Things to Do in New Mexico
Visiting New Mexico is easy when you know what to do. From Carlsbad Caverns National Park to Taos Pueblo, there are many things to see and do. Read on to learn about some of the best things to do in New Mexico! You’ll also find tips for visiting the Four Corners Monument, Red River Ski and Summer Area, and more! If you’re visiting the state, there’s no better time than now to plan a fun-filled trip!
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
If you are interested in hiking, you can do that in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The park offers hiking trails in the caverns and an elevator for easier access. There are also several trails within the caverns, so you can choose one that suits your level of adventure. Take the Big Room Trail to explore the largest cave chamber in North America.
To experience the natural wonders of this cave, you can take a guided tour. The visitor’s center will explain the history of the cave and the formations you’ll see. You can also speak to a ranger about specific details on the trails. The natural entrance trail, for example, is 750 feet underground and is lined with guardrails. The trails are smooth and clean, and the caves are amazingly well-lit, making for an enjoyable experience.
Bats are another great attraction at the park. You can observe bats at an amphitheater near the cave’s mouth. The program is free, and the rangers will give a brief introduction to the creatures before the flight. You’ll be able to meet the migratory species and the young ones that are born months earlier. If you’re a fan of animals, don’t miss the Bat Flight Amphitheater, which will take place each evening.
Hiking is another popular activity at the park. You can hike along more than 50 miles of above-ground trails. The NPS has a list of the available trails. It is important to note that the road to the park is a dirt road, and low-clearance vehicles should avoid it. You can hike down to the cave, but most people choose to just stay in the park for a few days.
Taos Pueblo
While in Taos, you can also see some great art at one of the many galleries in town. The town is home to many well-known artists, including Ernest Blumenschein and Bert Phillips. If you’re interested in learning more about New Mexican history and culture, you should check out a museum or gallery. The Taos Museum of Art showcases a vast collection of local, regional, and national art.
The town has many museums displaying Hispanic and local artists. Kit Carson’s Home and Museum, built in 1825, tells the story of this explorer and his expedition of the American frontier. Millicent Rogers Museum features Southwestern art. Founded by Rogers’ son, this museum displays over 7,000 objects from the artist’s collection. A visit to Taos is a great way to see a different side of the Pueblo and learn about its history.
Another interesting place to see while in Taos is Taos Pueblo. Its multi-storied adobe dwellings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. Located in Taos County, Taos Pueblo is one of the State’s oldest communities. Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and explore the city’s culture at its heart. It’s definitely worth the trip to the beautiful adobe community.
Visiting Taos Pueblo is one of the most popular activities in Taos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and living Native American community. A trip to Taos Pueblo will make you appreciate the local culture and heritage. There are many things to do in Taos throughout the year, and if you’re looking for something to do on your trip, Taos Pueblo is an excellent place to start.
Four Corners Monument
The Four Corners Monument in New Mexico marks the intersection of four states. This historic spot was first marked by a sandstone shaft, but the monument has been updated multiple times. There has been much debate over its placement since the final state-border surveys of 1901. Because surveyors of that time did not have modern tools and methods, it is not clear if the markers placed along the lines were the actual boundaries.
While visiting the Four Corners, tourists may want to learn about the history and culture of the Native American people who lived in this area. Visitors can visit the booths of various native craftspeople. Afterward, travelers can continue to Monument Valley, where guided tours of the valley are available. Native American guides can lead visitors on hikes, horseback trail rides, and Jeep excursions. Some areas of the Four Corners are listed on the national register of historic places.
The four-state area is home to the Four Corners Monument, which is located off US Highway 160. This landmark is where four states meet: Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. The area covers 25,000 square miles, and is home to Navajo and Ute tribes. If you plan to visit the Four Corners Monument, be prepared for long waits and limited services. If you are planning a visit to the Four Corners Monument, be aware that the local economy is not as developed as it could be.
The Four Corners Monument is located about 50 miles east of Kayenta, NM. It’s a popular destination for travelers on a road trip between Mesa Verde National Park and Monument Valley. While the monument has symbolic value, it’s also fun and attracts enthusiastic visitors. It is definitely worth the trip! It’s a must see in New Mexico! You can also visit the nearby Mesa Verde National Park or Canyonlands.
