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15 Best Small Towns to Visit in New Mexico

New Mexico is a diverse state with landscapes that vary from endless desert to sky-high mountain ranges. Artists all throughout American history have made their way to New Mexico just to use its beauty as creative inspiration. So, it’s no wonder that while in New Mexico, many travelers skip the big cities and instead make their way to the outskirts.

Perhaps because of all the space they’re allotted, small town in New Mexico have all taken on a strong and unique identity. There’s a small town that named itself after a gameshow down, a town known solely for its pies, and many small towns claim Billy the Kid – a notorious outlaw, proudly as their own. At times, it can feel like anything goes in these quaint places.

Many of the small towns listed are perfect for staying for weeks or exist simply as the perfect resting stop. No matter, each is worth visiting and you’ll quickly see why.

Lets explore the best small towns to visit in New Mexico :

Taos Pueble

Set to the backdrop of the incredible Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is a small town with a thriving arts scene. So much so, that even artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams once made their way here to use the scenery as a muse. The town is rich in spiritual tradition, culture, architecture, and is even a great base to see Taos Pueble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When not enjoying the cultural scene, you can also use Taos as a base for outdoor recreation. There are nearby ski resorts in the winter, and lakes, hiking trails, hot air ballooning, ziplining, camping, and more once the weather warms up.

2. Silver City

the Gila National Forest

Silver City is one of the key players in colorful tales about the wild wild west. After all, ringleaders of the town arrested Billy the Kid, known to many as the first outlaw.

Today, Silver City has so many things to offer visitors interested in live entertainment, old west heritage, and a vibrant downtown square scene. Some top museums include the Western New Mexico University Museum and the Silver City Museum, where you can find heritage artifacts unique to America’s South West.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also love catching some sunshine at the Big Ditch Park, Chino Mine Vista Point, Penny Park, the Gila National Forest, and the Mimbres River Preserve. There are so many places to stop and relax with a packed picnic. It’s easy to see why Silver City is such a hit among locals.

El Santuario de Chimayó church

Some like it hot in Chimayó, a small town near Santa Fe that’s home to the Chimayó heirloom chili. This town makes for an easy and accessible day trip from Santa Fe, where you can try delicious heavily spiced food and even try your hand at traditional weaving. Chimayó is famous for its beautiful weavings that stem from the Ortega and Trujillo families. These textiles are one of a kind artwork where each one is unique and not found anywhere else.

Another interesting fact about Chimayó is that it was once the location of a healing site and the dirt is believed to be holy. It is one of the most-visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the United States, where thousands of believers come to visit the El Santuario de Chimayó church – where some of the healing dirt is stored. People often rub dirt on their aching bodies with the hope that the dirt will one day cure them.

4. Truth or Consequences

Truth or Consequences

Yes, Truth or Consequences really is the name of this New Mexico small town – though many locals simply refer to it as T&C. This town was named in 1950, after radio host of the show Truth or Consequences dared any town to take on the name. The lighthearted citizens of Truth or Consequences took up the offer and the new town name was born. The town has attracted fun-loving locals to its area ever since.

While in T&C, you can also visit a plethora of spas and hot springs that surround the area, perfect for relaxing and catching up with a good book. The town is also a great base for exploring the Elephant Butte Lake State Park, where you can fish, hike, and swim at this recreational hotspot.

5. Cloudcroft

Cloudcroft

Cloudcroft is a 110-year-old small town with a strong history as a pioneer village and set within stunning mountains. Many visitors come to explore the beautiful surrounding nature, but stay thanks to the fun architecture and friendly locals. During the winter, it’s easy to take advantage of all the winter sports like cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow-mobiling, snow-shoeing, and so much more.

Life in Cloudcroft always seems to revolve around celebration. This small town – despite its small size – hosts events like the Badass Mountain Music Festival, the July Jamboree Arts and Crafts Show, winter sports festivals, and other live performances.

Chiricahua Desert Museum

Rodeo is so small, it doesn’t even have a gas station. But don’t give it a pass for its small size just yet – Rodeo is one of the best small towns that truly shows old western culture and heritage. It’s between the Chiricahua and Pelencillo mountains and home the beloved Rodeo Tavern, the local watering hole that gets very social on weekends. There are also a variety of art galleries like the Chiricahua Desert Museum and Gallery, Davidson’s Mini Dreams display, and an exhibit called Sky Gypsies. When you want to get out of town, there are hiking trails that lead all throughout the region ready for you to explore.

7. Las Vegas

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, New Mexico is a far cry from its namesake in Nevada. This small town challenges takes pride in being true, where what you see is what you get. There are so many antique shops, quirky art exhibits and museums, live music venues, and more. The town’s tagline is “Damn Authentic,” and the fact that its been chosen to be the filming location of tens of movie sets is living proof – no fake film set-up needed.

Aside from its beauty and interesting location, Las Vegas also has one of two of New Mexico’s drive-in theaters, a gang of ghosts roaming about, and once hosted the notorious characters of Billy the Kid, Jesse James, and Wyatt Earp. Don’t worry, the days of gun slinging and bar brawls are over – though you might find yourself looking over your shoulder more than usual.

Aztec

Aztec is a must-see small town for history buffs. Visit Aztec for its cultural sites and when you’re done exploring those, use it as a base to relax in old western beauty. At the Aztec Ruins National Monument, you can tour ancient Pueblo architecture. Some large ruins even span over 900 years and the Great House has over 400 masonry rooms! Another must-see for history lovers is the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village, where you can admire the strength the pioneers had in order to settle here, and view authentic artifacts.

There are also over 300 sandstone natural arches that will have you feeling like you’re on an entirely different planet. For more natural beauty, head to the nearby San Juan River for fishing among sandstone canyons.

Mine Shaft Tavern

Madrid was once a ghost town but is no longer. With just 300 residents, Madrid is on the tiny end of the small town spectrum. Visitors still flock to Madrid because it’s a main stop on the Turquoise Trail, a scenic trail on Highway 14 that passes through the state’s best turquoise mining areas.  Even if you’re just passing through, you’d be silly to miss ordering a green chili burger from the Mine Shaft Tavern, the town’s most popular watering hole.

There are so many galleries and art shops to visit while in Madrid. Some favorites include Trading Bird, Indigo Gallery, and the Starshine Gallery, where you’re likely to grab a great deal on Turquoise handcrafted jewelry. For shoppers, there are also other antique shops and boutique clothing shops where you can find items not found anywhere else.

10. Mesilla

Mesilla

In the past 100 years, not much has changed architecturally in Mesilla. The plaza and village is just as beautiful as ever, and it’s easy to imagine yesteryear to the days when Billy the Kid ruled the roost. The Mesilla Plaza is even a National Historic Landmark because of its significance.

Locals mark their hospitality by decorating their homes and businesses with ristras, red chile strung together. It’s best to visit Mesilla during a cultural event, of which there are many throughout the year. Some crowd favorites include Cinco de Mayo, Dis de Los Muertos, Mariachi Festivals, Jazz Concerts, or even Christmas Eve, when the town lights up hundreds of luminarias.

11. Ruidoso

Ruidoso

This mountain town is set among over a million acres of natural beauty. Everywhere you look there are national forests, hiking and mountain biking trails, lakes, streams, and so many trees. If you visit in winter, you can easily escape to Ski Apache ski resord. Needless to say, it’s the perfect stop for travelers obsessed with outdoor adventures.

In town, Ruidoso has a thriving art scene that especially focuses on Native American styled jewelry and displays. There are also a variety of restaurants, boutique shops, and historical sites. However, when in Ruidoso, it’s best to copy the lifestyle of the locals and spend your time relaxing amidst the beauty of nature. Two words ring true here: Don’t rush.

12. Red River

skiing

No matter the season, Red River is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New Mexico, as there’s no shortage of things to do. Though Red River used to be a rough and tumble town complete with brothels, bar fights, and outlaws, it’s taken on a much tamer reputation today. There are constant community events throughout the year to look out for.

Thrill seekers can use Red River as a base for zip-lining, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, snow shoeing, and so much more. There are a variety of cozy cabins to rent and warm up at during the winter months – or to relax at when the weather is warm. If you get too overwhelmed by all of the activities on offer, simply check into one of the town’s handful of spas for a massage and a mud wrap.

13. Pie Town

Pie-o-neer Pie café

Get ready for puns in Pie Town, where you can eat pies at the Pie-o-neer Pie café where all your dreams might just be a pie in the sky. In fact, this small town was indeed named after a café that served incredible apple pies in the early 1900s, though some locals claim it got its name from being “3.14 miles from nowhere.”

This makes a great resting point if you’re traveling through the Continental Divide Trail where you can grab a thick slice of world-class pie. One famous slice is the Mexican Apple Pie from Good Pie Café, where their classic apple comes with locally grown green chile and pinon. Many people come to Pie Town not only for the pie but also for the sheer remoteness of it. Many artists find it liberating to be in a true pioneer town with enough wide-open spaces to let their creativity flow freely.

Belen Harvey House Museum

The citizens of Belen have always been self-sufficient. The town started from forty families who made Belen into what it is today – a thriving community with a variety of hotels, restaurants, historic sites, and citizens who love the Rio Grande Valley. While in Belen, be sure to visit the Belen Harvey House Museum, a historical structure perfect for photos and exploring. This small town also makes a great resting point for long-distance travelers, as it’s just a short way away from the I-25 and I-40.

15. Clayton

Clayton

Clayton is known as the Town of Enchantment by those who visit with an exciting history that stems from the Dust Bowl days, when Americans moved to Clayton, New Mexico, in search of a more fulfilling life. It was the first town on the Santa Fe Trail that sprung up after a railroad was developed from Kansas. Now, you can experience Native American culture, visit the stunning views of the Rabbit Ear Mountains, and more.

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

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

tourist towns in new mexico

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.

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The Most Beautiful Towns In New Mexico, USA

tourist towns in new mexico

From simply stunning mountain communities like Taos, to quirky desert towns like Truth or Consequences, New Mexico has some of the USA’s most scenic spots. We showcase the most beautiful places in ‘The Land of Enchantment’. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Nestled in the foothills of New Mexico’s stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains just a short drive north of Santa Fe is Chimayó – a tiny community originally founded by Spanish settlers in the late 17th century. Recently listed among Budget Travel’ s Most Beautiful Towns in the World, Chimayó is a town with roots in spirituality. The beautiful El Santuario de Chimayó, a shrine and National Historic Landmark, marks the spot where a miraculous healing is said to have taken place 200 years ago. The peaceful community is also known for its traditional weaving – examples of which can be found at a number of stores and galleries in town – and is the home of the Chimayó Heirloom chile.

Silver City

Close to the border with Arizona is the charming community of Silver City , a town dubbed one of the USA’s 10 Coolest Small Towns by Budget Travel . As its name might suggest, Silver City was founded in the 1870s when miners flocked to take advantage of the area’s rich silver deposits. Its colorful Wild West heritage includes its status as the first town to arrest outlaw, Billy the Kid. Today, Silver City is a modern, bustling town with a burgeoning foodie scene – James Beard Best Chef semifinalist, Rob Connoley’s The Curious Kumquat restaurant is located there – and thriving arts scene in its historic downtown.

A gorgeous town steeped in history and culture, Taos was named among the World’s Prettiest Mountain Towns by Travel and Leisure magazine. It is known for its scenic location in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, beautiful historic architecture and art heritage. Since the early 20th century, artists including Ansel Adams and Georgia O’Keeffe have flocked to the town enchanted by its beauty. With organizations like Taos Art Museum alongside regular arts and crafts fairs, Taos remains an artists’ haven today. Just outside the town is Taos Pueblo – an adobe pueblo structure and UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 1,000 years – and the area’s four ski resorts make the town a popular base for skiing in wintertime.

people cheering on a mountain

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Located in the northern reaches of New Mexico’s beautiful Lincoln National Forrest, Cloudcroft is a tiny mountain community founded at the turn of the last century when the old El Paso and Northeastern Railway extended through the area. Though the last train passed through Cloudcroft in the 1940s, its railway town past can still be seen at the Trestle Recreation Area. Today the laid-back community attracts tourists in both the warmer months, when a number of fun events like the Bad Ass Mountain Music Festival and July Jamboree Arts and Crafts Show are held, and in winter for snow sports.

Just an hour or so drive north of Cloudcroft, amid the beautiful pines of southern New Mexico’s mountains is the charming town of Ruidoso . It is named after the beautiful Rio Ruidoso, which translates as ‘noisy river’, that runs through the town. Once a sleepy mountain town, Ruidoso is thriving and growing fast. Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the town to take advantage of the surrounding wilderness and hiking opportunities, while history buffs delight in the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation’s preservation of nomadic Native American culture. A community of quaint shops and restaurants in town will keep also keep the cosmopolitan type entertained.

Truth or Consequences

A small, quirky resort town located in southwest New Mexico, Truth or Consequences got its unusual name when in 1950 radio host Ralph Edwards dared a town to change its name to that of his popular game show. Affectionately referred to as ‘T or C’ for short, the town sits on the banks of the Rio Grande and the several hot springs dotted around the area have made it a popular spa resort. T or C’s quirks don’t end with its name – the town’s architecture is an eccentric mix of historic adobe bathhouses and Territorial Revival-style structures. Meanwhile, the nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park offers plenty of recreational pursuits.

Once a coal boomtown turned flailing ghost town, Madrid – a tiny town of just 150 residents snuggled in a scenic canyon of the Ortiz Mountains – has revived itself in recent years, becoming a popular tourist destination. The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway , which connects Santa Fe and Albuquerque, runs through Madrid. The town is also famous for its lovely Christmas Lights Display, a tradition upheld since the 1920s. Arts fans love Madrid’s thriving community of art galleries and artisans, while the lively Mine Shaft Tavern serves up live music and its famous green chile hamburgers.

Located just 20 or so miles from the Colorado border, Aztec is a vibrant northwestern New Mexico community of almost 7,000 people that was founded in the late 19th century though Aztec’s history goes back much further. The land on which the town now lies, was traversed by the Dominguez-Escalante Expedition in 1776 and the Aztec Ruins National Monument dates back as early as the 12th century. Aztec’s historic downtown is home to some beautiful, more modern early 20th-century architecture. The Aztec Arches – a cluster of more than 300 natural sandstone arches – are a sight to behold for lovers of nature.

