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Explore the Unique Attractions that New Mexico has to Offer

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We are all travelers. We seek what is true and we push past what we know to be false. The question is: where do we go? What place is true and good and real? Where is the place that will speak to us, crystal clear, in a voice that is familiar and kind? Where is true found…and false forgotten? Where? New Mexico True!

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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.

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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

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

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

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

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

White Sands National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bandelier National Monument

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

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

Address: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544

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

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

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

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

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

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

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

Address: 1808 CR 7950, Nageezi, NM 87037

Santa Rosa Blue Hole

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

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

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

Petroglyph National Monument

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

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

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

Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center

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

Address: 280 Private Drive 1708, Abiquiu, NM 87510

Pecos National Historical Park

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

Address: 1 Peach Drive, Pecos, NM 87552

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

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

Address: 26 Jim Bradford Trail, Mimbres, NM 88049

Relax in a natural hot spring

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

Explore a ghost town

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

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

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

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

Go stargazing

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

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

Four Corners Monument

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

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

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

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

Cumbres & Toltec Railroad

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

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

Address: 500 Terrace Ave., Chama, NM 87520

You might also be interested in:

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• 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

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15 Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

1. Santa Fe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Santa Fe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Albuquerque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Taos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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23 Best Things to do in New Mexico

Mixing rich history and spectacular environments, New Mexico is teeming with underrated destinations. From Santa Fe and Albuquerque to towering mountains and enthralling monuments, travelers will uncover ancient civilizations from centuries ago, historic adobes and plenty of art and culture.

New Mexico has been shaped by Native Americans and Spanish settlers. A unique combination that is unrivaled in the United States. The cultural diversity plays out in the local food scene and in the many things to do in New Mexico with interesting museums and galleries that can be found throughout the state.

So, whether you’re after adventure, history or a mix of both, there is always some you’ll find what you’re looking for in New Mexico.

23. Petroglyph National Monument

Comprising over 25,000 ancient images from the Puebloans and early Spanish settlers, the Petroglyph National Monument is one of the largest in North America. The unique monument is a fascinating look into the life and cultures of those that have come before. With intricate stories showcasing daily life, spirituality, and community.

The best way to see the majority of the petroglyphs is along the monument’s hiking trails. Easy to moderate trails lead you to nearby etchings, with more strenuous treks taking you into beautiful canyons, where caverns have formed over thousands of years. For a simple hike, capture 100 petroglyphs on the Boca Negra Canyon trail, while the Rinconada Canyon Trail is longer but leads to approximately 300 historic petroglyphs.

22. Lincoln National Forest

Established in 1902, the Lincoln National Forest was developed over multiple years to combine several mountain ranges and a vast range of landscapes that are an adventurer’s dream. However, the national forest is best known for being the birthplace of the iconic Smokey the Bear.

Explorers will have their choice of three mountain ranges, Capitan, Sacramento, and Guadalupe. With the elevation range stretching from 4,000 feet to towering 11,500 feet peaks. There are endless trails ready to take you through the mountains that will suit all hiking abilities. Wander through five distinct life zones from subalpine forests to the Chihuahan desert.

21. Riverbend Hot Springs

As you travel around the beautiful landscapes of New Mexico, take the time to relax and appreciate the scenery at the Riverbend Hot Springs. Along the shores of the surging Rio Grande River, recharge your batteries in the natural springs.

You can find the Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences, where the revitalizing waters were believed to be sacred by the Apache and Mimbres peoples. Here, rival Native American warriors would put aside their differences, down their weapons and seek healing in the springs.

The Riverbend Hot Springs feature a high mineral concentration, spectacular views of Turtleback Mountain and haven’t lost their power over the centuries.

20. Meow Wolf (Santa Fe)

Owned by the one and only George R. R. Martin, Meow Wolf in Santa Fe has a different take on the art gallery experience. Rather than halls of paintings, photographs, and sculptures to admire, Meow Wolff has created an interactive experience where you can be a part of the art.

Within Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, you can experience the gallery’s exhibits through various senses, from sight to sound and touch. Rather than just admire the art from a distance, you can decide how each piece makes you feel through your own hands-on experience.

19. Billy the Kid Museum (Fort Sumner)

Celebrating the life of one of America’s iconic outlaws, the Billy the Kid Museum is a wonderful look into his life and the culture of the Old West. The museum is in Fort Sumner and runs out of a small building by a local couple, Don and Lula Sweet.

