If you are planning on going to New Mexico for a vacation, you’re in the right place! We will be talking about the places to see and things to do in the fifth-largest state in the United States of America. So, what can you expect from this gorgeous state? Well, if you’re a nature lover, the state has several national forests you can visit, such as Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest where a diverse species of plants and animals have adapted to the arid weather of New Mexico. There are also a ton of activities that you can enjoy here, such as kayaking, hiking, riding hot air balloons, partying and food tripping. If you’re keen to learn more, let’s read on to know the best places to visit in New Mexico, USA.
1. Albuquerque (from USD 375.0)
Albuquerque is home to several wonderful buildings, specifically located in the Old Town and Plaza. Being some of the oldest towns in Albuquerque, it has old buildings designed with pueblos adobe style, which are great subjects if you’re into street photography. Then there are several restaurants to try–one of the most famous being Harvest Café if you want to sample the New Mexican style of cooking. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you can sample a wide array of fine wines at Casa Rondeña Winery, and if you want to buy some souvenirs, you can head to the nearby gift shop to get a hold of some works of art. Albuquerque is also home to several natural attractions, such as Rio Grande Valley and Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.
Private Tour: Albuquerque Full Day
Duration: 8 hours
2. Taos (from USD 111.0)
When it comes to quaint sights, Taos offers a lot! With several attractions such as the Earthship neighborhood and Taos Plaza. Taos is also home to the UNESCO-listed Taos Pueblo where you can learn more about Native American culture. With the unique style of the houses in the area, your mobile phone is sure to have a lot of pictures you can keep for life or share via Instagram or Facebook. Another site to visit is Martinez Hacienda, a 200-year-old Spanish colonial house renovated to be a tourist attraction.
Taos Private Driving Tour
Duration: 3 hours
3. Farmington
Farmington is a beautiful town with many attractions worthy of every traveler’s attention. Some of the most notable places in Farmington are Bisti and De-Na-Zin Wilderness, the location of the famous and peculiar rock formation called Alien Throne. Then there’s also the Salmon Ruins, an ancient Chacoan structure, as well as Salmon Ruins Museum, two of the best places to learn about the Chacoa people in Farmington. You can also ride an ATV at Chokecherry Canyon if you want to be more physical.
Farmington
Website: Farmington
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4. Carlsbad
Carlsbad is known for potash mining and the production of petroleum, but it has several attractions for tourists to explore. The city is rich in natural wonders, such as Sitting Bull Falls and Lake Carlsbad. It is also home to the famous Carlsbad Museum and Art Center which you may want to visit if you want to learn more about the city. Carlsbad Caverns is arguably Carlsbad’s most famous attraction which gives visitors the opportunity to experience spelunking. You can also taste a couple of wines at Balzano Vineyard, known for their world-class wines and customer service.
Carlsbad
Website: Carlsbad
New Mexico Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Alamogordo
One of the best places to learn about space in New Mexico is New Mexico Museum of Space History, located in Alamogordo. You’ll learn a lot about mankind’s efforts to learn more about our cosmos. There are also other museums that you can visit, such as Shroud Exhibit Museum and the International Space Hall of Fame. If you want to learn about Alamogordo’s diverse animal life, you can head on to Alameda Park Zoo, and Dog Canyon Trail if you want to see different kinds of wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re more of a bookworm, then you should visit Townsend Library at the New Mexico State University to see their vast collections and catch up on some reading.
Alamogordo
Address: New Mexico 88310, USA
Website: Alamogordo
6. Ruidoso
Ruidoso also has its share of beautiful places for tourists to enjoy, such as Lincoln National Forest, Ruidoso Mountains, and Grindstone Lake where you can bask in the relaxing beauty of nature. You can also enjoy watching a horse-racing game at Ruidoso Downs Race Track or learn about horses at Museum of the Horse. There’s also a place where you can have fun with your kids, and that’s at Pillow’s Funtrackers. If you want the to try your luck, Ruidoso has the perfect spot–Casino Apache!