Not to be confused with the glitzy Nevada city of the same name, Las Vegas is a bustling northeastern New Mexico town steeped in colorful history. Founded in 1835, the Santa Fe Trail town is home to more than 900 buildings listed on National Register of Historic Places – including the stately Plaza Hotel built in 1881. In its Wild West heyday, it hosted outlaws like Billy the Kid and Wyatt Earp. Today, the town is a cultural hotspot home to a thriving cultural scene with art galleries, antique stores and events like the San Miguel County Fair and Meadow City Music Fest.

Situated to the west of Las Cruces , the lovely town of Mesilla has managed to retain its historic character and small town charm despite its proximity to New Mexico’s second biggest city. Its picturesque town square Mesilla Plaza is – a National Historic Landmark that dates back to the town’s founding in 1848. Today, it is home to historic structures like the beautiful Basilica of San Albino, alongside a cluster of craft stores and great restaurants. Mesilla’s lively cultural calendar include the annual Cinco de Mayo and Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiestas which celebrate the town’s Mexican culture.

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PlanetWare.com

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Mexico

Written by Becca Blond nd Michael Law Updated Mar 1, 2024

New Mexico lives up to its state moniker as the "Land of Enchantment" with its vibrant scenery, towns, culture, and attractions. New Mexico's history tells the stories of the Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo-American cultures that shaped it. It is a unique destination, with more open, empty spaces than people and boundless natural attractions.

Albuquerque , host of the world's largest hot air balloon festival , is New Mexico's largest city but still feels like a small town.

Its capital city, Santa Fe , is the oldest of its kind in the U.S., founded in 1610 and one of the country's most revered art destinations. It also boasts a thriving food scene, great skiing, and a one-of-a-kind all-adobe architectural style.

New Mexico is also home to quirky little towns like Roswell , famed for its alleged UFO crash in 1947 that still attracts devoted believers each year.

In New Mexico you never have to look far for adventure. This is a destination filled with ethereal high desert landscapes that have served as inspiration for numerous artists over the years, including renowned landscape painter Georgia O'Keefe, who had two homes here.

You can spend a day sledding down 60-foot dunes in White Sands National Monument or riding an elevator that drops the height of the Empire State Building into a bat-filled cavern in Carlsbad Caverns National Park . There is no shortage of things to see and do.

For ideas on the best places to visit, have a read through our list of the top tourist attractions in New Mexico.

1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

2. santa fe, 3. white sands national monument, 4. albuquerque international balloon fiesta, 5. bandelier national monument, 6. petroglyph national monument, 7. taos pueblo, 8. cumbres-toltec scenic railway, 9. gila cliff dwellings national monument, 10. taos ski valley, 11. pecos national historical park, 12. the very large array, 13. chaco culture national historical park, 14. billy the kid museum, 15. wheeler peak wilderness, 16. international ufo museum and research center, 17. georgia o'keeffe museum.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Musty-smelling stone and fluttering Mexican free-tailed bats add to the creepiness as you descend 800 feet into the strange underground world of one of the planet's greatest cave systems in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. One of the country's most underrated national parks, Carlsbad is comprised of nearly 120 known limestone caves created by an ancient sea thousands of years ago.

Its most famous attraction is the Big Room , which can be accessed via a 1.25-mile walk through artificially lit subterranean darkness or by taking an elevator down the height of the Empire State Building. The Big Room is just that: a giant space. Running 1800 feet long with a 255-foot-high ceiling, it is filled with stalagmites and other alien-looking landscape features.

You can explore the Big Room on a self-guided tour or make reservations to join one of the ranger-guided tours . These are informative and provide access to parts of the cavern closed to the public. There are also more adventurous guided spelunking adventures to be had in backcountry caves.

The caves are also home to a colony of about 400,000 bats that roost here between mid-April and October. At sunset each evening during this timeframe the bats emerge from the mouth of the caves to hunt down buggy dinners.

It's a beautiful spectacle to watch thousands of bats flying from the mouths of the caves, cutting black lines through the crimson sky. Rangers also offer free Bat Flight talks nightly from late May at the cavern's entrance.

Up above, visitors will find a wide range of opportunities for back-country hikes and backpacking. Be sure to bring ample water.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm

Carlsbad Caverns National Park - Floor plan map

New Mexico's intriguing, all-adobe capital city, Santa Fe, is one of the state's most interesting tourist attractions . With a history dating back more than 400 years, a modern legacy as one of the country's top art destinations , and a multi-cultural population, Santa Fe has a vibrant, unique energy about it. It's also a small city with a walkable downtown focused around its Plaza and the Canyon Road art district.

Head to the Plaza for a stroll and some shopping. With shops and restaurants set around a leafy and grassy center, the Plaza is the city's heartbeat. Arrive early morning and head to the portal fronting the Palace of the Governors to purchase high-quality, handmade jewelry directly from Native American artists.

After exploring around the Plaza area, it's about a 10-minute walk to Santa Fe's other top attraction: Canyon Road. Here you'll find around 80 galleries on a half-mile stretch of pavement. The galleries focus on various mediums from paintings to sculpture. There are also artisan jewelry shops, clothing boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants mixed in.

While in Santa Fe, make sure you try a dish with red or green chile (if you want both, order your entrée "Christmas style." New Mexico is famous for this dish made from locally grown chile peppers and served as either a sauce for enchiladas or burritos or eaten as a stew. Most restaurants offer vegetarian and meat-based versions as well as mild and hot options. The Shed , located near the Plaza, is one of the best New Mexican restaurants in Santa Fe and is famed for its red chile, although the green version is also excellent.

White Sands National Monument

White Sands National Monument is one of the most stunning landscapes in the state, located a half an hour's drive southwest of Alamogordo in the south of New Mexico. It lies in the Tularosa Basin, a northern offshoot of the Chihuahua Desert, and is surrounded by rugged mountains. Here, gleaming white gypsum sand has built up into an extraordinary landscape of dunes up to 60 feet high, which are constantly displaced by the wind.

If you didn't know better, you may be fooled into thinking that sand dunes look like giant snowdrifts. Park your car pretty much anywhere and start your adventure by just walking out into the dune landscape and finding a huge sand dune to explore.

One of the most popular things to do at White Sands is sledding. Round plastic saucers work well, but any sort of plastic snow sled will do the trick. The round saucers are available for purchase at the Park Store.

To get a feel for the vastness of the park, take the 16-mile (round trip) Dunes Drive. This scenic trip takes about 45 minutes, but plan on much longer, as you'll be sure to stop at the hiking trails, picnic tables, and exhibits.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/whsa/index.htm

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Each autumn, Albuquerque hosts the world's largest hot air balloon festival, drawing crowds of more than 80,000 people.

The tradition, which started in a parking lot in 1973 with only 13 balloons, has grown to occupy a 365-acre park with more than 500 balloons participating.

This nine-day festival is kicked off by the breathtaking "Mass Ascension" and continues with unique displays of coordinated ballooning and nighttime presentations.

In addition to the brightly colored skies, the festival offers plenty of things to do, from kids' activities and live musicians to a juried craft show and dozens of street performers among the numerous vendors.

While in Albuquerque, tourists will enjoy sightseeing in the city's old town, where the Spanish first settled, also home to the Albuquerque Museum , which contains historical artifacts and exhibits about the area.

Address: 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: www.balloonfiesta.com

Anasazi dwellings in Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument is a 33,677-acre preserve encompassing some of the most dramatic volcanic landscapes and archaeological ruins in the state. Former home of ancestral Pueblo people, the area was likely occupied from AD 1150 to 1600.

Among the remains of the indigenous habitats are structures such as masonry walls and dwellings that were carved from the volcanic rock, as well as petroglyphs that illustrate the Pueblo culture and daily life. This national park has an educational museum, hiking trails, and campsites.

To visit the most popular area of Bandelier National Monument between the hours of 9am and 3pm, you will need to take the free shuttle. The bus runs every 30 minutes during the week and every 20 minutes on the weekend. If you have a pet with you, an exception is made and you can drive to the site at any time.

Location: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, New Mexico

Official site: www.nps.gov/band

Ancient Native American rock art along the Rinconada Trail

The Petroglyph National Monument is managed jointly by the city of Albuquerque and the National Park Service, which help preserve this culturally significant site while educating visitors.

The area encompasses 7,244 acres consisting of a basalt escarpment, five dormant volcanoes, and an expansive mesa.

The park's most famous feature is its petroglyphs, images which were carved in the basalt by indigenous peoples and early Spanish settlers centuries ago. Approximately 20,000 petroglyphs are found within the park, many of which can be viewed from the hiking trails.

You'll find three main hiking routes, the least strenuous being Boca Negra Canyon , which has 100 petroglyphs along one mile of trails. Those who are up for a longer hike in the desert can take the 2.2-mile Rinconada Canyon trail or the 1.5-mile Marcadas Canyon Loop , each of which have around 300 petroglyphs.

Hikers should be aware of local wildlife, especially rattlesnakes, and should be well prepared with water for the longer treks.

Location: Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Official site: www.nps.gov/petr

Taos Pueblo

Just outside the city of Taos, the Taos Pueblo has the oldest continuously inhabited dwellings in the United States. These adobe structures have stood for more than 1,000 years, constructed of straw-reinforced mud bricks and timber-supported roofs.

These apartment-style homes are up to five stories high, and around 150 people live within the old town full-time. An additional 2,000 reside on the 95,000-acre property in a variety of traditional and modern homes.

Residents welcome visitors to take a tour of the community, which has been designated both a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Pueblo is closed to the public during several of its annual traditional events.

Address: 120 Veterans Highway, Taos, New Mexico

Official site: http://taospueblo.com/

Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a narrow gauge heritage railroad that runs between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado. Constructed in 1880-81, this cozy train ride traverses the 10,015-foot Cumbres Pass and heads through the dramatic Toltec Gorge. The ride offers stunning views of the surrounding land, from grassy, deer-filled, hillside meadows to stream-laced mountains.

This is the highest steam-powered railroad in the nation, and the ride has thrilling moments as it crosses the Cascade Creek trestle 137 feet in the air, climbs the face of a cliff, and doubles back dramatically on the Tanglefoot Curve.

Passengers will see many of the Railroad's original structures along the journey and have the chance to stop in the rustic Osier, Colorado halfway through the trip for a lunch break and some exploring.

Official site: http://cumbrestoltec.com/

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

North of the old mining town of Silver City are the Gila cliff dwellings: 42 rooms in six caves, built into the cliff face by the Mogollon Native Americans around the year 1300. Tourists can learn more about the Mogollon culture and the region's natural history at the museum in the visitor center.

Among the park's geological features are numerous natural caves, as well as hot springs, some of which can be reached by trail from the visitor center. Tours of the cliff dwellings are available, although visitors should take note that the tours start at the cliff dwellings themselves, and it takes about a half hour to walk up to them from the trailhead.

Address: 26 Jim Bradford Trail, Mimbres, New Mexico

Official site: www.nps.gov/gicl

Taos Ski Valley

Northeast of Taos, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, at 8,900 to 12,500 feet, is the magically beautiful and excellently equipped winter sports region of Taos Ski Valley. This resort is considered the best of New Mexico's ski resorts .

In recent years, the ski resort has come under new ownership and undergone over $300 million in upgrades that have included new lifts and a revamped base area. Fortunately, the new ownership was careful to preserve the charm and vibe of Taos Ski Valley even with the changes and improvements.

Taos has always been known as a skiers' hill, with outstanding intermediate and advanced terrain. Half of the trails are for experts, but don't let that dissuade you from a visit, the ski school here is top-notch, and they'll have you conquering runs you never thought possible.

Finding good conditions here is rarely a challenge with the 25 feet of annual snow the resort receives.

Official site: http://www.skitaos.com/

Pecos National Historical Park

Pecos National Historical Park encompasses what was once one of the largest Native American pueblos in the state.

It was inhabited from the early 14th century until 1838, with a population over 2,000. In 1990, the park was expanded to 6,600 acres. The visitor center contains exhibits and park information and also offers an Ancestral Sites Walking tour, a guided 1.25-mile hike that explores evidence of the area's indigenous peoples.

The park is also home to the Civil War battlefield of Glorieta Pass, which can be toured via a 2.25-mile trail with or without a guide. The visitor center also offers van tours of the Civil War site, as well as tours of nearby Forked Lightning Ranch.

Address: 1 Peach Drive, Pecos, New Mexico

Official site: www.nps.gov/peco

The Very Large Array

In the remote rolling hills west of Socorro, about two hours from Albuquerque, lies the Karl G Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) - a radio astronomy observatory located on the Plains of San Agustin. The array is used to observe black holes and other astronomical phenomena.

A number of self-guided walking routes run through the site, and the VLA also hosts free, guided tours on the first Saturday of each month. Though reservations aren't required, it is worth checking ahead for times. Tours begin from the VLA Visitor Center.

Official site: http://www.vla.nrao.edu/

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Perhaps one of the most stunning archaeological sites in all of North America, Chaco Canyon was occupied by ancestral Puebloan peoples from about AD 800 to 1200. It was a major center, comprised of 15 massive ruins and hundreds of smaller constructions. Located in a remote area northwest of Albuquerque, the park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Park facilities and activities include camping, an excellent interpretive center, interpretive and back-country hikes, and astronomy experiences from telescopes located in the canyon. Note that GPS and electronic directions in this area can be unreliable. Be sure to make a note of the directions on the park website.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/chcu/index.htm

Billy the Kid Museum

Out on the eastern plains of New Mexico is the small town of Fort Sumner, the resting place of the infamous Billy the Kid. The lanky youth was shot and killed at the nearby Fort Sumner State Monument by Sheriff Pat Garrett at the age of 21.

The museum hosts the Kid's rifle, horse-riding equipment and the original Wanted poster. Rumor has it they even have some of his hair. The museum also has a collection of cavalry swords, old firearms, and antique cars and trucks. Guided tours are available.

Official site: https://www.billythekidmuseumfortsumner.com/index.html

Wheeler Peak Wilderness

The highest point in New Mexico is the summit of Wheeler Peak, at 13,161 ft. The mountain is next to Moreno Valley near Angel Fire in the Carson National Forest, in the Sangre De Cristo mountain range.

The area is home to a variety of wildlife and visitors may be lucky enough to see marmots, pikas, elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles. Hiking is one of the most popular things to do with several trails, most ranging from four miles to eight miles long.

Due to the elevation, Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area enjoys moderate summer temperatures and cold winters, when temperatures regularly fall below freezing. Most visitors come here during the summer months, which are warm but also a little wet. July and August are the rainy months, so be sure to bring a rain jacket to deal with passing showers.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/carson/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5350403

International UFO Museum and Research Center

A top tourist attraction in Roswell, the international UFO Museum and Research Center was opened in 1992 as an information center inspired by the 1947 " Roswell incident ."

