New Mexico, the fifth-largest state in the USA, is full of of stunning landscapes and unique culture. Our week-long adventure through this mountainous gem revealed its winter charm, from the snowy peaks of Taos to the sun-drenched sands of Las Cruces. This detailed account of our journey is designed to help you plan your own unforgettable visit.
Fly into Albuquerque and Rent a Car
To make the most of your week in New Mexico, start by flying into Albuquerque and renting a car. Here are the four key areas you should explore:
Taos
Santa Fe
Albuquerque
Las Cruces
Taos: A Winter Wonderland
Taos is renowned for its ski slopes and quaint mountain town vibe. We visited in February, when most shops closed early (5 PM) and restaurants opened primarily for dinner. My advice: enjoy the slopes by day and dine early in town.
Where to Stay: We stayed at the Historic Taos Inn, a charming, pueblo-style hotel. While it felt a bit pricey during the winter season, its location near Taos Plaza and the Taos Art Museum made it convenient.
Where to Eat: The food scene in Taos offers limited vegetarian options. Love Apple, a top choice for vegetarians, was unfortunately closed during our visit. We frequented Cid's Health Food Market and World Cafe for breakfast. Doc Martin's at the Taos Inn and Gutiz stood out for their excellent coffee and breakfast options.
Activities in Taos:
Rio Grande Gorge Bridge: A breathtaking sight, especially when you walk across the bridge to fully appreciate the views.
San Francisco De Asis Church: An active historic landmark located in Ranchos de Taos.
Taos Plaza: Explore galleries and shops, and consider taking the scenic High Road back to Santa Fe.
High Noon Ski Area: Even non-skiers will enjoy the ambiance and light, fluffy snow of this bustling ski village.
The Scenic Route: Between Taos and Santa Fe
Taking the High Road between Taos and Santa Fe is a must. Along the way, stop in the villages of Las Trampas and Chimayo to visit their historic churches.
This is the village of Las Trampas - Here you will find the Church of San Jose de la Gracia, built in 1770-76, now designated as a national historic landmark.
This below is Santuario de Chimayo, a very old and beautiful church. You will find it in the village of Chimayo
Santa Fe: The Heart of Art and Culture
Santa Fe, the most charming of all, is brimming with art and history. We stayed at El Rey Court, a short drive from downtown.
What to See:
Bandelier National Monument: Located about an hour from Santa Fe, this monument preserves the ancestral homes of the Pueblo people. You can see how little dwellings were carved into soft rock. Don't miss it, and get the guide that tells you more about each numbered spot - it definitely helped us appreciate the place a lot more.
Canyon Road: This renowned street is a hub of artistic creativity, featuring numerous galleries and studios. Stroll along and admire a diverse array of artwork, from paintings to sculptures. My personal favorite was Prescott Gallery & Sculpture Garden, showcasing stunning pieces that capture the spirit of the Southwest.
Downtown Santa Fe
The downtown plaza is a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
One standout is the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, dedicated to the iconic artist known for her stunning depictions of New Mexico landscapes. If you're unfamiliar with her work, take the time to learn about her life and artistic journey. Reservations are strongly recommended.
An immersive art experience unlike any other. This interactive exhibit takes you through a surreal world of imaginative installations. Be prepared to explore hidden rooms and passageways, making it an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
Where to Eat:
Paper Dosa: A local favorite, this charming restaurant serves delicious and authentic South Indian cuisine. The dosas are particularly impressive, both in size and flavor.
For breakfast, consider New York on Catron. And definitely order their hatch green chili bagel!
Secreto Lounge - Located at Hotel St. Francis, this elegant lounge offers expertly crafted cocktails and delectable appetizers in a sophisticated setting.
Albuquerque: A City of Contrasts
Albuquerque offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty.
We stayed at the Double Tree in downtown. Nothing fancy, but did the job.
What to See:
Petroglyph National Monument: This fascinating site features over 4,000 ancient symbols and drawings carved into volcanic rock by Native Americans more than 500 years ago. A short walk will allow you to see many of these historic designs up close.
