Things to Do in New Mexico

By VI | Disclosure: I use affiliate links

vermontalm/stock.adobe.com

When I’m in need of wide-open skies, rich culture, and soul-stirring landscapes, I head to New Mexico. The Land of Enchantment has a way of blending ancient traditions with bold creativity—and it always leaves me inspired. One day I’m hiking through otherworldly white dunes, the next I’m sipping chili-infused cocoa after exploring a centuries-old pueblo. From its desert stillness to its colorful art scenes, New Mexico offers a kind of magic I never tire of.

New Mexico Highlights:

For Nature Lovers: Hike White Sands National Park – I’ve wandered the bright gypsum dunes at sunset and felt like I’d stepped into another world.
For Art Fans: Santa Fe’s Canyon Road is a must – I can spend hours gallery-hopping and talking to artists in this creative hub.
For History Buffs: Taos Pueblo blew me away – This living UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only beautiful—it’s humbling.
For Adventure Seekers: Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway – I love soaring above Albuquerque and hitting high-altitude trails with epic views.
For Stargazers: Chaco Culture National Historical Park – With ancient ruins and pitch-dark skies, it’s my favorite place to stargaze in silence.

Best Time to Visit New Mexico

I always recommend spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for the perfect mix of great weather and jaw-dropping scenery. Summer brings dry heat and cool mountain escapes, while winter transforms Taos and Santa Fe into snowy wonderlands for skiing and cozy fireside nights.

How to Get to New Mexico

By Air: I usually fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)—it’s central and easy. Santa Fe (SAF) is smaller but closer if you’re heading straight there. El Paso (ELP) is great for southern destinations.
By Car: Road-tripping here is essential. I’ve driven scenic highways like I-25, I-40, and U.S. 285, and each route offers new views and hidden gems.
By Train: Amtrak’s Southwest Chief stops in Albuquerque and other towns—ideal for a relaxed, scenic arrival.

Where to Stay in New Mexico

Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town – A favorite of mine when traveling with family—near museums, markets, and local eats in Albuquerque’s historic heart.
La Posada de Santa Fe – For couples, this romantic adobe resort blends New Mexico charm with art and spa luxury—right in downtown Santa Fe.
El Monte Sagrado (Taos) – This eco-friendly hideaway feels like a sanctuary, surrounded by gardens and sweeping mountain views.

Best Things to Do in New Mexico

Catch World-Class Performances Under the Stars at the Santa Fe Opera House

Santa Fe Opera House

Catch World-Class Performances Under the Stars at the Santa Fe Opera House - Set against desert sunsets and mountain backdrops, it’s opera with unforgettable ambiance.

Learn at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Courtesy of psamtik - Fotolia.com

Learn at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science - Walk with dinosaurs, explore volcanoes, and journey through deep time in downtown Albuquerque.

Step Into Southwestern Elegance at the Millicent Rogers Museum

Millicent Rogers Museum

Step Into Southwestern Elegance at the Millicent Rogers Museum - From Native American jewelry to Hispanic textiles, this Taos gem honors cultural artistry.

Experience Pueblo Life at Sky City Cultural Center & Haak’u Museum

Sky City Cultural Center & Haak'u Museum

Experience Pueblo Life at Sky City Cultural Center & Haak’u Museum - Learn the living history of the Acoma people atop one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in North America.

Hike and Reflect in the Spirit of Georgia O’Keeffe at Ghost Ranch