Things to do & places to visit in New Mexico, United States

With its rich cultural heritage from Native American and Spanish settlers, New Mexico has been both a Spanish colony and a Mexican colony, and still retains a strong individual identity within the United States. The landscape is breathtaking, the food incredible, and there is a thriving cultural scene, all of which makes New Mexico, and Santa Fe in particular, a great place all year long.

New Mexico #28 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.48 based on 149.8k traveler reviews, of 1.167 attractions. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Friday, December 08, 2023, 22:25.

Top things to do (38)

Top destinations in New Mexico 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Bandelier National Monument (2.226 reviews)
- Amazing Cliff Dwellings!
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Canyons

This is an amazing place to view cliff dwellings. Having visited Mesa Verde recently, this is much more intimate and much less crowded. We visited on a Sunday in late September and still found a parking spot in the visitor center parking lot. There were far fewer people on the trails than I expected for a weekend. There wasn't really any backup at any of the ladders into the caves and people seemed respectful of distancing and mask usage where needed. There is a trail guide available for $2.00 which is worth it for information as you walk the loop trail. Be sure to walk the extra distance to the Alcove House. If you are able, it is worth climbing the several ladders to the top for the view. If not, it is still impressive to see from below. See more..
5.0 Carlsbad Caverns Natural Entrance Tour (1.778 reviews)
- Great NP
Nature & Wildlife Tours

Went over Memorial Day to visit NP in this area of the country. Stopped first at the Carlsbad Caverns. Once entering the park entrance it is a 7 mile drive to the visitor center where you will get checked in for your cave ticket. Make sure you go on line a receiver a day and time you want to go, as to enter in the cave you must have a reservation. to just drive up the the top and walk around you do not. However since they are in a drought, all the trails are closed, even the 9 mile driving loop. We opted to do the natural entrance walk down to the high room. the walk down can be slippery, so were good shoes and take a light jacket as it is cool in the cave. If you have any type of breathing or heart conditions I would recommend to ride the elevator down. But by walking down you will see a lot of interesting formations that are not in the big room. Also stop by the gift shop and pay the $5.00 for the hand held device that you can listen to at designated stops along the walking path to here interesting facts. The cave is awesome, take about 2 hours to stop and look at the formations and read the signs. We went trice the time were were there, two different days, and the second time we rode the elevators down and walked out. the walk out is not that hard, but agin if any respiratory, heart of joint problems, take the elevator back up. They did have the small nature trail open that is at the end of the parkng lot. Saw a haven See more..
5.0 Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (1.561 reviews)
- Great for a strenuous, but beautiful day hike.
Spent 2-3 hours Geologic Formations

ALERT: The Monument is currently closed due to COVID-19. For updates visit: https://www.blm.gov/alert/nm-covid-19-updates See more..
5.0 New Mexico River Adventures - Day Tours (1.388 reviews)
- Rock&Raft trip - Our guide Michelle was AMAZING!
Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing • Climbing Tours • Water Sports • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

We booked the Rock and Raft package where we rock climbed in the morning and rafted in the afternoon. Our guide was Michelle and she was simply amazing. She was so friendly and patient. She took the time to help us first time rock climbers with the ins and outs of climbing. My son was very interested and Michelle took the time to explain the names of the different types of cracks and how to approach them when climbing. After rock climbing, we stopped for lunch. I was expecting sandwiches or something easy, but we were treated with an actual meal of fajitas. After lunch, we hit the river. While the water was lower due to it being late July, Michelle still made the rapids fun. We had such a great time and it was the highlight of our trip to NM from TX. If you want to rock climb, Michelle is the guide you want. Thanks again Michelle for such a great day! See more..
5.0 Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center (1.190 reviews)
- Very nice and complete visit.
Visitor Centers

Excellent visitor's center when compared to others. Lots of parking, the people are friendly, and the cave tour processing was very efficient and easy to follow. Because they currently limit the number of persons going into the cave, we had purchased a reserved spot online ($1 each). Our time was 9:30, but we arrived early at 8:30 and they told us to go ahead early. Cool! The exhibits were great as well with a very informative film explaining how the caves got here in the first place. The gift shop is pretty good. It does carry lots of useless merchandise unrelated to Carlsbad Caverns, but it also had some good stuff. I also like that the restaurant maintains its charm from earlier days. See more..
5.0 Santa Fe Opera House (1.079 reviews)
- $tunning
Operas

