Set amid the striking panorama of the Organ Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces is a Southwestern gem that never ceases to enchant its visitors.
The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history, promising a whirl of unforgettable experiences.
With an array of top attractions and activities, finding the best things to do in Las Cruces is like opening a treasure chest of adventures.
Whether you’re wandering the charming Historic Mesilla Village or savoring the breathtaking sunsets at Dripping Springs Natural Area, you’re in for a real treat.
Every turn reveals a new discovery that’s bound to become a cherished memory.
So pack your bags and get ready to dive into the vibrant, beautiful, and diverse experiences that await you.
Best Things To Do In Las Cruces, NM Compared
From stunning parks to captivating museums and everything in between, these recommendations will have you exploring this vibrant city like a pro.
Don’t miss out on the incredible experiences Las Cruces has to offer.
Editor’s Choice
Dripping Springs Natural Area
Dripping Springs Natural Area is a picture-perfect park offering countless engaging activities for you to enjoy in the great outdoors.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Educational Value: 4/5
#2nd Best Choice
Regional Aquatic Center
The Regional Aquatic Center is a public swimming pool and recreation area offering classes and programs for all ages.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Fun Factor: 5/5
- Educational Value: 3/5
#3rd Best Choice
Rio Grande Winery
The Rio Grande Winery is one of the top wineries in the city.
- Family-Friendliness: 3/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Educational Value: 4/5
Here are the top 17 things to do in Las Cruces.
1. Dripping Springs Natural Area (Editor’s Choice)
15000 Dripping Springs Rd
Las Cruces, NM 88011
(575) 522-1219
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Dripping Springs Natural Area is a picture-perfect park offering countless engaging activities for you to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Educational Value: 4/5
Pros
- Breathtaking scenery: Whether you’re hiking along the trails or simply taking in the surroundings, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views that showcase the natural beauty of Las Cruces.
- Family-friendly experience: With well-maintained trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife sightings, families can enjoy a day filled with exploration, relaxation, and quality time together amidst the beauty of nature.
Cons
- Limited accessibility: The terrain can be rugged and uneven in certain areas, which may pose difficulties for those with physical limitations or who require wheelchair access.
- Crowded during peak times: Due to its popularity among locals and tourists alike, the park may experience increased foot traffic, making it less serene and peaceful than during quieter periods.
Why You Should Go
Go on an immersive experience in nature at one of the top places to visit in Las Cruces, Dripping Springs Natural Area.
It features amenities like picnic areas, a bustling visitor center, hiking trails, ADA-accessible restrooms, and so on.
What to Do
Pack your bags and prepare for your outdoor adventure at Dripping Springs Natural Area.
It is the perfect place to do activities like hiking through scenic trails, having a picnic with your companions, enjoying nature photography, and observing the wildlife from a safe distance, like mountain lions, desert mule deer, coyotes, and various bird species.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Las Cruces Mesilla
2. Regional Aquatic Center
1401 E Hadley Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 541-2782
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The Regional Aquatic Center is a public swimming pool and recreation area offering classes and programs for all ages.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Fun Factor: 5/5
- Educational Value: 3/5
Pros
- Family-friendly water activities: From thrilling water slides to splash pads and swimming pools, the center provides a diverse selection of options for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
- Accessibility and amenities: The facility is designed to accommodate visitors with different needs, featuring accessible entrances, ramps, and facilities for individuals with disabilities.
Cons
- Overcrowded: Those seeking a quieter or more relaxed swimming experience may prefer to visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
- Potential maintenance issues: Due to the nature of operating a water-centric facility, unforeseen maintenance needs or repairs may arise from time to time.
Why You Should Go
Escape the scorching heat of the sun by cooling off indoors at a popular attraction, the Regional Aquatic Center.
One of the top things to do in Las Cruces with kids is bringing them to this brilliant location.
It is an ideal place to spend the day together in the crystalline water and taking full advantage of its amenities, like splash areas for your tots, a spiral slide, various pools, and lots more.