This widely speculated event put Roswell on the map as a hub of UFO activity and curiosity. Despite this, the museum's intention is not to convince visitors to believe in extraterrestrial life or government conspiracy theories. Exhibits take an objective look at local events, as well as numerous others around the world, inviting visitors to come to their own conclusion.

The museum contains a variety of material, including documents, eyewitness accounts, and artifacts related to UFO research. Tourists interested in Roswell's alien mystery will also enjoy one of the many local "UFO tours" that visit spots like Building 84 at the former army base where the downed craft and its occupants were allegedly brought by military personnel.

Address: 114 N Main Street, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: www.roswellufomuseum.com

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe

Art lovers will want to make sure they visit the wonderful Georgia O'Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe. This icon of the modern art movement shook up the established art world with her incredible works of art depicting New York skyscrapers and her special take on illustrating flowers.

The museum is home to over 150 of her works and hosts special exhibits from private collections from time to time. In addition to the artwork, the museum has a very active roster of classes, speakers, and other events, making it one of the top cultural sites in Santa Fe.

If you'd like to learn more about the artist, tours of Georgia O'Keeffe's homes and studios are available in Abiquiu, approximately 50 miles from Santa Fe.

Address: 217 Johnson Street Santa Fe, New Mexico

Official site: https://www.okeeffemuseum.org/

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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.

Top things to do in New Mexico

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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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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 .]

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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.

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

Top things to do in New Mexico

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

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Santa Rosa Blue Hole

15 Charming Small Towns You Should Visit in New Mexico

Posted on Last updated: July 15, 2023

15 Charming Small Towns You Should Visit in New Mexico

Known for its red-tinted peaks and sun-kissed hot springs, New Mexico is a state with plenty to explore. From outdoor adventures that could never be done justice with just a photograph to art that makes an impact for the ages.

From little mom-and-pop restaurants with the best dishes in the West to historical landmarks that stand proud all these years later. New Mexico’s history is long and dated, and it is pleased to still hold all of the past that can never be replaced. This makes the state unique and definitely, something you’ll want to see to embrace.

New Mexico is the perfect place to find some comfort in a home away from home. And as a state so diverse, there’s no talking about NM without mentioning what makes each town so special. Little restaurants with specialties to die for and big attractions with raving reviews.

Below we’ve compiled a list of the 15 most charming towns in New Mexico to get you seated for your next big expedition.

Most Charming Small Towns in New Mexico

Table of contents.

Taos New Mexico

Take a load off in Taos! Taos, New Mexico, has long since been one of the most charming towns in the southwest and continues to impress travelers from far and wide. Although there are a couple of title pieces Taos is known for, there’s no talking about the city without mentioning the art.

Taos has a rich and diverse cultural scene that dates as far back as the town’s history. Here, contemporary comes alive as museums and independent art galleries are open to express what truly makes Taos a treasure.

And Taos is also home to the iconic and well-loved San Francisco de Asis Mission Church which has been a muse to photographers and artists for generations.

All of this and more are wrapped in the genuine beauty of New Mexico. Taos is nestled by the Rocky Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge with its accompanying iconic bridge. This is a vast expanse of natural beauty, ready to be explored.

Whether you’re looking for your next big inspiration or just a little bit of fresh air, Taos is here to accommodate. Stay with the exciting backpack culture of the West or spice it up with a bit of luxury. Taos is the perfect place to choose your adventure.

2. Red River

Red River New Mexico

If you’re looking for a little bit of that outdoor adventure charm, look no further than Red River! Red River is an oasis of trailblazing activity. Here you can hike, camp, fish, raft, OHV, hunt, bike, horseback ride, and so much more.

During the summer, the Red River is a popular site for spending your days in the great outdoors. It even has trails for all kinds of explorers.

Sightseeing treks anybody can walk on strenuous hikes that make you sweat. And to top it all off, the camping sites are particularly well-loved as travelers come to spend their night under a sky full of stars.

Red River is also known as one of the best resort towns in the area. Bordered by sloping mountains of beauty, this is the prime spot to go for your winter wonderland.

Ski and snowboarding enthusiasts will love the well-groomed slopes, and patrons will enjoy some of the best ski lodges in New Mexico. Nestle up with a hot chocolate in the lounge while the family tears up the slopes for a family vacation no one is soon to forget.

Chimayo New Mexico

For the culture buffs! Chimayo is a beautiful expanse of New Mexico history, known predominantly for its preserved architecture.

The town is set around embracing the natural red and clay beauty that is New Mexico. This town is typically known for the breathtaking wonder that is Santuario de Chimayo.

This is a catholic church and pilgrimage destination. Santuario de Chimayo is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily for guests. As a shrine, active church, and national historical landmark, it is an attraction that invites over 300,000 visitors yearly.

Chimayo is also available for any number of outdoor activities. Santa Cruz Lake is an attraction that invites from far and wide.

Many visitors will recommend camping, so your group can watch the sunrise and sunset reflected on the water, giving you that much-needed breath of fresh air you just can’t get from the big city.

On rainy days, check out the Chimayo Museum for some indoor fun, or continue the experience brought by Santuario de Chimayo at the Santo Nino Chapel, another catholic church. Chimayo is a city bursting with soothing energy and small town charm.

Aztec New Mexico

As a bustling, lively city rooted in the Puebloans, Aztec is one of the prime locations for history in New Mexico. The Aztec Ruins National Monument is a beloved location and an enriching experience for all those who enter. Although the name ‘Aztec’ is misleading, this is actually the historic location of the ancestral Puebloan people.

This world heritage site speaks of ages past, with the original infrastructure in place to feel like the years are spinning backward. Here, visitors can join a tour and get a glimpse at what makes Aztec so unique.

There are 900-year-old structures still in place and the breath of years of change through every entryway. Aztec Ruins National Monument is an attraction everyone should see once.

The city of Aztec itself is the kind of city relaxation is found in. Many of the locals have been there for generations and have the best recommendations for restaurants and activities.

The food here is unique, rich, and, most importantly: delicious! And the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village is a highly-rated attraction all ages will love! The city of Aztec is just as excited for you as you are for the trip.

Roswell New Mexico

For more of a niche “charming” option, Roswell is a name that sounds strike a familiar bell. Popularized by the rumored alien crash of 1947, Roswell has kept its name to fame and embraced the ‘we come in peace’ message. There are alien landmarks, alien cafes, alien bookstores, alien tours, and so much more!

Although this town is relatively well-populated, Roswell still has that distinct unique charm that marks a good time. Uncover the mystery with the riddle of Roswell, or live out your favorite scene from either of the Roswell-based TV shows!

If you’re looking to start a bucket list, the International UFO Museum and Research Center is a favorite! Experience exhibits like no other and marvel at some alien art. Or, take some time to find your outer space muse at the Roswell Museum and Art Center , where color comes alive! And of course, no New Mexico town is complete without a little time spent in nature.

The Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge is teeming with life in an altogether relaxing atmosphere. Travel today to figure out firsthand what makes Roswell so out of this world!

Also Read: The Must-See Route 66 Attractions

6. Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa

Water’s as blue as the sky! And as clear as them too! Santa Rosa is a popular New Mexico town simply for all the natural beauty it settles on. None as breathtaking, perhaps, as the famed Blue Hole.

The Blue Hole is an extraordinary scuba and snorkeling experience. From 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day, this spot is open to all with crystal clear waters that speak of endless relaxation.

Dipping down to 81 feet for scuba diving , there is plenty to enjoy for all ages here! Scuba with the adventurers and cliff jump with the thrill-seekers! The Blue Hole is mother nature’s gift to New Mexico.

And for a day with a bit more bounce, check out Park Lake ! This is a water amusement park with all the bouncy slides you can ride! Settled in the pristine New Mexico water, this is a great place to bring the whole family. Maybe even try the family’s hand (or foot) at paddle boating.

Race each other around the lake, or simply cruise and glide over the pristine blue waves. Kids will be able to get all of that energy out with a fun day in the sun, and adults can get a well-needed play day.

Maybe even check out the Route 66 Auto Museum the next day for the true love of all things racing. This is where car enthusiasts can see stunning memorabilia and pristine condition relics. From water parks to motor engines, Santa Rosa is a place for everyone.

Questa New Mexico

Time for a quest in Questa! As a quaint, outdoorsy, naturally stunning stretch of land, Questa has a charm like no other. The preserves and wilderness areas aren’t just protected; they’re beloved and genuine staple marks of the town surrounding them.

This is the kind of place where you can find a restaurant that will remember you by name and locals whose stories you’ll never forget. And that’s just the ambiance! The actual scenery itself is enough to fill up your camera’s storage on day one alone! Questa is a true sight to see.

Here in Questa, the great outdoors is always the first recommendation. Even the Visitor Center, which is also a museum, has outdoor exhibits and ways to keep visitors in tune with nature.

If you want a little bit more sand in your boots, check out the Wild Rivers Visitors Center to start your expedition! Here you can begin camping, hiking, biking, and so much more! Just be sure to make it to the river. That’s one sight you’re not going to want to miss.

Ruidoso New Mexico

Spend your getaway in the Sierra Blanca mountain range! Take your time in a place where lush green mountains pierce the vivid blue sky. Ruidoso is one of the most charming towns in all of New Mexico for many reasons.

Nearby, the Ski Apache resort runs its course, offering slopes from beginner to expert. Even if you aren’t the snow sports type, this is more than the kind of place you want to spend your day at.

With a homey, wintery lodge feel and all the entertainment of the mountain, you’ll never catch a dull moment on this mountain.

The city itself is teeming with unique and extraordinary experiences. Ruidoso is home to the Lincoln National Forest where some of the most invigorating trails take you to the most stunning waterfalls. And there’s even some fascinating history right on the radar.

The Lincoln Historic Site is a 19th-century landmark, where the architecture and stone speak of history all its own. There is truly no place quite like Ruidoso!

9. Magdalena

Magdalena New Mexico

For those who like the quiet comforts, Magdalena is nothing short of paradise! This town generally houses a population under 1,000, which makes this cozy little town unique.

Built up by those who have lived here for generations and loved by those who move in or visit. Magdalena is the spot to go if you like to feel a part of the city you’re traveling to.

There are some of the best restaurants and attractions found just by walking down the street, and if ever lost, ask some of the locals! The best places in Magdalena are well-known and well-loved by locals and tourists alike.

One of the unique places known to Magdalena is the Kelly Mine. This location is a real hidden gem in New Mexico and one of the best places to go for a memorable experience. Kelly Mine embraces the past by bringing guests in for some stunning local architecture and artistry.

Magdalena is known as a recently up-and-coming art town, which means the blend of history and modernity is truly a sight to see. Visit a gallery, or check out some of the featured museums in town. Magdalena is a place to find your muse.

Madrid New Mexico

Located in the famous Santa Fe region, Madrid is an excellent stop for those looking for something a little big city-adjacent.

This town is a great place to stay if you want to visit Santa Fe and an even better location if you want to explore a smaller, unique New Mexico town. It’s particularly noteworthy for the prominent art scene, best exemplified by The Turquoise Trail.

This is a community of local artists that line the State Road and provide entertainment and inspiration for miles. Not to mention how pretty the location itself is.

If nature is the kind of getaway you want to get into, then Madrid is here to deliver! There are plenty of nearby hiking trails, bike paths, and lookout points that make this the excursion of a lifetime. The Cerrillos Hills State Park is a popular hiking destination.

With long expanses of golden brown broken up by the vivid green of the forest, this is one of those quintessentially New Mexico spots that makes you take a beat just to soak it all in.

The Ortiz Mountains are another big attraction. Seen from the city itself, this is a hike with a view that makes it all worth it. Get your head in the clouds with a memorable weekend in Madrid.

11. Jemez Springs

Jemez Springs NM

Nestled in the Santa Fe National Forest is a true New Mexico staple mark. Jemez Springs is a civilization that has been well-loved and lived in for over 4,000 years. What’s so special about Jemez Springs is that it is a wonderful mixture of nature, history, culture, and so much more.

The San Jose de los Jemez Church is reason enough to visit, having been built in the 1620s, with ruins still erect today. All of this is encased in the stellar scenery of New Mexico.

Be sure to try out some of the hike or bike paths that litter the area, and check out some of the coolest rock formations in the southwest.

Jemez Springs is also known for just that: the hot springs! There are a couple of different options, although there are three distinct frontrunners. Jemez Hot Springs, Jemez Springs Bath House, and Jemez Hot Springs Original Springs.

All of these are just a few miles out from the city center and all with their charm and allure. Some are more outdoorsy, with views of the mountains, while others cater to comfort and give you the kind of R&R you’ve been searching far and wide for. Whatever your choice is, there’s no denying Jemez Springs is just what you needed!

12. Abiquiu

Abiquiu New Mexico

Adventure in Abiquiu! When talking about “charming”, what comes to mind first might be a small town that’s well-loved.

A town with attractions, landmarks, and scenery that is unique and specific to that area. A town that embraces the past without losing sight of its future. All of that can be found at Abiquiu.

Gathering its name from the Tewa language and directly translating to “wild chokecherry place”, Abiquiu speaks of beauty like no other.

Distinct, impressive architecture, spiritual retreats that leave an impression for a lifetime, and some of the most jaw-dropping views of serenity and peace in nature all await in Abiquiu.

Although there are a couple of different attractions in the city, most will recommend the Ghost Ranch. This is a spiritual retreat with a featured museum and copious trails to get the blood pumping and the brain working.

If you’re in town with time to spare, maybe even drop by the O’Keeffe Welcome Center and get started on planning out all the fun to be had.

Abiquiu has a wide array of art from many different inspirations, which makes for an incredibly immersive experience whether you choose a gallery or a museum. And, of course, there’s no forgetting what the Earth provides.

Abiquiu Lake is a gorgeous blue-green water oasis with picturesque mountains just on the skyline. Bring a camera because Abiquiu is not the kind of place you forget!

Chama New Mexico

Just short of the Colorado-New Mexico border lies this little mountainous gem! Chama is a cute little town with all the warmth of a city in the sun.

As a prominent railroad city, Chama has beautifully preserved the history used to keep this town chugging along. And it’s all available for viewing as well.

Check out the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad for an in-depth view of what made Chama such a hotspot. Maybe even hop on for a steam engine train ride that takes you through the forest! Cumbres and Toltec will give you one of the unique looks at Northern New Mexico.

Chama is also the perfect town for the small city comforts you just can’t find elsewhere. Area-specific malls such as Mountainview and all the activities that embrace the scenery surrounding Chama.

Check out Trout Fly Fishing or Fishtail Ranch for a wide world of outdoor activities you might not have ever considered before.

