Editors' Picks: 19 of the Best Things to Do in New Mexico!
New Mexico is an interesting mix of the ancient and the modern. On the one hand, you have some of the oldest Native American ruins in the world. On the other, it's the state that helped usher in the Nuclear Age. You can explore prehistoric natural wonders like Carlsbad Caverns one day and a dazzling array of giant satellite dishes searching for extraterrestrial life the next.
Yes, the Land of Enchantment covers the full spectrum of intriguing things to see and do. Here are 19 that you shouldn't miss.
White Sands National Monument
It's one of the most unique landscapes on earth, a place where the gypsum sands have built up into ever-shifting dunes. This quiet, eerie place is like being on another planet.
Chaco Canyon
This incredible archeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an intriguing mix of both small and giant ruins dating back thousands of years. The park allows for camping and hiking, and offers telescopes for some canyon-based stargazing.
Birdwatching
New Mexico has many diverse areas that are especially attractive for the spring migrations. The Gila River Bird Habitat in particular draws nearly 300 species. How many will you spot? (Silver City)
Explore The Pueblos
There are numerous pueblos around the state, with eight key ones in the Santa Fe area. It's a great way to explore their unique history and cultural significance.
Carlsbad Caverns
The underground landscape found in these caves is truly jaw-dropping. There are bizarre geologic formations, massive "rooms" and dazzling colors. The popular "Big Room" is the size of 14 football fields.
Watch Bats Take Flight
One of the more popular summer events at Carlsbad Caverns is the "bat flight." Watch as thousands of them leave the caves during the evening to chow down on bugs. Hey, a bat's gotta eat.
Billy the Kid Museum
One of the Old West's most famous outlaws had a short but memorable life, being shot to death at 21 by Sheriff Pat Garrett. The museum has items like the original "Wanted" poster, Billy's rifle and horse-riding equipment. He's also buried nearby. (Fort Sumner)
The Sandia Peak Tramway
It's a view like no other, a nearly 3-mile journey up to an observation deck atop Sandia Peak. The ride up and down is amazing, but the panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley are really something. (Albuquerque)
Santa Fe Indian Market
It's the world's largest Native American market, and has taken place each August since 1922. Over 1,000 artists and craftsmen sell everything from weavings and jewelry, to paintings and more.
Aztec Ruins National Monument
They are some of best-preserved ruins anywhere, dating back to the 12th century. You can almost feel the presence of the people who once lived there. (Aztec)
Loretto Chapel
This former Roman Catholic church (now a museum) is best-known for its unusual spiral staircase, one with a mysterious backstory. The legend is that it was built by St. Joseph himself. At any rate, the chapel - and the staircase - are gorgeous. (Santa Fe)
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
During nine days, about 500 stunning hot air balloons soar into the desert skies. Daytime flights make for amazing photos; the nighttime "glowfest" will blow your mind.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
This historic railroad offers a great way to see the Western scenery, as it chugs along the New Mexico-Colorado border. It offers breathtaking views, and a sense of travelling back in time.
The "Very Large Array"
Sci-fi fans will immediately recognize this massive collection of 27 radio-telescope antennae located at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Each is 80 feet tall and pointed towards the heavens, in hopes of making "contact." You can take a self-guided walking tour among them. (Socorro)
The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
As one of America's groundbreaking artists, she immortalized aspects of the New Mexico landscape in her work. This museum showcases her life and legacy in a profound and beautiful way. (Santa Fe)
Skiing in Taos
During the winter months, Taos has an abundance of snow (more than the usual amount in the Southwest). That makes it a perfect destination for anyone in the market for skiing or snowboarding.
Los Alamos Historical Society
The Manhattan Project created and delivered "the bomb" that brought WWII to its end. Much of the planning took place here in Los Alamos. The Historical Society offers an intriguing look at this super-secret chapter of American history.
Roswell
If you've ever wondered if we're alone in the Universe, Roswell (reportedly where a UFO crash-landed in 1947) is the place for you. Pretty much the whole town is dedicated to the theme of UFOs and aliens. Get your "X-Files" on.
The Valle Vidal
The name is Spanish for "Valley of Life" - and it boasts an abundance of wildlife, including the largest herd of elk in the state. The area has been dubbed the "Yellowstone of New Mexico." Located in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo mountains, there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife-spotting, hiking, biking and more.
