20 Best Things To Do In New Mexico (Bucket List)

Welcome to the best things to do in New Mexico!

My family is from New Mexico, so I’ve grown up visiting the Land of Enchantment almost every year.

Some of my most fond memories are dune sledding in White Sands, eating green chile burgers after skiing in Santa Fe, and family road trips all over the state.

I think New Mexico is a totally underrated place, with so much natural beauty and unique culture. I recommend it to everyone!

So, to help you plan your perfect trip I’ve compiled this list of the best things to do in New Mexico.

Let’s dive in.

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1. Explore Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe is one of the most beautiful places in not just New Mexico, but the entire United States.

A unique blend of Anglo, Spanish, and Native cultures has shaped this city for over 400 years.

So, first on our list is exploring Santa Fe Plaza.

The plaza, or city square, was historically the center gathering place in town.

Everything here is built in that classic adobe style, and it’s very charming.

Nowadays, Santa Fe Plaza is still the heart of Santa Fe, complete with restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

Grab lunch at Santa Fe’s oldest restaurant, the famous Plaza Cafe. Afterwards, pick up some souvenirs at a quirky five and dime store, or browse the high-end boutiques.

Shiprock, an amazing store, is located in the Plaza. While it’s a bit out of my budget, it’s still so much fun to browse the gorgeous jewelry, pottery, and Navajo textiles.

Make sure to also stop by the Palace Of The Governors, where local Native artisans sell handmade jewelry.

One of Santa Fe’s landmark hotels, La Fonda, is located in the Plaza and a great place to stay.

During the warmer months, La Fonda opens its rooftop bar The Bell Tower. This is the perfect place for a sunset cocktail.

Also just steps from the Plaza is the iconic St. Francis cathedral, which is worth visiting to admire the architecture.

2. Visit White Sands National Park

Tucked away in southern New Mexico, you’ll find White Sands National Park.

Its dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, forming a brilliant white desert.

Although, this desert is actually the world’s largest gypsum field.

Why is that important, you ask?

Well, this phenomenon is extremely rare, which is one of the reasons White Sands is so awesome.

Most desert sand on Earth is made of quartz.

On the other hand, White Sands is composed of gypsum, which is only possible because of the unique conditions here.

Millions of years ago, this area (along with most of the southwestern United States) was covered by an ancient sea.

Over time, the gypsum that was deposited on the sea floor was left behind and broken down by the elements.

Today, those fine crystals reflect the sun’s rays, giving off that stunning white color.

Another effect of reflecting the sun, rather than absorbing it like most sand, is that gypsum is actually cool to the touch.

That means no burnt feet- even in the middle of the summer, when the sun is blasting and it’s over 100°!

Cool, right?!

Well… if the geology stuff is boring to you, you’ll be happy to know there are other reasons to visit White Sands. 😉

First of all, it’s incredibly photogenic. The rolling white dunes are the perfect place to snap some beautiful pictures.

Also, sand sledding is an absolute must here. It’s so much fun!

After that, there are some fun hikes in the area, and you can visit the nearby charming town of Las Cruces.

3. Dive into Meow Wolf

Next on the list is one of the most unique places I’ve ever experienced.

Meow Wolf is an immersive art installation located in Santa Fe. It blends over 70 rooms of surreal art with a mysterious storyline.

Housed in a renovated bowling alley, Game of Thrones fans can geek out over the fact that author George R.R. Martin helped bring Meow Wolf to life. (Did you know he also lives in Santa Fe?)

The various rooms were all designed by local artists, and the gift shop showcases many of the artists’ work as well as quirky souvenirs.

During your visit, make sure to stop by the Float Cafe, where you can grab snacks, drinks, and fun multiverse-inspired craft cocktails. Meow Wolf also regularly hosts concerts and other cool events.

All in all, visiting Meow Wolf is definitely one of the best things to do in New Mexico.

In fact, the Santa Fe installation was so wildly popular, they’ve now added locations in Denver and Las Vegas.

I recommend booking tickets in advance here: tickets.meowwolf.com/santa-fe/

4. Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is famous for housing an extensive underground cave system, filled with towering stalagmites and stalactites.