Chama is all about trying new experiences and having them quickly become your favorite memories. Keep the night going at one of the restaurants in Chama that just can’t be beaten! Find that Chama charms all for yourself!

14. Tularosa

Tularosa New Mexico

Need a getaway with your best buds? Tularosa is just the place! Tularosa is known for a couple of different things, but the main two are interesting enough; they need specific mentions.

Firstly, this is the liquid heaven wine lovers have been dreaming of! Flavor comes alive at Tularosa Vineyards, where a tour and tasting are just the start!

Tularosa itself has plenty of food and drink tours that will have your mouth watering for just one more day in this beautiful town. And the hardest problem you’ll have to solve is which wine was your favorite and which deserves another glass.

While wine is pretty great, Tularosa is also known for having one of the ‘world’s biggest’ accomplishments. The world’s largest pistachio ! Right here in Tularosa, massive and proud and available for travelers to visit and photograph to their heart’s desire.

And if that magnificent structure has you thinking of the flavor, maybe even go inside of McGinn’s Pistachio Land to try some Pistachio flavored ice cream.

This is also the wine-tasting location, so be sure to stop by from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day (and 6:00 p.m. on the weekends!). Tularosa is nothing short of tasty!

15. Eagle Nest

Eagle Nest NM

Soar to new heights in Eagle Nest, New Mexico! Renamed in the 1930s from the original label of “Therma”, Eagle Nest has been calling adventurers to its borders for years on end. Eagle Nest sits in the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, making this a breath of fresh air in every sense of the phrase.

The full list of outdoor activities could fill a page itself, but one of the most beloved is indisputably Eagle Nest Lake State Park . Want an Eagle’s view in Eagle Nest? Try one of the mountains on the horizon. Touch-Me-Not Mountain, where the paths will take you to new heights, and Baldy Mountain for some of the more adrenaline-based explorers out there. Try mountain hiking, mining, bouldering, and climbing to work up a New Mexico sweat.

And what’s better than a cold beer after a challenging hike? A locally sourced, locally owned brewery, of course! The Comanche Creek Brewing Company is an absolute must-visit in the area. Try out the specialties, or maybe even venture out into something you’ve never tried before to really make this trip worth the drive.

And as a New Mexico town in the mountains come wintertime, check out some of the local ski rentals. Or maybe the kind of trails locals live and ride for. Eagle Nest is one of the best towns to visit to find out what makes New Mexico so unique and incredible.

Wrapping up: Beautiful New Mexico Small Towns

Known for mountains that pierce the sky and hot springs that dip deep into the warmth of the Earth, New Mexico is nearly synonymous with fun! Fun for the kids, fun for adults, fun for the elderly, and everything in between! Try out one of the water parks across the state, or go on a rigorous hike in the thick mountain forests.

Check out your new favorite bed and breakfast or the best glass of wine you’ve ever been graced with. New Mexico has so many adventures to explore that fun is just the start! Any of these 15 towns will bring a new meaning to the word small-town charm and solidify New Mexico as a great adventure state.

Which city sounds like your cup of tea? Which sounds like the biggest adventure, the biggest jump outside your comfort zone? Whatever you choose, the one guarantee is that this will be an experience like no other. The only thing left is to embrace it!

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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

fun things to do in New Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Mexico State Capitol

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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

Western Playland

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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

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

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

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

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

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!

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12 Best Cities to Visit in New Mexico

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Despite its massive size and vast array of incredible landscapes, New Mexico is only very sparsely populated with lonely settlements and cities dotting its arid deserts and rugged mountains. Fittingly known as the ‘Land of Enchantment’ due to its stupendous scenery, it is an outdoor lover’s dream with remarkable rock formations, river valleys and Ancestral Puebloan ruins.

While its canyons, mesas and forests lend themselves to all kinds of fun outdoor activities, its quiet and calm towns and handful of bustling cities are known for their rich cultural heritage, interesting historic sites and delicious cuisine. This makes the best cities in New Mexico a treat to both live in and visit with American, Mexican, Spanish and Native American influences all on show.

12. Ruidoso

Ruidoso

Nestled amidst the soaring Sierra Blanca mountains, Ruidoso is a peaceful and picturesque place that has a lot going for it. Despite its smallish size, the scenic, secluded resort town boasts an array of outdoor activities with a casino, ski slopes and top-class horse racing at the nearby Native American reservation.

Set in the south-center of the state, Ruidoso is surrounded by prominent peaks and the lush Lincoln National Forest with brilliant hiking, horseback riding and camping to be had alongside skiing, river rafting and ziplining. Thanks to its wealth of recreation opportunities, affordable cost of living and laidback way of life, it is a great place to retire or bring up a family.

11. Corrales

Corrales

Often ranked among the best places to live in New Mexico, the charming Corrales lies alongside the Rio Grande in between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Due to its proximity to the two large cities, residents of the rural village can enjoy a calmer pace of life without sacrificing much in the way of dining, shopping and entertainment.

As agriculture still plays a huge role in Corrales’ culture, economy and identity, many fertile farms and wineries surround the town while plenty of community events and festivals take place over the course of the year. Add in the stupendous nature nearby, its high quality of life and friendly and welcoming residents, and it is no wonder that Corrales appeals to so many people looking to settle down in the state.

10. Roswell

Roswell

If instead of farming techniques and fine wines it is aliens and UFOs that you are interested in, then, Roswell in the southeast of the state may be the place for you. Since the infamous Roswell incident of 1947 it has attained a quirky sort of notoriety with lots of alien and spacecraft-themed attractions and establishments.

While its unique International UFO Museum and annual festival to commemorate the alleged UFO crash entice plenty of visitors, the small city also relies on both New Mexico and Americana related tourism too. In its parks and Pioneer Plaza you can enjoy fantastic folk music performances with the excellent art museum and beautiful Bottomless Lakes State Park a firm favorite with locals and tourists alike.

9. Carlsbad

Carlsbad

While most people solely associate the small city with the spectacular Carlsbad Caverns National Park, the town actually has much more going for it than first meets the eye. Besides being very affordable and having a low unemployment rate, nearby scenic nature spots like the Guadalupe Mountains, Lincoln National Forest and Sitting Bull Falls offer all kinds of epic outdoor activities.

Located not far from the border with Texas, Carlsbad acts as an important center for potash mining and petroleum production with tourism being its other main money maker. Aside from all the sites mentioned above and several small museums and art galleries, its other main attraction is the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park which displays pretty plants and animals from the local area.

8. Albuquerque

Albuquerque

The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque has almost everything you could ever want in terms of attractions, activities and entertainment options. Although oft-overlooked, the vibrant metropolis has a rich and diverse history and heritage with Spanish and Native American cultural influences on show in its attractive adobe Old Town.

Sprawled about the enormous Rio Grande Valley are lots of delightfully different neighbourhoods to live in with ABQ being very affordable for a big city. As well as its relatively low cost of living, residents benefit from excellent amenities and high employment rates, with warm weather and world-class cuisine being a welcome boon.

Add in all the enticing downtown art galleries and museums and the hiking, biking and Balloon Fiesta to be had in its surroundings and The Q really does make for a great place to live or visit.

7. Alamogordo

Alamogordo

Bordered by not only the striking Sacramento Mountains and lovely Lincoln National Forest but the wonderful White Sands National Park too, Alamogordo is sure to appeal to nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike. Aside from its spellbinding scenery and amazing outdoor activities, cheap housing and short commutes make the small city an increasingly popular spot to settle down.

Once home to farmers and ranchers, its economy now instead relies on three nearby military installations with thousands of veterans also residing in the area. Scattered about town are a wealth of recreational and leisure facilities with Alameda Park Zoo, Flickinger Center for Performing Arts and New Mexico Museum of Space History counted among its standout sights.

6. Silver City

Silver City

Nestled at the southern foot of the massive and majestic Mogollon Mountains you can find the quiet and quaint Silver City. While outdoorsy types will enjoy the vast swathes of untouched nature in the nearby Gila National Forest, its historic district is packed with attractive old Victorian, Queen Anne and Italianate-style buildings.

Due to its low cost of living and stunning setting, retirees and families with young kids have flocked to Silver City in recent years; its high-tech centre also attracts young professionals. Although it is quite diverse and residents are friendly and welcoming, there is not all that much in the way of nightlife or entertainment, though its local shops, cosy cafes and artsy vibe more than make up for it.

5. Farmington

Farmington

Tucked away in the northwest of New Mexico is the family-friendly Farmington that acts as a gateway to the nearby Navajo Nation and Four Corners area. Aside from the dramatic landscapes and archaeological sites that lie on its doorstep, the small city is known as a center for folk art with coal, gas and petroleum production being its primary industries.

Thanks to its plethora of recreational facilities, laidback way of life and gorgeous riverside setting, Farmington is a fantastic place to bring up a family and the town has a young and dynamic feel. Besides fishing, camping and mountain biking amidst its scenic surroundings, both locals and tourists can watch any of the extreme annual sports events it holds with Chaco Canyon, Mesa Verde and Aztec Ruins counted among its most impressive archaeological sites.

Taos

Long one of the most popular places to live and visit in the state, Taos is located in the north center of New Mexico right next to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Fittingly nicknamed the ‘Soul of the Southwest’ due to its rich cultural heritage and thriving arts scene, it has all kinds of fun outdoor activities for visitors and is particularly known for its superb skiing in the cold winter months.

Despite its smallish size, the center of town is crammed with incredible adobe architecture and an extensive array of art museums with the age-old historic site of Taos Pueblo lying on its outskirts. In addition to exploring its pretty plaza and historic homes and artists’ studios, you can also hike and bike the awe-inspiring gorges, mountains and desert that lie all around it.

3. Las Cruces

Las Cruces

Regularly ranked among the best cities in New Mexico to live, Las Cruces is set right in the south-center of the state, not far from the border with both Texas and Mexico. As it lies on the edge of the Chihuahuan Desert, residents can enjoy mild winters and outstanding outdoor activities with both housing and healthcare costs being very affordable.

Although it is the second-largest city in the Land of Enchantment, it still has a laidback pace of life while phenomenal views of soaring mountain ranges in the distance only add to its charm. As well as hiking and biking its nearby national monuments, there are plenty of top restaurants to try in the centre of town with countless museums, attractions and nightlife options also on offer.

2. Santa Fe

Santa Fe

The highest state capital in all the country, Santa Fe lies amidst the rolling foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity and artistic heritage, the small city certainly appeals to prospective residents, though its slow job market, relatively high cost of living and tourist-filled center may put others off.

As it was founded in 1610, interesting and impressive centuries-old sites dot its historic heart with Spanish colonial churches set beside Mexican missions and Native American adobe edifices. These now house not only art galleries and museums but restaurants and souvenir shops too, with Santa Fe also hosting an impressive number of festivals, cultural events and performing arts shows each year.

1. Los Alamos

Los Alamos

Not far from Santa Fe is yet another of the state’s most sought-after places to settle: the irresistible Los Alamos. While the surrounding mountains, forests and parks offer up plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, its splendid school system and safe streets make it the perfect place to raise a family or retire. Nature lovers are also drawn to its spectacular setting.

Known for being the birthplace of the world’s first atomic bomb, the peaceful town has a wealth of amenities and activities for locals and tourists alike to enjoy, although there is not much going in the way of entertainment and nightlife. Its main appeal is, of course, all the untouched landscapes on its doorstep with skiing, mountain biking and camping being just some of its most popular pastimes.

Map of Cities in New Mexico to Live and Visit

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These Are The 12 Most Beautiful Towns In New Mexico You Should Visit

Much of New Mexico's unique charm is found in these beautiful towns.

Read update

The Most Beautiful Towns In New Mexico: Part 2

  • Taos, Tucumcari, and Galisteo are just a few of the most charming and beautiful towns in New Mexico that offer unique experiences and stunning landscapes.
  • From outdoor activities and cultural attractions to delicious cuisine and historic sites, these towns have something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
  • Whether you're seeking adventure in Cloudcroft, history in Roswell, or a peaceful getaway in Mesilla, these towns in New Mexico are worth visiting for their diverse offerings and small-town charm.

From gorgeous buildings and beautiful mountain communities to quaint towns, New Mexico boasts some of the most breathtaking places in America . Its stunning, diverse landscapes have inspired artists from around the world. Much of New Mexico's unique charm is found in its small towns. These have local restaurants with delicious specialties, attractions that have earned praise from previous travelers, and stunning hotels housed in the state's historic buildings. These are the most beautiful towns in New Mexico that tourists should visit.

UPDATE: 2023/09/03 15:14 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

New Mexico's desert landscapes boast unique sceneries that delight explorers from around the country. This updated list features two more places to visit in New Mexico that won't disappoint. With fall and winter on the way, there are plenty of places and things to see throughout New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment!

Related: Everything Worth Doing When Visiting Taos, New Mexico

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Taos . Its museums and independent art galleries are some of the things that make it stand out. San Francisco de Asis Mission Church, one of the most iconic churches and photographed locations in the state, also calls this enchanting town a home. Its position by the Rocky Mountains and Rio Grande Gorge makes it an incredible destination for outdoor lovers.

11 Tucumcari

With an incredible blend of Spanish, Native American, and southwestern influences, Tucumcari’s culture is incredibly adverse. Housing some of the top historic sites in New Mexico , Taos' Historic District is a popular tourist spot, filled with numerous medieval buildings, some dating back to the ‘20s. The town is brimming with stunning hidden gems, which display a unique side of it. It has stunning street art, museums, restaurants, and everything in between.

10 Galisteo

Boasting some of the best things to do in New Mexico , Galisteo offers unique experiences and attractions, making it one of the most charming towns to explore. Films like Crazy Heart, Silverado, and Thor were filmed in this gorgeous part of New Mexico. This is also one of the best adventure spots in the area, thanks to its beautiful desert scenery. Galisteo Basin Reserve is one of the top places to experience this side of the town. Travelers will find numerous hiking and biking trails to explore.

Related: Where To Find The Best Mountain Biking Trails In The Pioneer Valley

9 Silver City

Whether looking for entertainment options, history, food, or a unique cultural scene, it is there in Silver City. Its bustling downtown has a lot of gorgeous restaurants, hotels, and colorful shops selling all kinds of items. Some of the museums to explore include the Silver City Museum and Western New Mexico University Museum; these museums offer unique artifacts and exhibits about the South West region of the United States. Outdoorsy travelers can enjoy the city’s adventure spots, like the Gila National Forest, Penny Park, Mimbres River Preserve, and Big Ditch Park.