The building marks the exact spot Billy the Kid died at just 21 years old, having already mustered up a memorable reputation. Inside, you’ll find several displays from his very own rifle to his saddle spurs. Walk through the museum to see rows of old photographs, wanted posters from the Wild West, along with some eye-opening portraits.

18. Four Corners Monument

Ever wanted to be in four places at one time? Well, at the Four Corners Monument, your wishes have come true. The only such occurrence in the United States, here, the borders of New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona collide.

The small monument is a paved square with a circular plaque in the center where each state corner meets. With your legs on two sides and arms on the other, you can be in four states at once.

Compared to cliff dwellings and ancient ruins, it may not stand out as a fascinating attraction. But standing on this unique spot is sure to be a fun icebreaker for years to come.

17. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

For otherworldly landscapes on your travels around New Mexico, you’ll have a hard time topping the Bisti Badlands. Otherwise known as the De-Na-Zin Wilderness, which means “standing crane” in Navajo, the rock formations and petroglyphs are majestic.

The wilderness is 2.5 hours northwest of Albuquerque , placing you in what feels like the middle of nowhere. The eerie silence is complemented by the wondrous natural scenery that is best seen under the rising light of sunrise or the blazing dusk. Have your camera well-charged to capture the man-made statues, petroglyphs, and spires of colorful sandstone.

This is a genuine off-the-beaten path experience, so load up before you arrive as there are no on-site amenities.

16. Gila Cliff Dwellings

Ancient civilizations and historic architecture are no strangers to New Mexico. Whether that be the Puebloan people or the Mogollon tribe. The latter of which built the incredible Gila Cliff Dwellings 700 years ago at the beginning of the 14th century.

You can explore these dwellings from the old mining town of Silver City at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Begin at the visitor center to learn more about the Mogollon culture and the monument’s geological history. From there, join one of several trails into the park. Some guide you to natural caves and hot springs. Or sign up for a guided tour of the cliff dwellings to see how the Mogollon people lived and thrived.

15. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum (Santa Fe)

Chronicling the life work of Georgia O’Keefe, the museum in her name showcases some of the finest nature-based art in the United States. O’Keefe created a broad range of works that focused on flora and the environment of New Mexico, capturing the beauty of the desert landscape like few else.

Visitors can discover the full length of her career as she progressed from a young, up-and-coming creative to a nationally renowned artist. You won’t just find beguiling paintings here. O’Keefe’s works include sketches, photography, and sculptures. You can explore the museum on a self-guided tour with the help of the museum’s app, or join a guided experience for an in-depth exploration of her life’s work.

14. Bandelier National Monument

The Puebloan people called what is now New Mexico home for centuries. Many attractions on our list can be traced to the ancient community, with one of the best examples being the Bandelier National Monument. The monument comprises epic landscapes and enthralling history from vast mesas to excavated ruins.

South of Los Alamos, the Bandelier National Monument is within Frijoles Canyon where the Puebloan lived between 1150 and 1550 A.D. Explore the museum to learn about the civilization and the park’s geology before embarking along one of the 70 miles’ worth of hiking trails. Including the Main Loop Trail that brings you to historic cliff houses and alcoves above the canyon floor.

13. Very Large Array

With its not-so-subtle name, the Very Large Array is a vast collection of giant antennas that combine all their power into a single radio telescope. The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is in central New Mexico and all up there are 27 enormous antennas, creating one of the most incredible vistas in the state.

The Very Large Array is just shy of 7,000 feet above sea level, with the dry desert surroundings bringing immense clarity to astronomers. Through these antennas, astronomers are able to explore the expanse of space to learn about quasars, black holes and cosmic gases. Visitors can embark on self-guided tours to get up close to the giant antennas, while there’s also a museum and theater.

12. Taos Ski Valley

From as high as 12,500 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain, the majestic Taos Ski Valley is the best of its kind in the state. It can be hard to wrap your mind around the desert-laden New Mexico being a ski destination, but Taos Ski Valley’s average snowfall of 25 feet will quickly change your perception.

Blue bird powder days are common under the New Mexico sky. Have your choice of 110 runs serviced by 14 lifts with over 3000 feet of vertical. The mountain is popular with advanced skiers, with over half the runs being black or double black diamonds. But the range of green and blue runs is enough to keep newbies skiing all day long.

11. Sandia Peak Tramway (Albuquerque)

Taking you from the desert floor high into the mountains, the Sandia Peak Tramway is a wonderful way to appreciate the scenery around Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley. The tramway is 2.7 miles long and, depending on the time of year, it may deliver you to a snow-capped peak.