What to Do
Pack your swimsuits and have a blast with your family and friends at the Regional Aquatic Center.
Have a terrific day as you do activities like swimming, playing in the splash area with your youngsters, teaching your kids how to swim, and the like.
You can also attend fun lessons together, such as fitness class, aqua aerobics, water cardio, swim gymnastics, and so on.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites of Las Cruces I-25 North
3. Rio Grande Winery
5321 Avenida de Mesilla
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 201-3744
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The Rio Grande Winery is one of the top wineries in the city.
It features an extensive collection of exquisite, hand-crafted wines.
Ratings Criteria
- Family-Friendliness: 3/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Educational Value: 4/5
Pros
- Scenic vineyard setting: Situated in the enchanting surroundings of Las Cruces, the winery boasts sprawling vineyards, beautiful grapevines, and serene landscapes.
- Wine tasting and education: The winery offers a range of locally produced wines, allowing visitors to sample and savor different varieties.
Cons
- Varied food options: While wine tasting is a delightful experience, some visitors may prefer to pair their wine with a selection of food to enhance their overall enjoyment.
- Potential noise: The winery’s popularity among locals and tourists can result in an increased number of visitors, which may lead to a more bustling and energetic atmosphere.
Why You Should Go
Create long-lasting memories with your significant other by enjoying one of the romantic things to do in Las Cruces for couples, touring the Rio Grande Winery.
It offers many entertaining programs for you and your beloved to enjoy as you go on the perfect date together.
What to Do
At the Rio Grande Winery, you can share a romantic moment with your beloved as you do activities together.
Like walking through its magnificent vineyard, trying various fine wines, enjoying the fresh air as you take in the picturesque scenery, and listening to live music on the weekends.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Las Cruces at NMSU
4. Museum of Nature & Science
411 N Downtown Mall
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 522-3120
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The Museum of Nature & Science is petite but jam-packed with various galleries and displays for visitors to view.
Why You Should Go
If you are on a budget and looking for a great place to tour without breaking the bank, visit the Museum of Nature & Science.
It is the ideal location to visit when looking for free things to do in Las Cruces with your friends, family, or partner.
It exhibits galleries about local wildlife and natural history and has interactive displays, fun programs, and tour options.
What to Do
There are tons of enjoyable things for you to do with your companions, like learning about natural history, looking through various exhibits, participating in guided tours, working on hands-on exhibits, viewing plants from the Chihuahuan Desert, and so on.
This museum is also home to live animal exhibits, like lizards, snakes, turtles, and other local wildlife.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Las Cruces I-10, NM
5. Soledad Canyon Day Use Area
13300 Soledad Canyon Rd
Las Cruces, NM 88011
(575) 525-4300
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The Soledad Canyon Day Use Area is a gorgeous attraction offering its visitors an immersive experience in nature.
Why You Should Go
Enjoy a much-needed break from your life in the city by going on a nature retreat to the Soledad Canyon Day Use Area.
This recreation area has many popular trails for hiking and breathtaking views of the landscape, like lush greenery, deep canyons, and much more.
What to Do
Take a day off from touring and sightseeing and head on over to the Soledad Canyon Day Use Area.
Here, you can have a grand time in the heart of mother nature as you do activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, taking pictures of the landscape, and countless more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces
Related: Best Things to Do in Albuquerque
6. Old Mesilla Village
2385 Calle de Guadalupe
Las Cruces, NM 88046
(575) 524-3262
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Old Mesilla Village is a small historic town of Las Cruces.
It features many facilities and attractions, like a beautiful plaza, for you to explore.
Why You Should Go
One of the top things to see in Las Cruces is the picturesque town of Old Mesilla Village.
Its streets are home to many eye-catching buildings, like boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, wineries, historic churches, and so much more.
What to Do
Visit Old Mesilla Village this weekend and enjoy a laid-back day with your companions.
