visit new mexico.com

Visit Albuquerque prohibits users from downloading images from our website.

Welcome to Albuquerque

At the heart of New Mexico beats the pulse of a vibrant city. In Albuquerque, diverse cultures , authentic art and dynamic traditions have helped shape our centuries-old story. No matter your interests, the city has countless opportunities for you to explore. Sample traditional New Mexican cuisine that takes minutes to make and hundreds of years to prepare, experience world-class museums , stroll along Central Avenue under the vintage neon glow of Route 66 , or soar high above the city in the hot air ballooning capital of the world — a sight sure to change your perspective.

Immerse yourself in our painted skies, abundant space and more than 310 days of sunshine, which make it possible to ski the slopes of the Sandia Mountains and play a round at one of our award-winning golf courses , all in the same day. Albuquerque is an oasis in the high desert, full of rich history and inspiring ideas. Plan your trip today , and leave Albuquerque viewing your own world in a whole new light.

ABQ365 Blog 

Our team of locals keep you up to date on what to do, where to go, and where to eat and drink all around Albuquerque. Check out the ABQ365 Blog for insider tips.

Explore the city's art galleries, museum exhibitions, sporting events, eateries, fine dining, live music and cultural performances all in one place. The ABQ365 blog and calendar of events is the easiest way to discover the here and now. 

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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

Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure

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

JHVEPhoto/Getty Images

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

The Washington Post via Getty Images

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

Diana Robinson Photography/Getty Images

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

CampPhoto/Getty Images

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

benedek/Getty Images

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

Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

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

grandriver/Getty Images

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

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

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

Michael Warren/Getty Images

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

milehightraveler/Getty Images

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

Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

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.

Visit Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark.

It's Rafting Season!

Taos provides easy access to rafting the Rio Grande. Enjoy a gentle float through the Orilla Verde, or get your adrenaline fix down the Taos Box or Racecourse!

Taos is Art

Taos boasts excellent art museums whose collections span centuries of Taos artists. View the works of Native artists, the Taos Society of Artists, and much more!

Shops and Galleries

Wander the streets of downtown Taos and discover our wonderful shops, art galleries & museums.

Landmark Sites

From historic churches and museums to the Taos Plaza and the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, Taos has many landmarks to explore.

Stay up-to-date with everything Taos.

visitor guide

Request, download, or print your visitors guide

Join Our Newsletter

Upcoming concerts at historic kit carson park.

Start Exploring

Discovering the perfect place to stay is one of the most exciting aspects of planning a trip. Taos has no shortage of interesting accommodations; from charming B&Bs to high end resorts, and everything in between.

Enjoy the best rafting in New Mexico! Taos has many rafting companies that offer fun trips on the Rio Grande and beyond.

Come experience Taos' landmark sites and see some of the amazing places that make Taos special. From the Gorge Bridge to Taos Pueblo to the Earthships & more!

Enjoy Taos' many art galleries, museums, world-class music scene and thriving local culture. In Taos, traditions run deep.

Around Taos

Spring in taos, taos society of artists, the taos moderns, breakfast in taos, a field guide to taos, enchanted circle driving tour.

Spring in Taos is a magical time of year when the snow begins to melt and the mountains come to life.

From 1915 to 1927, the Taos Society of Artists drew inspiration from the natural beauty of Taos, NM and its people.

The Taos Moderns created artwork that was abstract, distilling the essence of the southwest through their personal experiences and styles.

Taos boasts many great local restaurants, cafes, bistros, and food carts where you can find a wide variety of delicious breakfast options.

Whether it’s a ranking of “best mountain towns” or “coolest towns in America,”  Taos routinely finds its way onto “best of” lists. For those folks lucky enough to live here, this is never a surprise.

The Enchanted Circle is a region in northern New Mexico that includes Taos, Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest and Angel Fire. A great day trip!

Taos: culture, tradition, adventure.

Long one of America’s foremost, bona fide Art Colonies, Taos is also home to a world-class ski resort (Taos Ski Valley), a World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo), one of the most photographed and iconic churches (St. Francisco de Asis), and a majestic landscape encompassing the Rocky Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge (and its eponymous bridge).

Drawn by clean air and mythical light, visitors come to New Mexico’s Soul of the Southwest to experience rich spiritual traditions, fine art, distinctive cuisine, a thriving music scene and of course, the raw, natural beauty of the landscape. Discover your place faraway from the everyday in Taos, New Mexico.

Taos.org is a public/private partnership dedicated to promoting Taos:

15 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

Written by Colin J. McMechan and Catherine Hawkins Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The best places to visit in New Mexico satisfy many types of travelers, from adventure seekers and creatives to romantics who find bliss in solitude.

It's easy to understand why artists have flocked to New Mexico when you see the quality of the light in the high desert as you look out from your adobe hacienda in Santa Fe each morning, or gaze upon the glowing Organ Mountains above Las Cruces at day's end. Nighttime brings its own treasures, too. Visit White Sands National Park to see how brilliant starry night skies can be in the absence of light.

Much like sandhill cranes that arrive at the Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge on the Rio Grande each October, tourists visit New Mexico to feed a part of themselves. You will return home energized by skiing in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Taos , kicking up dust from your bike or horse on trails near Gallup, or rafting on the Rio Chama in Georgia O'Keeffe Country near Ghost Ranch. There are cultural attractions in all directions of this Four Corners state.

What's around your next corner? Find clues on our list of the best places to visit in New Mexico.

1. Santa Fe

2. albuquerque, 3. white sands national park, 4. carlsbad caverns national park, 7. alamogordo, 8. silver city, 9. ghost ranch, 10. el morro national monument, 11. chaco culture national historic park, 12. old mesilla, 13. rio grande del norte national monument, 15. bosque del apache national wildlife refuge, map of places to visit in new mexico.

The city that means "Holy Faith" tops the list of any mention of best places to visit in New Mexico because it is exceptional in all the ways that matter to tourists. It's compact enough to feel intimate rather than overwhelming. It pleases the eye and delights the palate.

With its four-season environment, there's never a bad time to discover why Santa Fe is not only the ultimate destination in New Mexico, but one of the most appealing small cities in North America. There are things to do here all year round.

For a place with such a small population (88,000), Santa Fe packs a punch. Maybe that has something to do with so many buildings being continuously occupied back to the 1600s: Santa Fe has had centuries to refine its attractions. The diverse mix of its people, including Hispanic, Indigenous, and Anglo-European, contribute to the cosmopolitan vibe.

Streets in the historic district, narrow and crooked, invite closer inspection on foot. The Santa Fe River, a tributary of the Rio Grande, runs through the city, adding charm to the benches and picnic sites where you can watch the world go by.

Old Santa Fe is best explored up close and personal. Take your time discovering the many historic attractions of the state capital that are conveniently clustered in one area: The Plaza , Palace of the Governors , St. Francis Cathedra l, and La Posada de Santa Fe resort and spa.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Loretto Chapel , a Roman Catholic church dating back to 1878. The construction of the mysterious helix-shaped spiral staircase within the chapel, built without any known means of support, is believed to be a miracle.

Check out the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum , a required stop if your New Mexico itinerary includes the artist's stomping grounds at Ghost Ranch and Abiquiu. On the portal of the Palace of the Governors (home of the New Mexico History Museum), meet Native American artisans who gather most days to sell everything from bracelets to belt buckles.

Even if you're not a shopper, visiting the galleries, shops, and cafés along Canyon Road is still a worthwhile thing to do. Christmas is a magical season to mingle with locals singing carols and drinking hot chocolate around the campfires that give a warm glow to Canyon Road and its offshoots.

Somewhat reminiscent of this experience is another event that brings together people and fire: Every Labor Day weekend at Fort Marcy Park, Santa Feans celebrate the Burning of Zozobra, a century-old festival where people purge themselves of whatever paper is causing grief. Bring your divorce decree, mortgage completion documents, parking tickets, and photos of people you don't want to see. All of it goes up in flames when the human effigy of Zozobra and associated collection baskets are set on fire.

Several museums, as well as the Santa Fe Botanical Garden and a café are clustered at Museum Hill . Head northeast to Hyde Memorial State Park for camping, hiking, and Nordic skiing.

Santa Fe is also a jumping-off point for visiting the state's 19 pueblos (traditional villages of Native American people). Join the Good Friday pilgrimage to El Sanctuario de Chimayó , 27 miles north in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. At Bandelier National Monument , 40 miles northwest, marvel at cliff dwellings and petroglyphs dating back 11,000 years.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Santa Fe

Your gateway to New Mexico might well be the airport to the state's largest city: Albuquerque. Step off the plane, breathe in the high desert air, and behold the grandeur of the surrounding Sandia Mountains. (Note that "sandia" is Spanish for watermelon, and here, we're talking about pointy slices.)

At more than 5,000 feet, Albuquerque is considered high elevation, yet the number doubles once you reach the highest point on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. A tram ride is a thrilling way to get a bird's-eye view of the urban adventure that awaits. You can also leave it to the last day (or evening to 8 p.m.) and bask in the satisfaction of reviewing where you've been.

Adjust to the altitude if you're not used to it with a stroll through historic Old Town, the cultural heart of the city. Albuquerque was founded as a Spanish colony early in the 18 th century and retains a strong connection to its roots. Close to the plaza, you'll discover ties to Spanish and Indigenous culture through the majestic San Felipe de Neri Church (which dates to 1793 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places) and traditional Pueblo construction.

Newer on the architectural front, discover what remains from the era of the Route 66 "Mother Road," a version of which runs for 18 miles through the city. The KiMo Theatre is the most spectacular of these buildings, claiming not only a place on the fabled highway but the influence of Art Deco and Pueblo design.

The theater is just one of many venues that contribute to a vibrant entertainment scene in Albuquerque. For culture, there's no end of attractions, including the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center .

If you're lucky enough to be in New Mexico in October, take in the International Balloon Fiesta , reputed to be the largest such event in the world. Blessed by a spectacular setting and comfortable climate, the hot air balloon fest will literally take you up and away with appreciation for the spirit of Albuquerque.

During your visit to the city, savor the zesty flavors of New Mexico, whether you're in a funky diner or a fine restaurant. Diversity put Albuquerque on the map, and this is reflected in everything from cuisine to culture.

Be sure to make time for shopping, whether for a souvenir at a gift shop or a splurge at an exquisite gallery. The hardest part probably won't be the price, but the array of fabulous choices.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Albuquerque

White Sands National Park , the world's largest field of gypsum dunes, is a desert unlike any other you've ever visited. As far as you can see, the pure white dunescape is like a blanket of snow that never melts. That's why anything that emerges from it (a clump of pink sand verbena) or moves upon it (an earless lizard or a kit fox) stands out in dramatic contrast.

Add to this contrast the intensity of New Mexico light and the brilliance of the sky (day or night), and you can easily grasp why the monument is so popular with photographers . Indeed, it's one of the best places to visit in New Mexico with your camera, especially to capture the sunrise or sunset.

Located at the northern end of the Chihuahuan Desert in the Tularosa Basin, the 275 square miles of the park are surrounded by the restricted zone of the White Sands Missile Range. Much of the park is also off-limits, but there's still plenty of room to roam.