The 15-minute journey leaves you on the crest of the Sandia Mountains, from which you can embark on a bevy of hiking trails, or rush down on a mountain bike. For those that like to do things backwards, you can hike the La Luz trail to the top of Sandia Peak before relaxing on the tramway back to the valley. In the winter, there are 25 miles of slopes to ski.

10. International UFO Museum and Research Center (Roswell)

Inspired by the Roswell Incident of 1947, the International UFO Museum and Research Center opened 45 years later in Roswell . The informative museum is your one stop shop to learn all about the suspicious events that put the small New Mexico town on the map.

You’d be forgiven for thinking the research center has gone all in on the certainty that aliens exist and that each conspiracy theory is true. However, what makes the experience here so great is that the center takes an unbiased look at each event, laying out the timeline and educating visitors on both sides of the story, leaving all of us to make up our own minds.

9. Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway

Traveling from Chama, New Mexico to Antonito, Colorado , the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway is your ticket to the Old West. The railroad first operated in 1881 when its coal-fired steam engine carried passengers through dramatic mountain canyons, alpine desert, and vast valley meadows.

The railroad led to an economic boom along the route with more opportunities, especially in Chama, where the logging industry thrived. Today, the spectacular scenic railway provides a six-and-a-half-hour experience through the beautiful landscapes crossing the 10,000-foot Cumbres Mountain Pass and the Toltec Gorge.

Aside from the memorable scenery, you’ll bear witness to several original structures, including a stop in Osier, Colorado, a historic railroad settlement.

8. Chaco Culture National Historical Park

From the 9th to 13th centuries, the Native American Puebloan people resided in Chaco Canyon. The community was a major trade and commercial hub, and its dozens of striking ruins can be explored today.

To the northwest of Albuquerque, Chaco Canyon National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its preservation can be best appreciated from in front of the 15 enormous structures that once formed this ancient city. The stunning archaeological site offers a range of interpretative experiences from ranger tours to self-guided hikes.

Far from civilization, Chaco Canyon is also noted for having a brilliant starscape. The park presents several astronomy events plus overnight camping.

7. Blue Hole (Santa Rosa)

At a pleasant 62-degrees, Blue Hole is your welcome respite to the heat of day in New Mexico. Santa Rosa is the “City of Natural Lakes” with Blue Hole being the best of the lot. You can find the bell-shaped lake along the iconic Route 66. Blue Hole is an artesian well fed from deep below the surface of the Ogallala Aquifer, thanks to the dissolution of the limestone bedrock.

At 80 feet deep, with crystal clear waters straight out of the Caribbean, it’s a popular destination for casual swimmers and scuba-divers alike. In the height of summer, Blue Hole fills up quick, so get in early to grab a prime spot.

6. Canyon Road (Santa Fe)

In the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the half-mile Canyon Road meanders through the Historic District of Santa Fe. Like Broadway in New York, the stretch of tar cuts through the heart of town, lined by fine art galleries, boutique shops and the best restaurants in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe has a historic art scene, where within the old adobe homes of eras past visitors can explore over 100 galleries, studios, and independent jewelers. Visitors will find all genres along the “Magical Half-Mile” from contemporary to Native American and expressionism.

Get about on foot and explore on a whim following your intuition into any gallery, shop or restaurant that piques your interest.

5. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

There are over 600,000 bridges in the United States, but only five are higher than the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Standing 650 feet above the surging Rio Grande, it was called the “Bridge to Nowhere” in the 1960s, because there was no money to build the road on the other side.

The funding eventually came and now you can drive across one of the most beautiful long-span bridges in the country. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge has appeared in multiple movies, from the Terminator to everyone’s favorite awkward bike gang, Wild Hogs.

While you can appreciate the view from the driver’s seat, it gets better on foot. Walk alongside the sheer drop to soak in the amazing views.

4. Taos Pueblo

From straw and mud bricks, the Puebloan Native Americans created the oldest continuously inhabited residence in the USA. The Taos Pueblo is an invaluable look into the past. The homes date back to the 11th century and while the world is ever changing, 150 people still call these historic structures home. Some of which are five-stories high.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors are free to make their way through the town or sign up for a locally led tour. Life in the village has changed little over the centuries. Without water and electricity, the community lives off what they grow, create, and sell.

After your tour, continue to explore the town that includes a number of beautiful plazas, historic churches, and insightful museums.