8 Santa Rosa

Located in Guadalupe County, Santa Rosa is one of the most beautiful towns in New Mexico and offers a lot to offer tourists. The city is known for its rugged desert landscape, incredible arts scene, beautiful culture, and fantastic culinary scene, mostly cooked in Southwestern style. It boasts several popular attractions, including Park Lake, Route 66 Auto Museum, and Blue Hole, which make it worth exploring . There is something for everyone in this great spot.

7 Cloudcroft

Cloudcroft is nestled on the northern side of Lincoln National Forest, which means it has plenty of outdoor opportunities, including mountain biking, bird watching, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. It is brimming with beautiful restaurants, colorful shops, and unique tourist spots. It offers numerous options for entertainment, including unique events and festivals. This charming mountain village is a perfect getaway for any type of traveler.

Ruidoso is nestled among the Sierra Blanca range of the Rocky Mountains on the southeast side of New Mexico. It is a popular destination that entices 1.9 million vacationers , ranging from history buffs to nature lovers and everyone in between. There are plenty of outdoor activities, including biking, fishing, and hiking. History lovers would definitely love spending time in the town's incredible museums, like the Hubbard Museum of the American West. Other places to check out include Fort Stanton, Grindstone Lake, Monjeau Lookout, and Adventure Mountain.

Roswell is famous for appearing in several documentaries, TV shows, and plenty of adventure opportunities. One can explore one of its many gorgeous farmlands, go hiking in the nearby Wildlife Refuge, or eat something tasty from its local restaurants. There are several art centers, museums, and a research center. There are numerous tours that vacationers can use to explore some of the best spots in the town. A good number of events, festivals, and concerts are held here from time to time.

Related: Go UFO Hunting In Roswell, New Mexico, And Then Check Out Their UFO Museum

4 Red River

Red River is a perfect destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventures, and one can go camping, fishing, hiking, OHV-ing, hunting, rafting, horseback riding, and biking. Several trails suit all kinds of travelers. Some strenuous hikes require effort and sweat to get through, but they get to some of the most breathtaking sights in the town. In winter, this gorgeous resort town offers incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities, thanks to the surrounding sloping mountains. No matter the season tourists choose to come here, they’ll always find something interesting to do.

Vacationers enjoy traveling to small towns to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities, but the long drives and whatever it takes to get there are off-putting to some. Located just outside of Santa Fe, this town has a long, fascinating history, and vacationers can learn some of it at one of its well-preserved sites, El Santuario de Chimayo. It is known for being one of the biggest farmlands in the southwestern and boasts a rich culture dating back thousands of years.

Aztec is a delightful community in northwestern New Mexico, a short drive from the Colorado border. This modest town is laden with some of the top historical sites in New Mexico , thanks to a legacy extending beyond the 19th century. An excellent example is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, which can be traced back to the 12th century. More hidden gems can be uncovered in its historic downtown, which impresses with awesome architectural styles. Also, explorers will want to tour the Aztec Arxhes, featuring over 300 natural sandstones that never fail to leave first-timers in awe.

Mesilla is a lovely locale with the perfect mix of rich historical heritage and small-town charm. Bordering Las Cruces to the west, it offers an excellent getaway from the state's third-biggest city and rewards adventurers with laid-back activities. History buffs should plan to visit Mesilla Plaza, the scenic town square - designated National Historic Landmark. Meanwhile, culture aficionados will gravitate towards the annual Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiestas and Cinco de Mayo, which offer an immersive experience of the area's rich Mexican culture.

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7 Charming Small Towns To Visit In Southern New Mexico

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Deep cerulean skies, white cottony clouds, wide-open desert spaces, and the distant Sacramento Mountains yielded to the two-lane highway sharply rising before us. The afternoon rain shower brought the changing scents of dusty desert cactus to cedar shrubs to towering ponderosa pine forests, and the road twisting and turning along the Rio Penasco. By the time we reached Mayhill, we had ascended 6,495 feet in elevation, and the temperature felt 15 degrees chillier. This road leads to my seven favorite small towns along a picturesque drive in southern New Mexico with unforgettably majestic scenery and iconic recreational areas.

Fishing Fact: The Rio Penasco is a 40-mile spring-fed creek, one of the finest but little-known trout streams in the New Mexico desert country. When you become a Mesilla Valley Fly Fisher in Las Cruces , New Mexico, you have access to a 2-mile lease of the Penasco at the Runyon Ranch. Flyfish for trout, both stocked and wild, when you purchase a reasonably priced daily permit from the club. This fishing is catch-and-release only using a single no-barb fly hook.

The Lodge Hotel; Cloudcroft, New Mexico

1. Cloudcroft

The Village of Cloudcroft is known for its high elevation (9,000 feet), comfortable cabins, the iconic Cloudcroft Lodge, and an excellent place for fishing, horseback riding, hiking, camping, biking, and in the winter, skiing and ice skating.

At 9,100 feet in elevation, Ski Cloudcroft , with 25 excellent trails, groomed with extra snowmaking equipment, is the southernmost ski area in New Mexico. The double chair lift, handle tow lift, and rope tow lift make for a fun time getting up the mountain. Enjoy Cloud Nine Ski School for exceptional family fun.

The Lodge Resort & Spa at Cloudcroft is a charming historic hotel with 59 luxurious guest rooms with antique furnishings offering a Victorian blend of history, charm, and intrigue. You’ll want to visit the haunting presence of the resort and explore its ghostly past.

Tee off at the seventh-highest in the world, The Golf Course at the Lodge , where you play the nine-hole system twice, by the Scottish tradition, driving from different tees and putting to separate flags. You’ll be surprised how far your drives travel at this altitude!

For the wine enthusiast, Noisy Water Winery has five locations with a vineyard in Alto, near Ruidoso. You can purchase some pinot noir, chardonnay, Petit Sirah plus, gourmet foods like balsamic vinegar, cheese, olive oil, pistachios, sauces, and chili products.

Cloudcroft Brewing offers craft beers like adobe wheat, train wreck IPA, and something called the seasonal, with new favorites brewing every day. Sample a flight of beers when you visit.

About 14 miles south of Cloudcroft, visit Sunspot Solar Observatory to see instruments used to study the sun. Tour the wheelchair-accessible museum and gift shop. Don’t miss the magnificent view of the Tularosa Basin from Sunspot — more significant than Connecticut .

Inn of the Mountain Gods, New Mexico

2. Mescalero

The Mescalero Apache Tribe operates both the Ski Apache and Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino.

Ski Apache , one of the country’s southernmost major ski areas, offers an alpine mountain Sierra Blanca at over 12,000 feet, with an annual snowfall of over 15 feet. You’ll find plenty of snow at Ski Apache, with snowmaking on 33% of the mountain. Ride 11 lifts, including an eight-passenger Gondola to the top.

In the summer, rent mountain bikes for adults and children with helmets, gloves, and accessories. Enjoy hiking trails, disk golf, gondola rides, and a fantastic zip line ride on the mountain. This incredible three-part zip tour reaches over 8,900 feet in length, making it one of the most extended zip tours in the world.

Inn of the Mountain Gods offers luxury spa services, upscale hotel rooms, and suites with gorgeous lake views, plus first-rate golfing, Apache Eagle zip lining, fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Have fun with Vegas-style gaming, thrilling slots, plus an entertaining nightlife filled with national concerts and stand-up comedy.

Ruidoso, New Mexico, near the Sierra Blanca mountains

Ruidoso , the Sierra Blanca mountain-oasis, is famous for winter skiing, summer horse racing, plus horseback riding, hiking, and camping amid alpine forests and picturesque mountain views. Enjoy rustic cabins, comfortable hotels, and luxurious lodges and resorts.

We love to explore Ruidoso’s Midtown public art murals with over a dozen opportunities for Instagram selfies. See the Village Buttery by Jeff Hayes and Noisy Water Winery by Lucas Aoki, and more.

Visit Midtown for shopping and all things fun. Support local merchants at one-of-a-kind boutiques and active lifestyle retailers. Take a walking tour of the art galleries, and access the history guide for visits to The Hubbard Museum of the American West, Fort Stanton State Historic Site , and Billy The Kid Scenic Byway .

Ruidoso offers top cafes and restaurants for excellent eats. Enjoy the Log Cabin Restaurant for breakfast, and soups and sandwiches at the Village Buttery . Savor Italian pasta, seafood, steak, chicken, or veal dishes at Michael J’s Italian-American Cuisine , plus wine by the glass or bottle.

Amid a 46,963-acre Lincoln National Forest backcountry, you’ll find White Mountain Wilderness , 15 miles northwest of Ruidoso. With dozens of hiking trails in the area, the elevations span 11,580 feet near Lookout Mountain to the south. Protected wildlife includes mule deer, elk, black bear, bobcat, gray fox, coyote, and rock squirrels. The area serves as a critical habitat for several species of birds. Besides hiking, the space is open to backpacking, horseback riding, and “leave no trace” camping.

Smokey Bear Historical Park; Capitan, New Mexico

The village of Capitan , nestled between the Capitan and Sacramento Mountains at 6,530 feet, is best known as Smokey Bear’s birthplace and burial site. A fire-fighting crew discovered the badly-singed cub clinging to a burned pine tree in the Capitan Gap wildfire. Game Warden Ray Bell flew the cub to a Santa Fe veterinary hospital to care for his burns. Later, Smokey flew to Washington, D.C. , to make his new home in the National Zoo .

Congress passed a bill in 1952 establishing the name and image of Smokey Bear. When he died in 1976, Smokey was returned to the Capitan Mountains and rested in peace at a small park in Capitan. Visit the Smokey Bear Historical Park and Visitor’s Center, the museum, and the gift shop. I remember Smokey Bear as a kid: “Only YOU can prevent forest fires!”

Capitan Mountains Wilderness Area has 35,091 acres, located northeast of Capitan. The Wilderness runs 12 miles long and 2–6 miles wide, with altitudes over 10,000 feet on Capitan Peak. Hike the Capitan Peak Trail up 5.7 miles of steep switchbacks to reach El Capitan’s summit. You’ll see mule deer, wild turkey, and black bears, plus you can fish the streams for trout.

Valley of Fires National Recreation Area

5. Carrizozo 

Carrizozo Heritage Museum houses the history of Carrizozo in an old brick cold storage warehouse. See a video of the town’s history, plus exhibits that include movies filmed in the Carrizozo area.

Painted burros came about when the Malkersons invested in a herd of aluminum burros, scattered them about the town, and invited local artists to paint the beasts. Additionally, they sell painted mules to help animal rescue efforts and have fun responding to the challenges of fitting them into buyers’ cars, waving good-bye to the curious face poking out the window.  

Honey Girl’s Café et Chocolat offers craft organic, fair-trade coffee, organic tea, small bites like the ham and cheese croissant, Mexican pastries, hand-crafted organic pies, and artisan chocolate. A delightful secret garden through the gate at the back of the café offers a relaxing seating area. Try the valley of fire, the most popular drink made with chocolate, cinnamon, and habanero.

Four miles west of Carrizozo, the Valley of Fires National Recreation Area boasts a 5,000-year-old lava flow 4–6 miles wide, 160 feet deep, and covers 125 square miles. From a distance, the Valley of Fires looks like barren rock, but take a walk, and surprisingly, you’ll see desert flowers and cacti along with mule deer, rabbits, quail, and lizards. For birdwatchers, you can see a paradise filled with owls, turkey vultures, hawks, cactus wrens, sparrows, and golden eagles.

Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, New Mexico

6. Three Rivers 

Twenty-eight miles south of Carrizozo, three rivers merge: Indian Creek, Golondrina “Swallow” Creek, and Three Rivers.

Five miles off the road, the Three Rivers Petroglyphs Site , dating back between 900 and 1400 AD, features more than 21,000 glyphs of humans, animals, fish, birds, insects, and plants, plus numerous abstract and geometric designs. Created by the Jornada Mogollon people, the petroglyphs scatter over 50 acres of New Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert.

Trails from the visitor shelter lead you to the petroglyphs, plus the remains of a Mogollon village with foundations of three types of prehistoric buildings. Three Rivers Campground offers five shelters, two RV sites, and one group site with restrooms and drinking water.

St. Francisco de Paula Church in Tularosa, New Mexico

7. Tularosa

Tularosa gets its name from the Spanish description for the rose-colored reeds growing along the banks of the Rio Tularosa. In 1979, the National Register of Historic Places added the 49-block original townsite.

David Wickham opened Tularosa Vineyards in 1989, producing 100 cases, with his son Chris, who joined the winery as an active winemaker in 1995. Today the winery produces 3,500 cases of high-quality award-winning wines, open for daily tastings and tours by appointment.

St. Francis De Paula Church was constructed from 1868–1869 after a prayer to St. Francis de Paula and a solemn promise to build a church after the battle of Round Mountain, fought successfully to save Tularosa settlers from the Apache.

Stay at Valley Lodge Mae West Room , a refurbished 1863 adobe-style boarding house hosted by Joe Ben, a Tularosa native and archaeologist. Climb the wooden spiral staircase to your room. Enjoy a tasty breakfast, and don’t miss the bookstore.

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Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

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10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In New Mexico

  • New Mexico offers remarkable diversity in exploring places, from vast white dunes to ancient Pueblo dwellings, creating a captivating blend of nature, culture, history, and imagination.
  • Some of the most unique places to visit in New Mexico include White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, and Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, each providing breathtaking landscapes and intriguing histories.
  • Ghost Ranch, Bisti Badlands, and Shiprock offer otherworldly landscapes that are perfect for outdoor exploration and experiencing the mystical and surreal beauty of New Mexico. Additionally, attractions like Taos Pueblo, Meow Wolf, and Tinkertown Museum provide opportunities to engage with Native history, art, and quirky roadside attractions.

New Mexico is full of incredible landscapes, rich cultural history, and unique attractions, making it a must-visit destination in the American Southwest. From vast white dunes to intricate underground cave systems, ancient Pueblo dwellings, and eccentric roadside museums, New Mexico offers remarkable diversity in exploring places. Though famous cities like Santa Fe and Taos are obvious tourist spots, venturing off the beaten path reveals some of New Mexico's most fascinating hidden gems.

Whether visitors are history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, art lovers, or enjoy immersing themselves in the peculiar and extraordinary, visitors will find plenty of intriguing spots to pique their curiosity in the Land of Enchantment. Home to some of the most scenic drives in the Southwest , along with stunning national parks and towns, here are some of the most unique places to visit in New Mexico that give people a taste of the state's captivating blend of nature, culture, history, and imagination.