The eight-mile Dunes Drive begins at the visitor center, where you'll find a museum, bookstore, gift shop, and refreshments. Along the way, you'll pass by the starting point for a number of trails as well as the Interdune Boardwalk , an elevated walking path that stretches nearly half a mile through the fragile interdune area. At the turnaround point, there's a cluster of attractions: The nature center, the Alkali Flat trail , and a picnic site at Heart of the Sands.

Take a ranger-guided tour, or attend a talk, to learn more about the monument and how to stay safe while exploring it.

Tunneling deep below the surface of the Chihuahuan Desert in the Guadalupe Mountains of New Mexico is a 30-mile-long cave system known as Carlsbad Caverns — one of the largest and most accessible cave networks in the world .

To catch the best underground views, descend more than 750 feet by elevator to the easy 1.25-mile loop trail for a self-guided tour of the 8.2-acre cave chamber, the Big Room. If you want to see more, enter the cave through the Natural Entrance on a steep 1.25-mile trail that passes many naturally occurring monuments in limestone until it connects with the Big Room loop—the park's most popular attraction.

Sheltered from the bright New Mexican sun for a couple of hours or more, explore out-of-this-world rock formations on lit paved walkways with railings. A flashlight helps you see more details, while a camera with a flash enables you to take memories of these details home with you.

Sections of the Big Room loop are wheelchair accessible, but all trail surfaces can be wet, slippery, and bumpy. Wander carefully as your mind fills with wonder about the most fantastical stalactites and stalagmites you'll ever see!

Enhance your experience by making a reservation for a ranger-led tour . A ranger can guide you into restricted areas, such as Slaughter Canyon Cave, or behind gated chambers to view formations such as the King's Palace.

Seasonal ranger talks shine a light on the life of special cave residents that appear at lights-out: Mexican free-tailed bats. From spring to fall, a park ranger meets with visitors near the mouth of the cave around dusk. That's when bats take flight to feast on evening insects.

In comparison with the constant year-round temperature of 56 degrees Fahrenheit inside the cave, expect more extreme temperatures above ground. After emerging from this underground UNESCO World Heritage Site , fill your lungs with fresh air while walking the short nature trail from the visitor center.

If you have time before leaving the park, drive around the 9.5-mile Walnut Canyon Desert Drive , an unpaved, one-way route that immerses you in the desert scenery. During warmer months, head north 20.5 miles to Carlsbad for ice cream and refreshing water activities at peaceful Lake Carlsbad Beach Park.

Wandering about Taos Plaza, it's easy to feel yourself stepping back in time. The adobe walls of Hotel La Fonda de Taos rise organically from the earth. This charming square also features adobe storefronts festooned with ristras (ropes of large, dried Anaheim chiles).

Expect an unrushed and intimate shopping experience with Taos vendors, who help you zero in on souvenir gifts, local crafts, fine American Southwest jewelry, and Western gear. Like spokes on a wagon wheel, pedestrian walkways branch out from the plaza to more shops, galleries, museums, and places to eat.

Fortify yourself with something tasty before setting out on one of many self-guided walks to more than 20 historic landmarks. If time permits, visit the Kit Carson Home and Museum and Taos Art Museum .

Leave your car parked downtown and hop aboard a seasonal trolley tour that immerses tourists in the culture and history of Taos. Drive yourself or take a trolley tour to nearby Taos Pueblo, an Indigenous community and UNESCO World Heritage Site where people have lived for more than 1,000 years. It's considered to be one of the country's oldest continuously inhabited communities.

Taos is cradled between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east and the banks of the Rio Grande to the west. Elevate your spirit even higher by planning a half-day drive of the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway , an 84-mile route that leads you to ski areas in the winter and colorful landscapes in autumn.

As part of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument , the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a dramatic backdrop for your selfie and a literal drop of 650 feet to the river. It's one of the highest bridges in the United States.

Another six miles farther along Hwy US-64, the Earthship Global Visitor Center sells guided and self-guided tours of some of the most cosmically inspired, yet functional homes on our planet.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Taos

If you're looking for one of the best places to visit in New Mexico for an out-of-this-world experience, explore the alien environment of Roswell . From the McDonald's shaped like a UFO to the chainsaw carving of an alien at a gas station, the spirit of Roswell can be summed up in a few words: fun, fantastic, far-out.

How far out? Imagine the journey of an extra-terrestrial, coming from another galaxy, crashing somewhere on a Roswell ranch. Was it a nuclear surveillance balloon? A rocket ship? And what happened to the extra-terrestrials on board? Roswell has turned these questions into a reputation so vast, it has inspired a science fiction TV series aptly entitled ... Roswell .

The UFO incident that allegedly happened in 1947, preceded by rocket research in the 1930s, is the jet fuel that ignite creative artists, museum owners, and business people in enterprising Roswell. Everywhere you look, you'll see little green men with alien eyes probing your every move, and there's plenty to keep you on the go.

Take the whole family on a blacklight journey at the Roswell UFO Spacewalk . Pose for pictures in the surreal sets of the Area 51 Museum, Alien Zone . At the International UFO Museum and Research Center , sift through the facts and folklore, get educated about conspiracy theories, and decide for yourself what to believe about Roswell.

Had enough of aliens but still up for more fun? You'll find yet another slice of quirky Roswell at the Miniatures and Curious Collections Museum .

For a day trip, reconnect with Planet Earth at Bottomless Lakes State Park , located less than 16 miles from Roswell. Who knows if it's possible to get to the bottom?

Alamogordo ("fat cottonwood") is your headquarters for some of the most popular things to do in southern New Mexico. It's the gateway to famous White Sands National Park . With world-class aerospace activities nearby, the Alamogordo area feels like an oversized adventure park for aviation and space enthusiasts.

Proximity to ground zero of the first atomic blast at the Trinity Site in 1945 led to Alamogordo's future in missile testing. The New Mexico Museum of Space History organizes limited tours to the restricted Trinity Site each April and October. The museum is also home to the International Space Hall of Fame .

Before planting your feet back on Earth, hop aboard McGinn's PistachioLand Farm Tour to visit its ranch of more than 12,000 pistachio trees, and taste some of the crop. At 30 feet tall, the World's Largest Pistachio statue is sure to photo-bomb your selfie.

If you have kids, another family favorite is playtime at Alameda Park with its Toy Train Depot and the Alameda Park Zoo (founded in 1898).

Alamogordo's backyard is the Sacramento Mountains, which inspire serious outdoor fun. Twenty miles to the northeast of Alamogordo is Cloudcroft . At 9,000 feet, you'll be strapping on your skis in winter, and catching air on your mountain bike in summer.

Another popular access point into the Sacramentos is Dog Canyon Trail from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, 16 miles south of Alamogordo. You'll be rewarded for your strenuous uphill grind into Lincoln National Forest with panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin stretched out below.

As New Mexico's gateway to the Gila National Forest , Silver City receives its fair share of hikers and campers eager to hit the trails. You might want to join them after visiting the shops and galleries along Silver City's pioneering grid of raised sidewalks.

Don't let the name fool you. The historic center of this city feels more like a hillside town. The name also implies a link to silver mining, but copper is the real gold in these hills and remains the local economic driver. As a tourist, you'll be mining unique treasures of your own.

In many American towns, it makes sense to first check out what's happening on Main Street. In 1895, Silver City's Main Street became a 55-foot-deep gulch following a catastrophic flood. Today, Big Ditch Park runs through the center of town, providing a shaded place to walk and rest on a bench beside Silva Creek.

In a restored classic home built in 1881, Silver City Museum features exhibits that connect you to local culture and events such as: The first criminal indictment of Billy the Kid, initial copper strikes by Spanish settlers, and the Apache encampment that is now Silver City.

Artifacts and displays about the ancient Mimbres Mogollon culture inform you about the first Indigenous people in the area. It also prepares you for the 45-mile drive north through the historic hamlet of Pinos Altos to visit Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument .

Thirty-three miles south of Silver City is another one of the best places to visit in New Mexico. City of Rocks State Park appears like an apparition on a grassy knoll of Chihuahuan Desert. Artfully sculpted and positioned by volcanic activity millions of years ago, boulders and pinnacles as high as 40 feet create natural corridors that are the streets and boulevards of this surreal "city."

It was love at first sight when painter Georgia O'Keeffe set eyes on Ghost Ranch , a former dude ranch northwest of Santa Fe.

She had traveled by train from New York and, just like a magic trick, stepped out of her urban comfort zone into a world of desert extremes: intense sunlight, the brightest bluest sky, the surreal whiteness of dry bones, and crimson flowers against red rock. It was the kind of beauty that brings people to their knees, and the effect it had on O'Keeffe is shared by many visitors to Ghost Ranch.

Unlike O'Keeffe, who relocated to spend the last third of her nearly century-long life at Ghost Ranch and nearby village of Abiquiu, tourists come for only a day or a week. It isn't a long time, but they never forget this incomparable and inspiring environment.

Over the years, Ghost Ranch has been many things to many people: a movie set; a conference and retreat center; and a place to hike, go horseback riding, and wander with a camera. Located on 21,000 acres, Ghost Ranch captures the grandeur and open space that is the essence of New Mexico.

On your own, explore the many trails, an interfaith adobe chapel, a library, and two museums. One of them explains the human history of the area, and the other showcases ancient creatures who roamed this terrain, including the state dinosaur, Coelophysis.

For a glimpse and possibly a tour of Georgia O'Keeffe's other main residence, head 13 miles south (in the direction of Santa Fe) to the historic village of Abiquiu , which was settled in 1742. Four miles west of Ghost Ranch, a concrete path takes you into Echo Canyon Amphitheater , an immense sandstone cavern where you can shout and listen for an answer.

While Ghost Ranch has a lot to offer, it doesn't have a spa. To relax after a day of hiking and sightseeing, drive 45 minutes, and soak yourself in one of a dozen spring-fed thermal pools at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa . This resort, one of the oldest in the country, offers accommodation in the lodge or campground and a restaurant.

You could also consider making your way back toward Santa Fe for a soak at Ten Thousand Waves , which offers a Japanese onsen-style bathing experience in its pristine outdoor tubs.

Towering above the high desert plains, El Morro National Monument is a sandstone monolith that is breathtaking to behold. Also known as Inscription Rock, El Morro reads like a guest book, with 2,000 carved names, dates, and messages of people who passed this way (Spaniards, Indigenous people, and explorers).

At the visitor center and museum, learn about 700 years of human history at the monument, and pick up a guide booklet that explains stops along the do-it-yourself trails . From the mesa top, you'll be awed by the view beyond 200-foot drop-offs. By the time you get back down, you too might feel the urge to record your journey. Go ahead—a sandstone rock is provided for tourists to make their own mark.

After your visit to El Morro, treat yourself to local brisket smoked on site at the Ancient Way Café, and check out the local crafts and Indian jewelry for sale at Inscription Rock Trading & Coffee Company.