Red River Ski and Summer Area
You can enjoy seasonal activities at Red River Ski and Summer Area in New Mexico. This Mountain destination is a great place to ski, play mountain biking, hike, or play disc golf. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, you can enjoy the slopes during the winter months. If you prefer summer activities, this Mountain destination offers the perfect mix of both. If you’d like to try something new, you can sign up for one of the many summer activities at the resort.
If you are looking for family fun, you’ll love Red River Ski & Summer Area, located in southwestern New Mexico. The resort features 57 beginner and intermediate trails, a terrain park, and four90 metres (1,600 feet) of vertical drop. It receives 553 cm of snow annually and 300 sunny days each year. Depending on your level of experience, you can take lessons at Red River Ski and Summer Area to advance your skiing skills.
The town of Red River is a little-known mountain outpost in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. While it’s a small town, Red River is packed with adventure. The resort offers world-class ski slopes, a relaxing atmosphere, and friendly people. A visit to Red River is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll be on a relaxing ski vacation in the mountains just a short drive away from Santa Fe.
Whether you prefer to ski or enjoy a day of sunbathing, Red River is a perfect destination for a summer getaway. Red River Ski & Summer Area is a great destination for hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, fishing, and more. A visit to Red River Ski and Summer Area is sure to make your trip an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to check out the website and plan!
Ghost Ranch
While in New Mexico, you should consider visiting the 21,000-acre Georgia O’Keeffe Ghost Ranch. This retreat and education center is near the village of Abiqui in Rio Arriba County. The ranch was the subject of many of the artist’s paintings. Here, you can experience New Mexico’s history through a famous artist’s eyes. Once you visit the Ghost Ranch, you’ll understand why she was inspired to paint this spectacular landscape.
Located in the heart of New Mexico, Ghost Ranch is a perfect place for an unforgettable vacation. The beautiful and historic surroundings are sure to inspire your inner artist. The site has been featured in movies, and it’s the ideal backdrop for any photo or art project. Today, the ranch offers excellent educational retreats and offers a unique escape from the stresses of city life. The only downside? No pets are allowed.
When visiting Ghost Ranch, be sure to check out the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. The site is home to the artist’s summerhouse and the world’s largest dinosaur fossil collection. In addition, you can see the world’s only complete Coelophysis, New Mexico’s state fossil. The area’s rich history began thousands of years ago when humans first moved into the area. Numerous tribes have lived here throughout the centuries. The archaeological record of Ghost Ranch goes back thousands of years.
While visiting the Ghost Ranch, don’t forget to take in the natural beauty of the state. The red sandstone vistas and the bushy juniper trees have long inspired some of the greatest artists of the 20th century. Famous landscape artists such as Ansel Adams and Georgia O’Keeffe have both been inspired by the Ghost Ranch’s landscape. While it’s difficult to visit this place without a photo, it’s a must-see for any New Mexico vacation.
The Best Sightseeing in New Mexico
In addition to the state’s diverse natural and cultural attractions, New Mexico is home to some of the nation’s most stunning architecture. The state lies in the southern Rocky Mountains and shares the Four Corners region with neighboring Utah and Colorado. If you’re looking for something different to do while you’re visiting New Mexico, here are a few of the best options for sightseeing. We’ll also touch on some of the best shopping in New Mexico.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Among the many New Mexican attractions, Carlsbad Caverns National Park provides a fantastic experience for anyone interested in natural history and wildlife. You can also visit the Visitor Center to learn more about the cave’s formation and the park’s history. You can purchase a souvenir from the gift shop or eat at the Caverns Cafe. You must plan your visit to the Caverns early enough to see the bats.
You can see more than half a million Mexican Free-Tail Bats at the cave’s mouth at dusk. The park has a bat flight program that runs from Memorial Day Weekend to the end of October. The program is free and available to everyone. Be sure to book your ticket ahead of time, though, because seats fill up fast. Afterwards, you can relax and enjoy the views of the natural landscape from the cave’s rim.
If you’re visiting Carlsbad Caverns, you might also want to visit the nearby Pine Springs State Park. While most visitors stay in Carlsbad, NM, there are other options available, like lodging in Roswell. You can check out the park’s history at the Pine Springs Visitors Center, and hike along the Pinery Trail for great views and spectacular views.