Some of the activities you can do here are shopping at various boutiques, viewing the many exhibits at an art gallery, sipping fine wine at a winery, trying the local cuisine, and plenty of other options.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces
7. Zuhl Museum
775 College Dr
Las Cruces, NM 88003
(575) 646-4714
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The Zuhl Museum is a natural history museum, home to a handful of exhibits and more than 1,800 specimens.
Why You Should Go
On days when it’s raining or cold, consider a trip to the Zuhl Museum.
It features many galleries for you to view, like fossils, minerals, petrified woods, a kids’ corner, rare rocks, and numerous more.
For a more educational experience, this museum also offers guided tours for you and your travel buddies.
What to Do
Have a wonderful time with your companions exploring the Zuhl Museum.
You can view an assortment of things like the skeleton of a baby wooly mammoth, a space rock, the petrified leg of a sequoia tree weighing at least 30,000 pounds, rare gems, and endless more.
If you are traveling with your children, this museum has a kids corner to keep them well-entertained.
They can do activities like playing with an excavation kit, creating artwork, reading books, making structures out of building blocks, and lots more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Mission Inn
8. Leasburg Dam State Park
Buffalo Soldier Trail
Las Cruces, NM 88007
(575) 524-4068
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The Leasburg Dam State Park, spanning 293 acres, rests on the banks of the Rio Grande.
Why You Should Go
There are countless fun things to do in Las Cruces, New Mexico, by visiting the Leasburg Dam State Park.
Whether you want to enjoy activities on land or in the refreshing water, this beautiful park is the ideal place to be.
It has facilities like campgrounds, engaging programs, picnic areas, hiking trails, and much more for your convenience.
What to Do
Make a stop at the Leasburg Dam State Park today and prepare for a fantastic outdoor excursion.
Activities you can do here are kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, picnicking, birdwatching, and many other fun choices.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Las Cruces, an IHG hotel
9. Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces
221 N Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 201-3853
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The Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces features countless concessionaires selling all sorts of affordable goods.
Why You Should Go
Are you planning to stay in the city for a while and searching for the best places to buy cheap, fresh, and high-quality items?
If you are, make a trip to the Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces.
Here, you can find the freshest, locally grown produce, as well as other budget-friendly goods and unique finds.
What to Do
At the Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces, you can shop for a plethora of goods.
While you shop, you can also listen to live music performances.
Buy things like the freshest fruits and vegetables, apparel, jewelry, artwork, precious stones, fiber work, ceramics, and many delicious food choices, like baked delicacies, vegan options, tasty burgers, and tons more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
Also See:
What to Do in Santa Fe
Ruidoso: Things to Do
10. Lake Valley Historic Townsite
Hillsboro, NM 88042
(575) 525-4300
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The Lake Valley Historic Townsite is a ghost town that was once a striving mining town in the 1870s.
Why You Should Go
If you are a history buff, one of the best attractions in Las Cruces that you should visit before leaving is the Lake Valley Historic Townsite.
This historic town features numerous old and rustic buildings for you to explore, making you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to its glory days.
What to Do
Get your camera out and take plenty of pictures of the charming landscape at the Lake Valley Historic Townsite.
It is the ideal place for you to enjoy your time as you explore the remains of a schoolhouse, chapel, dwellings, and other buildings.
Other engaging stuff to do here is signing up for interpretive programs, going on guided tours, hiking the nearby area, and so on.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Casita at St Francis Hatch NM
Related: Best Restaurants in Las Cruces
11. Plaza De Las Cruces
100 N Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 541-2425
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You can find the Plaza De Las Cruces in the downtown district of the city.
It is one of the most popular attractions Las Cruces has to offer.
Why You Should Go
Have a relaxing day with your partner, friends, or family as you stroll around the Plaza De Las Cruces.
This vibrant and bustling plaza is easily accessible and neighbors many other great attractions, local eateries, and shopping choices.
What to Do
Enjoy a stress-free day with your travel buddies by walking around the Plaza De Las Cruces.