Ruidoso
Website: Ruidoso
7. Santa Fe
Santa Fe is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is the best place to come visit in New Mexico if you are an art enthusiast. There are about 300 art galleries to visit in this city and lots of street art you can capture for your Instagram account. Of course, it isn’t just the arts that will captivate your senses, because Santa Fe is also home to several hiking trails and parks if you want to immerse in the beauty of nature. If you also love to delve into and learn more about different cultures, you can explore Santa Fe, which is heavily influenced by Spanish Culture. If you love to shop, you can also shop for Native American arts and crafts and other merchandise at Santa Fe Indian American Market.
Santa Fe
Website: Santa Fe
8. Roswell
Roswell is one of the most unique places to visit in New Mexico due to its alien-themed shops, alien-themed museums, and alien-themed businesses. Roswell has been linked to alien conspiracy theories because of the involvement of the Roswell Army in the investigation of the alleged UFO crash sites. Since then, many establishments in Roswell have taken advantage of the hype, and the rest is history. Some of the most famous places to visit in Roswell are Roswell UFO Museum and Research Center, Roswell Spacewalk, and Anderson Museum of Contemporary Arts.
Roswell
Website: Roswell
9. Las Vegas
Not to be confused with the more popular Las Vegas of Nevada, Las Vegas of New Mexico is no less of a place to have fun! While not as lively as the former, the latter has its own appeal: Victorian-style architecture, several museums, and attractions such as Montezuma Castle and Storrie Lake. These are just some of the features you can expect when you visit Las Vegas of New Mexico. If you are looking for a place to shop, head to the Railroad Historic Districts where you can buy a souvenir for yourself, or a gift for your friends and family members back home.
Las Vegas
Website: Las Vegas
10. Hobbs
Hobbs is located in Lea County and was founded back in the early 1900s. The city’s economy relies mainly on oil and mining, and there’s a lot of oil derricks to see and be fascinated with in the area. While there are not as many attractions in Hobbs compared to other cities and towns in New Mexico, it certainly has its own appeal, especially if you want to see the oil pumps in action! Hobbs is still growing and developing as a city so you can look forward to seeing more and more recreational establishments in a few years’ time.
Hobbs
Website: Hobbs
11. Deming
Deming is home to the largest winery in all of New Mexico, which is St. Claire Winery. This means you will be able to tour the property and sample some of their finest wines. But it isn’t just St. Claire that has top-notch wines, there’s also Luna Wineries which is known to concoct wines from their own vineyard. You can also find the Tethered Aerostat Radar System or TARS situated in this town. It is a facility that is used by the US government to detect illegal airborne activities.
Deming
Website: Deming
12. Raton
Raton is where the Capulin Volcano National Monument is located, as well as Philmont Scout Ranch, Vermejo Park Ranch, and Sugarite Canyon State Park, all of which boast scenic views of New Mexico’s amazing natural wonders. Some of the most famous activities in Raton are biking, hiking, and sightseeing. It is also home to several different plant and animal species so if you are a person who’s interested in nature, Raton has a lot in store for you.
Raton
Website: Raton
13. Gallup
Gallup is an ideal tourist destination for outdoor activity lovers. It has beautiful parks such as the famous Red Rock Park and its stunning rock formations. The city was dubbed as the Heart of Indian Country because of the high percentage of Native American population living here. So if you want to gain more knowledge about the American Indian culture, Gallup is a perfect place to go.
Gallup
Website: Gallup
14. Chama
Chama is another place in New Mexico that has a lot of things in store for its visitors. You can go on fishing at Chama River, ride a horse at Edward Sargent Wildlife Area, capture vivid photos of the local wildlife, and a whole lot more! Another highlight of Chama is Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad where you can ride a coal-fired steam train from New Mexico to Colorado.