From El Morro, explore these additional places, each in one of the four directions: Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary (16 miles south), the "badlands" of El Malpais National Monument (15 miles east), the Ramah Museum built in 1904 (12.5 miles northwest), and Zuni Pueblo for their jewelry, arts and crafts (34 miles west).

The "road less traveled" applies to Chaco Canyon in the modern era of travel and leisure, but it wasn't always this way. From 850 to 1150 CE, the valley that is now the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chaco Culture National Historic Park was a primary trading center in the Four Corners.

Archeological discoveries indicate that Chaco was also connected to a vast Pan-American trading network. Thousands of Indigenous people who called Chaco Canyon home were Ancient Puebloans. Many people in the southwest today claim ancestral roots to Chacoan culture, and its ceremonial rites and traditions.

You will appreciate Chaco Canyon day and night. As an International Dark Sky Park , the attraction allows you to pursue your interest in the cosmos and capture starlight with your camera while camping beside a sandstone cliff. During the day, designated trails and overlooks allow you to walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Puebloans.

A paved nine-mile scenic driving loop begins at the visitor center. With bike racks conveniently located at trailheads for each of the village sites, this loop is a favorite ride for cyclists, as well as motorists.

Get ready to feel awe-struck when standing in the middle of Pueblo Bonito , one of the largest complexes of ceremonial kivas, courtyards, and pithouses made of carved and layered sandstone of many colors. Take your time to soak in the peace that surrounds you while exploring this and the other "great houses" of Chaco Canyon.

Surrounded by these monuments of civilization, imagine how ingenuity mixed with manual labor created such a vast complex of villages. Modern researchers have their theories, but why do you think the Chacoans decided to settle here only to abandon the place 300 years later?

Nestled between the east bank of the Rio Grande and New Mexico's second-largest city of Las Cruces , Old Mesilla appears as if locked in time. The first building of its historic plaza was erected in 1849, and this social center is a venerated survivor of famous events and infamous characters.

Mesilla Plaza is the kind of place where you want to sit on a bench with a fresh "Day of the Dead" brew from Wild West Express-o in hand and people watch. Then spend a half hour walking around the plaza to read the historical markers about the people who came here before you. Step into a shop or two, including the Billy the Kid Gift Shop, where "The Kid" was jailed and sentenced to hang in 1881.

If you like hot and spicy food, this section of the Rio Grande cultivates some of the most famous chiles on the planet. The only forest you are likely to see here are plantations of pecan trees such as the historic Stahmanns Pecans estate, which harvests nine million pounds of pecans each year.

One of the best panoramic sunset photos in the American Southwest can be captured at the last rest stop along Interstate 10, just west of Las Cruces. The mammoth 20-foot tall Recycled Roadrunner Statue on the south side of the interstate helps guide you to the exit you need to take.

You're standing on an escarpment looking down across the Rio Grande valley. The changing light, reflecting off the jagged peaks of the Organ Mountains, mesmerizes you until the curtain call of darkness ends the show.

Return to Old Mesilla for dinner at La Posta de Mesilla , a restaurant dating back more than 80 years and located in the same 1840s building used by the Butterfield Stagecoach Line.

Fresh water and mountain air make Rio Grande del Norte National Monument near Taos one of the best places to visit in New Mexico if you're into the great outdoors. Ranging south from the New Mexico-Colorado border, this vast wilderness features volcano cones such as Ute Mountain, which reaches nearly 10,000 feet into the sky.

Below the earth's crust are flooded lava tubes, such as Lava Tube Spring —the largest freshwater spring in New Mexico—which bubbles into the Rio Grande. Where there is water, there is also wildlife . If lucky, you will spot a resident elk, black bear, bighorn sheep, or cougar. You might also snag a rainbow trout while fly fishing .

The most celebrated and accessible feature you experience is the untamed expanse of the Rio Grande flowing south from its headwaters in the Colorado Rockies. Rio Grande Del Norte is divided into the Upper Gorge (Wild Rivers Recreational Area) north of Taos and the Lower Gorge (Orilla Verde Recreational Area) south of Taos. The 900-foot drop in river elevation between the upper and lower sections carved the impressive 800-foot canyon walls.

Wild Rivers is a paradise for day hikers and backpackers, with 13 trails rated from easy to strenuous. Wheelchair accessible and photogenic overlooks above the roiling confluence of the Rio Grande and Red River inspire lasting memories of this high desert plateau.

The campground along the top of the escarpment is considered a hidden gem by camping enthusiasts. Designated riverside campsites reward hikers who have the backcountry gear and energy to reach them.

In addition to hiking and biking adventures along one of the eight trails at Orilla Verde, the Lower Gorge is the place to go for whitewater rafting and river tours. Roadside campgrounds along the river provide easy-to-access sites, some with RV hookups.

If you're a fan of Native American art, culture, and jewelry of the American Southwest, you could visit the Navajo Nation or Hopi Reservation, or just head straight for Gallup. Thousands of artists and hundreds of traders sell exquisite arts and crafts in the city's trading posts and gift shops.

Due to the scarcity of turquoise and restrictions on coral, you'll find the most gorgeous and valuable pieces of jewelry in pawn shops. Don't be put off by the word "pawn." This is the source of quality pottery, carvings, rugs, and belts that were made many years ago. If you're shopping for your first piece, knowledgeable staff will provide you with a certificate of authenticity.

With more than one third of its population associated with Native American communities, Gallup is renowned as a gathering place for Indigenous arts and culture. For a century, its annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial has been a longstanding celebration of Indigenous arts and culture attracting tribes from all over North America.

Watch for this popular summertime event that features ceremonial dances, pow-wows, a juried art show, parades, pageants, a rodeo, plus good eats and fun for the whole family.

Gallup is located on historic Route 66 , in addition to being a stop on the Trail of the Ancients , a designated New Mexico scenic byway. With its rolling hills of red rock and tumbleweeds flying through the dusty air, the scenery attracted Hollywood moviemakers.

During the 1940s and 1950s (the heyday for making westerns in the Gallup area), movie stars stayed at the landmark Hotel El Rancho . The walls of this historic Route 66 hotel are covered with framed and autographed photos of John Wayne; Ronald Reagan; Humphrey Bogart; Gregory Peck; and Spencer Tracy and his leading lady, Katharine Hepburn. Relax in a comfy lobby chair, enjoy a drink, and scout out treasures in the well-stocked gift shop.

The most glorious natural landmark is Red Rock Park , located eight miles east of Gallup. A striking formation known as Church Rock oversees the red sandstone landscape, where visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. The Red Rock Balloon Rally , the second largest such event in North America, has been happening here for nearly 40 years, usually in December.

From Gallup, you're well positioned for a fascinating day trip to Zuni , the largest of New Mexico's pueblos. Most residents of this traditional village are engaged in making arts and crafts and are welcoming to visitors. Meet them in their studios, and purchase work from an array of cooperatives and trading posts. Be sure to purchase a permit from the visitor's center if you wish to take photos.

Of all the places popular with bird-watchers in New Mexico, one place soars above all the rest: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge . With 57,000 acres of habitat and the Rio Grande running through it, the refuge provides an important stopover for migratory waterfowl.

Starting in late October and ending in mid-February, sandhill cranes, geese, ducks, and eagles converge on the refuge to settle in for the winter. They have their reasons: The vast refuge is managed to ensure a seasonal supply of food and water, which draws birds by the tens of thousands for the annual Festival of the Cranes.

To take in this spectacle, time your visit to this region of New Mexico for mid-November, which is a lot less chilly than you might imagine if you are yourself a snowbird. Located mid-way between Albuquerque and Las Cruces off Interstate 25, you'll find the access for the refuge at San Antonio. (Socorro is the closest city.)

Amateurs and professionals alike are aided by experts at observation posts, lectures by ornithologists, and workshops in the field. Drive the 12-mile auto loop and explore the nature trails. The refuge hasn't just gone to the birds—keep your eyes open for wildlife, such as javelina and mule deer. Stop at the visitor center and nature store for information and souvenirs.

More on New Mexico

Protect Your Trip »

18 Top Things to Do in New Mexico

With breathtaking desert landscapes and a bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions, it's no surprise New Mexico calls itself the Land of Enchantment.

Getty Images

A New Mexico adventure means national parks, cliff dwellings, caves, ghost towns and more.

From distinguished art galleries and intriguing UFO museums to significant archaeological sites, New Mexico is the gift that keeps on giving. Visit in October to watch hundreds of brightly colored hot air balloons take over the Albuquerque skyline or head to Taos in winter for prime skiing conditions. New Mexico's authentic energy and strong cultural roots also attract travelers in search of a spiritual experience.

Whether you're ready to plan your trip or you simply want to daydream about the state's stunning rock formations, keep reading for a list of the top things to do in New Mexico.

(Note: Some of the following activities and locations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Albuquerque

Sitting approximately 65 miles southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico's largest city appeals to culture hounds and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can spend their time hiking the nearby Sandia Mountains, or save their feet by riding the 2.7-mile-long scenic Sandia Peak Tramway to the top.

Meanwhile, travelers looking to explore Albuquerque's many museums can browse the diverse collections at the Albuquerque Museum , the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science and The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. For a glimpse into Albuquerque's past, head to Historic Old Town , where Pueblo-Spanish style adobe buildings now house numerous art galleries, restaurants and shops.

Although Albuquerque is beautiful year-round, travelers recommend visiting in October when more than 500 colorful hot air balloons take to the skies during the nine-day Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta . As the most-photographed event in the world, this popular festival offers hot air balloon rides , concerts, educational exhibits, fireworks and evening balloon glows, where hundreds of grounded balloons fire their burners simultaneously, creating a magical nighttime light display.

[See more of Albuquerque: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is one of the most mesmerizing and unusual natural wonders in New Mexico – and possibly the world. This stunning national park is located within the Tularosa Basin and is home to the earth's largest gypsum dune field. More than 73,000 acres of brilliant white sand stretch out as far as the eye can see, a sight which recent travelers say will take your breath away. In fact, this magnificent dune field is so large, it can even be seen from space.

Visitors can explore the park by car along Dunes Drive, an 8-mile-long thoroughfare that stretches from the White Sands Visitor Center into the heart of the gypsum dune field. Biking and hiking are also popular activities, and the park offers several ranger-led programs that include everything from beautiful sunset strolls to full moon hikes.

However, the activity most travelers can't wait to try is sledding. This exciting activity is allowed in the loop portion of Dunes Drive, where there is little vegetation and no cars nearby to pose a danger risk. The safest way to sled is on a waxed, plastic snow saucer, which visitors can purchase at the park's gift shop.

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

New Mexico's capital is brimming with traveler-friendly activities. The first stop on your itinerary should be Santa Fe Plaza , a National Historic Landmark located in downtown Santa Fe . Here, visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the plaza, which often buzzes with vendors, live music and markets. It is also a jumping-off point for many of Santa Fe's downtown restaurants and shops.

