New Mexico, widely known as “The Land of Enchantment,” boasts wide open spaces, deep cultural roots, fantastic water parks, and breathtaking landscapes that range from desert to mountain and valley. At Bandelier National Monument near Santa Fe, you’ll you’ll find ancient cliff dwellings preserved alongside their accompanying petroglyphs, while in Abiquiu stands Ship Rock, an extraordinary natural formation that holds spiritual meaning to Navajo Nation residents.
Old Town Albuquerque
Old Town has been around since 1706 and offers narrow streets lined with century-old adobe houses featuring Southwestern art galleries and New Mexican eateries. Earn a Certificate of Bravery at the American International Rattlesnake Museum or explore local and international exhibits at the Albuquerque Museum of Art & History for an experience unlike any other!
Historic Old Town hosts guided tours from ABQ Tours’Tours’ historical strolls and Breaking Bad RV Tours that highlight filming locations.
Santa Fe
New Mexico’sMexico’s charming capital teems with cultural attractions. Visitors to New Mexico’s Museum of International Folk Art can view one of the world’s largest collections.
Bandelier National Monument offers travelers the chance to climb ancient cliff dwellings and view well-preserved petroglyphs. History enthusiasts will also gain insights into New Mexico’s Mexico’s Native American heritage at UNESCO-recognized pueblos.
Madrid
Madrid boasts all of the hallmarks of a major European city, from royal palaces to must-try tapas – but also boasts its own distinct character that sets it apart from others.
Take in Madrid’s Grand Palacio Real with its 2,500 luxuriously decorated rooms and witness its magnificent changing of guard. Tour its throne room or explore it during a visit; or spend your time museum hopping.
Ghost Ranch
Ghost Ranch is an extraordinary destination that brings together natural beauty, geology, paleontology, archaeology, and art all into one destination. Join one of our fossil dig workshops or join one of our guided tours through Georgia O’Keeffe’s landscape that inspired her.
This 21,000-acre ranch near Abiquiu serves as an education and retreat center, offering affordable lodging and day tours. Hikers will find an abundance of trails – such as Chimney Rock or Box Canyon Trail – perfect for their trek.
Carlsbad Caverns
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers an unforgettable adventure, boasting 119 caves. Discover them independently or take part in a ranger-led tour to fully experience this magnificent attraction.
If you prefer an easier tour, take advantage of Carlsbad Caverns by taking an elevator tour in and out. Otherwise, plan for approximately 2.5 hours to explore its natural entrance trail and walk towards its Big Room – admission costs $15 for adults, while children ages 16 or under receive free admission with an America the Beautiful annual pass.
Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument’s most breathtaking attractions are its well-preserved ancient Pueblo dwellings, providing us a glimpse into life 11,000 years ago! These fascinating dwellings can shed light on what life was like for indigenous populations living here before European settlement.
Attractions to this historical spot include petroglyphs and kivas – perfect spots to soak in some history while taking amazing photographs!
Bandelier National Monument can easily be reached by car, which is one hour from Santa Fe.
Mesa Verde National Park
View magnificent cliff dwellings that provide visitors with a glimpse into Ancestral Puebloan lives at this park, which was established in 1906 and designated a World Heritage Site in 1978.
Tour Balcony House and Step House for an inside glimpse at cliff dwellings or visit Wetherill Mesa for mesa top ruins such as Long House; just remember that many tours only operate during certain times of year.
Las Vegas Sand Dunes National Monument
Established in 2016, this national monument offers a wild desert escape filled with plants and wildlife. Discover desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, precious desert wildflowers among the dunes or take an engaging ranger-led hike – ideal for both dogs and their owners alike!
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area lies less than 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip and is famed for its red-striped sandstone cliffs, offering scenic 13-mile drive routes through this protected area.
Zuni Pueblo
Zuni Pueblo is an art immersion, history, archaeology, and natural beauty destination worth experiencing in New Mexico’s western corner. Artistic talent runs strong here; local artists are an essential component of their economy.
Do not miss this immersive tour of Middle Village led by Kenny Bowekaty, both an ethnobotanist and archaeologist. Be mindful to observe any traditional dances or ceremonies with regard to respect; photography must have prior authorization.
Georgia O’Keeffe O’Keeffe
New Mexico is well-known for its rich Indigenous history, spectacular landscapes, and vibrant art and culture scene – making it a year-round travel destination. While summer is typically busiest with visitors over traditional school breaks, winter and spring tend to offer quieter travel opportunities.
Ghost Ranch, situated near Abiquiu – Georgia O’Keeffe’sO’Keeffe’s former home – provides workshops and retreats on 21,000 acres of red rock terrain. Explore gypsum dunes that rival those found elsewhere, camp out for the night and go sledding!
