayride trailers are equipped with wheelchair ramps, and accessible restroom facilities are available on the property. Because the maze is located on a working farm, visitors should expect some uneven or bumpy ground in certain areas. Guests with mobility concerns may want to contact the Mesilla Valley Maze before visiting to discuss accessibility needs and determine which attractions will best meet their individual requirements.
Posted by LasCruces.com