Meanwhile, the renowned Santa Fe Opera House appeals to travelers who fancy spectacular opera shows set in remarkable open-air theaters. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum also can't be missed, along with other traveler favorites like the New Mexico History Museum , New Mexico Museum of Art , Museum of International Folk Art and Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return , a unique and colorful art installation featuring more than 70 rooms of immersive art.

And if that isn't enough, Santa Fe's Canyon Road is lined with more than 80 galleries and studios showcasing some of the best artists in New Mexico. Visit during September to watch the city come to life during the Santa Fe Fiesta, an annual celebration that includes music, dancing, arts and crafts booths and more.

[See more of Santa Fe: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

An extensive labyrinth of limestone caves lies deep below the Chihuahuan Desert – and Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to more than 100 of them. These caves formed when sulfuric acid dissolved Capitan limestone, leaving behind a complex network of underground passages and rock formations. Explore these caves at your own pace along two underground trails: The Big Room Trail and the Natural Entrance Trail. The Big Room Trail is the most popular route, taking visitors through one of the largest cave chambers in North America. Meanwhile, visitors can see rock formations like Devil's Spring and Iceberg Rock along the Natural Entrance Trail. Keep in mind, this trail is very steep and is best suited for experienced hikers.

Above ground, there are several hiking trails that wind through the Guadalupe Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert. Popular hikes include the short Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail, which is only a half-mile in length, and the Guadalupe Ridge Trail, the park's longest above-ground trail at 100 miles long.

If you visit in summer, you'll have the chance to see 400,000 Brazilian free-tailed bats exit Carlsbad Cavern in search of food every evening. This mass exodus is a spectacular sight to behold, and is best seen from the Bat Flight Amphitheater, where rangers offer free educational presentations from Memorial Day weekend through October.

Roswell's name recognition comes from its connection to a now-infamous 1947 alleged UFO crash, in which wreckage from a "flying disc" was recovered on the property of a local rancher. While Air Force officials said the debris was from a crashed weather balloon, the event sparked widespread speculation. Still today, many believe that this event is proof of the existence of extraterrestrial beings. Whether or not you consider yourself a believer, Roswell is a must-see destination for any first-time visitor to New Mexico.

If you want to learn more about the town's alien reputation, head to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. The exhibits on display are not designed to convince visitors of anything, but rather to inform the public about the 1947 Roswell Incident, and other unexplained phenomena surrounding UFO research.

However, this small city in southeastern New Mexico is about more than just aliens. Roswell is also home to a collection of top-tier art museums like the Roswell Museum and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art, along with a bevy of outdoor attractions. For fun-filled activities like swimming, kayaking and scuba diving, head to Bottomless Lakes State Park, where the blue-green color of the large sinkholes here give the illusion of great depth.

Bandelier National Monument

Spread across more than 33,000 acres of rugged wilderness, Bandelier National Monument is a testament to New Mexico's long and fascinating history. Once inhabited by the Ancestral Pueblo people, this monument protects thousands of archaeological sites, including cave dwellings, villages and petroglyphs.

In addition to these well-preserved ruins, the park offers more than 70 miles of hiking trails. Along the Main (Pueblo) Loop Trail, visitors can check out the three cavates, small caves that have been hand-carved out of rock, by using the wooden ladders in place. Other trails lead to waterfalls and mesa tops. For more information about Bandelier and its history, check out the visitor center, which includes a museum with tactile exhibits and an educational movie about the park. Across the parking lot from the visitor center, you'll find the Western National Parks Association Store, which sells a wide variety of books, maps and souvenirs.

Address: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544

Nicknamed the "Soul of the Southwest," Taos is home to art galleries, hot springs, spellbinding scenery and excellent skiing opportunities. In Taos, visitors will have their pick of several fascinating museums: The Millicent Rogers Museum, Taos Art Museum at Fechin House and the Kit Carson House & Museum are a few traveler favorites.

After perusing the exhibits, stroll through historic Taos Plaza or jump in your car to cruise along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. On your drive, you'll be treated to views of Wheeler Peak and Hondo Valley. For an exhilarating experience, visitors can also drive across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, one of the highest bridges in the United States, or walk along the rim of the gorge to get a different perspective.

Come winter, Taos is busy with skiers looking to hit the slopes; Taos Ski Valley and Red River Ski & Summer Area are two of the area's most popular skiing destinations .

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Chaco Culture National Historical Park, located about 150 miles northwest of Albuquerque, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Between A.D. 850 and 1250, this region was a major center of Chacoan culture. Civilization flourished here and that history is evident today in the park's approximately 4,000 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites. Many of these are the ruins of Chacoan great houses, massive stone buildings constructed using masonry techniques (which were unusual at the time). These houses are thought to be some of the largest, most complex and best-preserved prehistoric structures in North America.

While here, visitors can take a self-guided tour of these dwellings by driving along the 9-mile-long Canyon Loop Drive, which leads to six major cultural sites: Pueblo Bonito, Chetro Ketl, Una Vida, Hungo Pavi, Pueblo del Arroyo and Casa Rinconada. Of these, Pueblo Bonito is undoubtedly the most famous – and for good reason. A spectacular example of ancestral Pueblo history, Pueblo Bonito was once the epicenter of Chacoan society. Today, visitors can hike the short gravel trail (less than a mile) through the site and admire what is left of this stunning architectural wonder.

Keep in mind, the drive here is long and requires traveling over miles of very bumpy and uneven roads, which may not be suitable for vehicles without all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Self-guided trail maps can be purchased for $2 at the visitor center bookstore.

Address: 1808 CR 7950, Nageezi, NM 87037

Santa Rosa Blue Hole

Landlocked New Mexico is not known for its scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. However, Santa Rosa's Blue Hole may just be one of the most interesting diving destinations in the United States. Amid the state's vast desert landscape, this unexpected gem was once used by cowboys as a way to cool off from the summer heat. Now, visitors come from all over to cliff jump, dive or swim in its crystal-clear waters.

With water that refills 3,000 gallons every minute and stays at a cool 62 degrees year-round, the Santa Rosa Blue Hole is one of New Mexico's most unique tourist attractions . Nearby, there is a small fishing pond with an inflatable obstacle course that is popular with families. Keep in mind, scuba divers must purchase a permit to dive here.

Address: 1085 Blue Hole Road, Santa Rosa, NM 88435

Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyphs, rock carvings made from a chisel and hammerstone, are complex and sacred symbols that were created by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. Petroglyph National Monument protects nearly 25,000 of these images, 90% of which are believed to have been made by Ancestral Pueblo people. While the exact meaning behind many of these petroglyphs is unknown, one thing is for sure: These ancient carvings are integral to New Mexico's spiritual and cultural landscape.

The monument offers three areas where visitors can see petroglyphs, with hiking trails that range in distance and difficulty level. Boca Negra Canyon is the only fully developed area in the park, offering restrooms and a drinking fountain, which makes it a very popular tourist destination. The other two viewing areas – Rinconada Canyon and Piedras Marcadas Canyon – offer fewer facilities than Boca Negra, but they are no less beautiful. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled while visiting – the monument is home to western diamondback and prairie rattlesnakes.

Address: Unser Blvd. NW at Western Trail, Albuquerque, NM 87120

Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center

Ghost Ranch, made famous by legendary artist Georgia O'Keeffe, encompasses 21,000 acres of dramatic desert landscape in northern New Mexico. While the views are incredible, there is more to this scenic getaway than just beauty. The region is one of New Mexico's most important geological and paleontological resources. Here, visitors can hike, get a massage, kayak on Abiquiu Lake or even learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed these lands millions of years ago. In fact, the property is home to the only complete Coelophysis (a small and slender carnivorous dinosaur) fossil in the world. Museums and a library are available on-site for research and educational purposes, and there are several fossil quarries worth exploring. Numerous tours are also available, whether you're looking for a Georgia O'Keeffe art tour (she once lived on the property), a paleontology tour or a sunset horseback riding tour. Visitors can purchase a day pass or stay overnight at the retreat's campground or in one of the rustic housing accommodations.

Address: 280 Private Drive 1708, Abiquiu, NM 87510

Pecos National Historical Park

Located less than 30 miles southeast of Santa Fe in northern New Mexico, Pecos National Historical Park tells the story of the ancient civilizations that came before it, dating as far back as 11,500 B.C. Hunters, traders, immigrants, soldiers and ranchers once passed through these lands and Pecos National Historical Park protects the legacies left behind. Start at the visitor center, which offers a short introductory film and a museum detailing the region's history and archaeological significance. You can also pick up a brochure or purchase an interpretive guide to take with you as you explore the popular Ancestral Sites Trail. Along this 1.25-mile-long trail, visitors will find the Pecos Pueblo and the 1717 Spanish mission church, the park's two top sights. Meanwhile, Civil War buffs won't want to miss the 2.25-mile Glorieta Battlefield Trail, which takes visitors through the harrowing story of the 1862 Battle at Glorieta Pass. For the best experience, explore these sites on a free ranger-led walking tour. While admission to this historical park is free, keep in mind, camping is not permitted anywhere in the park.

Address: 1 Peach Drive, Pecos, NM 87552

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Travel to Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, about 45 miles north of Silver City, if you're interested in soaking up more of New Mexico's important cultural history. In the late 1200s, the Mogollon people lived and worked here, building their homes and raising their children in cliff dwellings for more than a thousand years. To learn about their fascinating culture, check out the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center, which features a small museum with Mogollon artifacts, a short park film and an exhibit on the Chiricahua Apache. There is also a small bookstore located 2 miles down the road that is a jumping-off point for the mile-long Cliff Dwellings Trail. At the monument, visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding Gila National Forest, which is a popular destination for camping, hiking and fishing.

Address: 26 Jim Bradford Trail, Mimbres, NM 88049

Relax in a natural hot spring

As a state that is rich in geothermal activity, New Mexico is home to several natural hot springs. Ranging from small off-the-beaten-path soaking options in the wilderness to lavish spa resorts , these springs are revered for their healing properties. Travelers looking to relax in nature can head to local favorites such as Black Rock Hot Springs and Spence Hot Springs (which is clothing-optional), while those searching for a more luxurious experience can book a soak at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa or Jemez Hot Springs.

Explore a ghost town

With more than 400 ghost towns peppered throughout the state, New Mexico is a haven for history buffs and fans of the paranormal. Many of these now- abandoned settlements were once flourishing mining towns that vanished when demand fell and the area's natural resources dried up. Today, travelers can visit these abandoned sites, which range from tiny villages with a handful of dilapidated buildings to resurrected towns with hundreds of year-round residents.

If you want to feel like you've stepped back into the Wild West, head to the town of Chloride, where you'll find 27 original buildings still standing. This includes the Pioneer Store, which has been restored and turned into a museum featuring historic artifacts from the town's past.

Other notable ghost towns include Madrid, Pinos Altos and Shakespeare, a former silver mining town that is now privately owned. While unescorted visits of Shakespeare are not available, travelers can book a guided tour of the property for a fee, which includes interior access to 8 buildings.

(Note: Many of these towns still have small populations so please make sure to respect all private property.)