Chama
Website: Chama
15. Carrizozo
Located at the intersection of US routes 54 and 380, Carizozo is a town at the heart of Lincoln County. The town’s attractions are museums, parks, and outdoor activities, and it has cafes, restaurants, and bars so no visitor will ever be bored within the boundaries of Carizozo. Some of the most famous places to visit here are Carrizozo Heritage Museum, White Oaks Pottery, and Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography.
Carrizozo
Website: Carrizozo
16. Jemez Springs
Jemez Springs’ highlight is its hot springs, and if you are looking for the ultimate place of relaxation in New Mexico, you can undoubtedly find it in this village! There are also several spa sites in Jemez Springs if you want more relaxation options. Some of the most famous attractions of the village are Spence Hot Spring, Jemez Historic Site, Battleship Rock, and Jemez Fine Art Gallery. Whether you just want to relax, go on a hiking expedition, or maybe shop around for some souvenirs, Jemez Springs has it all.
Jemez Springs
Website: Jemez Springs
17. Lordsburg
Lordsburg is the town where the state song of New Mexico was born, but that’s just one of the amazing things about this place. It is also home to the world-famous Shakespeare Ghost Town, once a mining town that was abandoned in the late 1920s. Shakespeare Ghost Town isn’t the only ghost town here, because there is actually a second ghost town in the area called Steins. The style of the houses are quaint and rustic, giving its visitors a sense of how life was a couple of decades back.
Lordsburg
Website: Lordsburg
18. Corrales
Between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho is where the rural village of Corrales is situated. But even with its rural setting, there are several fine dining restaurants in the village, such as Village Pizza, and Oasis. The village has many old-style houses but there are buildings with modern designs, too! One of the most well-known landmark in the village is the San Ysidro church, which is a place where special events are held. Some of the most famous festivals you should watch out for in Corrales are the Harvest Festival, as well as the Scarecrow Festival.
Corrales
Website: Corrales
19. Española
Española is one of the history-rich places in New Mexico. It has been around since 1598, and many buildings from that era are still standing tall up to this day. Aside from its historic buildings, Española has several activities that you can enjoy, such as going to the Puye Cliff Dwellings to learn more about the Tewa people and their culture. You can also head to Chimayo Trading Post and Trujillo House where you can buy various merchandise, such as clay pots and jugs, wool, and other types of handicrafts.
Española
Website: Española
20. Red River
Red River is yet another place where you can have fun with your friends and family! The activities you can do here depends on what season you’ll visit. Go during winter, and you’ll be able to enjoy snow-centric activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Summer is no less fun than winter because then you’ll be able to enjoy fishing, rafting, hiking, camping, and even hunting. Red River is an ideal destination for the whole family, whether the weather is hot or cold.
Red River
Website: Red River
21. Tucumcari
Tucumcari is famous for road-trippers and travelers as it is a place where they can stop to rest, eat and drink, and buy some things that they wiould need for their travel. Tucumcari is best known for Route 66, the part of the city where you will find recreational facilities, businesses, restaurants, and bars that serve weary travelers. Other highlights of the city are Tucumcari Historical Museum, Tee Pee Curios, and Murals of Tucumcari. Also, don’t forget to take a selfie shot at the Route 66 monument!
Tucumcari
Website: Tucumcari
22. Grants
If you’re fond of spirituality, especially Buddhism, Grants has something for you: Zuni Mountain Stupa, a Buddhist temple where you can meditate with other Buddhist practitioners in the relaxing ambiance of the surroundings. Also, Grants is home to the stunning La Ventana Natural Arch. The other places of interest that you might want to visit are New Mexico Mining Museum, El Calderon Trail, and the Land of Fire and Ice.
Grants
Website: Grants
23. Portales
Portales is known for its dairy and peanut products. But, it isn’t just peanuts and dairy that you’ll find in this city! It is also home to Blackwater Draw Museum, Oasis State Park, and the Eastern New Mexico University. Portales is considered to be one of the cities in the US with the best living conditions thanks to its strong economy and its relatively low cost of living. The city is also famous for the winery Enchantment Vineyard so if you want to taste a couple of wines, you know which tourist destination to visit in Portales!
