· US

Clovis

Clovis, New Mexico, United States

Clovis, located in the heart of eastern New Mexico, is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant community. Known for its warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, Clovis offers a perfect blend of small-town cha…

#Small town#Southwestern United States#Historic#Cultural#Agricultural
Stay & flyPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Clovis.

Top Hotels in Clovis

Top Flights to Clovis

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Clovis.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Clovis, New Mexico, is 38,000.
Languages
English, Spanish
Average weather
Clovis
Jan
cold
11°-3°
Feb
cold
14°-2°
Mar
clear
18°1°
Apr
clear
23°5°
May
sun
27°10°
Jun
hot
32°15°
Jul
hot
33°18°
Aug
hot
32°17°
Sep
sun
28°13°
Oct
clear
22°6°
Nov
cloud
16°0°
Dec
cold
11°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Clovis.

What people love

Clovis, New Mexico is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Some of the pros of traveling to Clovis include:

  1. Rich History: Clovis has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the Clovis Depot Model Train Museum, which showcases the city's railroad history, or visit the Blackwater Draw Museum to learn about the area's archaeological significance.

  2. Outdoor Activities: Clovis is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby Oasis State Park for hiking, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Clovis has a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, offering visitors a taste of local culture and traditions.

  4. Friendly Community: Clovis is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Visitors can expect warm hospitality and genuine interactions with locals, making their stay in Clovis a memorable one.

Overall, traveling to Clovis can offer a unique blend of history, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community for visitors to enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Clovis, New Mexico, could include:

  1. Limited tourist attractions: Clovis is a smaller city and may not offer as many tourist attractions or entertainment options compared to larger cities or popular tourist destinations.

  2. Limited dining and shopping options: The dining and shopping options in Clovis may be more limited compared to larger cities, which could potentially limit the variety and quality of experiences available to travelers.

  3. Distance from major airports: Clovis does not have its own commercial airport, so travelers would likely need to fly into a larger airport such as Albuquerque or Amarillo and then drive several hours to reach Clovis. This could add travel time and expenses to the trip.

  4. Weather conditions: Clovis is located in a region known for its hot summers and cold winters, which could impact travelers' comfort and activities depending on the time of year they visit.

  5. Limited public transportation: Clovis may have limited public transportation options, making it more challenging for travelers to get around the city without their own vehicle.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to ensure a positive travel experience.

Clovis, New Mexico, is a city with a rich and varied history, located in the eastern part of the state. Here is a detailed history of Clovis:

Early History

  • Prehistoric Period: The area around Clovis is known for the Clovis culture, an early Native American culture dating back to around 11,000 years ago. The Clovis people are known for their distinctive stone tools, particularly the Clovis point, which was first discovered in the region in the 1930s. The Blackwater Draw site near Clovis is one of the most important archaeological sites in North America, providing significant insight into prehistoric life.

Founding and Development

  • 1906: Clovis was officially founded as a city, following the arrival of the railroad. The city was established as a division point for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. The name "Clovis" is believed to have been chosen by the daughter of a railroad official, supposedly inspired by the first Christian king of the Franks, Clovis I.
  • Early 20th Century: The railroad brought rapid growth and development to Clovis. It became an important hub for agriculture and commerce, serving the surrounding farming communities.

Mid-20th Century

  • Cannon Air Force Base: In 1942, the U.S. Army Air Corps established what would become Cannon Air Force Base. The base has been a significant part of Clovis's economy and community, providing jobs and contributing to the city's development. It has hosted various aviation units and played a role in both World War II and the Cold War.

Cultural and Musical Heritage

  • Norman Petty Studios: Clovis gained prominence in the music industry in the 1950s and 1960s due to Norman Petty Studios. Owned by musician and producer Norman Petty, the studio was famous for recording Buddy Holly and The Crickets, among others. Songs like "Peggy Sue" were recorded in Clovis, making it a landmark in the history of rock and roll.

Recent Developments

  • Economic Growth: Clovis continues to be a center for agriculture, with crops such as cotton and peanuts being significant to the local economy. The dairy industry has also grown in importance.
  • Wind Energy: In recent years, the area around Clovis has seen development in wind energy, contributing to the local economy and providing jobs.

Landmarks and Attractions

  • Hillcrest Park and Zoo: A popular local attraction, Hillcrest Park offers recreational facilities and a small zoo, serving as a family-friendly destination.
  • Blackwater Draw Museum: Located near the archaeological site, this museum showcases artifacts and information about the Clovis culture.

Notable Figures

  • Buddy Holly: While not a native of Clovis, the legendary rock and roll musician recorded some of his most famous works at Norman Petty Studios.
  • Norman Petty: A key figure in the music industry, Petty was instrumental in launching the careers of several famous musicians and brought international attention to Clovis.

Clovis, New Mexico, remains a city with a unique blend of historical significance, cultural heritage, and economic vitality, making it an interesting place both historically and in contemporary times.