Driving out west for 2 weeks, need some advice about what to see, cities and cool hidden gems?

[Cyanna]

If you go to California, and you like old towns, check out Randsburg. If you like desolate towns, head to Trona.

https://www.amazon.com/Abandoned-Ran.../dp/1634991354

[StealthRabbit]

Originally Posted by emotiioo

Skip El Paso. Unless you have family or friends there that you want to see. I'm sure it's a great place to live but visiting holds few charms.

Nearby Old Mesilla is not a bad option.
https://www.oldmesilla.org/

I enjoyed the museums at El Paso (good for rain or HOT days)
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attracti...aso_Texas.html

Also a nice museum near Old Mesilla. New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum | | Las Cruces, New Mexico