Go stargazing

Thanks to the state's low population density, high altitudes and clear night skies, stargazing opportunities abound in the Land of Enchantment. Boasting five International Dark-Sky Association-certified sites, the New Mexico True Dark Skies Trail includes Clayton Lake State Park, Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Capulin Volcano National Monument and Cosmic Campground, the Northern Hemisphere's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Located in Gila National Forest, the Cosmic Campground is the perfect place to lay back and ponder the universe under a blanket of stars. Whether you're looking for a place to practice night photography or you simply want to bask in the beauty of the Milky Way, stargazing at dark sky park in New Mexico is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Four Corners Monument

Have you ever wanted to be in two places at once? How about four? The Four Corners Monument is the only place in the United States where four states intersect at one point. Here, visitors can stand in New Mexico, Arizona , Utah and Colorado simultaneously. The location is marked by a simple granite and brass plaque and surrounded by flags representing the tribal nations and states that share the region. At the site, you'll find local vendors selling homemade jewelry, pottery, crafts and artwork.

The cost to visit this monument is $5 per person; payment is only accepted via credit card. Keep in mind, services and facilities surrounding the monument are extremely limited, so come prepared with a full tank of gas and enough food and water to sustain you throughout the day.

Although many recent visitors loved the novelty of being in four places at once, others called the attraction a tourist trap. While this site makes for a great photo opportunity, it is located on private land managed by the Navajo Nation, so please be respectful of tribal regulations when visiting the area.

Address: 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514

Cumbres & Toltec Railroad

One of the most beautiful ways to take in the scenery of New Mexico's diverse landscape is aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Railroad. Shared jointly by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, this railroad is the longest and highest steam railroad in the United States. As the train zig zags across the Colorado and New Mexico border, travelers will be treated to unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains, rolling past verdant meadows, grassy hills and impressive aspen groves. During your ascent to Cumbres Pass, keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk and even bears, as wildlife is plentiful in this area. The scenic train ride also includes a lunch stop in the small mountain town of Osier, Colorado.

Leaving from Chama, New Mexico, and ending in Antonito, Colorado, this full excursion stretches on for 64 miles. Passengers wishing to ride round trip may purchase two one-way train tickets, but they should know that the entire process cannot be completed in one day, so plan on finding lodging for the night. However, those who would like to experience this historic railroad but who can't budget more than a day should consider choosing the half limited trip, which travels from the Chama or Antonito stations to the mid-way point of Osier Station and back. Express short trips are also available for families or anyone limited on time.

Address: 500 Terrace Ave., Chama, NM 87520

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in New Mexico
• The Best Places to Visit in New Mexico
• The Top Hot Air Balloon Festivals
• The Top Things to Do in Utah
• The Top Things to Do in Arizona
• The Top Things to Do in Colorado
• The Top Things to Do in Texas

Tags: Travel , Southwest Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

How much does a cruise cost.

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

© Jack Pearce/Lonely Planet

The Land of Enchantment casts a bewitching spell and the easily explored landscape is undeniably mesmerizing.

Best Places to Visit

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

A 9-mile drive loops through ‘downtown Chaco,’ passing six major sites, with further opportunities to hike to more remote ruins and petroglyphs.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Southeastern New Mexico

While a cave might not sound quite as sexy as redwoods, geysers or the Grand Canyon, there’s no question that this one measures up on the national parks’…

Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

New Mexico's newest national monument consists of several separate components, totaling almost 500,000 acres and all lying within a 50-mile radius of Las…

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

A relatively small site, these remarkable 13th-century cliff dwellings were only occupied by a small Mogollon group (30 to 80 people) for 20 years…

If you've been hankering for a trip to another dimension but have yet to find a portal, the House of Eternal Return by Meow Wolf could be the place for…

Taos Pueblo

Central New Mexico

The Pueblo is centered on twin five-story adobe complexes, set on either side of the Río Pueblo de Taos, against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de…

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area

This undeveloped realm of multicolored hoodoos, sculpted cliffs and balancing rocks is a surreal dream for photographers. Off the beaten track, it's well…

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

With 10 beautifully lit galleries in a rambling 20th-century adobe, this museum boasts the world's largest collection of O'Keeffe’s work. She’s best known…

Latest stories from New Mexico

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Best in Travel - 2023

Nov 15, 2022 • 5 min read

ShanDien Sonwai LaRance, a Native American hoop dancer, shows you why her home of New Mexico is the perfect place to learn about indigenous culture.

Oct 28, 2022 • 5 min read

Mar 17, 2022 • 8 min read

Feb 17, 2022 • 4 min read

Dec 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Feb 8, 2021 • 2 min read

Nov 19, 2020 • 7 min read

Nov 13, 2020 • 6 min read

Oct 9, 2020 • 3 min read

Sep 14, 2020 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in New Mexico

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of New Mexico with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

New Mexico and beyond

41 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In New Mexico

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 15, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

With more than 35 million visitors per year, New Mexico is one of the top tourist destinations in the United States.

It has a little bit of everything, so whether you’re interested in sweeping desert landscapes or crowded marketplaces in lively tourist towns, you can have the experience of a lifetime here.

Here are just a few of the coolest things to do in New Mexico!

Table of Contents

1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Doug Meek / Shutterstock

Best known for its twisting, winding passages of underground caves, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the most fun things to do in New Mexico.

The caves are filled with dark tunnels that stretch for miles.

You can explore on your own or take a ranger-led tour through bat holes, mud pits, calcite formations, limestone chambers and outlandish displays of stalactites.

If you visit at the right time of the year, you can even watch bat migrations with thousands and thousands of the critters taking flight in the night sky at the same moment.

Above ground, you can go hiking, biking or driving through the beautiful scenery of New Mexico.

The most challenging trails have steep climbs through rocky terrain; the most relaxing spots have picnic areas surrounded by flowers and fresh springs.

There’s a reason why Carlsbad Caverns National Park always tops the list of must see attractions in New Mexico.

With so many activities to choose from, you could easily spend your entire vacation here!

Address:  727 Carlsbad Cavern Hwy, Carlsbad, NM 88220, United States

2. International UFO Museum and Research Center

turtix / Shutterstock

Roswell , New Mexico is one of the country’s most popular tourist spots for aliens, spaceships and other crazy things from the skies above.

Not only was it ground zero for the infamous Roswell UFO Incident of 1947, but it’s also been used as a shooting location for everything from Roswell to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine .

The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a fun and kitschy place that celebrates the unique calling card of the city.

There are displays for alien dissections and meteorites stuck in the sand; there are little green men on mugs, posters and t-shirts.

For people who are more serious about their UFOs, you’ll have fun stuff to do, too.

The museum is pretty much the best place on Earth for records, archives, photos, videos, artifacts and eyewitness accounts of unexplained phenomenon in the night sky.

Some tales have been debunked; others are ongoing mysteries.

If you’re looking for unique vacation ideas in New Mexico, consider the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

It’s so cool that you could even say it’s… out of this world.

Address:  114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203, United States

3. White Sands National Monument

Galyna Andrushko / Shutterstock

What colors come to mind when you think about New Mexico?

Since it’s a desert state, most people would probably answer with variations of brown, red, orange and beige.

However, one of the biggest points of interest in the state is actually white : the White Sands National Monument .

Comprised of a rare form of white gypsum sand, this stunning landscape stretches both tall and wide.

It covers about 275 miles in total, and since the wind is constantly shifting it, dunes can range from 6 – 60 feet high.

Trees and bushes are dotted here and there.

Wildlife includes everything from small, quick-moving scorpions to gigantic horned antelopes.

There were dire wolves and saber-toothed cats once upon a time, and their fossils are still being uncovered today.

Only part of the White Sands National Monument is open to tourists for conservation reasons, but you’ll have plenty to things to see and do while you’re there.

You can walk, hike, backpack, horseback ride and even camp on the sands under the stars.

You should definitely give it a visit if you’re looking for the best things to do in New Mexico!

Address: U.S. Route 70, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States

4. Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad

Dennis W Donohue / Shutterstock

If you’ve always wanted to take a scenic train ride through rolling hills and gentle, mist-filled mountains, hop aboard the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad .

Its track stretches from New Mexico to Colorado, so not only will you enjoy sweeping views of some of the best, most beautiful places in the southwest, but you’ll also be able to utilize it for the next leg of your cross-country trip!

The train itself is cute and cozy.

It’s one of the oldest steam locomotives in the world, and it runs along a “heritage” railroad with lots of vintage charm.

Food and drink is sold from concession carts.

VIP coaches are available for high rollers who want to ride in luxury, but there are also discount coaches for backpackers and budgeters.

Additionally, there are several glass gondolas that serve as observation decks for travelers of every ticket type.

For amazing views of New Mexico, grab your bags and stow away on the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway.

It offers a cool and unusual method of travel, and it’ll make for some incredible photos for your vacation scrapbook!

Address:  500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, United States

5. High Noon Restaurant and Saloon

High Noon Restaurant & Saloon

The corn is served with red peppers.

The crispy onions are piled high on the plate with salsa and guacamole.

The meat comes from wild game that’s been seasoned and sizzled to perfection.

Welcome to the cuisine of New Mexico!

The High Noon Restaurant and Saloon isn’t the only restaurant within the state that specializes in southwestern staples, but it’s one of the best.

It offers a wide range of dishes with Spanish, Mexican and Native American influences, and they’re as diverse as they’re delicious.

Another fun thing about the restaurant is that it embraces an Old West theme.

From the vine-covered walls to the statues of old Catholic saints posed along the ledges and inset alcoves, it’ll give you a taste of turn-of-the-century New Mexico as you chow down.

Is your stomach rumbling during your vacation?

Stop by the High Noon Restaurant and Saloon.

Your belt might not fit afterwards, but your spurs will be right at home.

Address:  425 San Felipe St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States

6. TinkerTown

txkimmers / flickr

If you’re looking for places of interest in New Mexico that aren’t on your everyday travel guide, you’ll want to swing by the little-known city of Sandia Park and visit TinkerTown .

Built by a single man over the course of four decades, TinkerTown is part museum and part art installation.

Its walls are made of glass bottles; its hedges are guarded by gnomes, totem poles and taxidermy animals.

Wooden wheels act like wind catchers whenever a breeze floats by.

Every shelf is crowded with bits and baubles, and some spill onto the floor below, creating a maze-like labyrinth for visitors to pick their way through.

Would it surprise you to learn that the builder used to design sets for the circus?

TinkerTown is one of the more unusual places to go in New Mexico, but if you’re a fan of the strange and funky, it’ll certainly make for some interesting photos to take back home.

You can also tell your friends that you visited a genuine roadside attraction!

Address:  121 Sandia Crest Rd, Sandia Park, NM 87047, United States

7. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science

Located in Albuquerque, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science offers a fun and interactive experience that takes everything you thought you knew about museums and throws it out of the window.

For starters, there are no dry and boring exhibits.

If the life-sized dinosaur skeletons don’t excite you, try the fossil displays, volcano replicas, gemstone collections or paper mache bird models.

Other cool places in the museum include a “learning garden” where you can play in the dirt and a “hallway of stars” where the constellations are mapped on long, glowing walls.