You won’t find more spectacular natural scenery anywhere else in the world. You’ll find 119 known caves in the park. This breathtaking place is likely to become a conversation topic for years. The spectacular rock formations and huge rooms of the caverns will leave you spellbound. You can’t fail to become awestruck by the beauty of this natural park.
White Sands National Monument
When visiting the white sands of New Mexico, you will want to take note of the seasons. White Sands is best visited between October and April. In July and August, you can expect late afternoon thunderstorms. Spring months are known for high winds and hot temperatures. While the park is small, it still has a lot to offer. There are so many activities and views to take in during your visit that you will want to spend at least a couple of days here.
If you’re an amateur photographer, you can take advantage of the park’s Sun Rising Over Dunes program, which is held twice a year. This hands-on program allows you to observe and photograph different aspects of the monument, including the wildlife. There are 44 different species of mammals living in the White Sands. It also offers a ranger program that takes place once every other month beginning January 2014. If you’d like to learn more about the history of the region and see how people have impacted the environment over time, you can sign up for a junior ranger badge or join a guided tour.
Visitors can explore the unique landscape of the White Sands National Monument and participate in activities such as dune sledding. The area around the White Sands National Monument is populated with a wide range of amenities. There are numerous campgrounds and hotels around the area, and you can find a hotel or motel in any of these towns. If you’re planning on staying in the area, you can check out some of the local amenities in ALAMOGORDO and LAS CRUCES.
Bandelier National Monument
Located near Los Alamos, the 33,677-acre Bandelier National Monument is a must-see while in the state of New Mexico. This monument is the oldest and largest of its kind, preserving ancestral puebloan territory. Its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore its diverse ecosystems and learn about the history and culture of the Native Americans.
There is plenty of hiking to do at Bandelier National Monument. You can choose from several trails, ranging from easy hikes to longer hikes. There’s also a small museum, which exhibits ancient artifacts and woodworks from the Pueblo period. If you have time, you can also explore the canyon’s many cave houses. The Pueblo Loop Trail is 1.4 miles long and takes about an hour. It features several interesting archaeological sites, including the Big Kiva, Tyuonyi (food storage rooms), cave houses, and the Talus House. Another highlight is the Main Loop Trail, which presents the best picture of the earliest Pueblo settlement in the valley.
If you are looking for a unique and culturally significant place to visit during your trip to New Mexico, Bandelier National Monument is an excellent choice. Its cliff dwellings are among the most impressive in North America and offer a fascinating cultural history. Visitors can explore the ruins of these ancient communities by hiking along the paved trail and climbing the wooden ladders to get inside the caves. In addition to the archaeological sites, the Bandelier National Monument contains 33,000 acres of backcountry wilderness and 70 miles of hiking trails.
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in New Mexico, don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Bandelier National Monument. The 33,677-acre park offers beautiful views and an abundance of wildlife. The park is home to 55 species of mammals, including mule deer, mountain lions, and Abert’s squirrel. It’s an easy and enjoyable day trip.
Loretto Chapel
The Loretto Chapel is a beautiful and historic structure that is open to the public. Located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the chapel was built in 1850. In that same year, Bishop Jean Baptisite Lamy was appointed to the New Mexico Territory. Lamy was determined to bring Catholic faith to the area, as well as an educational system. In order to accomplish his goal, he wrote letters to many priests, brothers, nuns, and religious sisters. One of these letters called for the Sisters of Loretto to accept his general plea.
The interior of the chapel is breathtaking. The original architects of the chapel failed to get the materials or carpenters necessary to build a beautiful staircase. After praying to St. Joseph, the Chapel’s Patron Saint of Carpenters, the carpenters completed the staircase without center structural supports and left without payment. Although a miracle still abounds, the chapel has become one of the most popular wedding venues in New Mexico.
Another interesting architectural feature of the chapel is the spiral staircase. Built without nails, it climbs 23 feet to the choir loft. It was a difficult task because the stairs were not supported by pillars. But once completed, the staircase was a triumph of engineering and beauty. It took ten years to build, and it was worth every minute of the wait. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Santa Fe.
