If you want a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning nearly 121,000 square miles, the state is known for its rich Native American history, vast landscapes (from towering sand dunes to underground caves), incredible archaeological ruins, national historic sites (including cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings and centuries-old churches), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no wonder New Mexico has the nickname “The Land of Enchantment.”
To narrow down the best places to visit in the state, we reached out to local experts to find out their top picks. Read on to discover the best places to visit in New Mexico, from vast national parks to small towns.
White Sands National Park
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Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum sand dune park and looks and feels like something from another planet. The pure white, wavy sand dunes resemble snowy mountains, and visitors can hike and sled here any time of the year. The park is also notable for being home to several white-colored animals, including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths, whose colors have faded over time to adapt to their environment.
Cause Sharp Historic Site
Visit New Mexico
Angelisa Murray, CEO of Taos guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations, called the Cause-Sharp Historic Site a “true gem” and “a wonderful place to visit.” [her] “It’s one of my favorite museums,” says Murray, and it’s home to the former home and art studio of Taos Artists Association (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Coase. “Guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Coase depicted in his paintings… and they can travel back in time and get a real feel for Taos in the early 1900s,” Murray says.
Abiquiu
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“Abiquiu is one of my favorite small towns to take guests to,” says Murray. Settled by Spanish settlers in the mid-18th century, the town has a look and feel straight out of a classic Wild West, and visitors may have seen it featured in fan-favorite films like Indiana Jones. But the town is also famous as the hometown of famed American artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Be sure to visit O’Keeffe’s home and studio, and Ghost Ranch, the artist’s summer home about 20 minutes northwest. Murray also recommends a stop at Bose, the state’s first general store, which Murray says “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler.”
Bandelier National Monument
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Known for its spectacular plateaus, canyons, and ancestral homes of the Pueblo people, this national monument spans over 33,000 acres of rugged terrain and is a must-see for history and nature lovers. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail is a popular hike that passes through various ruins. For more thrills, climb the ladders along the route into small man-made caves. Experienced hikers can also tackle the more challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (8 miles one way). If you want to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail, you’ll need to take the shuttle, which runs daily from 9am to 3pm (mid-June to mid-October).
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
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To experience Pueblo culture firsthand, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by New Mexico’s 19 pueblos. Inside you’ll find a museum, exhibit galleries, murals by Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen, serving fresh Native American cuisine. Shop for a wide selection of souvenirs, including Native American artwork, traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs and more. Pro tip: check the events calendar for the most up-to-date program schedule.
Chimayo Church
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Malama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection, recommends an afternoon jaunt to Santuario de Chimayo, about 27 miles from Santa Fe. Now a National Historic Landmark, this picturesque adobe church attracts thousands of visitors each year, according to Nengel. The church is best known for its sacred soil, which is believed to have healing powers. Nengel says a visit to the church is not complete without a trip to the Centinela Traditional Arts Gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when you’ve worked up an appetite, dine on Southwestern cuisine at Rancho de Chimayo.
Puye Cliff Dwellings
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This National Historic Landmark in Los Alamos was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no wonder the site is home to some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic views of the valley are an added bonus. Guided tours are available Monday through Thursday from 9am to 5pm.
Santa Fe Plaza
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Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular local gathering spot. Built by the Spanish in the early 17th century, this National Historic Landmark is known for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. This lively venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a traditional Spanish market in the summer. During the holiday season, the square becomes even more magical when decorated with twinkling lights. In recent years, the area around the plaza has evolved into a bustling hotspot with a variety of restaurants, shops, museums and hotels.
El Rancho de las Golondrinas
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El Rancho de las Golondrinas (“The Swallow Ranch”) is a historic ranch turned living history museum near downtown Santa Fe. Its rural surroundings give it an otherworldly feel, and the 200 acres dotted with impressive adobe buildings will transport you back to 1800s New Mexico. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as the official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note that the ranch is closed to the public from November to March.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
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According to Hans Lohr, Adventure Center designer at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including beautiful trails for hikers of all experience levels. Plus, he told Travel + Leisure, “Guests can wander through aspen, ponderosa and pinyon-juniper forests and meadows bursting with colorful wildflowers, relax near alpine lakes, conquer high mountain peaks and take in breathtaking views from ridges and peaks.”
Rio Grande Valley
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Stretching nearly 50 miles and 800 feet deep, the spectacular Rio Grande Gorge is known as the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Take in spectacular views of the rugged terrain from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, 650 feet above ground. It’s one of the highest bridges in the USA and a popular hiking spot.
Meow Wolf
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For a unique and immersive art experience, Sontana Sanchez, concierge at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends a visit to Meow Wolf. The kaleidoscopic House of Eternal Return “features more than 70 rooms that take visitors on a cosmic adventure that can only be found in Santa Fe,” Sanchez says. Overall, this playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.
San Miguel Chapel
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Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Anarco Historic District, this Spanish colonial mission church is believed to be the oldest church in the United States. It was first built in 1610 but has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). Design-wise, you’ll be amazed by its adobe architecture; the inside is equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and a 750+ pound San Jose Bell that has its own interesting history.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
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This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. This fascinating attraction is home to around 120 caves. Travelers can spend a whole day exploring these fascinating caves, admiring the mysterious stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, the largest single cave chamber in North America. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.
Old Town Albuquerque
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With its narrow, winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque exudes small-town charm. Although much has changed since its founding in 1706, this dynamic destination remains the heart of the city. Though it’s small, with a 10-block radius, Old Town is home to more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques, as well as more than 40 events per year, including car shows, live music performances and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week.
Taos Downtown Historic District
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Taos may be small, but it’s packed with charm and character. What’s more, this historic mountain town is known for its numerous galleries, beautiful hiking trails, and world-class skiing in the winter. In the heart of town, the Downtown Historic District is home to Taos Plaza, built in 1796, where locals and visitors gather to listen to live music and attend events, including a farmers’ market and numerous arts-focused programs. There are also plenty of shops and galleries within walking distance. When it’s time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes or restaurants.
Taos Pueblo
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About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza is Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark. The pueblo has been inhabited for over 1000 years, and many of the adobe buildings remain as they were in the 1500s when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico. Hlauuma (North House) and Hlaukwima (South House) are the site’s most famous structures and are thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the country.