For animal lovers, there are places where you can touch and feed wildlife.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is a must do when you’re near Albuquerque.

It offers family-friendly fun for visitors of all ages, and it’ll make you rethink what it means to visit a museum!

Address:  1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States

8. Bandelier National Monument

Traveller70 / Shutterstock

Dating back to 1150 CE, the Bandelier National Monument is another broad, beautiful landscape that showcases New Mexico’s rugged natural wilderness.

It’s also one of the best places to see historical relics from the ancestral Pueblo tribes that lived, hunted and built structures in the area for thousands of years.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking and camping.

An amphitheater hosts outdoor concerts; a museum offers tours, classes and nature walks.

There are also ample opportunities for sightseeing on high ridges and within rocky caverns.

If you’re interested in Native American history, check out the masonry dwellings with their petroglyphs etched into the walls.

You’ll never feel closer to the Pueblo people than when you’re standing on the same stones and touching the same carvings.

Consider a trip to Bandelier National Monument if you’re looking for fun things to do in New Mexico that will get you out of the hotel and into the fresh air.

It’s an absolutely gorgeous destination, and it has cultural and historical value to boot.

Address:  15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544, United States

9. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

FloridaStock / Shutterstock

With its beauty and history, Albuquerque is one of the best vacation spots in the state, and it’s definitely worth sticking around for awhile and checking out everything that the city has to offer.

If you only have time for one event, however, you won’t want to miss the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta .

Held every fall, it’s a large, lively gathering for hot air balloon enthusiasts, and events include everything from coordinated shows to amateur races and showmanship competitions.

Aside from the balloons, you can enjoy all kinds of food, drink, music, games and crafts.

There are even educational moments to be had when you visit stalls or watch performances dedicated to the state’s indigenous populations.

Drawing almost a million visitors every day, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the top things to do in New Mexico.

If you enjoy cheap eats, colorful balloons, festive atmospheres and unique travel ideas, you’ll definitely want to make some time in your schedule this October!

Address:  4401 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, United States

10. Trinity Atomic Bomb Site

vasakkohaline / Shutterstock

The Trinity Atomic Bomb Site offers a rare and fleeting glimpse into a darker part of New Mexico’s history.

It’s only open to the public once per year, so you’ll have to time your trip correctly if you want to see it, but it’s worth the effort.

As you might have guessed, the Trinity Atomic Bomb Site is the location of a nuclear test performed by the U.S. government in 1945.

In fact, it was the very first nuclear test.

New Mexico would go on to become one of their favorite places for these early, initial experiments since the deserts were so remote.

All of this and more is explained on the guided tour of the bomb site.

You’ll walk the grounds, marvel at the remnants of the atomic blast and have the chance to view other tools and artifacts from the time period.

Some things to see in New Mexico aren’t pretty.

However, they’re vitally important to remember, and they might be quite interesting to history buffs.

Try to catch a tour of the Trinity Atomic Bomb Site if you’ll be in the state at the right time.

Address: Albuquerque, NM, United States

11. Taos Ski Valley

Roschetzky Photography / Shutterstock

Though it’s best known for its dry, rugged deserts, there are fun places to visit in New Mexico every season of the year, and the winter belongs to the Taos Ski Valley .

Nestled deep in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Taos Ski Valley offers gleaming white slopes for skiing, snowboarding and more.

There are trails for every skill level, and its lift rises to record-breaking heights of almost 12,500 feet.

When you’re done with the outdoors, a cozy little village has everything from sauna rooms to gourmet restaurants with open fireplaces and wood tables.

There are also places for shopping, working out, getting a massage or grabbing a doughnut and a cup of coffee on a cold morning.

You can visit Taos Ski Valley at other times of the year, too.

There’s hiking, biking, fishing, rafting and rock climbing in the summer; there’s horseback riding and llama trekking in the fall.

You can even arrange for a hot air balloon ride over the mountains!

New Mexico has a lot more to offer than just deserts, so if you’re wondering what to do after you’ve already seen the tumbleweeds, book a room at the Taos Ski Valley this weekend.

Its views really are the best in the state.

Address: 116 Sutton Pl, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525, United States

12. Eldora Craft Chocolate

Eldora Chocolate

Who needs Willy Wonka when you have Eldora Craft Chocolate ?

Its factory will take you behind the scenes of chocolate creation, and its shop will offer rows upon rows of sweet, smooth and sugary treats.

The facility is what’s known as a “bean to bar” location.

This means that it receives raw, unprocessed cocoa beans and turns them into decadent desserts with the power of their own machines.

Of course, imagination plays a role as well.

Eldora is known for its fun, colorful confections that include everything from “Kabow” energy bars to adults-only truffles that have been infused with various types of alcohol.

There are also nibs, drops, crunchers, creamers and chocolate balls as far as the eye can see.

For the yummiest of New Mexico attractions, take a trip to Eldora Craft Chocolate.

Your waistline will probably regret it, but your taste buds will rejoice!

Address:  8114 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, United States

13. House of Eternal Return

BrianPIrwin / Shutterstock

The House of Eternal Return is one of the most interesting places in New Mexico.

Combining elements of an escape room, scavenger hunt, haunted house and modern art gallery, it’s a thoroughly entertaining way to spend a few hours when you’re in Santa Fe.

The “premise” of the experience is that something unusual happened to the family that once lived in the house, and it’s your job to explore it and figure out their story.

It sounds simple, but since the house is a complex, eye-dazzling blend of art and architecture, it’s much harder than it sounds.

For example, one room has inter-dimensional portals with lasers and other space-age features.

One room has an Old West theme where a miniature ranch is powered by hamsters.

Other rooms boast creepy monsters, pastel plushies, luminescent caves, neon paintings, dogs speaking in prose and more.

You never know what you’re going to get when you round the next corner at the House of Eternal Return.

If you’re wondering what to do in Santa Fe after you’ve finished with the usual tourist traps, however, this is a great place to go off the beaten path!

Address: 1352 Rufina Circle, Santa Fe, NM 87507, United States

14. New Mexico Museum of Art

LizCoughlan / Shutterstock

New Mexico might be a desert, but it has its rainy days like anywhere else, and you won’t want to let them ruin your vacation.

One way to avoid the storms is to dash inside the New Mexico Museum of Art .

With more than 20,000 paintings, this museum is a great place to get a little culture when you’re in the southwest.

Famous artists include Georgia O’Keeffe, Ansel Adams, Gustave Baumann and Maria Martinez.

The museum is also home to a large library filled with books, periodicals and newspaper clippings.

You can research the topics from the exhibitions or even learn more about the museum itself.

An auditorium can seat up to 400 people for special events, so be sure to check the schedule for lectures and classical music performances.

Are you planning rainy day contingencies for a future trip?

Or maybe you’re already in New Mexico, and you’re scrolling through ideas and suggestions for where to visit when the weather is bad.

Whatever your reasons for needing relief from the downpour, the New Mexico Museum of Art will be warm, dry and thoroughly entertaining.

Address:  107 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

15. ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden

en:User:Camerafiend / CC BY-SA

Covering more than 32 acres, the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden offers a mesmerizing collection of plant and animal life.

It isn’t just a rinky-dink greenhouse; it’s an entire biosphere filled with specimens from all around the world.

For example, one wing of the conservatory houses plants from tropical climates in Africa and South America.

Another wing has succulents that can thrive in deserts and other dry, arid landscapes in the Middle East.

New Mexico is represented as well, so if you want to see local flora and fauna, check out the glass greenhouses or butterfly pavilions.

New Mexico attractions come in all shapes and sizes.

In the case of the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, there are many shapes and sizes.

From small, delicate flowers to gigantic trees looming over rocks and ponds, it’s a wondrous display of the power of nature, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in New Mexico.

Address:  2601 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States

16. Wildlife West Nature Park

~Pawsitive~Candie_N / flickr

The Wildlife West Nature Park isn’t the largest or flashiest zoo in New Mexico.

In fact, it isn’t a zoo at all.

It houses nothing but “non-releasable” animals that have been given sanctuary at the park, so it’s a place of conservation just as much as recreation.

Another fun feature of the park is that its habitats have been constructed to be as realistic as possible.

When you look at the wolves in the grass or the foxes in their holes, you’re looking at a top grade mimicry of their natural environments.

There are other activities to enjoy at the park as well.

An outdoor amphitheater is often used for musical performances, and the wide open fields have hosted everything from the Fall Harvest Festival to the New Mexico Wind Festival.

Long story short, if you’re wondering what to see in New Mexico as an animal lover, the Wildlife West Nature Park should be at the top of your list.

You’ll have a great time with the bears and the birds, and you’ll be supporting a good cause to boot.

Address:  87 N Frontage Rd, Edgewood, NM 87015, United States

17. Guadalupe Backcountry Scenic Byway

BLM New Mexico / flickr

Starting in the desert and ending in the mountains, the Guadalupe Backcountry Scenic Byway offers some of the best sites to see in New Mexico.

It’s one of many scenic drives that wind around the rugged wilderness of the state, but like its name implies, it avoids the big cities and instead showcases the backcountry.

Do you like exploring caves and caverns?

You’ll pass right by Lechugilla Cave, one of the most popular spelunking destinations in New Mexico.

Have you always wanted to visit a waterfall?

You can make a pit stop at Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area, home to an exquisite 200-foot waterfall.

Other local attractions include everything from campgrounds to wildlife observational areas.

The highway goes on for a long time, and you’ll pass all kinds of things that might pique your interest enough to pull over.

If you have a desire to see New Mexico and a little extra gas to spare, go for a drive along the Guadalupe Backcountry Scenic Byway.

You can have the experience of a lifetime without even leaving your car.

18. Origami in the Garden

Origami in the Garden

Tucked off a busy highway, the Origami in the Garden is a hidden gem of New Mexico.

It’s easy to speed right by it when you’re driving to other, better-known sites, but if you do, you’ll be missing out on an awesomely obscure attraction.

What is Origami in the Garden?

Simply put, it’s a series of gigantic metal sculptures that are designed to look like origami.

There’s a classically folded crane; there’s a field of running, multicolored horses; there’s even a collection of lost objects and common household goods.

Artistically speaking, you could say that Origami in the Garden juxtaposes the frailty of traditional paper origami with the strength of stainless steel sculptures.

Practically speaking, you could say that it’s just a fun and wacky place to visit.

The Origami in the Garden is a one-of-a-kind destination in New Mexico.

You won’t find it listed as one of the famous places of the state, but what it lacks in recognition it makes up for in singularity.

Where else in the world are you going to find a pair of gigantic origami scissors cutting into an equally huge ball of crumbled origami paper?

Take advantage of this sightseeing opportunity while you can!

Address:  3453 NM-14, Los Cerrillos, NM 87010, United States

19. Bisti Badlands

Dmitry Pichugin / Shutterstock

Also known as the “De-Na-Zin Wilderness,” the Bisti Badlands are named after the Navajo word for “standing crane” in honor of the petrogylphs that are carved into the rock.

They’re absolutely beautiful formations, especially at the hours of sunrise and sunset, and they’re far enough from nearby cities that they have a special, magical quality that’s untouched by modern civilization.