The most impressive cave, called The Big Room, is 4,000 feet long and 255 feet tall at its highest point!

Above the surface, you can also enjoy hiking trails and beautiful stargazing at night.

I recommend taking a guided tour, so you can really learn about the history of these ancient caves.

Just make sure to follow all the rules, because the rock formations have to be carefully preserved.

One of my family’s running jokes is about when we visited. My dad forgot to spit out his gum, which was against park rules.

As we made our way through the caverns, a park ranger appeared out of nowhere, stuck out a plastic bag, and made my dad spit his gum into it.

The literal gum police LOL. Good times!

5. Experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Every year in October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place.

Known as the most photographed event in the world, people travel from all over to fly balloons or just spectate.

The brisk fall mornings of the Rio Grande Valley create a stunning backdrop for the hundreds of colorful balloons.

Watching them take off and dot the sky is said to be an amazing sight.

If you’re not visiting in October, I recommend taking a hot air balloon ride over the Rio Grande Valley.

The views are unbeatable!

6. Explore Taos

Spending a few days around Taos is definitely one of the best things to do in New Mexico.

Taos is about a 1.5 hour drive north of Santa Fe, and the drive is called the High Road To Taos.

This Scenic Byway winds through the beautiful, high desert scenery of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.

In true New Mexican fashion, the city of Taos centers around the Taos Plaza. Here, you can browse beautiful local art, shops, and restaurants.

There’s also great skiing to be found in Taos Ski Valley, complete with a cute alpine-style ski village.

Nearby, the 650-foot Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a spectacular sight.

Just outside the city lies Taos Pueblo, an ancient adobe pueblo. You can learn more about the Native culture and heritage here.

It’s also the only living Native American community to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a National Historic Landmark.

(Unfortunately, the Pueblo is currently closed due to COVID.)

On another note… did you know that New Mexico is actually home to the oldest wine country in the United States?

Grapes were planted here in the 1600’s by Spanish settlers. Today, there are several wonderful wineries near Taos.

7. Visit Chaco Canyon

Technically named Chaco Culture National Historical Park, this underrated gem is tucked away in the northwestern corner of New Mexico.

At about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Albuquerque, the park is pretty remote. But that just makes it all the more special!

From the mid 800’s to the early 1200’s, Chaco was home to a major center of ancestral Puebloan culture.

Its monumental buildings, distinctive architecture, and achievements in astronomy and art were extremely remarkable.

Here, the ancestral Puebloan people built massive Great Houses, which contained multiple stories and hundreds of rooms.

The buildings were surrounded by mountains, mesas, and shrines that were (and still are) considered sacred by their descendants.

Today, you can take a peek into ancient life in Chaco through the remains of its pueblos.

There are also hiking and biking trails to enjoy.

But one thing you also MUST do at Chaco Culture is go stargazing!

That’s because the park is an official International Dark Sky Park, which means it’s actually one of the best places to stargaze in the world.

8. Visit Bandelier National Monument

Just under an hour away from Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument is another great place for both hiking and history.

Here, you can explore beautiful canyon and mesa country, as well as ancient dwellings dating back over 11,000 years!

The Bandelier trails are fairly easy, and it’s rare to be able to climb up on ladders and into the cave dwellings like you can here.

This makes it a great activity for families and kids, and definitely one of the best things to do in New Mexico.

9. Explore Old Town Albuquerque

Old Town Plaza is the historic heart of Albuquerque. It’s also the location of where the town was first settled in the early 1700’s.

You’ll definitely feel like you’ve taken a step back in time as you stroll through its narrow streets, lined with Pueblo-Spanish architecture.

Built in 1793, the San Felipe de Neri Church stands here as the oldest building in the city.

The surrounding adobe buildings now house charming restaurants, art galleries, and shops.

I recommend grabbing coffee at Blackbird Coffee House or a bite to eat at Church Street Cafe.

Then, spend the morning browsing all the local shops.

Iconic to present-day Albuquerque, Breaking Bad fans will enjoy a stop at The Candy Lady, a local candy store.

This is the candy store that supplied all of the “blue meth” for the show, which is actually blue rock candy.

If you’re a fan, no trip to Albuquerque is complete without picking up a dime bag of blue rock candy, and some Breaking Bad souvenirs.

10. Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway

Rising above the hustle and bustle of Albuquerque, the Sandia Peak Tramway is a scenic tram ride that transports you to the serenity of the Sandia Mountains.

The ride is about a 3-mile long, 15 minute journey to the top.

Along the way, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the city, the mountains, and the sprawling Rio Grande Valley.

Eventually, you reach the 10,378-foot Sandia Peak.

Once at the top, you’ll definitely want to eat at the TEN 3 restaurant. They serve delicious food with views from 10,300 feet above sea level.

There’s also an observation deck at the peak, so you can take in the dramatic views from every angle.

There are beautiful hiking trails as well, which I highly recommend exploring.

You can spend as long as you want at the top before you catch the tram back down.

Pro tip: Expect it to be about 15-30 degrees cooler up here than in Albuquerque. So be prepared with at least a light jacket, even in the summer.

11. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Recognized as the “Mother of American Modernism,” Georgia O’Keeffe was one of the most significant artists of the 20th century.

She was also a woman ahead of her time.

O’Keeffe is widely known for her paintings of flowers (yes, the ones that look like vaginas) and New Mexico landscapes.

She spent two decades living and working in New Mexico in the summers, until she moved there permanently.

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is now dedicated to her legacy, and one of the best things to do in New Mexico. Even if you don’t know much about art!

12. Soak in a hot spring

Whether you prefer to relax in a natural hot spring, or want a more luxurious vibe, New Mexico has it all!

One of New Mexico’s most popular mineral springs resorts is Ojo Caliente, which is an hour drive north from Santa Fe.

Known for its spring-fed soaking pools set against the rugged natural landscape, Ojo Caliente makes for an enchanting escape.

In fact, the resort is so popular they’ve opened a second location in Santa Fe.

I recommend booking a private pool, which makes the experience even more intimate.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive, spa-like atmosphere, check out Ten Thousand Waves.

Nestled into the wooded foothills of Santa Fe, this upscale spa and hotel is inspired by the great Japanese mountain hot springs.

When you stay here, wearing a wearing yukata (casual kimono) around the property and to the restaurant is even part of the experience.

Sounds like the epitome of zen and relaxation to me. 😊

However, if you want to visit a hot spring out in nature, make your way to the San Antonio hot springs or the Spence hot springs.

They’re both beautiful natural pools that offer panoramic views of the forest while you soak.

That said, they can get pretty crowded. So if you want the pool to yourself, try going early. Sunrise is ideal!

13. Visit Tent Rocks

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, or Tent Rocks, is a geological area that’s just a 42 minute drive from downtown Santa Fe.

The site is named for its striated cone-shaped rock formations, called hoodoos.

It’s a really fun place to hike and take in the funky formations and slot canyons.

(Unfortunately, the area is currently closed due to COVID.)

14. Go skiing

I think New Mexico is home to so much underrated skiing!

Most people think of deserts when it comes to New Mexico, but the state actually has multiple mountains that stand over 12,000 feet.

These mountains can get some really great snow.

Plus, they don’t come with the high prices and crowds you’ll find in more hyped-up states.

The largest and arguably best ski resort in New Mexico is Taos Ski Valley.

Although the mountain is a little more challenging than others in the state, it has enough for beginners as well as a charming ski village full of amenities.

The nearby Angel Fire Resort definitely leans more towards beginners, making it a great place for a family trip.

Even Ski Santa Fe and Sandia Peak are great places to ski, and both not too far from major cities.

15. Explore Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm

One of the most magnificent historic properties in the Southwest, Los Poblanos is home to an organic farm, a field-to-fork restaurant, a boutique inn, and artisan retail.

This charming inn and farm is the epitome of understated luxury.

Although it’s only 10-15 minutes away from Albuquerque, it boasts 25 acres of lavender fields, enormous cottonwood trees, and lush gardens.

Also, the onsite restaurant Campo serves deliciously fresh food and drinks.

I highly recommend stopping by to at least enjoy a meal and browse the local wares at the Farm Shop.

While there, you have to pick up some signature products from Los Poblanos’ lavender collection.