Portales
Website: Portales
24. Los Lunas
A village located in the city of Valencia, Los Lunas also has some interesting activities and attractions to share with tourists. One of its famous spot is Tome Hill Park, where Christian devotees can go to on a pilgrimage once every Good Friday of the year. Other notable places in Los Lunas is Garden Gate Day Spa & Salon where you can get pampered for a couple of hours, Camino Real if you want to sample some wines, and Sundancer Alpacas, where you can meet and greet the mystical creatures called alpacas.
Los Lunas
Website: Los Lunas
25. Aztec
Home of the UNESCO World Heritage site which is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, Aztec is one of the most frequented cities in New Mexico. There’s also the Dinetah Pueblitos where you can learn a lot about the Navajo people and their culture. The other highlights of the city of Aztec are Alien Run Mountain Bike Trail, Angel Peak Scenic Area, and Lybrook Badlands. There is also a golf course in Aztec called Aztec Municipal Golf Course where you can play golf with your friends or compete with other golfers.
Aztec
Website: Aztec
26. Angel Fire
Angel Fire is where the famous Vietnam Veterans Memorial is situated and you should visit if you want to pay tribute to the heroes of the Vietnam War. Aside from paying tribute to the veterans, you will also be amazed at the talent of the people who came up with the monument’s design. In addition, the village is a popular skiing destination, and there are also other activities for tourists to enjoy, such as zip lining, tubing, fishing, and more! The other places worth checking out are the Enchanted Circle and Wheeler Park.
Angel Fire
Website: Angel Fire
27. Cloudcroft
Cloudcroft is a village in Otero County which is best known for the festivals happening at Zenith Mountain, which tourists from many parts of the world frequent. Some of the events are Oktoberfest and May Fair. Some of the destinations and attractions you can visit here are Osha Trail, Ski Cloudcroft, Silver Springs Fishing Pond, and Burro Street Exchange. You can also learn about the town’s history at Sacramento Mountains Museum. Cloudcroft is a great place to appreciate the beauty of nature, thanks to Nelson Canyon Vista Trail and Rim Trail, which are its popular hiking trails.
Cloudcroft
Website: Cloudcroft
28. Truth or Consequences
It isn’t a game, but the name of a city in Sierra County, named after the popular NBC radio program. Originally, the name of the town was Hot Springs, because of the presence of hot springs. Its name may have changed, but the city is still a good destination to be if you crave for the relaxing feeling of bathing in a hot spring. Some of the most famous attractions here are Riverbend Hot Springs, Caballo State Park, Spaceport of America, and Hot Springs Bathhouse Historic and Commercial District.
Truth or Consequences
Website: Truth or Consequences
29. Socorro
For the lovers of astronomy, Socorro might be the best place in Socorro County because here is where the National Radio Astronomy Observatory is situated. With the big equipment used for all sorts of space observation in the observatory, you will surely go crazy from excitement! Socorro is also home to Mineralogical Museum, Vertu Fine Art Gallery, Fort Craig National Historic Site and Ladd S. Gordon Waterfowl Complex, all of which are great tourist spots for people who love learning new things, whether it be about science, art, or history.
Socorro
Website: Socorro
30. Silver City
Last but certainly not least is this town in Grant County called Silver City. Its economy is supported by its mining and tourism industry. It is also home to many artists, and if you want to watch some of them perform, your best bet is The Silco Theater. Some of the festivals to watch out for are the Silver City Fiber Arts Festival, Red Dot Studio & Gallery Tours, and Chicano Music Festival. You should also visit Gila National Forest, Western New Mexico University Museum, and Jordan Hot Springs.
Silver City
Website: Silver City
Explore New Mexico
These are some of the best places to visit in New Mexico, but there are still more for you to discover! So pack your things up, and get ready to visit the state of many wonders! We’re sure that you’re excited to see one of the best places to visit in New Mexico, USA for yourself!
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