Related: 10 Beautiful Places In New Mexico Where You Can See Fall Foliage

White Sands National Park

Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's most captivating natural wonders – the gleaming white dunes of White Sands National Park. Over 275 square miles of gypsum sand compose this otherworldly landscape, creating the largest gypsum dune field on the planet.

Walking along the soft, powdery dunes, the landscape looks like snow as far as the eye can see but with a distinctly sandy texture underfoot. The brilliant white color results from the ultra-fine gypsum crystals that make up the dunes, reflecting the sun's light and creating a dreamlike alien atmosphere.

One of the best ways to experience the white sands is by taking a scenic drive along Alamogordo, an 8-mile paved loop with numerous pullouts. Indeed, visitors can explore White Sands National Park and Alamogordo for a superb day trip; get out and stroll into the sea of white, where one will quickly lose sight of the road behind the rippling peaks. For a more immersive experience, take the 1.5-mile Alkali Flat Trail into the heart of the dunes – winding through white waves and soaking in spectacular views. As visitors hike further out, the silence becomes almost deafening without a glimpse of civilization.

For the ultimate White Sands adventure, consider backcountry camping and witness the dunes under billions of twinkling stars. No designated campsites exist, allowing visitors to sleep wherever they please in this emerald-white ocean. Watch the sunset create kaleidoscopes of color on the dunes before moonlight casts a ghostly pall over the otherworldly landscape.

  • Location : Alamogordo, NM
  • Top Attractions : White Sands , Alkali Flat Trail , Backcountry camping

For a stunning photo opportunity, arrive for sunset when the white sands glow pink and orange.

RELATED: Salinas Pueblo Missions In New Mexico Are 400 Years Old & Some Of The Oldest Buildings In The USA

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Deep below the Chihuahuan Desert lies a fascinating underground world – Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which is among the best places to visit in New Mexico for otherworldly subterranean wonders. A labyrinth of over 119 limestone caves winds through the darkness, adorned with intricate cave formations like glittering stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, and crystalline rock curtains. The park contains over 33 caves, but the main attraction is the Big Room – one of the largest cave chambers in North America.

Descending 750 feet underground, travelers can walk a 1.25-mile paved loop trail through the Big Room's colossal chambers filled with rock sculptures and formations over 300 feet tall. Gazing up at the vaulted ceilings dripping with thousands of cave formations is a jaw-dropping glimpse into the geological wonders beneath the New Mexico desert. For a more rugged adventure, take a ranger-guided tour into Slaughter Canyon Cave or the famously beautiful Lechuguilla Cave, which holds rare gypsum chandeliers and strontium needle crystals.

While the caves are the main highlight, Carlsbad Caverns also contains over 33,000 acres of Chihuahuan Desert wilderness to explore aboveground. Hike along desert trails through canyons and washes, watch for wildlife like golden eagles and mule deer, or stargaze from the park's Night Sky Amphitheater. From the desert highlands to the cavernous underworld below, Carlsbad Caverns reveals the natural diversity of Southeastern New Mexico.

  • Location : Carlsbad, NM
  • Top Attractions : The Big Room, Slaughter Canyon Cave , Lechuguilla Cave

Take the self-guided Natural Entrance route down into the cave to experience the 750-foot descent from the cave mouth.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

To glimpse the lives of ancient Puebloan people, visit the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, which is one of the most unique destinations in Mexico to visit for history fans. Tucked high in the Mogollon Mountains, this remote site contains remarkable ruins of stone cliff dwellings that the Mogollon culture inhabited from the 1280s to early 1300s. The seven caves lie high on the cliffs, featuring original adobe walls and beams dramatically situated within the rock overhangs.

A 1-mile loop trail allows travelers to climb up and explore the interiors of the dwellings, getting a sense of the ingenious construction and compact living spaces inside. Visitors can peek inside storage rooms and living spaces with fire pits and see originals of grain storage pots and food bowls still within the dwellings. The show's stars are the House of Many Windows and Ledge House dwellings, containing multiple rooms and windows looking out over the Gila National Forest valley.

Beyond the dwellings, visitors can embark on scenic hikes through the Ponderosa pine forest along the West Fork Trail, keeping a lookout for wildlife like black bears and wild turkeys. The TJ Ruin archeological site also lets travelers see remnants of another small settlement with artifacts like metates and petroglyphs. Transport back 700 years at Gila Cliff Dwellings to glimpse the ancient history within these protected caves.

  • Location : Gila National Forest
  • Top Attractions : Cliff Dwellings , West Fork Trail , TJ Ruin

Visit in autumn when the surrounding maple, oak, and ash trees display vibrant fall foliage.

Ghost Ranch In New Mexico

With a name like Ghost Ranch, travelers know this unique place in New Mexico holds intriguing mysteries within its dusty slopes. Located in the northern region of the Piedra Lumbre Basin, Ghost Ranch's panoramic landscape of buttes, mesas, and cliffs has an unmistakably spiritual aura. The 21,000-acre ranch has drawn artists like Georgia O’Keefe and archeologists who uncovered dinosaur fossils dating back 200 million years.

Today, visitors come to hike the network of trails winding through otherworldly rock formations, canyons, and desert landscapes. Climb onto Chimney Rock for expansive views of the Piedra Lumbre Valley from atop this iconic mesa formation. The Box Canyon Trail carries travelers through a slot canyon lined with eroded sandstone walls in undulating shapes and textures. Take the four-mile Chimney Rock Trail for a more rugged adventure, summiting a mesa top with 360-degree vistas.

Beyond the spectacular hiking, Ghost Ranch offers interesting museums such as the Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology, housing Triassic fossils and dinosaur bones unearthed here. The Museum of Anthropology contains artifacts from the ancient Pueblo tribes and Spanish settlers. With a vibrant history, geology, archaeology, and scenery, Ghost Ranch promises outdoor thrills and intriguing culture around every wind-carved bend.

  • Location : Abiquiu
  • Top Attractions : Museum of Anthropology , Ruth Hall Museum

Sign up for one of the ranch's paleontology tours to hunt for fossils and learn about excavations.

Bisti Badlands

In New Mexico's northwest region, the Bisti Badlands contain one of the most surreal landscapes in the Southwest. This remote 45,000-acre wilderness of alien rock formations and petrified wood creates a strange, almost unearthly atmosphere. The badlands formed after roughly 300 million years of geological activity eroded layers of shale to reveal these quintessential “bad lands” resistant to vegetation growth.

A lunar terrain of slickrock mounds eroded into wild shapes called hoodoos, rock spires, and mushroom caps remains. Strange ribbed and rippled rock textures cover the dusty earth in stripes of dark grays, beiges, and earthen reds. Scattered across the arid landscape, visitors will find thousands of petrified wood pieces in uncanny natural sculptures and designs. Like walking through an abstract art exhibit, the Bisti Badlands allow their imagination to run wild over how such an otherworldly landscape took shape.

With no established trails, Bisti offers full creative freedom to wander the open badlands how travelers wish. Trek a few miles out to immerse in the alien surroundings, where bizarre rock formations stretch in all directions. Come at sunrise or sunset when fading light casts a mystical glow over the multi-hued hoodoos. For an eerie night, camp under the stars and listen to coyotes howling as visitors ponder this surreal terrain. Of all New Mexico’s wonders, the Bisti Badlands truly deliver a landscape unlike any other.

  • Location : Farmington, NM
  • Top Attractions : Hoodoos , rock formations, petrified wood

Bring plenty of water and snacks since no facilities exist, as well as good shoes for scrambling over rough terrain.

Taos Pueblo

In the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (famous for its 14ers) lies the ancient municipality of Taos Pueblo, continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. One of North America's oldest, always-occupied settlements, Taos Pueblo is among the most beautiful towns in New Mexico and provides unmatched insight into traditional Pueblo culture. The heart of the Pueblo is a multi-story adobe complex made from mud, straw, and water that houses people year-round.

Unlike typical tourist attractions in New Mexico, this is a vibrant community going about its daily life and traditions. Tours allow visitors to respectfully wander the exterior plaza and historic district, guided by a tribal member. They explain customs like the horno ovens, fetch water from the Red Willow Creek, and point out kivas – underground spiritual chambers where rituals take place. Nearby stands the historic San Geronimo Chapel, the oldest church structure in the US, with original adobe walls dating back to 1619.

Artists sell finely crafted micaceous pottery, turquoise and silver jewelry, and other traditional works throughout the Pueblo. Witness dancing ceremonies like the Corn Dances or January Pole Climb that outsiders rarely view. Staying overnight or dining at Pueblo’s guest housing gives travelers a deeply immersive impression of Puebloan heritage at one of its most authentic settlements. Taos Pueblo’s continuity through centuries makes it an unparalleled place to engage with Native history and culture.

  • Location : Taos, NM
  • Top Attractions : Adobe complex , San Geronimo Chapel , Micaceous pottery

Time their visit for one of the traditional feast days like San Geronimo Day or Taos Pueblo Pow-Wow.

RELATED: High Road To Taos: Experience The Views From 9,000 Feet Up

For a unique art experience unlike anything else, visit the fantastical exhibitions of Meow Wolf in Santa Fe. Meow Wolf is an arts collective that creates immersive multimedia installations based on science fiction and psychedelic environments. Their main campus is House of Eternal Return - an amalgamation of over 70 artists' works with a storyline about a mysterious Victorian house.

Upon entering, visitors find a two-story house filled with passageways and portals leading to wildly unique spaces like a forest, cave, control room, neon arcade, and alien worlds. Every room presents a barrage of sensory stimuli, from robotic sculptures to laser shows, music, and abstract video mapping. Unlike a typical museum, visitors can touch, play, and fully interact with the installations however they please.

Beyond the flagship house, Meow Wolf contains art studios, music venues, a cafe, and outdoor installations on its sprawling campus. Expanding the multimedia experience, they regularly host concerts, new exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops. Recent openings include The Goblin Garden, with immersive botanical jewels and Portals connecting to otherworldly realms. Meow Wolf offers complete imaginative escape through the power of creatively collaborated art forms and storytelling – a one-of-a-kind playground for minds of all ages.

  • Location : Santa Fe, NM
  • Top Attractions : House of Eternal Return exhibit , arts complex , music venues

Look for discount coupons online!

RELATED: This Is What Happened At Chaco Canyon (& Why It's Still Abandoned Today)

Visible from nearly 50 miles away, the imposing rocky structure of Shiprock abruptly emerges from New Mexico's remote northwest desert. Rising about 1,600 feet, Shiprock (or Tsé Bit’a’í in Navajo) is an arresting lone volcanic plug that has become a famous symbol of this Four Corners region. The sheer rock walls shoot straight up from the landscape, resembling a massive ship plowing through the desert sea.

For the Navajo people native to this region, Shiprock holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Many myths and legends tell how this dramatic monolith came to be, featuring it prominently as a landmark. Navajo tradition tells of a great bird that carried the Navajo from the cold north to this southwestern land of promise. Exhausted from the long journey, the giant bird rested on the peak we now know as Shiprock.

While it's mostly off-limits for climbing, hikers can walk along the mesa at its base for closer views of the craggy volcanic rock walls. The rugged 17-mile loop BLM trail traces around Shiprock, rewarding with panoramic views of this geological marvel from all angles against the vivid high desert. For insights into Navajo heritage tied to this sacred peak, talk with a Navajo guide to hear stories passed down through generations about the origins of their cherished Shiprock.

  • Location : Shiprock, NM
  • Top Attractions : 17-mile loop BLM trail around Shiprock

For safe hiking, go with a Navajo guide who can shed light on cultural significance along the way.

Tinkertown Museum

Don’t miss Ross Ward’s Tinkertown Museum between Albuquerque and Santa Fe for a roadside attraction with incredible handcrafted charm. This 22-room eccentric place began in the 1960s as one man’s personal carved wooden dioramas, expanding over decades into a folk art extravaganza. Ross Ward spent over 40 years meticulously cutting around 50,000 figures to create entire Western scenes inside glass bottles, wooden boxes, and walls.

Visitors will find a Wild West saloon filled with cowboy figurines or a vintage sideshow stuffed with detailed carousel animals as visitors explore the various rooms. Other displays include a mini circus, Norman Rockwell-esque small-town scenes, and interactive penny arcade games. The bottle walls glitter with lit-up glass containing minute carvings. Surprises wait around every corner, from a carved fortune-teller machine to a wooden sailing ship.

Equally appealing is the museum’s quirky, nostalgic charm mixed with Ross’s quips and humor displayed throughout. Beyond the indoor curiosities, travelers will find a chapel, schoolhouse, jail, and Ross’s unique hand-built RV to explore. Tinkertown celebrates the power of one person’s imagination and diligence to create a magical handmade world for others to enjoy. Don’t miss this New Mexico original hidden gem.

  • Location : Sandia Park, NM
  • Top Attractions : Hand-carved dioramas at the Tintertown Museum

Chat with the friendly and quirky staff for amusing background stories on various pieces in the museum.

RELATED: Uncovering The Enigma Of The 'Center Of The Universe' In New Mexico: Myth Or Reality?

Loretto Chapel

In the heart of Santa Fe (a superb city with plenty to offer) stands the historic Loretto Chapel, home to one of New Mexico’s most intriguing curiosities. Built in the late 1800s, the chapel exhibits ornate Gothic Revival architecture with impressive buttresses, spires, and stained-glass windows. But the structure’s miraculous spiral staircase attracts most visitors’ attention and speculation.

Constructed with only wooden pegs and glue, the narrow staircase makes two complete spirals, stands 20 feet tall, and seems to defy physics and engineering. The Sisters of Loretto credit St. Joseph with miraculously answering their prayers for a solution after being told adding a normal staircase would disturb the chapel's walls. With no clear builder, the staircase's mystery perplexed architects and sparked legend.

Some records suggest it was carpentry master Francois-Jean "Frenchy" Rochas, though he worked without blueprints, nails, or center support. Others cite unidentified traveling carpenters. Skeptics suggest clever woodworking and physics created the illusion of impossibility. Regardless, the staircase has inspired wonder for over a century with its architectural curiosity.

Beyond the stairs, the chapel interior impresses with its ornate Gothic arches, columns, paintings, and glowing stained-glass telling biblical stories. While small in size, Loretto Chapel stands large in intrigue. Those intrigued by architectural mysteries and legends can decide if they believe in miracles while gazing at this gravity-defying wooden wonder.

  • Top Attractions : Miraculous staircase , Gothic Revival architecture

Try to visit on a weekday early in the day to avoid crowds and have a quiet moment with the mystical staircase.

10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In New Mexico

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El santuario de chimayo.