If you’re in Santa Fe, you’ll also want to visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. This Romanesque-style church is located two blocks away. Located in the historic Railyard District, it is a 20-minute walk from the Loretto Chapel. If you are staying closer to the chapel, you can park in a nearby parking lot.
Taos Pueblo
If you love art, then you’ll want to check out the Taos Museum of Art. The Pueblo is home to over 20 galleries and a priceless assemblage of artwork by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo artists. The museum is housed in a historic hacienda that was donated by the Anderson family. While most of the exhibits focus on modern Southwest art, you can find a selection of traditional works from Native American artists.
Native American art is another way to learn about the Pueblo’s history and culture. Visitors will gain insight into the government of the Pueblo and its culture. It will also impart some history to them. The Pueblo has a museum that showcases its art and pottery. A museum is not complete without a storefront, which sells handcrafted items. Purchasing art from the museum is a great way to support the community.
There are guided tours that will educate you about Taos Pueblo’s history and culture. There are tours every 30 minutes and the guides, who are usually volunteers, will give you an overview of the Pueblo’s history. The guides will point out significant areas and tell you all about their culture. Wear comfortable shoes as they will be walking for a long time. In order to fully enjoy the Pueblo, you should also bring a camera and some cash.
The Pueblo is the most important site in Taos, but there are also many interesting places to visit besides the Pueblo itself. Whether you’re interested in local art or modern culture, Taos is the best sightseeing destination in New Mexico. You’ll have a memorable visit with all of its cultural sites and museums. Just make sure to leave plenty of time to take in all the sights!
Places to See in New Mexico
There are so many places to see in New Mexico, but how do you choose the best ones? Here are some places that are worth a visit: White Sands National Monument, Taos Pueblo, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, and Petroglyph National Monument. After reading this article, you’ll better understand where to go. And you’ll know that you’re in the right place if you have visited any of these before.
White Sands National Monument
If you are planning a trip to White Sands National Monument, it’s worth considering a few different places before you head there. The town of Las Cruces is a popular destination, but there are many other interesting attractions nearby. You’ll find museums, galleries, a spa, and hiking opportunities. There is also a smaller town nearby called Alamogordo. If you have the time, consider driving to this small town before you visit the White Sands National Monument.
One of the newest national parks, White Sands will become a national park in December 2019. It’s filled with beautiful scenery and a unique experience. You’ll find a 1936-era visitor center that features a short film about the history of the dunes. You can also drive across the dunes on the park’s iconic Dunes Drive, a narrow stretch of road that resembles a treacherous winter road.
For those interested in photography, the park also has a program for amateurs. The Sun Rising Over Dunes program is offered twice a year and is ideal for photographers. National Park Passport holders should also visit the visitor center, where you can pick up an Adventure Pack. These packs contain a compass, binoculars, and more! You can take the program home to show friends and family the beauty of the White Sands.
Taos Pueblo
You may have heard of the town of Taos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ‘Soul of the Southwest’. Its rich cultural heritage, pristine scenery, and modern resorts make it an ideal getaway. And if you’re visiting the area, you can’t miss out on the town’s Pueblo, one of the State’s oldest communities.
If you’re interested in the history of Taos, you can visit the Pueblo, a multi-story adobe village that’s been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. It’s the only Native American community to still remain and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. While you’re in Taos, you should also check out the nearby Harwood Museum of Art, the second-oldest in New Mexico. The museum showcases Hispanic and contemporary works of art. You’ll also want to visit the San Francisco de Asis Church in the Rancho de Taos.
While visiting Taos, you’ll want to take advantage of the “High Road” that leads into the town. The road is NM 503 and NM 76, and it passes the ancient community of Chimayo. You’ll see award-winning local art in towns such as Truchas, Cordova, and Ojo Sarco. Throughout the town, you’ll find some of the best local pottery and woodcarvings in the world.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
If you’re looking for a cultural experience that’s worth the trip to New Mexico, Chaco Culture National Historic Park is the place to go. With its many archaeological sites, Chaco has much to offer. For starters, there are a few great houses, including Pueblo Bonito, which is the largest and most impressive of the great houses. It’s estimated that it once rose four stories high and contained more than 700 rooms.