Sandia Peak Tramway: A must-do experience offering breathtaking views from the top of Sandia Peak. The tramway takes you up to 11,000 feet, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. There is also a restaurant at the summit, but reservations are required. Remember to dress warmly as temperatures can be quite cool at the top.
Downtown Albuquerque: This bustling area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. We visited a charming tea shop and enjoyed browsing the unique stores. The sight of ristras (strings of dried red chilies) hanging from doors and ceilings adds to the distinctive New Mexican ambiance.
Where to Eat:
Sawmill Market: A luxurious food hall offering a wide range of cuisines. For vegetarian options, I recommend Flora Taco, churros at Churro Y Corn, Asian dishes at Kulantro, and pasta at Tulipani Pasta. For dessert, Neko Neko serves unique Asian-inspired ice creams. Pair your meal with a refreshing beer from Paxton's.
Vinaigrette! We tried this New Mexico-based farm-to-table restaurant in Austin actually and fell in love with it so we just had to eat there on our visit. Their salads are so fresh.
Marble Brewery: This lively spot offers excellent craft beers and often hosts the Indian food truck Tikka Spice, which serves delicious dishes that pair perfectly with the brews.
Frontier: A long-standing institution near the University of New Mexico, known for its hearty New Mexican breakfast. The vegetarian tortilla soup is tasty but quite spicy.
And plan to walk around the University of New Mexico campus across from the restaurant - if you can. We loved the sculptures on campus and we loved posing by them :)
Las Cruces and White Sands Monument: Desert Beauty
Located at the edge of the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces serves as a gateway to one of New Mexico's most striking natural wonders: the White Sands National Monument. This area is not only a popular retirement destination due to its warm climate but also a haven for those seeking the serenity of vast, undulating dunes.
Plan to arrive in Las Cruces in the evening, stay the night, and spend the next day exploring White Sands. You will need about half a day at White Sands, allowing you to head back to Albuquerque by early evening.
Where to Stay: During our visit, we opted for the Home2Suites by Hilton in Las Cruces. This accommodation offered spacious rooms with kitchenettes, perfect for extended stays.
Where to Eat:
Salud: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
Lescombes: A must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Make sure to book a table in advance, as it’s a popular spot for dinner.
White Sands National Monument: A Must-See
Visiting this natural wonder is an unforgettable experience, and here are some tips to make the most of your trip:
Tips for Visiting White Sands:
Entrance Fee: Be prepared to pay an entrance fee to access the monument. It’s worth every penny for the unique beauty that awaits.
Bring Supplies: Carry plenty of water and snacks, especially if you have dietary restrictions, as facilities are limited.
Dress Appropriately: The weather can be unpredictable. Pack jackets to protect against the wind, which can be brisk even when the sun is shining.
Skip the Plastic Slides: While sliding down the dunes might sound fun, it can be exhausting due to the height of the dunes. Instead, enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Watch the Documentary: Start your visit at the visitor center and watch the informative documentary about the monument. It provides valuable insights into the formation and significance of the dunes.
Exploring White Sands:
Dune Life Nature Trail: This 1-mile loop offers a closer look at the flora and fauna adapted to the harsh desert environment. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all ages.
Playa Trail: A short, easy hike to a dry lakebed that fills with water after rain, attracting a variety of wildlife.
Interdune Boardwalk: An elevated boardwalk provides accessibility and stunning views of the dunes, making it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous walk.
Sunset Stroll: Join a ranger-guided walk during sunset to learn about the unique geology and ecology of White Sands. The changing colors of the sky against the white dunes create a magical atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions:
While the immediate vicinity of White Sands doesn’t offer much in terms of dining, we found a few OK-ish spots:
Carino’s Italian Grill: Located about 30 minutes away, it offers hearty meals with a New Mexican twist. Their pizza with hatch chilies is a highlight.
Pistachioland: Famous for its variety of flavored pistachios and pistachio ice cream. Although the ice cream felt store-bought, the unique flavors of the pistachios were worth the stop.
