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

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

For a true taste of the American Southwest, consider a trip to New Mexico. Spanning approximately 121,000 square miles, the state is famous for its rich Indigenous history, vast landscapes (from towering dunes to subterranean caves), amazing archaeological sites, national landmarks (cliff dwellings, well-preserved adobe buildings, and centuries-old churches, to name a few), and an incredible arts and culture scene. It’s no surprise, then, that New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

To narrow down the state’s best attractions, we reached out to local experts for their top recommendations. Without further ado, here are the best places to visit in New Mexico, from sprawling national parks to tiny towns and everything in between.

White Sands National Park

Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure

Spanning 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field, and it looks and feels like an entirely different planet . The wave-like, powder-white sand dunes resemble mounds of snow, and visitors can hike or sled down them any time of year. It’s also worth noting the park is home to a handful of white-hued animals — which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to the environment — including mice, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths. 

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Visit New Mexico

Angelisa Murray, CEO of guided tour operator Heritage Inspirations in Taos, describes the Couse-Sharp Historic Site as a “true gem” and “one of [her] favorite museums.” Here, you’ll find the former homes and art studios of Taos Society of Artists (TSA) founding members Joseph Sharp and E.I. Couse. “Our guests can see the actual moccasins and pottery that Couse painted in his paintings ... and journey back in time to get a real feel of Taos in the early 1900s,” says Murray.

“ Abiquiú is one of my favorite small towns to take our guests,” says Murray. The town, which was settled by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, looks and feels like it was plucked out of a classic Western, and visitors may even recognize it from fan-favorite flicks like Indiana Jones . However, it’s also famous for being the home of renowned American artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Don’t leave without visiting the O’Keeffe Home and Studio and Ghost Ranch (the artist’s summer home, about 20 minutes northwest). Murray also recommends popping into the state’s first general store, Bodes , which “offers an otherworldly experience for the intrepid traveler,” according to Murray.

Bandelier National Monument

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Known for its magnificent mesas, canyons, and ancestral Pueblo dwellings, this national monument spans more than 33,000 acres of rugged landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The 1.4-mile Pueblo Loop Trail winds through various archaeological sites and is a popular hike. If you’re looking for more thrills, hop on one of the ladders along the route to climb into small human-carved alcoves. Alternatively, experienced hikers may opt to tackle the challenging Frijoles Canyon and Rim Trail (eight miles one way). Keep in mind those who wish to visit Frijoles Canyon and the Pueblo Loop Trail will be required to take a shuttle, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily (mid-June through mid-October).

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

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For a first-hand look at Pueblo culture, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Spanning more than 80 acres, the center is owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. On-site offerings include a museum, exhibition galleries, murals from Pueblo artists, and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen , which serves freshly prepared Native American cuisine. Don’t leave without stocking up on some souvenirs, including Native American artwork and a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, jewelry, pottery, rugs, and more. Pro tip: Check the events calendar for a schedule of the latest programming.

Santuario de Chimayo

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Marama Nengel, chef concierge at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , recommends taking an afternoon trip to Santuario de Chimayó , about 27 miles from Santa Fe. According to Nengel, thousands visit this picturesque adobe church — now a National Historic Landmark — each year. It’s best known for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing properties. Per Nengel, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery to see eight generations of Trujillo weavers. Finally, when hunger calls, tuck into some Southwestern fare at Rancho de Chimayó .

Puye Cliff Dwellings

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Located in Los Alamos, this National Historic Landmark was once home to 1,500 Pueblo Indians. It’s no surprise, then, that the site boasts some stunning Pueblo architecture and well-preserved cliff and cave dwellings. The panoramic valley views are an incredible added bonus. It’s worth noting that guided tours are available Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Santa Fe Plaza

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Santa Fe Plaza is both a beloved tourist attraction and a popular gathering place for locals. This National Historic Landmark, established by the Spanish in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Spanish Pueblo architecture. The bustling location hosts a slew of events throughout the year, including the Traditional Spanish Market in the summer months. Come holiday season, the square gets decked out in twinkling lights, making it even more magical. In recent years, the area surrounding the Plaza has evolved into a buzzy hot spot with dozens of eclectic restaurants, shops, museums, and hotels.

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

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El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (“The Ranch of the Swallows”) is a historic ranch-turned-living history museum near downtown Santa Fe, though its rural surroundings make it feel worlds away, What’s more, a visit to this 200-acre site, which is dotted with striking adobe buildings, feels like a step back in time to New Mexico in the 1800s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ranch served as an official rest stop for travelers on El Camino Real, which stretched from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Note the site is closed for general admission between November and March.

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

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The 65-mile Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway — named for the precious stone the Pueblo mined here centuries earlier — links Santa Fe and Albuquerque. As such, it makes for an excellent day trip from either city. The historic route winds through old mining and ghost towns such as Madrid , Golden , and Los Cerrillos . Carve out some time to stop at Casa Grande Trading Post , Cowgirl Red , and Tinkertown Museum , as well as Sandia Peak Tramway to soak up the postcard-worthy views from up high.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

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According to Hans Loehr, adventure center architect at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Additionally, he tells Travel + Leisure , "Guests can enjoy exploring forests of aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon-juniper and meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, relaxing near alpine lakes, bagging some high mountain peaks, and pausing to take in breathtaking views from ridgetops and mountain summits.”

Rio Grande Gorge

Stretching nearly 50 miles, the magnificent, 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of New Mexico. Soak in sweeping views of the rugged landscape from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge , which, at 650 feet above the ground, is one of the country’s highest bridges. It’s also a popular spot for hiking.

