Planning to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature and history? Looking to immerse yourself in different cultures? Then New Mexico is the perfect place for you. From New Mexico’s largest and most populous city, Albuquerque, you can get around the state and experience its several wonders! There is a wide array of things to do such as embarking on an archeological journey, experiencing serenity at its finest and trying out culinary fusions. There are also Airbnbs with a pool as well as hotels if you’re wondering where to stay. So dust off those hiking boots and recharge because you deserve it. Being the fifth-largest state in the US, planning a trip to New Mexico may become a challenge. But don’t fret! Check out this list of the best day trips from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
1. Jemez Springs (from USD 395.0)
If you are looking to soak all the stresses away and immerse yourself in authentic Native American culture and history, the Town of Jemez is the place to be. Be lured by their nurturing hot springs and embark on a spectacular retreat to unplug from your busy lives and reconnect with nature and the self. Jemez Springs is said to have healing properties because of the therapeutic blend of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and more, that are found in its waters. Soak and be renewed. The town also boasts handmade mineral makeup products and Native American pottery and jewelry; perfect as gifts for loved ones or as treats for your hardworking self.
New Mexico: Jemez Pueblo, Soda Dam & Falls: A Photographer's Landscape Dream
Duration: 6 hours
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico (from USD 435.0)
Fascinated by architectural wonders and the arts? Take a road trip from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. Wander inside its renowned churches, famous for its distinct characteristics like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi known for its Romanesque Revival architecture or the Loretto Chapel with its awe-inducing spiral staircase. Can’t get enough of the arts? Then pick one or visit all of the world-class museums. Then, stroll down the streets and sample an array of cuisines; there are Italian, Asian, New Mexican or Tapas. After that, satisfy your need for artworks, jewelry, and prints in the many stores downtown. Your day will be well spent in Santa Fe.
Santa Fe 8-Hour Private Guided Sights and Museums Tour, Pickup
Duration: 8 hours
3. The Mine Shaft Tavern in Madrid, New Mexico
Craving for some mystery and excitement? A short trip from Albuquerque to Madrid will give you just that. This small village is categorized as a ghost town and is said to be haunted as numerous ghost sightings have been reported. Brave enough to check if ghosts do appear? Then head on to the Mine Shaft Tavern, said to be the most haunted place in all of Madrid. Yet, despite these stories, there is a bittersweet history. Madrid used to be a bustling village famous for its mineral deposits- coal, lead, silver, and gold. However, when the coal market collapsed so did Madrid. It even came to the point of the town being listed for sale, but there were no takers. But now Madrid is again reclaiming its lost glory; it is now becoming a haven for motorcycle riders and tourists dropping by for a pint or two at “the longest bar in the state” inside the Mine Shaft Tavern.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Are you ready for some hiking? Well, let us get physical and lace up those hiking boots as we get ready to conquer the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument. Pick from the two main trails that will take you to the most jaw-dropping formations and top-tier views. Watch out for the conical rock formations-the hoodoos that look like 90-foot (27-meter) sentries standing guard over the vast desert. Tip: avoid crowded weekends, pick a weekday and start the trail early. Trust when we say, it will be worth the hike.
5. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge in Taos, New Mexico
If you only have one day to spare then Taos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, would be worth your while. It has everything you would ever want. Feed your eyes with the stunning views of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and be amazed by a scenic hike or the beautifully constructed steel bridge. Fill your stomach with local and organic food that Taos is famous for. Indulge in artisanal products and the mouthwatering tamales. If you are there on a weekend, do not miss the Taos Farmers’ Market, join the locals as they compare recipes and taste each other’s goodies- may it be cheese, bread and honey. Engage your heart with your love for the arts- architectural wonders, galleries, museums, art colony- name it, Taos has it. Drop by The Earthships and look around the off-the-grid homes that are built from materials like used tires and bottles. Do some pottery at Taos Clay or take a 15-mile (24-km) hike and drive to the Frazer Mountain.
6. Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Pueblos (pueblo is the Spanish word for town) are communal villages of the North American Indians. If you are looking to have a feel of living in these Pueblos, then go and visit Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. The monument, which is one of the best places to visit near Albuquerque, is called as such because of the salt deposits found in the area. Salinas is Spanish for salt-mines. Here, you will find and explore the well-preserved remains of pueblo communities. There are three sites to choose from: Quarai, Abo and Gran Quivira. They all cover around 1.7 miles (2.74 kilometers)! In each of these excavated sites, you will be able to find mission church ruins and pueblos. The best way to experience the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is for you to follow the informative trails.
7. Sky City Cultural Center and Haak’u Museum
Delve into New Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and visit Acoma Pueblo, the Sky City. Sky City Cultural Center houses the Haakú Museum and it is also the reception area for visitors who are about to encounter the 28th Historic Site, as proclaimed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for being the oldest inhabited settlement in North America! Take a peek at the history and revitalized lost art forms of the Acoma people. Take the guided tours and check out Acoma pottery and Native American crafts sold by local artisans.
8. Petroglyph National Monument
Are you familiar with the Petroglyphs? These are rock carvings or rock paintings created by the ancestors of the Pueblo people. At the Petroglyph National Monument, you can take a closer look at around 25,000 petroglyph images, all believed to be carved from the 100s through the 1680s! Be ready for a quick walk along one of the paths or be adventurous and hike the whole day and explore not only the petroglyphs but also the five fissure volcanoes. Experience the arid and desert-like plateau. Watch out for cacti varieties and elusive creatures.
9. The Very Large Array
The Very Large Array is the world’s premier astronomical radio observatories and the most powerful radio telescope in the world! Located on the Plains of San Agustin, roughly 50 miles (80 km) west of Socorro, New Mexico, Very Large Array consists of 27 radio antennas. The VLA’s maximum angular resolution is even comparable to that of the Hubble Space Telescope! Go ahead and marvel at each of the antennae that stands tall at 82 feet 24 meters. Be amazed and learn how the Very Large Array is used by astronomers for weather studies and satellite tracking. When visiting this facility, no reservations are required. Guided tours that usually last 50 minutes are available via the tourism center.
10. Valles Caldera National Preserve
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Hey, why aren't there any trees in Valle Grande? #FAQs One of the reasons is that very cold air forms on Redondo and...
Posted by Valles Caldera National Preserve on Tuesday, January 24, 2023
Valles Caldera National Preserve is a stunning location that provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The preserve is known for its rolling hills, expansive meadows, and crystal-clear streams that flow through the landscape.
Outdoor lovers will love it here, as plenty of activities are available, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. If you’re lucky, you can spot various wildlife creatures such as elk, deer, and coyotes.
One of the highlights of the preserve is the volcanic caldera, a massive crater-like depression in the ground formed by volcanic activity. The caldera is a unique feature that offers a glimpse into the area’s geological history.
11. Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Fiery skies over White Sands National Park. #NMTrue
Posted by New Mexico True on Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for any nature and wildlife enthusiast. The refuge is home to various bird species, including sandhill cranes, snow geese, and ducks, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
The breathtaking landscape is filled with expansive marshes, rolling hills, and forests, providing a perfect backdrop for wildlife observation and outdoor activities. There are also several hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace.
Set your alarms and wake up early to witness the morning fly-out, a daily spectacle where thousands of birds take flight in unison from the wetlands at sunrise, providing a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty.
Amazing experiences in New Mexico
Indeed, New Mexico has amazing historical gems, wonderful views, and amazing multi-sensory experiences. Once you’ve exhausted all the best things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico, pack up and invest in memories that will last a lifetime! Be ready to be enchanted by the Land of Enchantment; New Mexico.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Albuquerque, New Mexico
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