Unique Things to Do in New Mexico
After traveling across New Mexico’s deserts, mountains, and adobe towns, I’ve come to appreciate just how many one-of-a-kind experiences this Southwestern state has to offer. From otherworldly landscapes and ancient cultural sites to colorful art hubs and quirky roadside stops, New Mexico is full of surprises. These are the unique places and activities I’ve personally explored on my many road trips from my home base in Texas and would recommend to anyone looking for something truly different.
1. Sky City Cultural Center & Haak’u Museum
I thought this was such a hidden gem! Nestled within the dramatic sandstone mesas of western New Mexico, Sky City Cultural Center & Haak’u Museum offers an authentic window into one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited communities.
I discovered timeless Pueblo architecture, sweeping desert vistas, intricate pottery traditions, and the deep cultural pride of the Acoma people. The pace of life here is refreshingly unhurried, and I was warmly welcomed everywhere I went.
Sky City sits atop a mesa at nearly 7,000 feet, about 60 miles west of Albuquerque. Known as “Haak’u” by the Acoma people, it is often called the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States, with origins stretching back over a thousand years. The museum itself showcases vibrant cultural exhibits, art, and history, while the cultural center helps preserve and share Acoma traditions.
I joined a guided tour that brought history to life—exploring the striking whitewashed San Esteban del Rey Mission Church (built in the 1600s), wandering through centuries-old adobe homes, and admiring panoramic views that stretched across the desert. The museum housed breathtaking pottery collections, storytelling exhibits, and rotating displays that celebrated Acoma artistry.
This was an easy day trip from our base in Albuquerque so we returned there before nightfall.
2. Meow Wolf Santa Fe
I thought this was one of the most mind-bending, whimsical, and utterly unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had! Walking into Meow Wolf Santa Fe felt like stepping straight into a living dream—a place where art, imagination, and storytelling collide.
We drove one hour from Albuquerque to Santa Fe and based ourselves for two nights at 3-star Pecos Trail Inn.
At Meow Wolf Santa Fe, I discovered neon forests, secret passageways, interdimensional portals, and entire worlds built inside a seemingly ordinary house. It was quirky, playful, and just the right amount of strange—and everywhere I turned, people had the same wide-eyed smiles as me!
Tucked away in an old bowling alley in Santa Fe, this immersive art installation—called The House of Eternal Return—was created by the art collective Meow Wolf with the support of George R. R. Martin. It’s a sprawling labyrinth of interactive art, filled with over 70 unique rooms designed by hundreds of artists. What makes it so fascinating is that it’s not just visual—it’s tactile, auditory, and even narrative. Behind all the glowing caves and dreamlike spaces lies a mysterious storyline about a family who vanished after experimenting with interdimensional travel.
We stopped at the on-site Float Café & Bar for snacks and then spent more time crawling through tunnels, opening hidden doors, playing glowing instruments, and piecing together clues. One moment I was inside a glowing coral reef, the next I was in a neon jungle, and suddenly I’d find myself in a sci-fi control room. It was impossible to see it all in one visit, and that’s exactly what made it so magical.
3. The Santa Fe Botanical Garden
Next day we spend a lot of time at The Santa Fe Botanical Garden, a living work of art—where native plants, desert landscapes, and carefully designed pathways all blended into a serene escape that completely won me over. I discovered winding trails dotted with vibrant wildflowers, sculptural piñon and juniper woodlands, and seasonal art installations that seemed to emerge naturally from the land. The pace here was slow and reflective, and I was charmed by the sense of harmony between people and nature.
Located on Museum Hill in Santa Fe, the garden is a celebration of the region’s unique high-desert ecology. It’s thoughtfully divided into themed areas, including traditional orchard terraces, pollinator-friendly meadows, and xeric gardens that showcase the resilience and beauty of Southwestern plants. Sculptures by local and international artists add a creative layer to the landscape, making it as much a cultural experience as a botanical one.
I wandered along stone pathways with sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, paused in shaded courtyards, and admired the variety of native plants that thrive in this climate—from cacti and agave to flowering perennials. It felt both educational and deeply restorative, like stepping into a space designed for reflection and renewal.
4. ABQ Trolley Co.
We drove from Santa Fe back to Albuquerque in just under an hour and hopped on ABQ Trolley Co. I thought this was such a fun and entertaining way to discover Albuquerque! The ABQ Trolley Co. made the city come alive with humor, history, and plenty of local charm. I discovered colorful murals, quirky film locations, sweeping desert landscapes, and the hidden gems of the Duke City—all while riding in a breezy open-air trolley. The guides were so warm, witty, and full of fascinating stories that I felt like I was exploring the city with a group of friends.
Based in Old Town Albuquerque, the trolley tours cover the best of the city’s history, culture, and pop-culture moments. Their signature “Best of ABQ City Tour” is a 2-hour adventure through historic neighborhoods, Route 66 landmarks, and even filming locations from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. It’s part sightseeing tour, part comedy show, and part insider’s guide.
I loved how effortlessly the tour blended past and present—highlighting Albuquerque’s Native and Hispanic heritage, its unique adobe architecture, and its thriving arts and food scenes. From the Rio Grande Valley to downtown’s vibrant murals, there was so much to soak in.
Conclusion
No matter your interests (art, history, food, or indoor or outdoor adventure) New Mexico’s unique spirit and warm hospitality make it a place you’ll never forget.
I've been going back for decades to check out new attractions and re-visit my old favorites.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
