If you are an art lover, immerse yourself in one of America’s authentic art colonies, Taos. Situated in northern New Mexico, Taos is a hidden gem. Come and experience the rich traditions, fine arts, and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and Rio Grande Gorge. You can also head down to one of the most photographed and iconic churches, St Francisco de Asis. Taos is also home to one of the World’s Heritage Sites, Taos Pueblo. There are several things to do in Taos from shopping to doing active outdoor activities like skiing. If you need a getaway or you are looking for a place to go with your loved ones, Taos has something to offer to everyone. Check out our list of the best things to do in Taos, New Mexico.
1. Blend with locals and discover the shops and galleries at Taos Plaza
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Nestled in the heart of Taos, Taos Plaza is a must-go for tourists. Locals gather at the plaza every Thursday, from May to October, for live concerts. Looking for unique souvenirs? Visitors also get to enjoy the shops here that sell vintage items or crafts. Since Taos has a vibrant art scene, you should include visiting some art galleries in your itinerary. You can head down to Sage Fine Arts that showcases 10 artworks about Northern New Mexico. You will certainly have a whale of a time at Taos Plaza!
Taos Plaza
Address: N Plaza, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Taos Plaza
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Get to know the life and contributions of Kit Carson at Kit Carson Home and Museum
Just a short walk away from Taos Plaza is a registered historical landmark, Kit Carson Home and Museum. Built in 1825, Kit Carson purchased this home for his third wife who was a prominent member of the Taos family. Today, it is historically important as it becomes a prime example of why museums should be preserved for educational and cultural purposes. Additionally, Kit Carson Home and Museum attracts about 20,000 visitors every year. Learn more about the colonial artefacts as well as what New Mexico’s life was like in the early days.
Kit Carson Home and Museum
Address: 113 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: The Kit Carson Home and Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 1pm - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
3. Embark on a scavenger hunt adventure (from USD 35.0)
Want to learn more about Taos through games? Looking for something to do with your little ones or with your friends? Go on a scavenger hunt! This outdoor activity is done privately and you will be hosted by Tara, who is your Scavenger Hunt Master. All you have to do is solve the mysteries of Taos and get some photos taken during your hunt. You will be distributed clues to head start your scavenger hunt! Through this activity, you get to interact with locals, learn more about the art, history, and culture of Taos. Do take note that you will need Whatsapp on your mobile device!
Creative Taos Scavenger Hunt Adventure
Duration: 2 hours
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4. Indulge in authentic Mexican food
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Casa De Valdez on Saturday, March 21, 2020
Mexican cuisine has developed over thousands of years. Today, it is one of the most well-known cuisines around the world. Since 1984, Casa de Valdez has been serving Mexican food to locals and tourists. If you don’t know what to get, go for their nacho deluxe, taco salad, and ribeye steak. Casa de Valdez also offers vegetarian and has gluten-free options.
Casa de Valdez
Address: 1401 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Casa de Valdez
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 2pm - 7:30pm; Thu - Sun: 2pm - 7:30pm (closed on Tue & Wed)
5. Admire the paintings at Taos Art Museum at Fechin House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Taos has a vibrant art scene, that’s why you should visit Fechin House. This museum has a lot of history as it was owned by renowned Russian artist Nicolai Fechin, his wife Alexandra, and their daughter, Eya. Initially, they emigrated from Russia to New York City. In 1927 during winter, they acquired this property and renovated it to make it their home within the next five to six years. Today, it’s an art museum where it holds exhibitions and showcases local talent’s artworks.
Taos Art Museum at Fechin House
Address: 227 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Taos Art Museum at Fechin House
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon - Thu)
6. Step back in time at Couse-Sharp Historic Site
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Travel back in time at Couse-Sharp Historic Site as the building showcases Spanish colonial architecture in the 1830s and Pueblo Revival in the 1930s. This building was also started by two families, the Couses and the Sharps. The Sharp bought the property, and the next year, the Couse family moved in. Both artists built studios and today, it shows what studios were like in the early days. The site maintains ties with the descendants and their goal is to promote native art.
Course-Sharp Historic Site
Address: 146 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Course-Sharp Historic Site
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: Free
7. Discover the local artisans of Taos in their showrooms (from USD 107.0)
Need a bit more knowledge about the Native American culture? Join this Taos Artisan Walking Tour & Chocolate. Your guide will share more knowledge about the history and the art movement in Taos. Admire a collection of awesome artworks from local artists and taste organic homemade chocolate or wine at a local bar. Who knows you might meet some artists when you go on this tour?
Taos Artisan Walking Tour + Chocolate
Duration: 3 hours
8. Get a glimpse of northern New Mexico's traditions and culture at Martinez Hacienda
In downtown Taos, lies a small county. Martinez Hacienda, also known as Hacienda de Los Martinez, is a historic museum. The fortress-like building was built during the Spanish colonial times and became an important trade centre for the Spanish Empire. Additionally, Hacienda used to be the headquarters for ranches and farming operations. Travel back in time during the early 1800s and catch a glimpse of frontier life. Be sure to check out the regularly scheduled demonstrations that present the continuing traditions of northern New Mexico.
Martinez Hacienda
Address: 708 Hacienda Rd, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Martinez Hacienda
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11am - 4pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 4pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Wed & Thu)
9. Bring the fun indoors and play bowling at Gutters
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Want to do something different in Taos with your family and loved ones? Head down to Gutters to play a game of bowling. Gutters is a modern bowling centre in Taos. There is a restaurant that serves wine and beer whenever you feel hungry after a good game. With modern facilities and a variety of events held here, you will have a fun time with your family at Gutters.
Gutters Bowling
Address: 520 Plaza Cañon Dr, Taos, NM 87571, United States
Website: Gutters Bowling
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 4pm - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
10. Learn the winemaking process on a relaxing winery tour (from USD 117.0)
Calling all wine lovers because you are in for a treat! On this day trip, your private chauffeur will pick you up and take you to three top New Mexico wineries in Taos. You can learn more about the winemaking process and sample some of the best wines here. Enjoy a fantastic view of the vast desert scenery in between the estates.
Taos Winery Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Vibrant culture
It is refreshing to see how Taos is set apart from the various towns. From a vibrant art scene to engaging outdoor activities, it is truly a hidden gem. Filled with museums, restaurants, and parks, you will surely have a memorable time in Taos. So on your next holiday, be sure to consider this town in New Mexico.
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