17 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In New Mexico
I spent a month and a half traveling around this intriguing state, and it quickly became clear why it was chosen as the setting for one of TV’s most iconic series! From mesmerizing geological wonders to colorful adobe towns, these are the places that made me fall hard for the Land of Enchantment…
1. Santa Fe
Santa Fe completely won me over — sun-warmed adobe, galleries on every corner, mountain backdrops, and a soulful creative pulse that felt calming and alive all at once! A scenic 1.15 hour drive from Albuquerque along the Turquoise Trail set the tone for the trip perfectly.
I wandered the historic Plaza, explored the impressive galleries on Canyon Road, dined on veggie burrito smothered in red and green Christmas chile at the fun Shed Restaurant and paid a visit to the artisan-packed Santa Fe Farmers Market, where local food, crafts, and live music merged to create a festival-like atmosphere!
Location: Northern part of the state | Size: population ~90,500 | Vibe: creative, historic and bohemian
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the unique La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel – I loved the rooftop hot tub and decor which included locally crafted tin chandeliers, colorful Talavera tiles, and original Pueblo-style artwork!
2. White Sands National Park
The White Sands National Park was one of the most dazzling natural wonders I’ve ever seen — an endless sea of wave-like white gypsum dunes that shifted color in the sun, giving the whole place a dreamy, otherworldly vibe.
I drove 5.5 hours southwest from the Blue Hole of Santa Rosa, passing quirky Roswell and I spent a full day exploring and stayed overnight at the quirky Classic Desert Aire Hotel. I hiked the Dune Life Nature Trail, sledded down the soft white dunes and watched the sun set, setting the desert ablaze!
Location: Southern New Mexico | Size: 145,762 acres | Vibe: surreal, otherworldly and serene
My favorite highlights…
- The Pupfish Boardwalk – these hardy creatures have incredibly adapted to harsh, salty desert water, and seeing them in their tiny, unique habitat was a true highlight!
3. Albuquerque
Far from what I expected, Albuquerque felt scenic, soulful, and cool — mountain backdrops, golden light, adobe architecture, and a characterful blend of Southwestern culture, Route 66 grit, and modern urban energy!
After landing at Albuquerque International Sunport, I rode the Sandia Peak Tramway, visited the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and as a huge Breaking Bad fan, of course I toured filming spots — Walter White’s real car wash (Octopus Car Wash), his house, Saul Goodman’s office, and even stopped at The Dog House Drive-In!
Location: Central New Mexico | Size: population ~565,000 | Vibe: Southwestern, artsy and sun-drenched
My highlights…
- Staying at the unique and trendy 4-star ARRIVE Albuquerque – I loved how they checked me in at the onsite coffee shop, not a traditional lobby desk with a cup of fiery Chile Mocha in hand!
4. Bisti Badlands
I thought this remote desert landscape felt completely otherworldly — jagged hoodoos, rippling rock layers, and strange formations like the “Cracked Eggs” painted in reds, greys, and beiges gave it a haunting, alien vibe. The silence made it feel raw and almost surreal!
After a two-hour drive northwest from Chaco Culture National Historical Park, I based myself for the weekend at the charming Casa Blanca Inn and Suites. From the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness parking area, I hiked, photographed the hoodoos glowing at sunset, and explored the fossil-rich De-Na-Zin area nearby.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: 41,170 acres | Vibe: alien, remote and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
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Exploring the surreal “Cracked Egg” formations east of the Bisti/De-Na-Zin parking area – these smooth, split boulders looked like giant fossilized eggs, with weathered ridges and marbled patterns that glowed in the desert light!
5. Taos Gorge Bridge
One of the highest bridges in the U.S., this spot blew me away — spanning the 650-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge with sheer cliffs, wide desert plains, distant peaks, and golden Southwestern light making it ridiculously photogenic.
After a 2.5-hour drive from the Cumbres–Toltec Scenic Railway, I reached Taos and checked into the quirky Dreamcatcher B&B, then headed just outside town to the bridge. Yep, it was vertigo-inducing, but I braved the pedestrian walkway, peered down into the gorge and then browsed the cool local crafts in the rest area.
Location: Near Taos, Northern New Mexico | Size: 650-ft-deep gorge | Vibe: dramatic, vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring
My highlights…
6. Bandelier National Monument
This felt like stepping into another era — a dramatic canyon framed by volcanic rock, ancient dwellings carved straight into the cliffs, the stone remains of Tyuonyi Pueblo, and hushed forest trails layered with history.
After a 2-hour drive northwest from Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks through the scenic Jemez Mountains, stopping to admire pine-filled valleys and red rock formations, I checked into the quirky, cozy Pueblo Canyon Inn. I spent the day hiking the Main Loop Trail, tracing petroglyphs, and exploring the visitor center.