Rocks are colored in various hues of red, white, sandstone and beige.

Tall, thin spires form natural shapes while the ruins of man-made statues beg the question of what they originally depicted.

Did the large lion shape come from a sphinx?

Are the small, dented stones the fossilized remains of small creatures?

One thing to note about the area is that local wildlife is abundant, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for things like rattlesnakes, scorpions and coyotes.

It’s also a very remote landscape without any amenities, so go to the bathroom and charge your cellphone before you get there.

If you don’t mind roughing it, however, or if you’re just looking for New Mexico attractions that are off the beaten path, you’re going to love the beautiful mystique of the Bisti Badlands.

Address:  County Road 7297, Bloomfield, NM 87413, United States

20. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to take a genuine mud bath?

At the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa , you don’t have to wonder anymore!

Offering a variety of spa and salon treatments, Ojo Caliente combines the luxury of a high-class resort with the low prices of a day on the town.

You don’t have to be a guest to partake in their services; you just have to be willing to let go of your worries and stresses as you soak in an aromatherapy bath or have your muscles kneaded by a professional masseuse.

Make sure to check out the hot springs while you’re visting.

They’re the oldest all-natural hot springs in New Mexico, and you haven’t lived until you’ve crossed “soak in outdoor hot springs” off your bucket.

The Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa is a top destination for self-pampering in New Mexico.

Whether you’re spoiling yourself as a solo traveler or booking a honeymoon experience for two, it’s sure to be a muddy-but-memorable experience of your time in the southwest.

Address:  50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549, United States

21. Museum of International Folk Art (Girard Wing)

Museum of International Folk Art

Do you like toys?

How much do you like toys?

Girard Wing is a mind-blowing collection of more than 100,000 toys from around the world.

Just about every country that you can imagine is here, so you’ll get to see everything from tiny handmade Russian dolls to elaborate model plane kits from Germany.

Not everything is available to view at the same time.

Girard Wing boasts such a crazy collection that only a small portion of dolls, games, puzzles, figurines and miniatures can be displayed at once.

Different toys have different days in the limelight.

If you’re wondering where to go in New Mexico as a lover of the cool and the unique, Girard Wing will be more than just a tourist attraction.

It’ll be an absolute mecca for your inner child.

As soon as you walk through the front door and are confronted by wall-to-wall toys, you’ll realize that you never really grew up at all.

Address: 706 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505, United States

22. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Kasha-Katuwe means “white cliff” in the Pueblo language, so you can probably guess what these cliffs look like.

However, there’s where your guessing will end.

The cliffs defy expectations in every other way.

For starters, they’re shaped like cones.

How many times have you seen rounded white cone cliffs?

They owe their unique geology to the eruptions of a nearby volcano more than six million years ago.

The cliffs are also unusual in the sense that you can do more than just climb them.

Thanks to their “slot” canyons, you can walk between narrow white walls and explore various crevices and summits.

Some are marked by trails; others are not.

If you’re thinking about what to see during a trip to New Mexico, you might want to make time for the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument .

They’re so remarkable that they have to be seen to be believed.

Address:  0 NM-22, Cochiti Pueblo, NM 87072, United States

23. Petroglyph National Monument

If you’re a fan of petroglyphs, it doesn’t get better than the Petroglyph National Monument .

Not only does it offer a look into the lives and times of New Mexico’s indigenous tribes, but it’s also one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in the whole of North America.

You can find literally thousands of drawings, etchings and carvings here.

Most are easily viewed from walking and hiking trails, but some will require more involved treks into caverns and volcanic canyons.

The petroglyphs themselves range from simple depictions of animals and humans to elaborate stories told in visual form.

They’re from a combined mix of indigenous Native American tribes and early Spanish hunters and gatherers.

Are you interested in the history of New Mexico?

Do you love old, one-of-a-kind artwork?

Maybe you’re just looking for unique places to visit during an adventurous vacation.

The Petroglyph National Monument can tick all of these boxes and then some, so it’s definitely something to consider for your bucket list!

Address:  Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, United States

24. Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array

Sarmiento Photography / Shutterstock

Part of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, the Very Large Array (VLA) is a collection of gigantic radio telescopes in the desert plains of New Mexico.

Thanks to their remote location, they’re able to pick up great readings, and they rest under dazzling night skies that are unaffected by city lights or pollution.

Visitors to the VLA can take tours to see all of the towers and telescopes.

Self-guided tours can be taken any day of the week while guided and behind-the-scenes tours are available on the weekends.

A visitor center is also available on-site, and it houses a small museum and movie theater for science-related films and documentaries.

Additionally, there’s a gift shop for souvenirs, so you can stock up on all of the “I Heart Space” t-shirts that you’ll ever need.

Radio telescopes might not be the first thing that you think about when planning a vacation to New Mexico, but if you’re wondering what to do there as a space nerd, the VLA can send you to the moon and back.

Schedule a trip this weekend to enjoy an up-close look at an astronomical site!

Address:  Socorro, NM 87825, United States

25. Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Robert Anthony Graham / Shutterstock

Explorers, this one is for you.

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) is such a long and arduous path that it stretches across five different states!

If you can complete the whole thing, you’ll have traveled through Idaho , Montana , Wyoming , Colorado and New Mexico.

The total distance of the CDT is 3,100 miles, and it’ll be up to you to decide your travel methods.

Some people like to challenge themselves by hiking and biking large portions of it; others prefer to take long, leisurely drives through beautiful scenery.

The best activities in New Mexico don’t always stop in New Mexico.

If you’re looking for crazy things to do while you’re away from home, this is one of those tourist attractions that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

26. Billy the Kid Museum

Billy The Kid Museum

Billy the Kid was one of the most famous outlaws in the Old West, and this museum celebrates his legacy at the exact spot where he died.

He was just 21 years old at the time.

The museum is operated out of a small, modest building with wooden wheels and hay bales outside.

Indoors, there are cozy display shelves that showcase everything from Billy’s saddle spurs to the actual rifle that he used during his gun-slinging days, and the walls are covered with sepia-toned photos, paintings, portraits and wanted posters.

The owners are an elderly couple named Don and Lula Sweet, and despite being New Mexico natives, they’re known for offering southern-style hospitality to anyone who wanders through their doors.

They’ll happily talk to you for hours about anything that you want to know.

If you’re looking for unique places to visit in New Mexico, consider the spot where a dusty western shootout claimed the life of Billy the Kid on July 14, 1881.

It’s a legendary moment in history, and it makes for a must do vacation destination, too.

Address:  1435 Sumner Ave, Fort Sumner, NM 88119, United States

27. Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

All are welcome at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi .

You don’t have to be religious.

Built in 1869, its adobe towers and rose windows have welcomed thousands of visitors over the years, and its long history stands as a testament to its power as one of New Mexico’s oldest tourist attractions.

The architecture is some of the best in the state.

There are stained glass windows; there are bronze doors and yellow limestone arches.

Functional rooms include a chapel, sanctuary, baptismal font and even a crypt.

Regular masses are held at the basilica for the religious.

For the secular, there are other activities like tours, choir concerts, charity drives and holiday events.

Maybe you’re interested in the culture and history of New Mexico.

Maybe you’re just looking for a place to worship while on vacation.

No matter what your reasons for visiting the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, it’s a must see destination when you’re in Santa Fe.

Address:  131 Cathedral Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

28. Red River Ski and Summer Area

Red River Ski & Summer Area

Do you like death-defying destinations?

The Red River Ski and Summer Area is one of the best things to do in New Mexico for adventure seekers.

Summer visitors can go hiking, biking, boating, climbing and ziplining through the trees.

A vertical chair lift will take you to heights of 1,600 feet or more, and once you’re at the summit, you can enjoy everything from mini disc golf to live bands on the Music on Top deck.

Winter visitors will be colder, but they’ll have no shortage of fun activities.

The main draw of the resort is skiing, but there are also snowboarding and snow tubing areas, and a quaint little village will have hot cocoa by a fire when you’re done.

Thousands of people flock to the Red River Ski and Summer Area every year.

It’s one of the most popular vacation spots in New Mexico.

Listen to the wisdom of the crowd and book your ticket today!

Address:  400 Pioneer Rd, Red River, NM 87558, United States

29. Cafe Pasqual’s

Cafe Pasqual’s

You might be familiar with the name San Pasqual.

He’s the patron saint of cooks and kitchens!

He definitely lends a helping hand to his namesake, Cafe Pasqual’s , a fusion restaurant located in the heart of Santa Fe.

As befitting the “fusion” theme, the menu offers a diverse range of dishes with Mexican, Mediterranean and Asian influences.

It also celebrates art and culture; the entire second floor doubles as a gallery, so when you’re finished eating, you can wander upstairs and look at paintings and portraits from local artists in New Mexico.

Cafe Pasqual’s offers more than just a dining experience.

Between its food, art and overall atmosphere, it’s one of the best places to visit in New Mexico for an all-around good time.

Address:  121 Don Gaspar Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

30. Wheeler Peak

Wheeler Peak is the highest point of elevation in New Mexico.

It rises to a staggering 13,167 feet!

It offers incredible views of the cliffs, rivers and forests below, so if you’re the type of person to see a tall, windy mountain and immediately think I want to climb that , Wheeler Peak might be a worthy challenge for you.

You don’t have to be a thrill seeker to enjoy the sights, however.

There are numerous paths on the mountain for hikers and trekkers of all skill levels, and there are recreational areas for camping, fishing and picnicking as well.

Wildlife lovers will have an extra special time at Wheeler Peak since it’s home to all kinds of fun animals, including marmots, pikas, golden eagles, bighorn sheep and rocky mountain elk.

If you’re looking for beautiful tourist sites in New Mexico, you won’t want to miss Wheeler Peak.

Even if you aren’t able or willing to climb to the very top, there are plenty of sights to enjoy along the way!

Address: Taos County, NM, United States

31. Four Corners Monument

Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin / Shutterstock

The Four Corners Monument is the only place in the United States where four states touch a single boundary.

In this case, it’s Arizona , Colorado , New Mexico and Utah , and they all come together in a small circle at the center of a plaza.

In terms of tourist attractions, there isn’t a lot to do at the circle itself, but the surrounding area has plenty of entertainment.

There are buskers and musicians; there are street food trucks and mom-and-pop gift shops.

Further beyond, there are stores, restaurants, malls, movie theaters and other hot spots for vacationers.

Interestingly, the Four Corners Monument is also on the boundary of two Native American communities: the Navajo Nation and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Reservation.

If you’re interested in learning more about these cultures, you’ll be in a prime location to do so.

All things considered, the Four Corners Monument is definitely one of the major points of interest in New Mexico.

Its experience is so unique that you literally can’t get it anywhere else in the US!

Address:  597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514, United States

32. Cliff’s Amusement Park

Cliff’s Amusement Park

Who is Cliff?

No one knows, but he built a great amusement park.

It’s basically an all-ages playground for the residents of New Mexico, and you can get in on the fun when you buy your own ticket.

