A Visit to Columbus

Do an international tour with an easy cross-border, fun fill day in Columbus New Mexico

A trip to New Mexico’s Outback is not complete unless you do the Pink Store in Mexico. This day trip elegantly stitches together
20th-century border historical experience with modern cross-border culture in a single day adventure.  

Travel approximately 32 miles from Deming, New Mexico along New Mexico State Road 11 to the Historic Village of Columbus,
about 3 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border. 
 

10:00 AM – Pancho Villa State Park, Camp Furlong and Historic Old Depot Museum

Visit Pancho Villa State Park to experience the history of the original Camp Furlong structures and learn about the
March 9, 1916 raid some call America’s first 9-11, led by Pancho Villa 

Don’t skip the Camp Furlong Museum, located at Pancho Villa State Park. The museum is part of the larger 
Pancho Villa State Park, which commemorates the 1916 raid by Pancho Villa on the town of Columbus. 

Another hidden treasure included in a visit to Columbus is the old historic railroad depot (now a museum) located in
Pancho Villa State Park.  Built in 1902, it is one of the oldest buildings in Columbus. The museum features exhibits and a
visitor center that explore the history of the area, including the raid and the
subsequent establishment of Camp Furlong. 

1:00 PM – Border Crossing to Puerto Palomas

Park on the US side (large lot next to Family Dollar); just $5 per day, for your international visit to Mexico!
It’s an easy walk from the parking lot. Just follow the straightforward sidewalk and pedestrian process (turnstile/purse scan) into Mexico to enjoy lunch and shopping at the Pink Store.

A trip to this vibrant cultural hub is a must see for visitors, and is a special occasion tradition for many locals. 
The store was founded by Ivonne and Sergio Romero in 1989 and it seems there is always a party going on.
The combination restaurant and retail shopping boutique offer a vast selection of authentic Mexican cuisine at very
affordable prices.  What’s more, the gift shop is generously stocked with handmade Mexican curios. 
One should allow plenty of time for shopping.  If you are of legal drinking age, shop clerks will offer
complimentary margaritas while you shop!

2:45 PM – Strolling Palomas

Walk along Main Street to enjoy bakeries, pharmacies, boot shops, jewelry, and dental/optical clinics.
Admire the dramatic plaza statue of Pancho Villa (a statue of Villa and Pershing shaking hands nearby,
reflecting on shared border history).

4:00 PM – Return to the U.S.

Head back through pedestrian border lanes into Columbus. Grab a coffee or snack at a local shop downtown and
revisit any missed exhibits or scenic views.

4:00 PM – Return to the U.S.

Head back through pedestrian border lanes into Columbus. Grab a coffee or snack at a local shop downtown and
revisit any missed exhibits or scenic views.

4:45 PM –return to your lodging accommodations for a brief rest before dinner.