The significance of the site doesn’t fully become apparent until the early 13th century. The people of Chaco travelled great distances to build this site, only to leave after a brief stay. Today, visitors can enjoy guided tours, hikes and biking trails, as well as night sky programs. In addition, the park offers guided tours and night sky programs. For more information, call the park’s visitor center.
One of the best places to visit in New Mexico is Chaco Culture National Historical Park (CHP), a sprawling park in northeastern New Mexico. The site contains numerous prehistoric multi-story buildings, including Pueblo Bonito, the largest prehistoric building in North America. It’s also one of the few places in the United States where you can see the Milky Way.
Petroglyph National Monument
The vast and imposing West Mesa dominates the western horizon of Albuquerque, New Mexico. In June 1990, it was authorized as a national monument. The park’s 7236-acre expanse is administered by the National Park Service and the city of Albuquerque. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of West Mesa and its many rock formations, including the Petroglyph National Monument.
This archaeological site offers several hiking trails and a visitor center. The Boca Negra Canyon trail leads to views of more than 200 petroglyphs. Rinconada Canyon Trail is one-quarter mile round-trip and passes along a escarpment formed by volcanic eruptions more than 200,000 years ago. Afterwards, hikers can visit the Rinconada Canyon Trail, which has several hundred petroglyphs.
The petroglyphs are located half-way up a hill. The vantage point allows visitors to get a good view of the surrounding area. This area has been protected for many years. The National Park Service and the City of Albuquerque manage the site. The petroglyphs are a huge testament to the cultural heritage of the native Americans who lived in this area.
Living Desert State Park
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is a great place to see plants and animals that are native to the Chihuahuan Desert. Previously known as the Living Desert Zoological and Botanical State Park, the park features a large collection of plants and animals that live in the area. Visitors to the park can learn more about the local wildlife and plants, and tour the various exhibits.
The park features a 1.3-mile walk that takes you through the Chihuahuan Desert, home to many different species of birds and animals. Observe mule deer, pronghorn antelopes, bison, and kit fox. The park also contains a variety of native plants and animals, including prickly pears and agave.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is home to over 40 species of animals and hundreds of species of plants. These exhibits will give visitors a close-up look at some of the most amazing creatures. There are also fun interpretive programs for each season of the year. You can also take a hike through the park’s scenic trails. Picnic areas and group facilities are available, but you should bring your own food if you plan to take along pets.
Alamogordo
A city of 30k people, Alamogordo is the seat of Otero County and is located in the Tularosa Basin of the Chihuahuan Desert. It is bordered to the east and west by the Sacramento Mountains and Holloman Air Force Base. The 2010 census listed a population of 30,403 people. The city is an important air force base and is home to the United States Air Force.
The Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce has worked with students from NMSU-A to design a website for visitors. The site features attractions such as pottery and historical figures, and even provides information on the city’s state parks. The town is rich with places to visit, so it’s best to plan ahead. If you want to save time, download our free itinerary planning app and start planning your trip today.
One of the oldest zoos in the southwest is in Alamogordo. There are more than 100 hiking trails in the area. The area is also home to the world’s southernmost ski resort. For golf enthusiasts, you can play a game at the Desert Lakes Golf Course. The weather in Alamogordo is often mild and sunny, so dress appropriately for the weather you’ll be visiting.
Aztec
If you have never been to New Mexico, you should make a point of visiting Aztec. The city is the county seat of San Juan County, and the city population was 6,763 at the 2010 census. North of the city, Aztec is home to Aztec Ruins National Monument. To learn more about the history of this city, see this short video. You can also learn more about its people by visiting the museum.
The City of Aztec was established in 1887 to provide commercial services to the settlers. When the city was founded, the earliest settlers mistakenly thought that the buildings left behind by the Puebloan people were from the Aztec civilization of Mexico. In addition, Aztec features the Pioneer Village, a recreation of an early American West community. Children can climb on a caboose, visit a one-room schoolhouse, and enjoy a museum with artifacts from Native Americans.
Nearby to the Aztec Ruins, a scenic, one-hour drive from Albuquerque, is Navajo Lake State Park, a place for hiking and camping. Visitors can also take part in astronomy events and view traditional arts and crafts. Another option for travelers is the nearby Salmon Ruins, which features similar structures to the Aztec Ruins, including the great kiva.