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Sontanna Sanchez, a concierge at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, recommends visiting Meow Wolf for a unique and immersive art experience. The kaleidoscopic “House of Eternal Return” features “more than 70 rooms, taking participants on a macrocosmic adventure only found in Santa Fe,” says Sanchez. All in all, the playful exhibit is sure to delight art lovers of all ages.

San Miguel Chapel

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Located along the Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe’s Barrio de Analco Historic District , this Spanish colonial mission church is considered the oldest in the United States. While initially constructed in 1610, it has since been rebuilt twice (most recently in 1710). In terms of design, prepare to be dazzled by the adobe architecture; the interiors are equally spectacular with centuries-old wooden beams and the 750-plus-pound San Jose bell, which has its own fascinating history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

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This national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southern part of the state. The enchanting attraction is home to nearly 120 caves. Travelers can easily spend the entire day exploring these captivating caverns, admiring the mystical stalagmites and stalactites, and spotting wildlife like bats and cougars. Don’t miss the Big Room, North America’s largest single cave chamber by volume. The 1.25-mile trail is a relatively easy 90-minute trek.

Old Town Albuquerque

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With its narrow winding streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque oozes small-town charm. While lots has changed since its 1706 establishment, this dynamic destination has remained the city's heart. Despite its tiny 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 independent restaurants and boutiques. It also hosts more than 40 events annually, including a car show, live music performances, and the world-famous Balloon Fiesta Week .

Taos Downtown Historic District

Despite its small size, Taos packs in plenty of charm and character. What’s more, this storied mountain town is renowned for its many galleries , scenic hiking trails, and, in the winter, world-class skiing. At the center of town is the Downtown Historic District , where you’ll find the 1796-era Taos Plaza. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to listen to live music and attend farmers markets and other events, including dozens of art-forward programming. An abundance of shops and galleries can also be found within easy walking distance. When it's time to refuel, head to one of the nearby cafes and restaurants . 

Taos Pueblo

Kathleen Messmer/Travel + Leisure

About three miles northwest of Taos Plaza lies the Taos Pueblo , which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Pueblo has been inhabited for more than a millennium, and many of the adobe structures appear the same as when the Spanish first arrived in New Mexico in the 1500s. Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house) are the location's most famous buildings, and they’re considered the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country.

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© Jack Pearce/Lonely Planet

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

Best Places to Visit

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

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

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Southeastern New Mexico

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

Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

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

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

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

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

Taos Pueblo

Central New Mexico

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

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area

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

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

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

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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

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Big caves and resident bats are the highlights of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a destination undermined by subterranean tunnels, naturally formed, and vast underground chambers.

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New Mexico presents a convergence of expansive sky and stunning light, high desert and earthy piñon wood, Spanish architecture and grand, sun-drenched landscapes. The sprawling city of Albuquerque is the gateway to the state’s wonders, a jumping-off point for experiencing stunning desert volcanoes and a meeting of mountain ranges. The charming, 400-year-old state capital of Santa Fe is filled with low-slung adobe architecture and offers a haven of art, music, and native culture. Outside the cities, you’ll find a plethora of natural formations, rocky arroyos, river gorges, and the panoramic aspen-covered slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

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When’s the best time to go to New Mexico?

Four distinct seasons color the calendar. Summer is the peak for visitors, with warm days and cool nights. September through November, the region is less crowded and temperatures cooler. Winter is ski season in Santa Fe and Taos, and the holidays provide a warm, glowing backdrop of farolitos (small candles) dotting the streets and adobes, most notably along the famed Canyon Road. The weather in spring is slow to warm and beckons few crowds.

How to get around New Mexico

Most travelers arrive at either Albuquerque International Sunport or Santa Fe Municipal Airport. Hop the Rail Runner commuter rail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. The reasonably priced Sandia Shuttle Express from Albuquerque airport runs to Santa Fe, and the 90-minute New Mexico Rail Runner Express Train connects from Santa Fe Depot to Albuquerque’s Downtown Alvarado Transportation Center. Rental cars are readily available at the airport.

It’s best to obtain a car for driving the stunning landscapes of New Mexico. Smaller towns like Santa Fe and Taos are highly walkable and pedestrian friendly.

Can’t miss things to do in New Mexico

The New Mexico Capitol Art Collection is an extensive collection focusing on nearly 600 New Mexican and Southwestern artists, housed in the State Capitol Complex. This awesome assemblage incorporates paintings, photography, mixed media, textiles, and handcrafted furniture. And it’s free to the public.

Food and drink to try in New Mexico

The culinary culture is an overlapping of Spanish, Mediterranean, Mexican, cowboy, and Pueblo Native American influences. Expect traditional dishes like chiles relleños, tamales, and enchiladas served with guacamole, pinto beans, and calabacitas (a blend of sautéed squash, onions, peppers, and corn). Enjoy it all with a salty margarita, a local craft beer, or a light, local sparkling wine.

Culture in New Mexico

The melding of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures presents a unique style. Modern buildings meet century-old haciendas, colonial architecture, and Spanish churches. Native American pueblos showcase classic pottery and weavings.

Come summer, Santa Fe’s Spanish Market and Indian Market are huge crowd-pleasers, along with the Hatch Valley Chile Festival. Fall ushers in the Old Town Salsa Festival in Albuquerque along with the acclaimed nine-day International Balloon Festival and the New Mexico State Fair. Winter offers the annual Taos Winter Wine Festival and the Canyon Road Farolita (small illuminated candles) walk. Spring is time for the Southern New Mexico Wine Festival.

Local travel tips for New Mexico

When at high elevations, make certain to wear sunscreen, and go easy on the alcohol (at 7,000 feet, one drink equals three). When dining, locals eat their sopaipillas (fluffy fried pastries) not before or during, but after their meal.

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