New Mexico

✨ Things to Do

Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and everyone in between can appreciate the myriad of activities in New Mexico:

• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – The largest hot air balloon festival in the world. It draws thousands every October, especially photographers.
• Spot UFOs in Roswell – The 1947 UFO incident draws conspiracy theorists and pop culture fans to this cool, kitschy town. 
• Go Underground at Carlsbad Caverns – A nearly 800-foot descent leads to stunning rock formations at this national park. 
• Explore Ancient Ruins – Delve into history at several national monuments and historical parks. These include Chaco Culture, Gila Cliff Dwellings, and Bandelier.
• Sample Fry Bread – This Native American delicacy can be found at restaurants and roadside food stands. Top with savory or sweet ingredients.

✨ Read the full list of best things to do in New Mexico.

🗺️ Where to Stay

Even lesser-known attractions can be easily accessed from certain destinations. Strategic places to stay include:

• Albuquerque – Many tourists fly into Albuquerque International Sunport. Stay here for convenience and a variety of hotels.
• Santa Fe – Find lodging in downtown Santa Fe, the Historic Eastside neighborhood, and other areas. Several day trips are within reach.
• Taos – Unique stays include eco-friendly Earthships, historic inns, and ski-in, and ski-out lodges. Also home to some of the best camping in New Mexico.  
• Farmington – An ideal location to access Chaco Culture. Aztec Ruins, Ship Rock, and Four Corners Monument are also nearby.
• Jemez Springs – Soak in natural hot springs and a day trip to otherworldly sites. Bisti Badlands and Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness are remote gems.

🛎️ Best Hotels

Major cities in New Mexico feature historic lodging, full of charm and handmade decor. Chain hotels meet travelers’ needs in smaller towns:

• Hotel Chaco – Located in historic Old Town Albuquerque and one of the best hotels in the capital. Several attractions are within walking distance. 
• Inn on La Loma Plaza – Historic Southwest architecture and walkability to Taos Plaza are two key benefits. Continental breakfast included. 
• La Fonda on the Plaza – Centrally located with easy access to popular Sante Fe sites. Relax in its rooftop hot tub and spa.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton – Best accommodations in Farmington featuring modern amenities and pet-friendly rooms. 
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites – This recommended stay in Roswell has an updated interior, indoor pool, and airport shuttle service.

🚗 Best Road Trips

Few states rival the vast beauty that you’ll find in New Mexico. Pack up the car and experience one of these unforgettable adventures:

• Route 66 – An iconic American road trip with 465 miles through New Mexico. Stop for souvenirs, retro diners, and photo ops with neon signs.  
• Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway – The road trip for outdoor enthusiasts. Passes sites for skiing, fishing, hiking, and more in the area near Taos.
• Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway – Quiet, open road that leads to Chaco Culture, plus El Morro and Aztec Ruins National Monuments. 
• Mining District Ghost Towns – Starting near Silver City, drive to four mining-era ghost towns: Hanover, Hillsboro, Monticello, and Chloride.
• Breakfast Burrito Byway – Sample delicious burritos (and the finest green chile) through Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and nearby areas.

♨️ Best Hot Springs

The desert of New Mexico may see high temperatures, but even summer evenings are brisk. Warm up and relax in these natural hot springs:

• Jemez Hot Springs – Find four pools and convenient amenities at this quiet resort. Showers and towels are available on-site.   
• Spence Hot Springs – Also located in Jemez Springs, but this backcountry pool is free to visitors. Leave no trace when visiting.
• Ojo Caliente Hot Springs – Enjoy various soaking pools, including a unique mud pool. This resort near Taos also features a spa and lodging.
• Black Rock Hot Springs – Also near Taos, this clothing-optional backcountry spring is set along the scenic Rio Grande. 
• Gila Hot Springs – Four miles from Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. It’s attached to a private, locally-owned campground.

👉 Read the full list of the best hot springs in New Mexico.

⛷️ Best Ski Resorts

Surprised to learn that New Mexico is home to ski resorts? Find snowy destinations all across the state:

• Taos Ski Valley – World-class skiing in the valley below New Mexicos’ tallest peak. Enjoy steep, glade runs and upscale lodging.
• Angel Fire Resort – A family-friendly resort near Taos. Largely composed of easy and intermediate trails with night skiing available. 
• Ski Apache – Offers stunning views of White Sands National Park and a unique attraction: the world’s third-longest zipline. 
• Ski Santa Fe – This easy-to-access resort features a variety of terrain for all skill levels. Frequented by locals more than tourists. 
• Sandia Peak – To experience the state’s oldest resort, ride North America’s longest tramway to the ridge overlooking Albuquerque.