A beautiful outdoor venue that offers music festivals in July and August. See more..
5.0 Big Room (1.011 reviews)
- Go early (no later than 7am) to get tickets!!!
Caverns & Caves

The largest cavern in Carlsbad Caverns. See more..
5.0 Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (949 reviews)
- Great memories and experience
Spent More than 3 hours Scenic Railroads

It was such a great experience we enjoyed that day. The staff were very friendly and knew their job. It was mostly voluntary workers and they knew their job and enjoyed it very much. It was such well planned and the views were spectacular indeed. Lunch was included and was delicious. We would thoroughly recommend this train experience to anyone who is thinking about it. See more..
5.0 Explora Science Center and Children's Museum (820 reviews)
- Lots of hands-on experiences!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums • Children's Museums

Explora is a science center and children's museum located in the heart of Old Town, Albuquerque, New Mexico. We specialize in creating opportunities for inspirational discovery and the joy lifelong learning through interactive experiences in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. See more..
4.5 Sandia Peak Tramway (7.133 reviews)
- Amazing views!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Trams

Ride to new heights on North America's longest aerial tram ride. Sandia Peak Tram takes visitors 2.7 miles or 10,378 ft up the Sandia Mountains. Breath in the fresh mountain air and enjoy breathtaking views of over 11,000 square miles of New Mexico. See more..
4.5 Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (5.175 reviews)
- The Center of O'Keefe
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Museums

The O’Keeffe Welcome Center includes a store, classroom, amenities, and check-in for tours of the O’Keeffe Home and Studio in Abiquiu, the Center serves as a gateway to the Rio Chama valley, with information about O’Keeffe and the rich history and culture of the area. Tours of the Home & Studio run seasonally from March – November with advance reservations and payment. See more..
4.5 Loretto Chapel (5.170 reviews)
- puzzling spiral
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Religious Sites

This chapel contains a mysterious spiral staircase built without nails, dowels or any visible support. See more..
4.5 Canyon Road (4.051 reviews)
- Highlight of the art galleries in Santa Fe
Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

Over 100 art studios and galleries line the western end of this charming Santa Fe street. Make sure you set aside a few hours of your stay in the city to walk down the mile-long Canyon Road and view the world-class art on display here, which ranges in style from Native American to contemporary avant-garde. Shop for high-value handicrafts and jewelry, and don’t forget to visit the restautants along the street when hungry. Take an art tour of Canyon Road with an expert to see all the hidden gems and must-see art in the district. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (3.980 reviews)
- Must Do in Santa Fe
Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

This cathedral was built in 1886, and is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture. See more..
4.5 Rio Grande Gorge Bridge (3.662 reviews)
- Stunning Site
Bridges

My friend and I enjoyed visiting the bridge and gorge while vacationing in the Taos area. The views are stunning, including of the mountain range nearby. We walked across the bridge and back. Quite a few people were there when we visited on a summer Tuesday evening. At no charge, it's a no brainer for sightseers interested in both natural and manmade attractions. Recommended. See more..
4.5 Santa Fe Plaza (3.220 reviews)
- In October, they celebrate Indigenous People's Weekend (instead of Columbus Day)
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Surrounded by city landmarks, including art and history museums, the Santa Fe Plaza is the heart and soul of the capital city. Sit back on one of the square’s benches to people-watch and take in the small-town feel. Then, set out to explore the countless art galleries, shops, and flea markets in the area. Try the local street food from the food carts, or if you’re in the mood to splurge, check out the dozen or so high-end restaurants. You can also sign up for a walking tour to learn more about the city’s rich history. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Taos Pueblo (3.068 reviews)
- Amazing
Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Ancient Ruins • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. The multi-storied adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. We welcome you to visit our village when you travel to northern New Mexico.Taos Pueblo Hours: Monday - Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm and Sunday 8:30am-4:00pm.Guided Tours available daily starting at 9:00 am.Pueblo Shops open daily.Taos Pueblo is expected to be open for the winter season. Any closures would be due to unexpected events within the community and will be posted on our official website. See more..
4.5 Meow Wolf Santa Fe (2.936 reviews)
- Must Visit In Santa Fe For All Ages
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Unique & immersive art installations with multimedia elements and a mysterious narrative throughout. See more..
4.5 Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (2.115 reviews)
- Amazing skateboard exhibit, great food, fun gift shop to explore!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums • History Museums