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

El Santuario de Chimayo, a small shrine located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Chimayo, New Mexico, and near the path of the Old Spanish Trail, has been a place of worship since before its construction in 1813. For generations people of faith have traveled to the site of El Santuario to ask for healing for themselves and others, and to offer prayers of petition and of thanksgiving for favors received. Following a long tradition of miraculous shrines, El Santuario is now one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage centers in the United States and one of the most beautiful examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in New Mexico. Today El Santuario de Chimayo, also known as Lourdes of America, attracts over 300,000 pilgrims from all over the Southwest and elsewhere each year. Thousands of pilgrims walk to El Santuario from Santa Fe and other starting points during Holy Week. Pueblo Indians have inhabited the Chimayo area since the 12th century, long before the initial Spanish conquest of New Mexico. When they arrived, the Spanish committed to converting the natives to Christianity, which became a major point of friction between the Catholic Church and the American Indians. In 1680, the Pueblo Indians revolted temporarily ending Spanish commitment to the region. The Tewa Indians named Chimayo as “Tsi-Mayoh,” after one of four sacred hills above the valley, which lies directly behind El Santuario de Chimayo. The Pueblo Indians believed that they shared their land with supernatural beings. The natives thought the healing spirits were to be found in the form of hot springs, which ultimately dried up leaving the healing earth. The Pueblo and Tewa used the site of El Santuario de Chimayo for healing long before Spanish occupation. In 1693, led by Diego de Vargas, the Spanish returned to reconquer New Mexico. The Spanish regained control of the area, creating a perpetual flow of Spanish and Mexican settlers to northern New Mexico. The returning and newly arrived Hispanic families dispersed along the Santa Cruz River and in the village of El Potrero, the future site of the shrine. By 1805, commitment to a miraculous Guatemalan image of Christ crucified known as Our Lord of Esquipulas had become popular in El Potrero. Devotion to Our Lord of Esquipulas originated at an early colonial shrine in Guatemala, at which the earth was said to be effective in curing illnesses. Franciscan friars spread commitment to this image of Christ crucified throughout Mexico and to New Mexico. The people of El Potrero passed on a series of legends concerning the apparition of Our Lord of Esquipulas from generation to generation in the Chimayo area. According to the most popular tradition, on the Holy Week night of Good Friday in 1810, Don Bernardo Abeyta, a member of the Penitentes, saw a light beaming out of one of the hills near the Santa Cruz River in Chimayo. He went to the spot and saw that the light was coming out of the ground. Digging with his bare hands, he found a Crucifix, which he immediately associated with Our Lord of Esquipulas. He left it there and a group of men went to notify the priest, Fray Sebastián Alvarez. The priest set out for Chimayo and carried the Crucifix back to his church in Santa Cruz, placing it in the niche of the main altar. The next morning, the Crucifix was gone and found in its original location in Chimayo. This same process was repeated two more times, and the Crucifix always ended up back in its original location thus making it apparent that Our Lord of Esquipulas wanted to reside in Chimayo. Another legend claims that Don Bernardo Abeyta had a vision while plowing his fields that directed him to dig beneath his plow where he would find earth with great healing powers. In 1813, on behalf of the residents of El Potrero, Abeyta petitioned the priest for permission to build a chapel dedicated to Our Lord of Esquipulas on what the people believed to be the site of the miraculous Crucifix or earth with healing powers. The miraculous healings grew so numerous it required replacing the chapel with the larger, current shrine in 1816. The healings started as a result of the miraculous earth or sand found under the shrine. It is said that the earth at Chimayo can be mixed with water to make mud and eaten or applied to the skin in order to heal a person of an ailment. Some people take vials of the sand with them as a remembrance of their pilgrimage to Chimayo. (Adapted from the Latino American Heritiage Travel Itinerary)

Site Information

Location  (On NM 76 (the High Road) in the town of Chimayo, NM)  El Santuario de Chimayo sits in the center of the small village of El Potrero, one of several settlements in the Santa Cruz Valley collectively called Chimayo. El Santuario de Chimayo is a well preserved small adobe church with twin front towers with belfries, wooden doors, a wall-enclosed garden, and an arched gate with a cross on top. The interior is a colorful mixture of Spanish and Indian decorations and styles. The nave of the church is decorated with original astonishing examples of 19th century Hispanic religious folk art, including several santos and religious frescoes. Behind the altar stands the miraculous statue of Our Lord Esquipulas. On the left side of the nave are two separate rooms. El Santuario remained in the ownership of the descendants of Bernardo Abeyta until 1929, when the Spanish Colonial Arts Society in Santa Fe that writer Mary Austin, artist Frank Applegate and architect/preservationist John Gaw Meem headed, purchased it from the family and donated it to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. Safety Considerations

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Old Spanish National Historic Trail

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Last updated: March 23, 2024

Historic buildings in Taos, New Mexico.

  • 7 Best Towns In New Mexico to Visit In 2024

Known as the Land of Enchantment, the southwestern state of  New Mexico  offers vast landscapes, cultural events, and heritage sites for visitors to explore. In 2024, several towns throughout the state boast anniversary celebrations, vibrant art shows, and enchanting hot-air balloon rallies. From celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Gila Wilderness in Silver City in the southwest corner of the state to enjoying the 50th  Taos  Fall Arts Festival in northern New Mexico, there is much to explore. Whether taking a walking tour in Los Alamos of sites from the Oscar-nominated movie  Oppenheimer  or viewing spectacular  meteor showers  in  Ruidoso , here are the seven best towns in New Mexico to visit in 2024. 

Ancient dwellings of Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

One of the best towns to visit in New Mexico in 2024 is Taos, where art, culture, and history come alive. In 2024, the town will celebrate the 50th Taos Fall Arts Festival. From September 4 to 15, works from local artists will be on display around town. More splendor will be showcased at the 41st Taos Mountain Balloon Rally from October 25 to 27. The balloon rally features approximately 50 colorful hot air balloons against the blue sky and autumn foliage in the high country of New Mexico. For historical views, visitors can explore the  Taos Pueblo , which is made up of adobe buildings that have been occupied for more than 1,000 years. The site is the only living Native American community that is both a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  and a National Historic Landmark. 

Taos also boasts incredible outdoor adventures year-round. In the winter, Taos offers world-class skiing at Taos Ski Valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Throughout the year, visitors enjoy hiking the scenic trails along the rim of the Rio Grande Gorge, which offers breathtaking views of the  Rio Grande River  while crossing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. At 650 feet above the river, the bridge is the fifth tallest bridge in the country.

Silver City

Bullard Street in downtown Silver City, New Mexico.

Located in southwestern New Mexico is Silver City, a charming town that blends history, natural beauty, and memorable events. Marking the 100th anniversary of the Gila Wilderness, 2024 is a great time to visit Silver City. From September 27-29, nature enthusiasts can celebrate the centennial of America’s first designated wilderness area at the  Gila River  Festival with workshops, art, and entertainment. The Gila Wilderness is part of the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest, which offers scenic outdoor adventures and history to discover. The forest is home to the  Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument,  which showcases Mongolian homes from the late 1280s through the early 1300s. Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike along hundreds of miles in the forest, including the  Continental Divide  Scenic Trail, which covers 3,100 miles from  Montana ’s border with  Canada  to New Mexico’s border with  Mexico . 

In 2024, the town will also host the annual Fiesta Latina cultural event at Western New Mexico University, celebrating the town’s Latino heritage. The school is also home to the Western New Mexico University Museum, located in historic Fleming Hall, which was built in 1917. The museum showcases Southwestern pottery and artifacts, such as Upland Mogollon ceramics, parts of Mimbres pueblo rooms, and works by current artists.

Morning view of the Ashley Pond Park at Los Alamos, New Mexico

Located 30 miles west of  Santa Fe  is Los Alamos, one of the best towns in New Mexico to visit in 2024 for history, science, and art. Situated in the Santa Fe National Forest, the town is well-known for the role it played in the  Manhattan Project  when atomic weapons were secretly built in the town during  World War II . Visitors can explore the sites in the Manhattan Project National Park, including the Oppenheimer House. The building was home to  Manhattan Project Scientific Director J. Robert Oppenheimer  and was used in the filming of the movie  Oppenheimer . More history can be discovered at the Los Alamos History Museum, which offers guided tours of some of the sites that were part of the Manhattan Project. Continuing with its scientific heritage, the town hosts the annual Los Alamos ScienceFest. From July 12-16, 2024, visitors can participate in interactive events, concerts, and science demonstrations at the festival.

Beyond its scientific history, Los Alamos is also renowned for its vibrant art scene. On October 5, 2024, Los Alamos will host the annual Day of Arts and Culture. Visitors can enjoy art demonstrations, live music, and dance performances throughout the town at the event. More music can be enjoyed outdoors during Tuesdays at the Square, featuring live music every Tuesday evening in June and July at Central Park Square.

Downtown Ruidoso, New Mexico.

Ruidoso is one of the best small towns in New Mexico for outdoor adventures, art shows, and mountain views in 2024. The town is known for its dark sky and offers optimal viewing for several meteor showers in 2024, including the Eta Aquarids on May 4 and 5 and the Draconids on October 8 and 9. For more incredible views, outdoor enthusiasts can hike, camp, and view wildlife in the Lincoln National Forest. The forest also offers breathtaking vista views, the most famous being Windy Point Vista near Ski Apache in the Sierra Blanca Mountains. The southernmost ski resort, Ruidoso, is a great base for those who want to ski in the winter or explore the biking trails and zip line at Ski Apache during warmer months.

The enchanting town is also home to an eclectic art community. From July 5 through 7, 2024, Ruidoso will be part of the 29th Annual Lincoln County Art Loop. The art festival features dozens of artists and galleries in town, including Earth-n-Stone Gallery. Later in the month, July 26-28, art lovers can enjoy the 53rd Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival. Hundreds of artists from around the country participate in the juried art show, which features jewelry, collectible art, and various visual artworks.

Truth Or Consequences

Street scenery in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

Once known as  Hot Springs , the eclectic town of  Truth or Consequences  is a great town to visit for natural hot springs, outdoor activities, and memorable annual events. In 2024, the town will host the annual Truth or Consequences Fiesta from May 3-5. The fiesta features a rodeo, live music, and a parade through town. Also in town is the Historic Hot Springs and Downtown District, where visitors can enjoy hot springs at local spas, such as the Fire Water Lodge. Nearby is the Geronimo Springs Museum, where visitors can explore pottery that dates back nearly 2,000 years. Other than prehistoric pottery, the museum showcases fossils, minerals, and an authentic miner’s cabin that was originally built in the Gila National Forest.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Truth or Consequences offers water sports, fishing, and camping nearby at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Each year, New Mexico’s largest state park also hosts the annual Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta. From August 2 through 4, 2024, visitors can witness incredible views of hot air balloons in the high desert over the Rio Grande. More outdoor excitement will take place from October 3 to 6, 2024, at the Sierra County Fair, where travelers can enjoy local food, arts and crafts, and livestock shows.

One of the many artisan shops in the historic town of Mesilla

Located within a one-hour drive from Mexico, the historic town of Mesilla will celebrate its 170th anniversary as part of America in 2024. The town was transferred from Mexico to the United States during the Gadsden Purchase on November 16, 1854, witnessed in the town’s plaza. The Mesilla Plaza is known as the heart of Mesilla and the site of several traditional events each year. In 2024, the plaza will host the annual  Cinco de Mayo  festival on May 4 and 5. Mesilla will also celebrate  Mexican Independence Day  on September 14 and 15 during the annual Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiestas in the plaza. The celebration includes exciting mariachi music, traditional folkloric dances, and authentic Mexican cuisine for all to enjoy.

Located near Mesilla Plaza, visitors can learn more about the town’s past and view historic architecture, such as the Basilica of San Albino, which still rings the bells from the 1870s. Nearby is the eclectic Gadsden Museum, featuring Native American art, a reproduction of the Gadsden Purchase, and Old West memorabilia. For those wanting to explore the outdoors, the town is home to Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park along the Rio Grande. The park is one of the stops along the Statewide Birding Trail, and an Audubon-designated Important Birding Area.

The city of Farmington, New Mexico.

Situated in the  Four Corners  area of New Mexico,  Colorado ,  Utah , and  Arizona  is Farmington, one of the best towns to visit in the state during 2024. From August 30 through September 1, Farmington will host the 35th Annual Totah Festival & Indian Market. The festival features Native American art, a Cultural Dance Expo, and an authentic  Navajo  Rug Auction. Later in the month, from September 27-29, visitors can view the breathtaking Four Corners Balloon Rally. The balloons take flight in the morning and then light up the night skies during the evening Balloon Glow from Lake Farmington. The lake is also a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, kayaking, and camping. 

For those looking for more water adventures, the town sits at the junction of the Animas River, the La Plata River, and the  San Juan River , which offers world-class trout fishing. Located along the Animas River is the Farmington Museum, where visitors can test how well they would survive in eight different extreme environments from February 3 through May 4, 2024, at the Survival Exhibition. Another exhilarating event in town is the annual Southwest Apple and Chile Fest, October 3 to 5, in historic Farmington at Orchard Plaza Park. The festival celebrates Farmington’s apple heritage and vibrant art community with an art walk through downtown.

New Mexico’s Enchanting Towns

In 2024, these seven New Mexico towns are ideal for engaging in southwestern cultural events, anniversary celebrations, and annual festivals. Whether witnessing the Balloon Glow in Farmington, joining in Mesilla’s 170th anniversary of being part of the US, or exploring the Sierra County Fair in Truth or Consequences, these seven towns offer something for everyone. For those seeking an authentic southwest getaway in 2024, these towns will provide an unforgettable experience.

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2024 Solar Eclipse: The 13 Best Places to See the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

image of a total solar eclipse

The 2024 solar eclipse is less than one month away, making it the ideal time plan exactly how you’ll see the incredible event. On April 8, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. The natural phenomenon, known as a total solar eclipse, happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face. According to NASA , there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, making it all the more important to catch this one. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to experience the eclipse.

What exactly is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

image of a total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do people safely watch a total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the total solar eclipses last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the solar eclipse path

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

Map of a total solar eclipse

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where are the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse?

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Aerial image of Mazatlan Mexico

Mazatlán, Mexico.

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Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for four minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

A soccer stadium in Torreon Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for four minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

An image of Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country.

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

A lake in a park in Arkansas

Russellville, Arkansas.

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience four minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau Missouri

Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

An image of Carbondale Illinois on a partly cloudy day

Carbondale, Illinois.

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience four minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

The campus of Indiana University in Bloomington Indiana

Bloomington, Indiana.

