Need a spiritual retreat or cultural escape in northern New Mexico? Head to Chimayó! Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Chimayó is known for its sacred chapel, traditional weavers, and rich Hispano heritage. Whether you’re exploring history, sampling chile, or seeking healing, Chimayó offers a peaceful and deeply meaningful experience.
Chimayó, NM Highlights:
- El Santuario de Chimayó: Visit this 19th-century adobe chapel known for its “holy dirt” and miraculous healing reputation.
- Ortega’s Weaving Shop: Discover generations of traditional weaving and shop for handmade textiles in a working studio.
- Chimayó Museum: Learn about the town’s Spanish colonial history and cultural traditions in a restored adobe home.
- Trujillo’s Weaving Shop: Another must-see for authentic New Mexican rugs, tapestries, and blankets made with pride.
- Santo Niño Chapel: Adjacent to the main sanctuary, this peaceful shrine is adorned with children’s shoes and milagros (prayer offerings).
Best Time to Visit Chimayó, NM
The best time to visit Chimayó is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). Spring is especially popular during Holy Week pilgrimages, while fall brings cooler weather and golden cottonwood trees. Summer is warm and lively; winter is quiet and spiritual.
How to Get to Chimayó, NM
- If you are traveling by car: Chimayó is located along NM-76, about 40 minutes north of Santa Fe and 25 minutes east of Española.
- By Air: Fly into Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) or Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), then drive north via scenic High Road to Taos.
- By Bus: Local transit options are limited—driving is recommended for the best access and flexibility.
Where to Stay in Chimayó, NM
- Casa Escondida Bed & Breakfast – Cozy, countryside B&B with fireplaces, local art, and peaceful views just outside Chimayó.
- Hotel Chimayó de Santa Fe – Located in nearby Santa Fe, this boutique hotel celebrates Chimayó’s heritage with handcrafted decor.
- El Mesón del Espíritu Santo – Quiet, rustic retreat spaces for pilgrims and spiritual seekers (contact for availability).
Best Things to Do in Chimayó, NM
⮕ Find Peace and Inspiration at El Santuario de Chimayo
El Santuario de Chimayo was built back in 1816 and is a famous Roman Catholic church in Chimayo, New Mexico. The church draws more than 300,000 visitors each year, which makes it one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites. Part of what makes El Santuario de Chimayo famous is its founding story. According to the story, a friar spotted a light on a hillside, at which he found a crucifix. The friar brought the crucifix to the Santa Cruz church, however, it kept returning to the original spot. It was decided to build a church at this site.
15 Santuario Dr, Chimayo, NM 87522, Phone: 505-351-9961
⮕ If You Appreciate Handcrafted Art, Visit Ortega’s Weaving Shop
Ortega's Weaving Shop is full of unique and beautiful souvenirs for travelers to bring home from their time in the tiny town of Chimayo. The items found in this locally owned and operated shop have been continuously perfected across nine generations of weavers, passing the skill down through the Ortega family. Along with already made woven products, customers can also order personalized blankets, rugs, accessories, and more from five signature colors. Every piece at Ortega's Weaving Shop is original, with rugs durable enough for floor use and blankets comfortable and soft enough to be used as a throw.
53 Plaza Del Cerro, Chimayo, NM 87522, Phone: 505-351-4215
⮕ Discover Local Treasures at El Potrero Trading Post
El Potrero Trading Post, also known as The Vigil Store, is a family-owned and operated store in Chimayo specializing in local produce and New Mexico folk art, situated adjacent to the famed El Santuario de Chimayo. The El Potrero Trading Post carries New Mexican folk art, red and green chile, and high quality religious articles, such as tin crosses, carved saints, saints painted on wood. The trading post was first opened by Alfonsa Vigil in 1921 as a grocery store to service the El Potrero community, and has now been passed down to the next generation of the family.
17 Santuario Dr, Chimayo, NM 87522, Phone: 505-351-4112
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Fish, Hike, and Relax at Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area
The Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area is one of the Chimayo area’s natural attractions, located at the foot of the scenic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Santa Cruz Lake itself provides opportunities for several outdoor recreation activities for visitors of all ages, such as water sports, fishing, and swimming. The recreation area also offers a chance for camping, picnicking, and hiking. Two campgrounds in the Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area feature restroom facilities, grills, and picnic shelters. The North Lake Campground offers drinking water between the months of April and October. The terrain here is made up of canyons, mesas, and foothills.
