The first time some of the places to visit in New Mexico came to my attention was when I saw some paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe. I later learned that New Mexico is oft referred to as the Land of Enchantment and I could see why the Wisconsin-born painter spent so much of her time in the South West. If you want to follow in her footsteps, take a path to these places to visit in New Mexico.
1 Very Large Array National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Located on the plains of San Augustin at 7000’ in elevation, and one of the most interesting, if somewhat unusual, places to visit in New Mexico is the Very Large Array. These 27 huge radio antennas are placed in a Y-formation, and combine electronically into one massive antenna equal to an antenna 22 miles across. This array has helped astronomers make observations about black holes, quasars and cosmic gasses. Guided tours are available the first Saturday of every month.
Frequently asked questions
2 White Sands National Monument
The white sands come from 8 billion tons of gypsum crystals blown from a lake that was once located at the western end of the monument. Today, people wanting to explore the beautiful site can drive along the 16-mile long Dunes Drive, where there are stops available so you can get out and get a closer look. Stop by the visitor center for more detailed information, and if desired, get a guided walking tour through the dunes by a ranger.
3 Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument was once home to the ancient Pueblo people who lived at the location between about 1150-1550 A.D. Located south of Los Alamos in the Frijoles Canyon, the area is full of both restored and unexcavated ruins from the Pueblos, along with a museum that displays some of the archeological artifacts that have been uncovered. A large wilderness area contains 70 miles of hiking trails for those who like longer treks, but the Main Loop is only 2 miles long and takes you past the site’s famous cliff houses.
4 Chaco Canyon National Historic Park
Chaco Canyon has the largest collection in the United States of ruins from the ancient Pueblo civilization that lived in the area between 900 and 1150 A.D. The 9-mile stretch of canyon holds remains of the sandstone block and timber structures common to the period, some structures up to 4 stories high. Cave dwellings are also dotted about the canyon, particularly near Fajada Butte near the south entrance. Tours, maps and camping permits are available at the park’s visitor center.
5 Carlsbad Caverns
One of the most popular places to visit in New Mexico is the Carlsbad Caverns, part of a large network of caves near the town of Carlsbad. The main attraction is the Big Cave, containing one of the world’s largest underground chambers, known as the Big Room. Visitors can access this wonder via elevator or by walking down on a short trail. Once inside, visitors can walk along a paved pathway, admiring the stalactites and stalagmites that have been strategically lit so their uniqueness can be appreciated.
6 Gila Cliff Dwellings
This monument is located over 553 acres and contains the ruins of the Mogollon people, occupying the area from about 1275 and 1300 A.D. Although the 15 or so families only occupied the cliffside caves for a short time, they left in indelible impression. Visiting the ruins up close requires a 1-mile walk that takes about an hour. A museum and visitor’s center is also onsite.
7 International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Albuquerque in October, don’t miss the International Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of colorful balloons take flight from Balloon Fiesta Park. There are special times where visitors can see the balloons lighted, or watch a special launch of the funny and whimsical shaped balloons. Enjoy other attractions of the festival, such as chainsaw carving, live music and wandering performers.
8 Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
Ride the historic Cumbres-Toltec Railway to see some of the beauty of New Mexico in comfort. Whether riding in the Parlor Car in first class comfort or in the gondola car, an open-air travel experience, you’ll see miles of gorgeous desert and mountain scenery. The railway, built in 1880, passes over the 10,000 feet tall Cumbres Pass and through the Toltec Gorge. The route runs between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, stopping at Osier, Colorado.
9 Santa Fe
Founded in 1910, this town clings tightly to its roots. All new construction, for example, requires buildings to be constructed in the Pueblo style. Santa Fe is home to the nation’s oldest public building, the Palace of the Governors, which houses the New Mexico History Museum. Be sure to visit the New Mexico Museum of Art, with pieces by famous artists such as Ansel Adams, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Francisco de Goya.
One of the special features of New Mexico is its amazing light so it’s definitely a place for creative and spiritual souls to be inspired to write, paint, and create. So are you ready to pack your sketchbook, journal or just yourself, which is cool too.