IPCC was founded in 1976 and is jointly owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. Located in the historic Albuquerque Indian School District just minutes from Downtown and Old Town Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a world-class museum and cultural center created to be a place where we, Pueblo people, can tell our story. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the only place in North America to host traditional Native American dances every weekend year round and also offers an exciting schedule of cultural and community activities, including rotating museum exhibits, events with Native American artists, hands-on children’s programs & art festivals. Visitors can also experience the award-winning Native Sourced, Pueblo Inspired cuisine of Pueblo Harvest and shop at the Indian Pueblo Store, a trusted destination for authentic handcrafted Native American art. See more..
4.5 Museum of International Folk Art (2.112 reviews)
- Bet You Won't See It "All" in One Visit
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Open 10am to 5pm Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Easter & Thanksgiving holidays. Current exhibitions include Cartoneria Mexicana / The art of Paper and Paste, Yōkai: Ghosts & Demons of Japan, Lloyd's Treasure Chest: Folk Art in Focus, plus more than 120,000 objects are on display in the long term exhibition Multiple Visions, A Common Bond by architect and designer Alexander Girard. This international folk art collection includes miniature buildings, streets and village scenes from more than 100 different countries. There are no text panels in this exhibition, the cases are numbered. If you miss the Docent walk-in tour, pick up a multi-media tour at the front desk or a grab a printed gallery guide at either entrance. Kids 16 and under and Museum of New Mexico Foundation Members always free! See more..
4.5 Petroglyph National Monument (1.967 reviews)
- Easy walk, great views, dog-friendly
Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • National Parks • Geologic Formations

Up to 15,000 petroglyphs or prehistoric rock art images have been found on the West Mesa volcanic escarpment, located along a 17-mile canyon outside of Albuquerque. See more..
4.5 McGinn's PistachioLand (1.766 reviews)
- I was expecting a tacky tourist experience, not so at all!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Wineries & Vineyards • Farms

PistachioLand- 2019 Alamogordo Small Business of the Year. Home of the World's Largest Pistachio, Pistachio Tree Ranch & Arena Blanca Winery -is owned and operated by the McGinn Family and is home to 12,300 trees and 6,000 wine producing grapevines. The original trees were planted in 1980. Today, Pistachio Tree Ranch is a fully integrated farm where the McGinn Family grows pistachios, makes pistachio candy and packages pistachio products sold on their farm and around the United States. Arena Blanca Winery features the McGinn Family's wines produced on the farm from grapes grown in their vineyard. The World's Largest Pistachio was finished in 2008 and was built as a tribute to Tom McGinn, whose vision was to grow pistachios in the New Mexico desert. It stands 30 feet tall and has been featured in New Mexico Magazine. Named a New Mexico Treasure by the NM Cabinet Secretary of Tourism, June 2014, on New Mexico Television episode 3. Open every day. Motorized Farm Tours Daily 10-4. See more..
4.5 ABQ BioPark Zoo (1.605 reviews)
- Great weekend trip
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos

This zoo was great. We arrived early and were able to see all of the animals. The penguin exhibit was our favorite. It took us about 3 hrs to see the whole zoo. The food and drinks were expensive (as anticipated) but we packed our snacks and splurged on a toy for our son and a local beer. I recommend bringing a water bottle to fill as the have water fountains and a water is $6.00. There is a park in the middle of the zoo that is nice for a place to eat your snacks. Mobile ordering is available and recommended. There is quite a bit of construction going on but there is still a great deal to see. Would definitely come again. See more..
4.5 New Mexico History Museum (1.478 reviews)
- Excellent Museum
Friday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