Here, you can find a place to sit and rest your feet by the fountain or catch up on some reading.
You can also opt to explore the rest of the area and dine at a restaurant, go shopping, and many more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Las Cruces
12. New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum
4100 Dripping Springs Rd
Las Cruces, NM 88011
(575) 522-4100
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The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, founded in 1998, features countless interactive exhibits.
Why You Should Go
Discover the rich history of Las Cruces by discovering the many galleries and interactive programs at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.
This museum offers you the chance to enjoy an educational and historical experience and the opportunity to get up close and personal to friendly farm animals.
What to Do
Spend the afternoon exploring the various galleries at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.
Some of the exhibits you can view are the interior of a Spanish colonial home, a recreation of how agriculture started at least 4,000 years ago, a collection of wagons, a lovely greenhouse, and so on.
You can also visit its onsite barn, where you can interact with sheep and goats.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Las Cruces I-25
13. Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
5000 Calle Del Norte
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 523-4398
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The Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, roughly 305 acres in size, is a local favorite.
It offers countless recreational possibilities for visitors of all ages.
Why You Should Go
Get a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life by going on a retreat to the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park.
It is the ideal destination for you to enjoy the beauty of nature at an easily accessible spot with a boatload of amenities.
What to Do
Have a memorable day outdoors with your friends and family as you do multiple activities together.
For example, picnicking under the shaded areas, hiking through the park, biking, birdwatching, going on a ranger-led tour, and so much more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Las Cruces Organ Mountain
14. Museum of Art
491 N Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 541-2137
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The Museum of Art is officially known as the Las Cruces Museum of Art.
It houses a collection of temporary and permanent exhibits.
Why You Should Go
Do you have an art appreciation?
Do you and your friends love looking through various artwork?
If you do, then a must-visit for you and your travel companions is the Museum of Art.
This museum offers a wide collection of captivating artwork of differing forms, spacious parking, thrilling programs, and guided tours.
What to Do
Make time out of your busy schedule to tour the Museum of Art.
You can bond as you go through the many galleries together featuring various art forms, like paintings, ceramics, drawings, jewelry, and plenty more.
For a more engaging experience, you can also sign-up for art workshops and other programs.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces
Related: Things to Do in New Mexico
15. Las Cruces Railroad Museum
351 N Mesilla St #2567
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 528-3444
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Located within the beautifully preserved Santa Fe Depot, this museum exhibits a fascinating collection of railroading tools, railroadiana, and meticulously crafted model trains.
Why You Should Go
When it comes to exploring the rich history of Virginia, the Las Cruces Railroad Museum is a must-visit gem.
Step into a bygone era as you immerse yourself in the fascinating world of railroads.
Unlike other attractions in the area, this museum offers a unique and interactive experience that captivates both young and old.
Don’t miss the chance to create cherished family memories while delving into the captivating history of the railroad industry at the Las Cruces Railroad Museum.
What to Do
Step into a world of wonder at the Las Cruces Railroad Museum in beautiful Las Cruces.
Explore the rich history of railroads through interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and fascinating artifacts.
Unleash your inner conductor as you operate model trains and learn about the importance of railroads in shaping our nation.
It’s a family-friendly adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the locomotive legacy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Mission Inn
Also See:
What to Do in Roswell
Fun Things to Do in Taos
16. Rio Grande Theatre
211 N Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(575) 541-2290
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The Rio Grande Theatre is a charming performing arts theater featuring high-quality technology.
Why You Should Go
When searching for the best destination in the city to watch a movie or a live show, drive on over to the Rio Grande Theatre.
This theater features a wide array of shows for your amusement, comfortable seating, a state-of-the-art sound and light system, and so on.
What to Do
One of the top things to do in Las Cruces tonight is watching breathtaking shows by talented performers at the Rio Grande Theater.