🖼️ Best Museums

What’s traveling without a bit of learning? Discover the culture and history of New Mexico, from renowned artists to gunslinging outlaws:

• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center – A museum and event space honoring local Native American tribes. Visit on a weekend to see traditional dances.
• Turquoise Museum – An Albuquerque museum that highlights the state’s gemstones. Its collection includes jewelry, decor, and other unique pieces. 
• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum – Set in Santa Fe, this attraction celebrates one of New Mexico’s most famed artists. See paintings, sculptures, and more.
• International UFO Museum and Research Center – With exhibits on cover-ups to pop culture, this Roswell museum is a must for paranormal enthusiasts. 
• Billy the Kid Museum – A fascinating collection of artifacts involved in the Wild West outlaw’s life. Found near the Texas-New Mexico border.

🎨 Best Galleries

One of the things that distinguishes New Mexico is its incredible art community. Admire the work of local artists at these galleries:

• Canyon Road Contemporary Art – Houses creations by more than two dozen artists and features an inspiring sculpture garden. 
• Nedra Matteucci Galleries – A renovated mansion full of various art forms by historic and contemporary creators. Tour the garden when visiting. 
• The Michael McCormick Gallery – Located in Taos, this gallery highlights notable New Mexico artists. Speak with the owner for art history and insights. 
• Gallery Hózhó at Hotel Chaco – Admire contemporary paintings, sculptures, and other artwork. This gallery is attached to a top Albuquerque hotel.
• Meow Wolf Santa Fe – The original Meow Wolf in Santa Fe. An engaging, interactive attraction that’s part gallery, part fun house. 

👉 Tips & Things to Know

• 🚰 – Stay Hydrated – It’s important to drink plenty of water when visiting New Mexico’s arid/semi-arid climate. Consume extra in the summer and at higher altitudes. 
• 🚙 – Drives are Lengthy – If taking a road trip, note that drive times are often surprisingly long. Take in the beauty on dirt paths and mountain passes.
• 🎶 – Download Essentials – Before hitting the road, download your digital map, as you may lose service. The same applies to music, podcasts, and audiobooks.
• 🌶️ – Smother It “Christmas Style” – You can’t visit New Mexico without trying its incredible cuisine. Smothered burritos in red and green chile are a must.
• 🥾 – Explore Respectfully – Many natural attractions are sacred to local tribes. Follow the rules, respect wildlife, leave no trace — and leave it better than you found it.

🧳 What to Pack

• 💧 – Water Bottle – See travel tip number one! You’ll want to carry this with you wherever you go, whether it’s a city or the backcountry. 
• 👙 – Bathing Suit – With so many hot springs in New Mexico, you’ll want to pack a swimsuit — unless you’re on board with those that are clothing optional!
• 👟 – Comfortable Shoes – Whether you’re hiking in wild places or touring endless galleries, a comfortable pair of shoes is crucial. 
• ☀️ – Sunscreen – New Mexico sees plenty of sunshine. Be protected when skiing, rafting in the summer heat, and all times in between.
• 📸 – Camera – Whether you’re using an action camera, a polaroid, or your cell phone, you’re going to want to capture the Land of Enchantment.

🧳 See the full New Mexico packing checklist.

🤓 Facts & Info

• Population – 2.1 million people
• Capital – Albuquerque
• Largest Metro Areas – Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe
• Time Zone – Mountain Time (UTC -6 / UTC -7 during daylight savings)
• Airports – Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF), Roswell Air Center (ROW), Lea County Regional Airport (HOB)
• Colleges & Universities – University of New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Eastern New Mexico University, Western New Mexico University, New Mexico Highlands University
• Nickname – Land of Enchantment, The Cactus State, The Spanish State, The Land of Sunshine
• Demonynm – New Mexican
• USPS Abbreviation – NM 
• Governor – Michelle Lujan Grisham (Democrat) 
• Country – United States of America

💵 Costs & Budgeting

• MERIC Cost of Living State Rank – 19th most affordable 
• 3-Star Hotel Room – $75-$150+/night
• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental – $70-$200+/night
• Rental Car – $30-$70+/day
• Public Transit Ticket – ~$3-$5 
• Take Out Meal for Two – $20-$30
• Sit Down Dinner for Two – $40-$80
• Draft Beer – $5-$10

McKenna Mobley

McKenna Mobley is an avid adventurer, traveler, mountaineer, and writer from Southern California. Her goal is to climb some of the world’s highest mountains and visit as many countries as she can. She loves Latin America and has been to almost every Latin country. She also has a thirst for solo adventuring and has hiked 400 consecutive miles by herself through the Arizona desert. You can also find her on her blog.

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Abigail Bliss

Abigail Bliss is a Colorado-based writer who aspires to work from the road.  An avid hiker, skier, and canyoneer, she shares a unique perspective of the American West, highlighting destinations less traveled.  When she isn’t exploring the outdoors with her husband and two dogs, Abigail manages her freelance marketing business, Campsite Creative.

👉 Read Abigail’s Articles