Location: Near Los Alamos, Northern New Mexico| Size: 33,677 acres | Vibe: ancient, canyon-carved and unique
My favorite highlights…
- Climbing the wooden ladders into the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings – there were soot-stained ceilings, stone rooms, and hand-carved alcoves that were an intriguing insight into daily life centuries ago!
7. Blue Hole of Santa Rosa
I completely fell for this natural artesian spring — the Blue Hole was a perfectly round pool of crystal-clear turquoise water set in the desert, its vivid color creating a striking, almost otherworldly contrast with the arid surroundings. It had a fun, refreshing vibe — like stumbling across a hidden desert oasis.
After a scenic 4-hour drive southeast from Taos/Wheeler Peak Wilderness across wide-open plains and mesas, I stayed nearby at the funky Hotel Blue 66 (just five minutes away). I swam in the cool, clear water, watched scuba divers drop into the deep blue shaft, and visited the nearby center to learn about the area’s unique geology!
Location: Eastern New Mexico | Size: 80 ft deep | Vibe: unexpected and refreshing
My personal highlights…
- Picnicking under the cottonwood trees at one of the sturdy sandstone tables and watching a few brave swimmers leap from the rocks (in the permitted areas) into the blue spring — definitely not for the faint of heart!
8. Shiprock
I thought this towering volcanic rock was truly special — formed around 30 million years ago, its jagged spire rose dramatically from the flat desert, glowing with shifting colors. It felt powerful and sacred, radiating a raw, remote beauty and deep spiritual energy.
After an hour’s drive west from the Bisti Badlands through remote Navajo Nation lands and striking desert scenery, I spent an inspiring morning here. I hiked a nearby trail for incredible views and browsed roadside stalls for locally made rugs, jewelry, and crafts.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: rises ~1,583 ft above the desert | Vibe: sacred, monumental and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
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Going on a Navajo Tours USA guided tour – our friendly guide pointed out hidden petroglyphs and ceremonial sites, and even native plants such as fragrant juniper, sagebrush, and sculptural yucca!
9. Wheeler Peak Wilderness
I was in awe of this alpine gem — snowy peaks, wildflower meadows, glassy mountain lakes, and pine-filled forests all framed New Mexico’s tallest mountain. It had the perfect mix of serenity and rugged adventure.
While exploring the Taos Mountain Trail, I stayed two nights at the trendy 4-star Blake at Taos Ski Valley, so I could hit the Wheeler Peak trails right from my doorstep! I spent a full day hiking, spotting elk and bighorn sheep in the meadows, and pausing many times to take in the summit views.
Location: Northern New Mexico | Size: 19,661 acres | Vibe: alpine, untamed and quietly majestic
My favorite highlights…
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The challenging 5-hour Wheeler Peak Summit Hike — I passed wind-twisted bristlecone pines, blue columbines and Indian paintbrushes, and the incredible summit views from Wheeler Peak — the highest point in the state — made it all worth it!
10. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
I thought Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument was an extraordinary geological wonder — cone-shaped formations carved by ancient volcanic eruptions, framed by high desert mesas and winding slot canyons. It felt both otherworldly and full of adventure!
I drove 25 minutes southwest from Santa Fe to my base at the unique Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, then took a 50-minute day trip to the park. I spent it hiking the narrow Slot Canyon Trail, seeing dramatic views on the scenic Summit Trail, and learning about the area’s volcanic history at the interesting visitor center. Note – entrance needs pre-booking.
Location: Central New Mexico | Size: 4,106 acres | Vibe: surreal, sculpted and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the steep 3-mile Summit Trail took me two hours – I spotted a scurrying desert spiny lizard and a cute canyon wren calling from the cliffs along the way!
11. A Road Trip Along the Rio Grande River
Following the Rio Grande through New Mexico turned out to be one of my most photogenic adventures — every turn revealed red-rock canyons, peaceful valleys, desert plains, and mountain peaks dotted with charming riverside towns, steamy hot springs, and breathtaking overlooks.
The drive north from Las Cruces toward Albuquerque felt effortlessly cinematic — quiet river towns, wide-open roads, and golden desert light with serious Breaking Bad vibes. I crossed the jaw-dropping Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, soaked in hot springs and explored the timeworn paths of Frijoles Canyon.
Location: Along the Rio Grande | Size: stretches ~1,900 miles | Vibe: scenic, slow-paced and soul-stirring
My personal highlights…
- Staying overnight at the peaceful mountain hideaway The Inn at Ten Thousand Waves – I loved soaking in the open-air Japanese onsen beneath the stars and then relaxing by my room’s cozy kiva fireplace after a blissful hinoki oil massage!
12. Acoma Pueblo Village
Perched on a high desert mesa, Sky City felt like stepping back in time — its weathered adobe homes, ancient footpaths, and sweeping mesa-top views gave it a powerful, peaceful presence that felt both sacred and still.