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m. Indianapolis, the state’s capital, is another good city to watch the eclipse, but totality will last for less time, about three minutes and 47 seconds.

Cleveland Ohio on a cloudy day

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m, which will last for just under four minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

a lake in Erie Pennsylvania

Erie, Pennsylvania.

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for three minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

image of downtown Buffalo at dusk

Buffalo, New York.

Buffalo, New York, will see three minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

the border between the united states and canada in Niagara Falls

Niagara Region, Ontario.

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for three minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington Vermont

Burlington, Vermont.

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience three minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

A park in Houlton Maine on a sunny day

Houlton, Maine.

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for three minutes and 20 seconds.

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tc hotel awards 2024 the best looking new minimalist hotels

T&C Hotel Awards 2024: The Best New Minimalist Hotels

When less is more, here are some perfectly pared-down places.

the tc hotel awards 2024

Sea Cabins at Manshausen, Norway

sea cabins at manshausen island, norway

Even by Norwegian standards, 14-acre Manshausen Island is out there, a place for close encounters with the extreme north.It’s also home to one of Norway’s architectural wonders: The Sea Cabins at Manshausen . The glass-walled Sea Cabins, brain child of Arctic explorer Borge Ousland, give you front-row seats on some of nature’s most impressive spectacles, from the midnight sun to the northern lights. Two new "sea towers," named Nansen and Amundsen, for two of Norway's famous explorers, even have glass roofs so you can count the stars from bed. More arduous pursuits? Plenty. Such as the Nordskot Traverse, a trail with cliffs falling away to each side. —John Newton

To book a trip to Norway, contact Torunn Tronsvang of UpNorway , [email protected]

Boca de Agua, Mexico

hotel boca de agua by frida escobedoin mexico's yucatan

Star Mexican architect Frida Escobedo, who in 2018 designed London’s Serpentine Pavilion and is at work on the modern and contemporary wing of New York’s Metropolitan Museum, has built a hotel on Yucatan’s aqua-blue Bacalar lagoon. The 26 understated rooms of Boca de Agua use tropical woods (responsibly sourced), are flooded with sunlight that pours in through what are more windows than walls, and sit atop pillars—creating a treehouse effect and reducing environmental impact. Escobedo’s hope is that over time the hotel will further integrate into its tropical setting; as you'll wish you could after a few days here. —John Newton

To book a trip to Mexico, contact Zachary Rabinor of Journey Mexico, [email protected]

The Bolder, Norway

the bolder hotel on lysefjord by norwegian design firm snohett

Not far from Stavanger in southern Norway, Lysefjord cuts a dramatic path through mountains that rise thousands of feet along each of its shores. The latest addition to this visual feast is some cutting-edge Scandinavian design by Snøhetta, the Norwegian firm behind the Oslo Opera House and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt: The Bolder and its minimalist concrete-and-glass Sky Lodges, which appear to float above the fjord. Their muted interiors are pared back but warm, and the effect is somewhere between a cozy treetop aerie and a Bond-like modernist lair. —John Newton

To book a trip to Norway: Torunn Tronsvang of UpNorway, [email protected]

Otro, Oaxaca

otro hotel in oaxaca, overlooked by a baroque church

Hotels in this culinary and cultural capital of Mexico can often go overboard with handicrafts when it comes to their interiors. The 16-room Otro Oaxaca , from Mexico’s Grupo Habita (which over more than two decades has worked with talented architects and designers, both Mexican and international), opts for a very different look: that of a soothing oasis, at once modernist and inspired by ancient Mesoamerican sites like nearby Mitla. Raw concrete and brick buildings sit on the hotel’s courtyards offering picturesque perspectives while a rooftop terrace has views of the nearby Santo Domingo church, a Baroque gem. The rooms may feel spartan to some, but their simplicity focuses attention on the local elements of their design, like woven bedspreads and reclaimed wood walls. —John Newton

Longfellow Hotel, Portland, Maine

longfellow hotel portland maine lounge area

This new independent, family owned and operated hotel takes to heart the philosophy of its namesake, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who once wrote, “In character, in manners, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity.” Think less a modernist aesthetic here, more a certain timeless New England restraint. The guest rooms at the Longfellow are comfortable and not flashy, with soaking tubs and views of Portland from TRNK couches. (The design is by Brooklyn-based Post Company, masters of an inviting vintage aesthetic.) The hotel also leans into a wellness theme, with its Astraea spa and healthy menu options at the Twinflower Café. When cocktail hour rolls around at the Five of Clubs lounge, you’ll arrive glowing. —John Newton

To book: Longfellow

Our Method : To compile this list of great-looking new hotels around the world, we followed not whimsy but rules: 1) They had to have opened no earlier than 2023. 2) They had to have been nominated by eithe r T&C ’s well traveled editors or our roundtable of 37 globetrotting travel advisors (preferably both). There were 172 nominees, and 53 made it through our vetting process. Bon voyage!

Headshot of Klara Glowczewska

Klara Glowczewska is the Executive Travel Editor of Town & Country , covering topics related to travel specifically (places, itineraries, hotels, trends) and broadly (conservation, culture, adventure), and was previously the Editor in Chief of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 

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A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

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The sun flares at the edge of the moon during a total eclipse.

By Katrina Miller

On April 8, North America will experience its second total solar eclipse in seven years. The moon will glide over the surface of our sun, casting a shadow over a swath of Earth below. Along this path, the world will turn dark as night.

Skywatchers in Mexico will be the first to see the eclipse on the mainland. From there, the show will slide north, entering the United States through Texas, then proceeding northeast before concluding for most people off the coast of Canada.

Why eclipses happen is simple: the moon comes between us and the sun. But they are also complicated. So if you’ve forgotten all of your eclipse facts, tips and how-to’s since 2017, we’re here to explain it for you.

But before we dive in, there is one thing to know that is more important than anything else: It is never safe to look directly at the sun during an eclipse (except for the few moments when the moon has fully obscured its surface). At all other times, watch the event through protective eye equipment . Read on to learn about how to watch an eclipse safely.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon orients itself between Earth and the sun, shielding the solar surface from our view.

In cosmic terms, it is unusual that this happens: the moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, but it is about 400 times closer to us. That means that when these two celestial bodies are aligned, they appear to be the same size in the sky.

What other types of eclipses are there?

Annular solar eclipses occur when the moon is farther from Earth and appears too small to completely shield the sun’s surface. Instead, the outer part of the solar disk remains uncovered — a “ring of fire” in the sky.

Partial solar eclipses happen when Earth, the moon and the sun are imperfectly aligned. The moon only obscures a chunk of the sun. There will be two in 2025.

Earth can also get between the moon and the sun, creating a lunar eclipse. This can be observed once or twice a year .

How dark will it be during the eclipse?

In any given place along the eclipse path , the event will last around two hours or more.

The event will commence with a partial solar eclipse, as the moon takes a small bite out of the sun’s edge, then consumes more and more of its surface. According to NASA , this can last anywhere from 70 to 80 minutes.

The phase of the eclipse where the moon has completely blocked the sun’s surface is called totality. This is the only time the event can be viewed with the naked eye.

The length of totality varies by location. In April, some places will experience this phase for more than four minutes; others, for only one to two minutes.

During totality, the sky will get dark as night and the temperature will drop. Wispy white strings of light from the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will suddenly be visible. Lucky viewers may even spot a thin, reddish-pink circle around the edge of the moon. That’s the chromosphere, an atmospheric layer below the sun’s corona. Its color comes from the presence of hydrogen throughout the layer.

After totality, the sun will slowly peek out from behind the moon again — another partial eclipse that will last the same amount of time as the first one. The moon will recede until the sun is back to normal brightness in our sky.

How can I watch the solar eclipse safely?

In general, avoid looking directly at the sun without special equipment to protect your eyes. Inexpensive options for watching the eclipse include paper solar viewers and glasses. If you are using equipment purchased for a past solar eclipse, make sure to inspect it. Toss anything with scratches or other signs of damage.

According to NASA , it is not safe to look at the sun through any optical device while using paper glasses or viewers. To watch the eclipse through cameras, binoculars or telescopes, buy a special solar filter.

The only time you can view a solar eclipse with the naked eye is during the moments of totality. Once the moon begins to reveal the surface of the sun again, return to watching the event through protective equipment to avoid injury.

What happens if I look at the eclipse without protection?

In general, staring directly at the sun, even for a few seconds, can cause permanent damage to your eyes . This can range from blurry or distorted vision to something even more serious, like blind spots. Because there are no pain receptors in the retina, you won’t feel it while it’s happening.

The same is true during an eclipse — except during the brief moments of totality, when the moon has hidden the face of the sun. At all other times, use protective eye equipment to view the event.

What do I do if I can’t find eclipse glasses?

If it’s too late to get glasses or viewers, there’s always a do-it-yourself option: a pinhole camera to indirectly experience the eclipse. You can create one using cardstock , a cardboard box , a kitchen strainer or even your fingers . These designs project an image of the eclipse onto the ground or some other surface that is safe to look at.

Where are the best places to watch the eclipse?

The total eclipse will sweep across large portions of Mexico, the United States and eastern Canada. For the most dramatic show, it’s best to experience the eclipse along the path of totality , which is where the moon will completely blot out the sun.

The Path of the Eclipse

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada. Viewers outside the path of the total eclipse will see a partial eclipse, if the sky is clear .

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Percentage of

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Viewers near Mazatlán, a beach town on the Pacific shoreline of Mexico, will be the first place to experience totality on North America’s mainland. Various sites in Mexico along the eclipse’s path will experience the longest duration of totality — as long as four minutes and 29 seconds.

Cities across the United States, including Dallas, Indianapolis and Cleveland, will most likely be hot spots for the upcoming eclipse. Other notable locations include Carbondale, Ill., which also saw totality during the solar eclipse in 2017; small towns west of Austin, Texas, which are projected to have some of the best weather in the country along the eclipse path; and Niagara Falls, if the skies are clear. Six provinces of Canada are in the path of totality, but many of them have a very cloudy outlook.

When does the eclipse begin and end?

The show begins at dawn, thousands of miles southwest of the Pacific shore of Mexico. The moon starts to conceal the sun near Mazatlán at 9:51 a.m. local time. Viewers near Mazatlán will experience totality at 11:07 a.m. for four minutes and 20 seconds.

Then the moon’s shadow will swoop through Mexico, crossing over the Texas border at 1:10 p.m. Eastern time. Totality in the United States will start at 2:27 p.m. and end at 3:33 p.m. Eastern time.

Canadians will experience the solar eclipse in the afternoon for nearly three hours. The eclipse concludes beyond Canada’s boundaries when the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean.

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How long will the eclipse last?

The duration of totality depends on how far a given location on Earth is from the moon. Places with the longest totality are closest to the moon and farther from the sun. The speed of the lunar shadow is slowest over spots with the longest totality.

In April, the longest period of totality will occur over Durango, a state in Mexico, for a total of four minutes and 29 seconds. Along the centerline, the location of shortest totality on land is on the eastern coast of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, for about two minutes and 54 seconds. But totality is even shorter along the edges of the total eclipse path; in some places, it lasts less than a minute.

How fast does the eclipse move?

Solar eclipses may seem to happen slowly, but the moon’s shadow is racing across the surface of Earth. Exact speeds vary by location. Eclipse calculators estimate the shadow will move between about 1,560 m.p.h. and 1,600 m.p.h. through Mexico, and more than 3,000 m.p.h. by the time it exits the United States. The eclipse will reach speeds exceeding 6,000 m.p.h. over the Atlantic Ocean.

When was the last total solar eclipse in the United States?

According to the American Astronomical Society , total solar eclipses happen once every year or so, but they can only be viewed along a narrow path on Earth’s surface. Many occur over water or other places that can be difficult to reach. A given location will experience totality once in about 400 years.

But some places get lucky: Carbondale, a college town in southern Illinois, saw the total solar eclipse in the United States on Aug. 21, 2017, and will experience another one this April. San Antonio experienced an annular eclipse last October, and is also in the path of totality for this year’s eclipse.

Do other planets experience solar eclipses?

Yes, any planet in our solar system with a moon can experience a solar eclipse. In February, a Martian rover captured Phobos , one of the red planet’s moons, transiting the sun.

The moons on other planets, though, appear either smaller or larger than the sun in the sky . Only Earth has a moon just the right size and at just the right distance to produce the unique effects of totality.

How will things on Earth change during the eclipse?

As the eclipse approaches its maximum phase, the air will get cooler, the sky will grow dimmer, shadows will sharpen and you might notice images of crescents — tiny projections of the eclipse — within them. Along the path of totality, the world will go dark while the moon inches toward perfect alignment with Earth and the sun.

Animals will also react to the solar eclipse. Bees stop buzzing , birds stop whistling and crickets begin chirping. Some pets may express confusion . Even plants are affected, scientists found after the solar eclipse in 2017 . They have diminished rates of photosynthesis and water loss similar to, though not as extreme as, what happens at night.

What if I can’t get to the path of totality?

Viewers in locations away from the eclipse path will see the moon partially blot out the sun, though how perceptible the effects are depends on the site’s distance from the centerline. (The closer you are, the more remarkable it will be.) Still, it won’t be quite like experiencing the eclipse during totality.

Remember that you should always wear protective eye equipment while watching a partial eclipse.

If you can’t make it to the path of totality but still want to experience it, many organizations are providing live video streams of the eclipse, including NASA and Time and Date . The Exploratorium, a museum in San Francisco, will also offer a sonification of the eclipse and a broadcast in Spanish.

What have we learned from solar eclipses?

In the 1800s, a French astronomer discovered the element helium by studying the spectrum of sunlight emitted during an eclipse. These events also allowed the first scientific observations of coronal mass ejections — violent expulsions of plasma from the sun’s corona — which can cause power outages and communication disruptions on Earth. Scientists also confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which says that massive objects bend the fabric of space-time, during a solar eclipse in 1919.

And there is more to discover. This April, NASA plans to fly instruments on planes to capture images of the solar corona, and launch rockets to study how the drop in sunlight during an eclipse affects Earth’s atmosphere. A radio telescope in California will try to use the moon as a shield to measure emissions from individual sunspots .

The public is joining the fun, too. During the eclipse, a team of ham radio operators will beam signals across the country to study how solar disturbances can affect communications. Some people along the path of totality will record sounds from wildlife . Others will use their phones to snap pictures of the eclipse to help sketch out the shape of the solar disk .

An earlier version of this article referred imprecisely to eclipse on other worlds. Some appear larger than the sun in sky, they are not all partial eclipses.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

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