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18 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico, According to Locals

Come to see historic small towns, scenic hiking trails, the "Grand Canyon of New Mexico," and more.

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

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Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Visit New Mexico

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

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Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

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For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

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Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

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Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

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Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

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El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

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The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

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According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

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Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

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This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

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With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

Kathleen Messmer/Travel + Leisure

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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• Santa Fe & Taos?

Santa Fe & Taos?

Looking at doing a week in March 2018. Any outstanding likes/dislikes? - food, lodging, mild hikes, historic/traditional stuff, surprises? Thank you, all you great Forum people!

I assume you're flying into Albuquerque (ABQ), so make your first stop there and at least see the Old Town. There is a beautiful Scenic Byway called the "Turquoise Trail" from ABQ to Santa Fe. There are some interesting sites to see along the way, and it is much more scenic than just shooting up interstate I-25 north. See the brochure in the link. I especially liked the little former mining village of Madrid and driving up to 10k elevation at Sandia Crest. http://www.turquoisetrail.org/interactive-map/

The High Road to Taos, another Scenic Byway, is another favorite. IMHO, the Taos Pueblo is a "must see". https://santafe.org/Visiting_Santa_Fe/Things_to_Do/Road_Trips/Taos_and_the_High_Road/ http://taospueblo.com/visiting-taos-pueblo/

Both Santa Fe and Taos have outstanding restaurants and interesting lodging choices (lots of adobe architecture), it just depends on your budget. Santa Fe has some amazing public art and art galleries, so take a walk along Canyon Road and check it out. https://www.canyonroadarts.com

We've always stayed here https://www.allseasonsresortlodging.com/santa-fe/fort-marcy-hotel-suites during our visits to Santa Fe. They offer large, well maintained apartments at a reasonable price. It's located at the site of old Spanish Fort and is a pleasant stroll into the Old Town section of town. There are some pleasant walks thru groves of Aspen just up the road in the vicinity of the ski area, although there may still be snow at the higher elevations in March. Tent Rocks https://www.blm.gov/visit/kktr is terrific, but it's gotten a lot more popular in recent years so try to get there early and/or on a weekday to beat the crowds. Lots of good Mexican restaurants in the city - take your pick.

Great place to visit, lots of good food and lodging (we stay with friends). Don't miss the Palace of the Governors and nearby state historical museum. Chimayo is a town north of SF, I believe on the very scenic high road, with an excellent restaurant, Rancho de Chimayo. There's also a complex of good state museums south of the center. And I love the state capitol, a low-rise round building that I'm sure was meant to evoke the kivas in the pueblos. It's filled with art, including rotating exhibits.

It will be cold in March, especially at night, and you'll be at 7,000 feet so take it easy. Likely sunshine, hopefully not much snow on the ground but plenty on the peaks to the east.

I loved both Taos and Santa Fe and I agree with the suggestion to spend a little time in Albuquerque Old Town. I stayed with a friend in Albuquerque and visited Santa Fe from there so don't have any recommendations for lodging there. In Taos I stayed at the Best Western Kachina Lodge. It was quite nice and in the evenings they had traditional dances and music around a bonfire in the courtyard, but that was in the summer, not sure about in March - it could be pretty cold in Taos in March (and possibly snow) due to the altitude.

In Santa Fe I enjoyed a visit to the New Mexico State Capitol. It's a unique building for a capitol and they have some wonderful local art on display in the building and on the grounds. Also, don't miss the Loretto Chapel and it's 'mysterious' staircase .

Will second a drive up to Sandia Peak outside of Albuquerque, but again may have snow up there in March but should be beautiful if you have a sunny day.

Definitely visit a pueblo in the area, there are several varying in size, popularity, and tourist facilities. I think my favorite was Jemez Pueblo. It's a smaller village with no tourist facilities except a couple of small pottery shops for local artists, and a particularly photogenic church.

In that area is also the Jemez State Monument with hiking trails at Battleship Rock picnic area.