The New Mexico History Museum is a statewide educational resource, local landmark, and destination for anyone who wants to understand the diverse experiences of the people of New Mexico, the dynamics that have shaped our state, and the relationships that connect our region with the rest of the world. The New Mexico History Museum offers a welcoming place for exploration of multifaceted views on history, dialog that bridges social and cultural divides, and reflection on the conditions needed for a more resilient, just, and sustainable future. The New Mexico History Museum highlights include the historic Palace of the Governors built in 1610, the Fray Angelico Chavez Library (1907), the Palace of the Governors Photo Archives and the Pete V. Domenici Building (2009) which houses three levels of gallery exhibits . See more..
4.5 The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History (1.323 reviews)
- There is so much here for everyone
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is New Mexico’s only congressionally chartered museum in its field and a Smithsonian affiliate. Visitors can explore how nuclear science continues to influence our world. The museum strives to present, through permanent and changing exhibits and displays, the diverse applications of nuclear energy in the past, present, and future along with the stories of the field’s pioneers. Originally known as the National Atomic Museum, it was established in 1969 as an intriguing place to learn the story of the Atomic Age, from early research of nuclear development through today’s peaceful uses of nuclear technology. See more..
4.5 High Road to Taos (1.287 reviews)
- A great scenic drive if you have the time
Scenic Drives

We were on a road trip of Arizona and New Mexico and waned to do as much sightseeing as we could to get a good taste of what there was to see. We drove the high road to Taos from Santa Fe and made a loop back to Santa Fee, which took most of the day. We felt our time was really well spent, taking our time seeing all the beautiful scenery. There were lots of turn outs which were good, both to see the sights and to get out of the way of all those people who want to drive well over the posted speed limit. (These two states seem to be full of drives that just ignore any speed limit signs.) We have been on a few driving trips in Arizona and now New Mexico, thousands of miles actually, and I must say there is so much to see if you are not from this part of the country. See more..
4.5 New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse) (1.051 reviews)
- State Capital as an Art Museum
Friday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Government Buildings

I did the Discovery Walking Tours of Santa Fe and the tour Guide Allen recommended that I visited the State Capital art gallery. I am so glad I did. Must see for Santa Fe. FREE art museum! See more..
4.5 Palace of the Governors (1.010 reviews)
- Native arts by native artisans (with no middleman)
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

On a good day (probably a weekend), the long, covered entry front to the historic building will be awash in blankets claiming the sales-front territory upon which vendors will display their wares. This is the real-deal. Everything is made by the artisans who have licenses to display their native works. Primarily jewelry but not limited to metal works, vendors will display their pottery works, and any/every artistic rendering a human mind can dream. All vendors must be licensed. The gentleman from whom we bought some impressive earrings displayed his license. Look him up, his work impressed us. I don't believe this is a barter situation, their prices are pretty fair and not open to haggling. Do stroll up and down the promenade and take in all the excellent hand-crafts for sale. These are some mighty talented artists! See more..
4.5 Albuquerque Biological Park (1.001 reviews)
- The animals will love it if you do
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos • Aquariums • Gardens

Park complex offering three main sections the whole family can enjoy: Albuquerque Aquarium, Rio Grande Botanic Garden and Rio Grande Zoo. See more..
4.5 Old Mesilla Village (997 reviews)
- La Mesilla is Magic!
Historic Sites

I loved my dining experience at La Posta! It was all decorated for Day of the Dead, but I think it must always be a "trip" to see their decor! There are tropical birds making lots of jungle noise, high ceilings loaded with memorabilia and art and glittering festive lights. The ladies room is like 1930's Hollywood. I also had so much fun wandering around the historic plaza and side streets, taking photos of the rustic beauty. Shopping was excellent. There was plenty of original and unique stuff. I found a couple of art galleries open, and the local art was very high quality with reasonable prices. I also ate at Don Felix cafe, and enjoyed everything so much! My favorite was the Cocoa Flan dessert! They have a wonderful courtyard for outdoor dining and they played current popular Mexican music that was really good! See more..