County Road 98A, Espanola, NM 87532, Phone: 505-351-1438
⮕ Savor Authentic New Mexican Flavors at Rancho de Chimayo
Rancho de Chimayo in the village of Chimayo, New Mexico is a place to get a true taste of the local region. Arturo and Florence Jaramillo have cultivated a menu based on ancestral, local, and personal influences. Over the more than fifty years, Rancho de Chimayo has become famous for its signature dishes of chile rellenos, carne adovada, blue corn enchiladas, hand rolled tamales, spicy guacamole, and fluffy sopapillas. Open Tuesday to Sunday, the restaurant also offers a full bar, complete with fine wine and their signature tequila, which is used to make the signature prickly pear margarita.
300 Juan Medina Rd, Chimayo, NM 87522, Phone: 505-351-4444
Where to Eat in Chimayó, NM
- Rancho de Chimayó Restaurante – A regional favorite offering traditional New Mexican dishes like carne adovada, sopapillas, and red chile stew in a historic hacienda setting.
- Leona’s Restaurante – Seasonal roadside stand famous for tamales, tacos, and sweets made with love.
- El Paragua (in Española) – Family-run Mexican restaurant with classic dishes and a charming courtyard, just 25 minutes away.
If you are interested in local events:
- Holy Week Pilgrimage to El Santuario (Easter) – Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the church in a powerful act of devotion.
- Santo Niño Fiesta (July) – Community celebration at the nearby chapel with mass, food, and traditional music.
- Chimayó Cultural Festival (Fall, occasional years) – Celebrates local artisans, food, and culture with workshops and performances.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Chimayó, New Mexico:
- Santa Fe (35–40 min) – Explore world-class museums, historic adobe buildings, and endless Southwest art and cuisine.
- Española (25 min) – Visit museums, churches, and shop for Native and Hispano crafts along the Rio Grande corridor.
- Truchas (30 min) – Quaint mountain village with art galleries and panoramic views on the High Road to Taos.
- Córdova (15 min) – Known for traditional woodcarving and folk art—visit local studios and churches.
- Pojoaque Pueblo (20–25 min) – Stop at the Poeh Cultural Center to learn about Tewa heritage and contemporary Native art.
- Nambe Falls (30 min) – Hike to a beautiful waterfall and cool off at one of northern New Mexico’s hidden gems.
- Santa Cruz Lake (20–25 min) – Fish, kayak, or picnic at this tranquil reservoir tucked in the mountains.
- Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs (35–40 min) – Relax in natural hot springs and indulge in spa treatments (just beyond 30 minutes but worth it).
- Abiquiú (45 min) – Explore Georgia O’Keeffe’s landscapes and tour her home (also just beyond, but an artist's dream day trip).
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Chimayo located?
- Chimayo is a small village in New Mexico, offering a unique destination with a small-town feel and a rich historic and cultural vibe.
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What is Chimayo best known for?
- Chimayo is well known for its miraculous religious sites, including El Santuario de Chimayo, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
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What kind of cuisine can visitors enjoy in Chimayo?
- Visitors can sample regional cuisine at local eateries, such as the famous Rancho de Chimayo.
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Where can visitors shop for unique handcrafted items in Chimayo?
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Chimayo is a great place to find one-of-a-kind handcrafted items and folk art at places like:
- El Potrero Trading Post
- Ortega's Weaving Shop
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Chimayo is a great place to find one-of-a-kind handcrafted items and folk art at places like:
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and vibrant desert blooms.
Casa Escondida Bed & Breakfast – A cozy and authentic Southwestern retreat.
Visit El Santuario de Chimayó – Experience this historic pilgrimage site and its healing soil.
Summer (June-August) – Warm but pleasant, perfect for exploring local art and culture.
Rancho de Chimayó Hacienda – A charming historic inn with classic New Mexican hospitality.
Dine at Rancho de Chimayó – Enjoy traditional New Mexican cuisine in a beautiful adobe setting.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall colors in the surrounding mountains.
The Inn at the Delta – A boutique stay just outside of Chimayó.
Explore the High Road to Taos – A scenic drive filled with breathtaking views and artisan villages.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, with a magical Southwestern holiday charm.
Hacienda del Sol – A warm and rustic retreat with a cozy atmosphere.
Experience Las Posadas in Chimayó – Celebrate the traditional New Mexican holiday procession and festivities.
Plan Your Trip