In old town Santa Fe, check out the former Loretto Chapel church, and its famous wood spiral staircase. Legend has it being built by a mysterious traveling carpenter who might have been St Joseph.

There are a few Indian cliff dwellings near Santa Fe. I can't remember the name of the one we visited, but it was a worth a visit and climb.

it was the Puye Cliff dwellings north of town.

Great places. The high and low roads both have great scenery and interesting things to see. In Santa Fe the O'keefe museum is great. There are tons of art and history museum around the old town in Santa Fe. If you like hot springs, Ojo Caliente is not far from Taos. The Taos county courthouse murals are amazing and free to see, right on the old plaza. Bandalier Natl Monument is also a cool spot in the area, and Los Alamos if you have interest in science.

Another vote for the High Road to Taos, though I guess you'd need to check weather conditions first.

I found Santa Fe considerably more interesting than Albuquerque. I think much of old Albuquerque met the wrecking ball decades ago. If you like art and quality crafts, you can burn a lot of time (not to mention money) in Santa Fe.

We love Santa Fe, and flew directly in versus Albuquerque - which isn't our favorite city - last time. It's a surprisingly tiny airport for a capital city, and nice because we were out of there and into a rental car in a flash. Like Robert, we also like the condos at Fort Marcy but I recommend the premium units versus the lower end.

Art: if you love it, make sure to take a stroll on the mile-long stretch of galleries on Canyon Road. A lot of it is breathtakingly priced but fun to browse.

Churches: The cathedral is lovely, and you must visit the side chapel - a holdover from the 1714 church (La Parroquia) previously on the site - where La Conquistadora is enshrined. She is an important piece of S.F. history, and is said to be the oldest icon of the Virgin in the U.S. The lady has an interesting story, and a frequently changed wardrobe which includes gowns and mantles sewn by women of the local tribes and which she wears during Indian Market.

Cristo Rey: this is at the far end of Canyon Road, and is the largest adobe structure in the county. WHY it was built so large is a fun story, and one I'll let you research on your own. :O)

San Miguel Mission: this one is near the other end of Canyon Road, and competes with a couple others for title of oldest church in the U.S. ; a few technicalities there. Anyway, aside from the foundation, dating to the late 17th century and built over a kiva, much of the current structure dates to the early 1700's ..which is still darn old for the U.S.

Chimayo: a visit to El Santuario is well worth the drive, even for a not-very-religious person like myself. We also like to buy spices from the shops near the shrine, and have dinner at Rancho de Chimayo.

Museums: The Governor/s Palace/New Mexico History Museum (they are attached to each other) on the Plaza are must-dos, as is the Museum of International Folk Art and Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, both on Museum Hill.

Lots to do... :O)

By tradition, our first stop is Del Charro Saloon, attached to the Inn of the Governors. Nothing starts our stays in "The City Different" like a couple of shakers of their house margaritas! They also have a small but VERY reasonably priced (for Santa Fe) menu of good food.

https://delcharro.com

We've had very good meals at Santa Fe Bar and Grill, good pizza at Rooftop Pizzeria, and Cowgirl is fun. The Shed gets high marks from visitors although we weren't as bowled over with it as all that. Maria's New Mexican Kitchen was a long-time fave of ours but I read it's under new management now and not all former fans are thrilled.

Some mentioned Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks for a nice hike - I'll ditto that - and Bandelier National Monument is well worth the drive although parts could be a bit icy for hiking in March. The detached unit of Tsankawi is especially fascinating and fun to explore.

Stop at the Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos for background on the Manhattan Project: the existence of the town was kept a deep, dark secret from anyone except the people - including families - living and working there during that era.

Taos: you'll want to visit the famous pueblo although we slightly prefer Acoma nearer Albuquerque.

The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe and the Folk Art Museum just opposite it are outstanding, . The Millicent Rogers Museum in Taos houses some fabulous pieces of Indian pottery, especially those of Maria Martinez.

About 30 minutes east of town is Glorietta Pass - site of an 1862 Civil War battle. A little beyond that is Pecos National Historical Park. Both places offer pleasant strolls on a sunny day with a little history thrown in. Can google them to see if they might be of interest.