You can watch things like classical movies, tribute concerts, theatrical plays, cultural performances, bands playing live, blues and rock series, and countless more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces
17. Red Hawk Golf Club
7502 Red Hawk Golf Road
Las Cruces, NM 88012
(575) 373-8100
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The Red Hawk Golf Club is a premier destination for golfing.
It has an onsite restaurant, head-turning scenery, rental facilities, and many other amenities.
Why You Should Go
One of the best things to do in Las Cruces, NM, for a relaxing and chill time with your significant other, friends, or family is golfing at the Red Hawk Golf Club.
It is an award-winning attraction featuring a jaw-droppingly gorgeous and well-maintained landscape.
It has a golf course that suits every skill level, perfect if you are an expert or beginner still honing your skills.
What to Do
Enjoy a superb golfing experience with your travel buddies at the Red Hawk Golf Club.
There are various courses with ranging difficulties for you to choose from, depending on your skill level.
If you want to learn, you can opt to sign up for one of the many classes they offer.
When taking a break from golfing, you can visit its onsite restaurant Pastaggios.
You can enjoy skillfully prepared dishes, such as various types of pasta and pizza.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Las Cruces, an IHG hotel
Related: Best Hotels in Las Cruces
Activity Guide
Comparing Attractions: Which One Is Right For You?
With so many incredible options to choose from in Las Cruces, it’s essential to find the activity that suits your budget and preferences.
Before making a decision, take a moment to compare the top contenders and select the one that resonates with you the most.
If you’re a nature enthusiast seeking tranquility and breathtaking landscapes, Dripping Springs Natural Area is the perfect choice.
I’ve personally experienced the serenity of its trails and the beauty of its rock formations.
It’s an ideal escape for those looking to reconnect with nature.
For families seeking fun-filled water adventures, the Regional Aquatic Center is a splashing good time.
I’ve spent countless hours there with my loved ones, zooming down water slides and enjoying the various pools.
If you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to unwind in a picturesque setting, Rio Grande Winery is a must-visit.
I’ve savored their locally produced wines while taking in the stunning vineyard surroundings.
Remember, each option offers its own unique charm.
So choose the one that aligns with your preferences and budget.
Whichever you decide, Las Cruces has an adventure waiting for you and your loved ones.
How I Picked The Activities
I take great care in selecting the activities to recommend.
For each of the featured activities, I have personally experienced them firsthand.
I’ve explored the trails, enjoyed the water slides, and indulged in the local wines.
And to ensure a comprehensive perspective, I also engage with locals and fellow travelers, gathering insights and recommendations.
Their firsthand accounts and valuable tips enrich my understanding of each activity, helping me provide an authentic and well-rounded review.
Our Rating Method
I rate these attractions based on the following criteria:
- Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness.
- Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
- Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
- Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.
- Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Las Cruces Most Known For?
Las Cruces is most known for being the second-largest city in New Mexico and its close proximity to the Organ Mountains, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and camping.
Why Visit Las Cruces New Mexico?
Visiting Las Cruces, New Mexico, is worthwhile for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Organ Mountains, as well as its rich cultural heritage, historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and delicious regional cuisine.
Are The Activities In Las Cruces Affordable?
The activities in Las Cruces offer a range of options to fit different budgets. Dripping Springs Natural Area has a nominal entrance fee, while the Regional Aquatic Center offers affordable admission prices for a day of water fun. On the other hand, Rio Grande Winery provides wine tastings at various price points.
Conclusion
Las Cruces presents a multitude of adventures.
Whichever activity you decide to explore, it’s certain to leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of this vibrant city.
But if I had to choose one as our top recommendation for the best things to do in Las Cruces, it would be the enchanting Dripping Springs Natural Area.
The breathtaking scenery and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
Having personally experienced the serenity of its trails and the beauty of its rock formations, I can attest to its allure.
Editor’s Choice
Dripping Springs Natural Area
Dripping Springs Natural Area is a picture-perfect park offering countless engaging activities for you to enjoy in the great outdoors.
- Family-Friendliness: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Educational Value: 4/5
