State Of New Mexico
People from all over visit the Land of Enchantment for Native American culture, vibrant artistic communities, and stunning national parks. Try its famous New Mexican green chile or visit artist Georgia O’Keeffe’s studio.
This scenic southwestern state is home to some of the most diverse terrain and some of the oldest, continuously inhabited communities in North America. Explore the majestic sand dunes of White Sands National Monument or 100 plus caves of Carlsbad Caverns National Parks. Plan a visit to one of New Mexico’s 23 pueblos, tribes, and nations. Browse beautiful turquoise jewelry at one of the many Native American markets.
Those looking for world class cultural entertainment and cuisine can enjoy the sounds of the Santa Fe Opera. Foodies can indulge in famed New Mexican chile from James Beard award-winning restaurants. Art lovers will enjoy the hundreds of galleries throughout Santa Fe. And if you’re looking for a little relaxation, soak in one of the spa resorts like the Japanese-inspired Ten Thousand Waves.
The Land of Enchantment offers stunning national parks, rich Native American culture, vibrant artistic communities, and even quirky, family-fun destinations like the International UFO Museum and Research Center of Roswell.
Best Places to Visit in New Mexico
Santa Fe
The state capital has a vibrant art scene with 250 art galleries and almost 20 museums. Wander the area around Santa Fe Plaza, the city’s hub, for dining, arts, and shopping amidst a historic backdrop.
Georgia O'Keeffe Museum: View over 3,000 works by the famed New Mexico artist known as the “Mother of American modernism.”
Canyon Road: Walk this half-mile art gallery and studio-lined street nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the Historic District of Santa Fe.
Meo Wolf: This unique, immersive and multimedia art installation transports visitors into a 22,000-square foot exhibit called House of Eternal Return.
Santa Fe Opera: Enjoy dinner and a concert under the stars at the famous open-air theater.
Cities in New Mexico
Alburquerque: Located in the high desert, Albuquerque is known for its historic Old Town, an annual 9-day International Balloon Fiesta and Sandia Peak Tramway, which is the longest aerial tram in America.
Taos: This high desert town is known for its historic adobe buildings, its world class ski resort, and artist Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio, Ghost Ranch.
Los Alamos: Most famous as the birthplace of the atomic bomb, Los Alamos is right next to Valle Caldera National Preserve, a 13-mile wide meadow that features fly fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking.
Las Cruces: Located off the Rio Grande, New Mexico’s second largest city is home to 47-acre interactive New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.
New Mexico State and National Parks
Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Known for its limestone caves, rock formations and hiking trails, Carlsbad features over 100 caves in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico.
White Sands National Park: Drive or walk through rare white gypsum sand dunes.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park: This International Dark Sky Park features a concentration of pueblos and is also a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site.
Bandelier National Monument: This 33,677-acre designated wilderness area preserves Ancestral pueblo dwellings, many of which are carved into the side of the rock.
Turquoise Trail
This National Scenic Byway is a 50-mile historic and scenic drive through the heart of central New Mexico.
Madrid: Shop your way through Gypsy Plaza in this now thriving and recovered ghost town just south of Santa Fe.
Casa Grande Trading Post, Petting Zoo, and Cerrillos Turquoise Mining Museum: This three-in-one stop features artifacts on local turquoise mining, handcrafted turquoise jewelry, and a petting zoo.
Cerrillos Hills State Park: This year-round day-use park features 5 miles of multi use trails and over 1,000 years of mining history.