Enjoy the art galleries in both Santa Fe & Taos!

For eats - I had my favorite meal at Rio Chama, which is near the Plaza and has a fantastic wine list. Be sure to get the nachos for an appetizer. Definitely do breakfast at the Plaza Cafe. And be sure to visit Kanawa Chocolate House for the incredible chili hot chocolate.

Other favorites: browsing the galleries on Canyon Road, Chimayo, the folk art museum, and Valles Caldera National Preserve - the view on the drive to-from is incredible!

I liked Albuquerque. If you stop there, consider nearby Petroglyph National Monument. If you are an O'Keeffe fan, consider visiting Abiquiu, where she spent much of her time. And even if you aren't a big fan, the museum in Santa Fe is worth a visit.

O yes, a ditto on the suggestion for Petroglyph National Monument if you are coming in and out of Albuquerque. Ditto too on taking the Turquoise Trail from there to Santa Fe; Madrid is sort of a fun stop along the way.

Madrid! Yes, the Mineshaft Tavern, I had a cucumber jalapeno margarita there that was fab, and we saw some great music outside on the deck. The whole area and drive through Jemez is well worth it. In Santa Fe, The Shed restaurant was authentic if well touristed, and in the morning The Teahouse was really nice.

Madrid! Yes, the Mineshaft Tavern...

You betcha. The Hollar (across the street) is darn good too. FYI, Stewart and Vicki, New Mexico's "Madrid" is not pronounced like Spain's: it's MAA-drid.

Oh, and parts of the movie "Wild Hogs" was shot there. Sadly, you can't eat at Maggie's Diner, though. It's a souvenir shop now.

Wow, thank you all! Great info.

All the previous suggestions are good, so I'll add some that are different. I assume you will have a car. Acoma is 70 miles west of Albuquerque. It is an Indian village on a mesa. They usually bus you up to the top for the tour, then you have the option of hiking back down or take the bus. Los Alamos National Lab is 35 miles NW of Santa Fe. The drive to the lab is beautiful with more mesas. There is a museum there. The better restaurants are in Santa Fe. There's not much in Albuquerque. In Santa Fe: restaurant at the Inn of the Anasazi - high end southwestern cuisine with very nice service. La Boca for tapas. Joseph's - very good food, personal favorite is duck fat French fries. Coyote Café - another high end southwestern cuisine. Café Pasqual's - great Mexican food, good place for breakfast or lunch. Can get crowded. Opt for the communal table to be seated sooner. Clafoutis French Bakery & Restaurant - OK if you've been to France, skip the food. But if you have a sudden need for French pastries, this place is pretty good. Farmer's Market by the old railway station. I can't remember which days, but there should be a local newspaper or your hotel to tell you. On your way into or out of Santa Fe, Harry's Roadhouse - tasty Mexican & American food. Good for breakfast or lunch. Go early, can get crowded.

More restaurant recommendations, with overlap with prior poster's tips which I totally agree with (some are on the upscale side, but the food was really worth it). Actually, I think ABQ has one of the best places I've been to in the area, just not in the Old Town. I'm not sure why it's so underrated...I really enjoyed ABQ.

ABQ - Scalo http://www.scalonobhill.com/

SANTA FE - The Anasazi Restaurant https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/inn-of-the-anasazi-santa-fe/dining/anasazi-restaurant - Luminaria Restaurant at the Inn at Loretto https://www.hotelloretto.com/eat-drink/luminaria-restaurant-patio - La Boca http://www.labocasantafe.com

OTHERS (outside of Santa Fe) - The Abiquiu Inn/ Cafe Abiquiu http://www.abiquiuinn.com/cafe-abiquiu - Rancho de Chimayo (on the way to Taos) http://www.ranchodechimayo.com/restaurante/

Santa Fe: Stayed at La Fonda at the Plaza for a few days and it was lovely. Also very expensive. We then stayed at the Drury Plaza hotel which was just a block away location wise, very modern and clean, and 1/2 the price.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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