A 2.5-hour desert drive from Bandelier National Monument delivered glowing cliffs, empty highways, and an easy base at SureStay By Best Western Grants — only 30 minutes from Sky City. I spent an afternoon exploring with a local guide touring the adobe homes and church, visiting the Haak’u Museum and gazing at desert views.
Location: Western New Mexico | Size: population ~4,800 | Vibe: ancient, sacred and deeply atmospheric
My highlights…
- Seeing inside a village home – it had thick adobe walls for insulation, tiny windows, exposed wooden vigas, and shelves filled with clay water jugs and strings of dried red chilies.
13. The Taos Mountain Trail
Raw, quiet, and breathtakingly remote, this hike to New Mexico’s highest peak delivered wildflower meadows, pine-and-aspen forests, and constant mountain panoramas across the Sangre de Cristo range. The approach drive alone — up NM-150 from Taos directly into Taos Ski Valley — felt like an alpine preview!
I based myself at the 4-star Blake at Taos Ski Valley, which made the hike effortless logistically. From Taos Ski Valley, I took the 7.5-mile route to Wheeler Peak’s summit, climbing through pine-lined switchbacks, and wide-open panoramas, reaching the top in just over four hours — while others I met were tackling the full 6–8-hour round trip!
Location: Near Taos, Northern New Mexico | Size: ~7 miles round trip (11.3 km) | Vibe: challenging, alpine and very rewarding
My highlights…
- Finally reaching the summit – I was blown away by the 360-degree views of the striking Sangre de Cristo ridgelines, the distant Rio Grande Gorge, and the golden meadows which stretched out like an Insta-worthy patchwork quilt!
14. Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
I was in awe of this historic steam train — the ride felt like stepping back in time, with vintage cars winding through mountain landscapes, ancient forests, dramatic canyons, and high-altitude passes. After a 3-hour drive east from Shiprock, I checked into two nights at the charming Sterling & Sage Guest House in Chama.
I loved every minute of this beautifully slow journey — an all-day ride on the Cumbres–Toltec Scenic Railway, clattering through Toltec Gorge, gliding over Cascade Trestle, and stopping for a leisurely lunch at Osier, with endless Rocky Mountain views stealing the show.
Location: Northern New Mexico & Southern Colorado| Size: 64 miles (103 km) | Vibe: nostalgic, slow-travel and wildly scenic
My highlights…
- Dining in the buffet cart at the Osier Station stop – I especially loved the hearty Green Chile Enchiladas and the sweet potato salad which had a hint of cinnamon and crunchy pecans!
15. El Malpais National Monument
I thought this vast protected area was stunning — a rugged landscape of ancient lava flows, towering sandstone cliffs, hidden ice caves, and dramatic volcanic craters, all shaped by fire and time. It felt remote, raw, and humbling.
After a 40-minute drive west from Acoma, I checked into the South West Motel in Grants, just 25 minutes from the monument, passing ancient lava fields along the way. I spent the whole day exploring — hiking the Lava Falls Trail and then driving to the scenic La Ventana Natural Arch area for a short walk to see one of the largest natural arches in the state!
Location: Western New Mexico | Size: 114,277 acres | Vibe: volcanic, otherworldly and quietly dramatic
My favorite highlights…
- Going inside the nearby Bandera Ice Cave lava tube was freezing, but seeing the thick green-tinged ice, misty air, and giant icicles hanging from the jagged walls made it feel otherworldly (and worth a visit for sure)!
16. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
I thought this family-friendly wonder was extraordinary — a vast underground world with towering chambers, glittering stalactites and stalagmites, and a thrilling descent through its Natural Entrance. The whole place felt mysterious, awe-inspiring, and otherworldly.
After a 3-hour drive from White Sands National Park through the vast Chihuahuan Desert, I based myself at the comfy Hyatt House Carlsbad. Just 30 minutes away, I explored cathedral-like limestone formations and tackled the steep Natural Entrance Trail.
Location: Southeastern New Mexico | Size: 46,766 acres (189.3 km²) | Vibe: subterranean, cathedral-like and awe-inducing
My highlights…
- Seeing thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the cave at dusk – it was both a seriously surreal and slightly scary moment!
17. Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Dating from 900–1150 AD and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I thought this place was surreally beautiful — a vast desert basin filled with ancient sandstone ruins, intricate kivas, and grand ceremonial structures framed by rugged mesas. It felt sacred, remote, and deeply contemplative.
After a 3.5-hour drive north from El Malpais National Monument and spent the day checking out the Chaco culture — wandering the vast 600-room ruins of Pueblo Bonito, standing inside the immense Casa Rinconada, and admiring the spiral petroglyphs at Fajada Butte. I then drove 2 hours to my overnight stay at Best Western Territorial Inn & Suites.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: 33,960 acres | Vibe: ancient, mysterious and profoundly powerful
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the 5.4-mile Pueblo Alto Trail took me three hours, but I personally thought the rocky climb was worth it for the awesome views of ancient ruins, scattered pottery shards, and detailed Chacoan petroglyphs along the way!
