Worlds Largest Pistachio

Pistachio Farms in Alamogordo

Pistachios have become an unlikely part of Alamogordo’s identity. The hot, dry climate of the Tularosa Basin is well suited to growing the trees, and the area is now home to two major pistachio farms. Both grow and process pistachios locally, produce wine, and offer tastings, shops, and farm experiences just north of the city.

McGinn’s PistachioLand

PistachioLand is the more colorful and touristy of the two pistachio stops. The family farm includes about 90 acres of pistachio trees, vineyards, Arena Blanca Winery, a large country store, and farm tours through the orchards. Its biggest attraction is hard to miss. The World’s Largest Pistachio, a roughly 30-foot-tall sculpture built in 2007 sits at the entrance of the farm store. Inside, you can sample flavored pistachios and wine or pick up pistachio candy, ice cream, fudge, and plenty of souvenirs.

Heart of the Desert

Heart of the Desert is the older and quieter of the two farms. The Schweers family began planting pistachio trees in the 1970s, helping establish New Mexico’s commercial pistachio industry (including McGinn’s). Today the farm has roughly 13,000 pistachio trees along with extensive vineyards, and its pistachios are still grown, harvested, processed, and packaged on the property. Visitors can take a farm tour, sample several varieties of pistachios, and taste wines made from grapes grown on the farm, including its Pistachio Rosé (I liked it).

But which one should I visit?

Visit both, they’re two minutes apart. Start at PistachioLand for a picture with the giant pistachio, then head to Heart of the Desert for a wine flight and quieter farm experience. Before you leave, stock up on goodies and experience the overwhelming power of pistachio-flavored treats! (Disclaimer: Pistachio flavor isn’t very strong.)