What started as amenities for the inn years ago, has now grown into a best-selling collection of hair and body care, fragrances, and aromatherapy.

In fact, you’re bound to see Los Poblanos products being sold all over New Mexico!

16. Visit Ship Rock

Next on the list of best things to do in New Mexico is visit Ship Rock.

Ship Rock’s name in Navajo is Tsé Bitʼaʼí, or “rock with wings.”

Navajo legend says that this sacred rock was once a great-winged bird that carried the Navajo people to northwestern New Mexico.

I’ve included Ship Rock on this list because it’s stunning, and has drawn photographers and directors for years.

Just know that it’s not easy to visit.

Ship Rock sits on Navajo land, and is considered to be sacred.

That means driving to the base is usually prohibited, so you’ll probably have to admire it from afar. (So bring a zoom lens, if you have one!)

Although I believe it’s worth visiting, especially if you combine it with other attractions in the area.

The closest town with lodging and restaurants is Farmington, which is just under a 3 hour drive from Albuquerque.

Farmington is good place to stay for a couple days if you also plan to visit Four Corners, Chaco Culture, and the nearby badlands.

19. Explore the badlands

An hour south of Farmington (or 2.5-3 hours from Albuquerque) you’ll find sprawling badlands that will instantly make you feel like you’re on a different planet.

The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, also called the Bisti Badlands, covers 45,000 acres of high desert badlands.

The area was once a coastal swamp, and home to huge trees, prehistoric mammals, and dinosaurs.

Today, the area is covered in some of the most unique rock formations in the world.

Just to the east, the even lesser-known Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness is worth visiting to peep some super-funky sandstone hoodoos.

For now, these badlands are certainly some of New Mexico’s best hidden gems.

That might change soon, though!

National Geographic Traveler has even listed the Bisti Badlands as one of their must-visit adventure destinations.

17. Ride the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

During the months of May-October, you can take a ride on one of the best scenic railroads in the country.

Originally constructed in 1880, this railroad is now designated a National Historic Landmark.

The vintage-style locomotives are super nostalgic, and the scenery en route is breathtaking.

On this spectacular day trip, you’ll traverse 64 miles through the mountains between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado.

Throughout the journey, you’ll witness dramatic views of alpine meadows and mountains crisscrossed with streams.

You might even spot some wildlife, like elk or bears.

The train then climbs to Cumbres Pass, the highest mountain reached by train in the United States.

Make sure to spend some time in the open-air gondola car for 360° views.

For the most luxurious experience, you’ll want to book a ticket in the Parlor Car.

This is the most exclusive car, complete with cozy Victorian-era decor and panoramic windows.

For the most utmost impressive views, the best time to ride the train is during the fall.

If you can time it right, you’ll be rewarded with the aspens showing off their most vibrant fall colors.

18. Visit Roswell

For a look into classic UFO culture in New Mexico, you must visit Roswell.

This quirky town is famous for being the site of the “Roswell Incident,” the alleged UFO crash in 1947.

Since then, Roswell has fully embraced its cosmic reputation.

The entire town is full of UFO’s, funky aliens, and interesting things to discover.

Of course, you have to visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

There, you can learn more about crop circles, alleged abductions, and other mysteries.

After that, you can decide if you’re a believer or not!

20. Try New Mexican chile

You’ll notice that much of New Mexican culture revolves around its chile.

It is known as the “Chile Capital of the World,” after all.

In fact, New Mexico is the only state with an official state question: “Red or green?”

This is a question you’ll hear in every restaurant, because they’re asking if you want your food topped with red, or green chile.

(Fun fact, you can answer “Christmas” if you want both. 😊)

And pretty much everything comes with green chile! Pizza, burgers, stew… you name it!

Although you’ll find delicious chile all over New Mexico, the iconic La Choza in Santa Fe is one of the best places to try it.

How To Get Around New Mexico

If you’re exploring all of New Mexico’s highlights, you’ll definitely need to have your own car..

I highly recommend booking a rental car through RentalCars.com.

Personally, I use them every time I plan a trip.

I LOVE that they compare prices across every company at once, which saves a ton of time hunting down the best deals.

Less time researching, more time exploring right??

Posted By: Arabella · In: new mexico, travel, usa