There are multiple roller coasters for the adventurers out there, including the “New Mexico Rattler,” an old-fashioned wooden coaster that’s been ranked one of the best in the world.

Other rides range from water slides to fireballs to tilt-a-whirls.

When you’re done losing your lunch, you can replace it with great carnival-style food and drink, or you can try your luck at one of the many game booths.

There are both classics and new, contemporary games.

If you’re thinking about what to visit with kids when you’re in New Mexico, Cliff’s Amusement Park is a must.

It has a vintage charm that will appeal to the adults and a fun, energetic atmosphere that will keep the kids hopping.

The whole family can enjoy a day here!

Address:  4800 Osuna Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109, United States

33. Ghost Ranch

Adam Springer / Shutterstock

New Mexico is one of the most beautiful states to visit, and once you’re at Ghost Ranch , you’ll understand why.

Rocky red canyons tower over the land.

Flat-topped mesas are dotted with ferns, bushes, succulents and other desert plants.

Dramatic sunsets streak over jagged cliffs to form horizons that go on for miles and miles.

Ghost Ranch is so gorgeous that you’ve probably seen it before even if you’ve never stepped foot in New Mexico.

It’s been used in countless Hollywood films like Wyatt Earp , Lone Ranger and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull .

It has a very “cowboy feeling.”

Make time for Ghost Ranch if you’re wondering what to do while in New Mexico.

It’ll offer a feast for the eyes and a balm for the soul, especially if you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Address:  280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, United States

34. Taos Pueblo

Gimas / Shutterstock

The Taos Pueblo is a real blast from the past.

Not only does it date back to 1000 – 1450 A.D., but there are still around 150 residents living full-time within its clay brick walls and straw-supported roofs.

Visitors are free to wander within the community or sign up for a tour with a local guide.

There’s a lot of cool sightseeing to be done in regards to both the architecture and the general way of life.

For example, there’s no running water or electricity, and the residents support themselves with what they can grow, make, barter and sell, the same thing that they’ve been doing for thousands of years.

Other things to do can be found in the nearby city of Taos.

In addition to the usual shops and restaurants, there are also a number of museums, plazas, old churches and other places of interest.

The Taos Pueblo is an example of how Native American culture continues to thrive in New Mexico.

As a bonus, your patronage will provide direct support to a precious historical community.

Why wouldn’t you drop by for a visit?

35. New Mexico State Capitol

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

If you’re interested in New Mexico, the state capitol is a great place to visit.

It’ll give you a glimpse of the inner workings of local government, and it’ll impart real historical and cultural knowledge that will deepen your appreciation for all of the tourist attractions that you’ll see later.

If you’re not interested in New Mexico, the state capitol is still a great place to visit.

It houses all kinds of artwork and tribal artifacts, and it boasts utterly unique architecture that distinguishes itself from any other government building in the country: It’s round!

The locals call it “the Roundhouse” for this very reason.

Consider a trip to the New Mexico State Capitol if you’re looking for interesting places to go in the state.

It might not be a big, flashy destination, but it’ll still offer a worthwhile experience to have.

Address:  490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States

36. Western Playland

Grossinger / Shutterstock

The Tsunami. The Scrambler. Pharaoh’s Fury. The Hurricane.

These are just a few of the rides that you can find at Western Playland , an amusement park located in southern New Mexico.

It’s a relatively small park, but it still manages to pack a big punch.

If you like thrills and chills, you can test your mettle on everything from roller coasters to vertical drop rides.

If you like winning prizes, you can play carnival games until you disappear under a mountain of stuffed tigers.

Concession options range from food stall hot dogs to fine dining at the park’s sit-down restaurant.

You can also buy plenty of souvenirs at the gift shop!

You don’t have to visit somewhere like Six Flags to have a good time in New Mexico.

Amusement parks like Western Playland are just as good, and since they’re smaller, less crowded and locally owned, they’re probably better than the big-name brands anyway.

Address:  1249 Futurity Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063, United States

37. Living Desert State Park

Have you ever seen a roadrunner outside of a cartoon?

At the Living Desert State Park , you can cross this unique item off your bucket list.

Formerly known as the Living Desert Zoological and Botanical State Park, this wilderness area is home to both plants and animals that are native to New Mexico.

Creatures include bobcats, prairie dogs, golden eagles and Gila monsters; flowers and trees include prickly pears, barrel cacti and all kinds of acacia and agave.

Activities at the park will depend on the season.

Depending on when you go, you can catch everything from summertime nature walks to wintertime animal feedings.

You can also take self-guided tours at any time of the year to enjoy the arroyos and sand dunes.

Get away from it all with a trip to the Living Desert State Park.

It’s a lot of fun, but it’s also removed enough from the bustle of big cities that you can take a deep breath, smile at a cougar and just enjoy a remote wilderness area for awhile.

Address:  1504 Miehls Rd, Carlsbad, NM 88220, United States

38. Tiwa Kitchen

Tiwa Kitchen Restaurant

Did you know that many Native Americans are lactose intolerant?

It’s something that dates back centuries among their people, so much so that they actually created their own version of milk: blue corn mush.

Despite the “mush” part of its name, blue corn mush is actually quite delicious.

It’s made by mixing blue-tinted maize with water and the burned ashes of a juniper tree.

The combined results aren’t unlike cream of wheat, and in addition to their cool, unique color, they’re also packed with calcium and other necessary nutrients that the lactose intolerant can’t get from milk.

This brings us to Tiwa Kitchen .

Run by a local Native American couple, it offers many staple foods of their culture, including blue corn mush.

You can also try things like bison meat and blue corn fry bread.

The dessert menu is even better than the regular menu, but we’ll leave that as a surprise!

Broaden your horizons with a trip to Tiwa Kitchen.

It’s obscure enough that you might not find it listed among the usual New Mexico attractions, but it’s worth a side trip.

Address:  328 Hwy to Town of Taos, Taos, NM 87571, United States

39. Fiestas de Santa Fe

Amanda Quintana-Bowles / flickr

Are you ready to party?

Throw on a sombrero and toss back a margarita with the Fiestas de Santa Fe !

Held every year in the fall, the Fiestas de Santa Fe is a city-wide event that incorporates food, drink, art, dance, theater and more.

It’s the kind of celebration where mariachi fiddle right in the streets as performers put on elaborate reenactments of important parts of New Mexico’s past.

There’s a somber side to the festival, too, as people come together to pray or to burn effigies to ward off suffering.

These might be interesting things to see if you want to witness some local flavor while you’re in New Mexico.

All things considered, however, the Fiestas de Santa Fe is a lively event where the beer is always flowing and the crowds are always cheering.

If you’ll be traveling through New Mexico during the fall, you won’t want to miss it!

40. Blue Hole

rawf8 / Shutterstock

The Blue Hole is one of the best diving destinations in the United States.

It’s also one of the most beautiful!

Located a few miles outside of Santa Rosa, the Blue Hole is a large, circular lake with water so deeply and richly blue that it looks artificial.

It’s all natural, however, and it maintains a constant, moderate temperature that makes it delightful for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Swimming is popular, of course.

Free diving and scuba diving are also very common since the water reaches depths of 80 feet.

The sandy walls expand at the bottom, so if you can reach the “floor” of the lake, it’s like you discover a secret room in an underwater castle.

A lot of people bring waterproof cameras to capture this sight forever.

Do you want to make a splash in New Mexico?

Put on your swimming trunks and dive headfirst into the Blue Hole.

You’ll be amazed that such cool, clean and vividly blue water actually exists in real life.

Address: 1085 Blue Hole Rd, Santa Rosa, NM 88435, United States

41. Chaco Culture National Historical Park

There are so many indigenous sites in New Mexico that you could create an entire itinerary with nothing but Native American tourist attractions.

Let’s talk about just one more: the Chaco Culture National Historical Park .

Occupied between 850 and 1250 AD, this sprawling landscape offers both natural and man-made wonder.

On the archaeological side, it still has the crumbling remains of the ancestral Puebloan people; they consist of several hundred structures and dwellings, and they’re made with various types of mud, brick, straw and claw.

Tours are available from the local interpretive center if you want to learn more.

On the natural side, the flat plains of the park are absolutely breathtaking to behold.

There’s the rugged desert beauty that you’d expect from New Mexico, but there are also dazzling colors from both daytime and nighttime skies.

The park is a popular destination for stargazers in particular.

There are many places to see in New Mexico that preserve its Native American heritage, but the Chaco Culture National Historical Park is one of the best.

If you want to pay tribute to the people who lived on this land before us, make time for this destination.

Address: Nageezi, NM 87037, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To New Mexico

These are just a few of the coolest places to visit in New Mexico.

Whether you’re interested in brightly-lit shopping malls or dry, craggy deserts that are completely off the grid, it’s a state that can offer it all, so pack your bags and put in for those vacation days!

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Come to Santa Fe in April

Choose from dozens of art events!

Who is Santa Fe's Nearly 100-Year-Old Burning Man?

Find out through our quiz and enter to win 2 free tix to his August 30 birthday burn.

Condé Nast Traveler's Guide to Santa Fe’s Summer Events

From the Native Fashion Week to the opera to countless outdoor art markets, Santa Fe comes alive in the summertime.

Best Places to Go in 2024?

Santa Fe has been recognized in the Condé Nast Traveler's Best Places to Go in 2024 list.

Santa Fe Ranked #2 Best US City

Learn about Travel + Leisure Readers’ 15 Favorite Cities in the United States.

Enjoy May in Santa Fe

Check out our guide to the 11 best events of the month!

Welcome To The Official Santa Fe Travel Site

Uncover Your Different in The City Different

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a city unlike any other, truly living up to its tagline, The City Different, at every turn. With  legendary history and culture  around every corner, an  art scene  that spans from traditional to contemporary,  accommodations  with a local feel yet world-class status,  award-winning cuisine  that’s as eclectic as it is sumptuous, and countless experiences to encounter, you’re sure to uncover something different about yourself when you visit.

Find Yourself In A City That Never Lost Its Way

There are tons of ways to experience Santa Fe. Find yours here.

Santa Fe Marketplace

Events calendar, accommodations, santa fe margarita trail, history & culture, outdoor tours, spa & wellness, performing arts, visual arts, native american culture, about santa fe, order visitors guide, plan your visit, things to do, neighborhoods, local resources, self guided tours.

Tag your Santa Fe experiences with

#TheCityDifferent

We feature our favorites here!

• Santa Fe Weather
• Industry Partner Login
• Film Permit
• Privacy Policy
• Santa Fe County Adventures

TOURISM Santa Fe Santa Fe Community Convention Center 201 W. Marcy St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 800-777-2489

© 2024 Tourism Santa Fe

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.

By clicking the Agree button, you agree to us doing so.  VIEW PRIVACY POLICY

New Mexico Travel Guide

Popular destinations, san francisco, new york city.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

New Mexico Map

• Native Culture
• Explore Ballooning
• New Mexico True Certified
• New Mexico Magazine
• Public Records
• Tourism Department Website
• Partner Login
• Become a Partner
• Legal & Privacy Policy

New Mexico Visitor Information Centers