3. Carlsbad Caverns

An intricate network of over 100 caves, the Carlsbad Caverns National Park is teeming with stalactites, natural history and yes, plenty of bats. The caverns were formed 250 million years ago, when the limestone sediments were left to their own devices as the inland sea evaporated.

Erosion swept through like a talented artist, creating miles of accessible caverns, with hanging stalactites like icicles dangling from the ceiling above. To your left and right, stalagmites rise from the cave floor, creating an eerie experience befitting of such a location. You can tour the Carlsbad Caverns beside a ranger or embark on your own through the limestone chambers. From May to October, visitors can see the bats fly out in unison during the free nightly Bat Flight event.

2. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Forget Cappadocia and the effervescent Turkish sunrise. The largest hot-air balloon festival is held right here, in Albuquerque. It all began with just over a dozen balloons in 1973. Out of a humble parking lot, the fiesta grew into a phenomenon, attracting annual crowds of over 80,000 people.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta lasts for nine days and begins with a bang. On the first morning, the Mass Ascension event takes place, where over 500 hot-air balloons take to the sky to welcome the desert sunrise. It’s one of the world’s most popular photo-ops and the fuel for an amazing fiesta. Over the ensuing days, there are endless balloon-inspired events, while life on the ground is just as exciting with live entertainment and activities.

1. White Sands National Park

There are no surprises upon reaching White Sands National Park. Here, sparkling white sands paint the landscape that’s constantly evolving with the wind. You can traverse the towering dunes on a number of trails to gain an appreciation for a mesmerizing place that stands in stark contrast to the ever-blue sky.

The white gypsum sand has a smattering of desert brush and shrubs, disturbing the blank canvass. Choose between the elevated Interdune Boardwalk or the Dune Life Nature Trail. The fragility of the landscape means you’ll see most of it from afar, but that’s the perfect way to capture the sheer scale of the unique ecosystem.

If you have time, bring along your camping gear to sleep alongside the dunes under the black, starry sky.

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These 9 New Mexico destinations capture the best of the Land of Enchantment

Dec 5, 2021 • 6 min read

A woman stands at the entrance to New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns © Westend61 / Getty Images

New Mexico earns its "Land of Enchantment" nickname with unsurpassed vistas, history-soaked towns and multi-faceted culture. Often underestimated, the state rewards travelers with family-friendly getaways and bucket-list-worthy adventures around every turn.     

The most famous area is northern New Mexico, with Santa Fe's desertscapes and storied buildings as its centerpiece. However, the southern part of the state has a few marvels stashed in its back pocket, too.

The sovereign lands of 19 Pueblo tribes, two Apache reservations, and the Navajo Nation dot every corner of New Mexico, where the elevation climbs from the banks of the sinuous Rio Grande to the forested peaks of the southernmost ranges of the Rocky Mountains.

Here are the best places to go.

Best for art

It’s hard not to feel like you’re time-traveling in Santa Fe , where 400-year-old burro trails became streets around The Plaza and a grand European-style cathedral towers over low-slung adobe inheritances from the 1600s.

Pull up a barstool in this town and you could be doing so next to an artist who fills local venues rivaling those in New York and Los Angeles. Collectors can spend days perusing the highbrow galleries bookending Canyon Road and the assemblage in the Railyard Arts District . The city also offers a quartet of museums at Museum Hil, including the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art and Museum of International Folk Art , as well as the neon glow of  Meow Wolf ’s House of Eternal Return , a mindbending interactive art installation.

Best for outdoor recreation 

Summiting the tallest peak in the state, rambling with llamas and kayaking the wild and scenic Rio Grande are all in a day’s travel in Taos . Taos Ski Valley offers steep-and-deep skiing and North America’s tallest lift-served run in winter and high-alpine trekking terrain in summer. Outdoorsy folks will revel in the Rio Grande Gorge ’s triple threat of recreation: climbing, rafting, and hiking.  

San Francisco’s counterculture has nothing on Taos, where the local radio station is solar-powered and communes are a contemporary way of life. Sustainable homes known as Earthships sail on the sagebrush mesa northwest of town and curious visitors can bunk inside the packed-tire and glass bottle walls for the night.

Albuquerque

Best for nightlife and culture.

A third of the state’s population lives in the greater Albuquerque area and is supplied with superb bars, concert venues and restaurants. New Mexico overflows with suds, but the Duke City has a corner on the craft beer scene with more than 40 breweries including award-winners such as  Marble Brewery and trendsetters  Bow & Arrow Brewing Co . Oenophiles will find plenty to sip in the city's numerous tasting rooms — don’t miss Gruet Winery ’s sparkling wines.

