Exploring New Mexico: A travel guide to the Land of Enchantment

New Mexico, often called the Land of Enchantment, is a stunning vacation destination, celebrated for its diverse landscapes and Native American, Spanish and Anglo-American cultural influences. 

Before European colonization, the region was shaped by the traditions of Hispanic and Native American people.

Today, the state’s compelling history is a main attraction for visitors often awestruck by its rugged and varied terrain.

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From the local food and art to the overall character, New Mexico reflects the convergence of cultures to define this unique state.

Another reason visitors come to New Mexico is the alluring landscapes, ranging from dry deserts to lush forests. 

Many people often imagine red rocks, vast deserts and distinctive rock formations of the Southwest when they think of New Mexico. 

What might surprise new visitors is the white sand dunes, river gorges and dense, evergreen woodlands included in the state’s natural diverse landscape.

Here are some of the top locations to put on your New Mexico itinerary: 

Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the oldest capital city in the United States. Inhabited in 1607, it was officially settled between 1609 and 1610, according to the city’s official website. Originally established with European-style dwellings, the city is full of historical sites and experiences. 

A visit to Sante Fe can include a trip to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, exploration of the oldest church in America and a visit to one of the many museums, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, where the 20th century artist’s love for Northern New Mexico and Santa Fe is on display. 

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Families visiting the city will enjoy the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, Santa Fe Southern Railway and the Museum of International Folk Art. 

Albuquerque

Albuquerque’s rich history and resulting culture are reasons it is a popular city to visit. 

Albuquerque was established in 1706, but the city was originally inhabited by Native Americans. Following its establishment, the city became an important trading center. Although Albuquerque has become an area known for its high-tech industry, its historical significance has been preserved. 

For a unique experience, visitors can explore historical pueblo sites or attend events like the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (Joe Raedle/Newsmakers)

Beyond the historical significance of Albuquerque, the city attracts visitors with its family-friendly attractions, such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which is a yearly hot air balloon festival. Another activity that families visiting New Mexico can enjoy is a trip to the ABQ BioPark, where they can explore the zoo, botanic garden and aquarium. 

Visitors of all ages can also enjoy a scenic ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway, North America’s longest aerial tram ride. For those not afraid of heights, the tram offers fresh mountain air and incredible panoramic views of New Mexico. 

Taos

Taos is best known among ski enthusiasts. Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near New Mexico’s high desert, the small town offers ski opportunities for those who enjoy the popular winter sport. 

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Taos is also a haven for the arts. The Taos art colony was founded in Taos, New Mexico, because of the creative culture of the Pueblo people. The area celebrated a diverse range of artistic mediums, including furniture and tin work. 

Taos received a modern artistic makeover in the early 20th century, and there are more than 70 galleries in Taos, according to Taos.org.

Taos Pueblo in Taos, N.M., has been designated both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. (obert Alexander/Getty Images)

Taos is also home to the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest inhabited sites in the country. For context, other UNESCO-recognized historical cultural landmarks include the Taj Mahal in India and the Grand Canyon in the United States. The pueblo features 1,000-year-old adobe homes that exemplify the early history of the village. Travelers to northern New Mexico are welcome to visit the pueblos. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The caverns of Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, located in the Guadalupe Mountains, is a large underground system formed over 4 million years ago, according to the National Park Service (NPS). The park consists of more than 100 limestone caves formed through a complex geological process involving acid dissolving the Capitan limestone, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

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One of the most notable cave chambers in North America, because of its size by volume and ease of accessibility for visitors, is located in Carlsbad Caverns. 

The Big Room is a 1.25-mile trail that takes around an hour and a half to walk, according to NPS.

White Sands National Park

White Sands is a national park in New Mexico. Originally designated as a national monument in 1933, it was redesignated as a national park in 2019, according to the NPS. The White Sands National Park preserves a large portion of the unique white gypsum sand dune field and the plants and animals that live there. 

Not only is it a remarkable place to see, the park offers a full day’s worth of activities. After an exciting dune sledding adventure, families and friends can sit down for a relaxing picnic enjoying the tranquil views. The day can end with a sunset stroll around one-half mile long, according to the NPS.

New Mexico has a high altitude and dry climate. Visitors should remain hydrated, wear sunscreen and be prepared for temperature changes. (Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

What to know before your New Mexico visit

When considering when to visit the state, some ideal times are from May to October, when the temperatures are warm enough to enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. Skiers can still enjoy the snow-capped mountains in the spring without the freezing temperatures, according to travelandleisure.com. 

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Winter months are ideal for travelers on a budget or those hoping to avoid the crowds of tourists. 

No vacation is complete without partaking in the gastronomic culture of the location visited. New Mexico’s cuisine blends Native American, Spanish and Anglo dishes. The state’s signature dishes are reminiscent of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine with a distinctive flair. A main ingredient that sets New Mexico’s cuisine apart is chile, an ingredient indigenous to North America. 

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Visitors to New Mexico should take full advantage of the rich culture by exploring the activities and events available during their stay, such as those at museums, art galleries and historic locations.