You might also like: Finding sanctuary in one of America’s few Native-owned breweries

Revelry turns upscale at the KiMo Theatre , where live music and indie flicks get equal billing on the marquees. Meanwhile, two nationally acclaimed cultural attractions tout the state’s founding cultures. Within a tortilla’s toss from downtown, the National Hispanic Culture Center raises the curtain on flamenco, opera, and symphony performances. Meanwhile, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center unfurls the story of the region’s Indigenous peoples through exhibitions, traditional dance performances and a pre-contact–meets–contemporary menu at Indian Pueblo Kitchen .  

Best for families

This mountain hamlet is a perennial vacation spot for families who return each year for its quaint downtown, hearty restaurants, and laidback outdoors scene. Ruidoso is ensconced in the 1.1 million-acre Lincoln National Forest . Two hundred miles of trails carve Sacramento Mountain peaks and wildflower meadows. Be sure to pay your respects at the grave of Smokey Bear , the real-life inspiration for the anti-forest fire mascot, who hails from these hills and is buried in them.

Truth or Consequences

Best for space travel.

This humble haven, aka T or C, was previously best known as an affordable getaway for soaking in geothermal hot springs . Today it’s a billionaire hotspot thanks to two destinations. Spaceport America , the world’s first purpose-built spaceport, is home to Virgin Galactic’s headquarters and was the launch point for Richard Branson’s historic spaceflight in 2021. People who can’t afford a ticket into orbit can stay on the ground with a tour that includes views of the Virgin Galactic fleet and riding a G-force simulator. Travelers also line up for tours of media mogul-turned-conservationist Ted Turner’s reserves . His national-park-sized Ladder and Armendaris Ranches protect majestic landscapes, bison herds and endangered species.  

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Best for spelunking.

Cathedral-sized rooms, double-decker pillars and cascading rock curtains all lie below the surface of the Chihuahuan Desert in southeastern New Mexico. With 119 caves and counting, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to one of the world’s most extensive cave systems, which earned the karst landscape a nod as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Most visitors stay on the main trail, riding the elevator down to the Big Room to wander a football field’s worth of stalagmites and stalactites. The 1.25-mile Natural Entrance trail is well worth taking to see named formations like Devil’s Spring and Whale’s Mouth, even if the return trip requires a thigh-burning 75-story ascent. Intrepid and claustrophobia-immune travelers can venture into remote caves on ranger-guided spelunks.

White Sands National Park

Best for natural splendor.

One of New Mexico’s iconic national parks, the glistening dunes of White Sands National Park sprawl across 275 square miles of deserts. Get started by following Dunes Drive on a 16-mile round trip into the heart of the sugary drifts. But don’t stay in the car. Pack a plastic saucer or buy one from the visitor’s center to sled the 60ft-tall banks. The Alkali Flat Trail travels five miles into the backcountry to the dunes’ birthplace at Lake Otero, a sandy slog that rewards hikers with unspoiled views of the otherworldly gypsum expanse that’s played backdrop to films and music videos.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Best for heritage.

An often-overlooked center of the ancient world, the great houses at Chaco sheltered thousands of people 1200 years ago. The stacked-stone buildings stand as proof of the Ancestral Puebloans’ ancient feats of engineering. Most travelers follow the 9-mile Canyon Loop Drive to sites like Pueblo Bonito , where visitors stoop through doorways and follow age-old passages. Four backcountry trails pass petroglyph sites to reveal vistas of outlying great houses and roads that still carve the mesas of what is now western New Mexico. Come nighttime, the International Dark Sky Park reveals clear views of the Milky Way and sparkling constellations spilling through the midnight sky.

Best for eating chile

No trip to New Mexico is complete without tasting – or gorging yourself on – the state’s signature chile-laden cuisine. You’ll be tripping over chile in Las Cruces as it’s served in everything from enchiladas, beer, wine to waffles. But there are two can’t-miss spots to appreciate the pepper. In town, the New Mexico State University Chile Pepper Institute is the only place in the world dedicated solely to researching capsicum, or chile pepper. Many of the state’s favorite peppers were cultivated here and are grown in the teaching garden. A tour will give you encyclopedic knowledge of the spicy fruit.

Forty miles north, Hatch , the self-proclaimed chile capital of the world, grows so much chile that the town’s name has become synonymous with it. Stop in Sparkys Burgers & BBQ for a green-chile cheeseburger or chile milkshake with enough heat that you’ll remember the meal long after you’ve left.

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