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39
items Fun things to do in New Mexico, and yes, New Mexico is in the United States!
Sections
6
Albuquerque
Grants
Chimayo
Lincoln
Artesia
Other Areas of Interest
Albuquerque
Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, is located in the heart of the state along the Rio Grande. Nestled between the stunning Sandia Mountains and the expansive high desert, Albuquerque is a vibrant blend of cultural richness and natural beaut...
This world-renowned event is held every October and features over 500 hot air balloons, creating a breathtaking spectacle in the sky.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Explore this historic district with its charming adobe buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll and to soak in the rich cultural heritage.
Old Town
Take a ride on one of the world's longest aerial tramways to the top of Sandia Peak for stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes. It's a fantastic spot for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Sandia Peak Tramway
This family-friendly destination includes the Albuquerque Zoo, Botanic Garden, Aquarium, and Tingley Beach. It's a great place to spend a day exploring the wonders of nature and wildlife.
ABQ BioPark Zoo
Held every September, this fair showcases the best of New Mexico’s agriculture, arts, culture, and entertainment. Enjoy rodeos, concerts, carnival rides, and delicious local food.
New Mexico State Fair
A fun-filled destination for families and thrill-seekers, Cliff's Amusement Park offers roller coasters, water rides, and various attractions. It's a great place to spend a day with kids and friends.
Cliff's Amusement Park
Grants
Grants, NM, is a gateway to natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a great destination for hikers and adventure seekers.
For those who love a challenging hike, Mount Taylor offers a rewarding experience. The Gooseberry Springs Trail leads to the summit, providing breathtaking views and a chance to stand on one of New Mexico's sacred peaks.
Mount Taylor
Explore the stunning volcanic landscapes of El Malpais, featuring diverse hiking trails. Notable trails include the Big Tubes Trail, which takes you through ancient lava tube caves, and the Zuni-Acoma Trail, a historic route used by Native Americans.
El Morro National Monument
Visit the Ice Caves and Bandera Volcano, located just outside Grants. Hike the short trail to the Ice Caves, where the temperature inside remains a constant 31°F (-0.5°C) year-round, creating a unique natural ice formation. Continue your adventure wi...
Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano
A perfect spot for hiking and outdoor recreation, Bluewater Lake State Park offers scenic trails like the Dam Trail, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It's also great for fishing, boating, and camping.
Bluewater Lake State Park
Learn about the rich mining history of the area at the Grants Mining Museum. It's an engaging experience for history buffs and families, showcasing the tools and stories of uranium mining that put Grants on the map.
New Mexico Mining Museum
Visit one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. Guided tours are available, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage and history of the Acoma people. The views from the mesa-top pueblo are simply spectacular.
Acoma Pueblo
Grants is a rockhound's paradise, known for its rich geology. The surrounding areas offer opportunities to find a variety of minerals and fossils, including petrified wood, agates, and other precious stones. The Geology Museum at New Mexico State Uni...
Grants NM Rockhounding & Geology
Chimayo
Chimayó, NM, is a delightful blend of spiritual heritage, artistic tradition, and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the heart of New Mexican culture.
El Santuario de Chimayó, often referred to as the "Lourdes of America," is a historic pilgrimage site renowned for its reputed healing powers. Built in the early 19th century, this adobe chapel draws thousands of visitors each year, especially during...
Santuario de Chimayo
Chimayó is famous for its traditional weaving, a craft that has been passed down through generations. Visit local weaving shops like Ortega's Weaving Shop and Centinela Traditional Arts to see master weavers at work and purchase beautiful, hand-woven...
Trujillo's Weaving Shop
The village is also known for its unique variety of red chile, which is highly prized for its flavor. Many local farms grow Chimayó chile, and visitors can buy it in various forms—dried, powdered, or in ristras (strings of dried chiles). Don't miss t...
Chimayo Pepper
To learn more about the area's history and culture, visit the Chimayó Museum. Housed in a 19th-century adobe building, the museum offers exhibits on local history, culture, and the significance of weaving and farming in the community.
Chimayo Museum
The scenic landscapes around Chimayó provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring. Trails like the Santuario de Chimayó to the High Road offer beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making for a serene outdoor experienc...
Outdoor Activities In New Mexico | Camping, Hiking & Biking
Experience authentic New Mexican cuisine at Rancho de Chimayó, a historic restaurant set in a 19th-century hacienda. Enjoy dishes such as carne adovada, enchiladas, and sopaipillas, all featuring the famous Chimayó chile.
Rancho de Chimayó
Lincoln
Lincoln, NM, is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the stories of the American frontier. Its well-preserved sites and rich narratives make it a must-visit for those looking to step back in time and experience t...
The Lincoln Historic Site preserves a significant portion of the town as it was during the late 1800s. Visitors can explore numerous historic buildings, including the Old Lincoln County Courthouse and the Tunstall Store, which have been preserved to ...
Lincoln Historic Site - New Mexico Historic Sites
Lincoln is perhaps best known for its connection to the legendary outlaw Billy the Kid. The Lincoln County Courthouse is where Billy the Kid made his famous escape in 1881. The building now serves as a museum with exhibits detailing his life and the ...
Billy the Kid's Escape
The Lincoln County War, a violent conflict between rival factions, took place here in the late 1870s. The war involved notable figures like Billy the Kid, John Tunstall, and Pat Garrett. Walking through the historic site, visitors can learn about the...
Lincoln County War
This museum offers insight into daily life in Lincoln during the 19th century. The home of Dr. Woods, a prominent local physician, it contains period furnishings, medical instruments, and exhibits about local history.
Dr. Wood's House
Start your visit at the Anderson-Freeman Visitor Center to get an overview of Lincoln's history. The center provides maps, brochures, and exhibits that offer context for the various historic sites around town.
Anderson Freeman Visitor Center - Friends of Historic Lincoln, NM
Held every August, Old Lincoln Days is a living history event that brings the Old West to life. The festival features reenactments of Billy the Kid's escape, historical presentations, arts and crafts, and traditional music and dance, providing an imm...
Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days - Discover Ruidoso
A short drive from Lincoln, Fort Stanton offers additional historical context with its preserved military buildings and museum. The fort played a role in many historical events, including the Civil War and the Indian Wars.
Fort Stanton Historic Site
Artesia
Artesia, NM, offers a charming mix of history, culture, outdoor activities, and natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for visitors of all ages.
Located in the Lincoln National Forest, about an hour's drive from Artesia, Sitting Bull Falls is a stunning oasis in the desert. The waterfall cascades down a 150-foot rock face into a serene pool, making it a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, an...
Sitting Bull Falls
Eagle Draw Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Artesia, perfect for outdoor activities. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a scenic pond. It’s an ideal spot for a family outing, a jog, or a peaceful afternoon...
Eagle Draw Park
The Ocotillo Performing Arts Center is a cultural hub in Artesia, offering a variety of performances throughout the year. From live theater and music concerts to dance performances and art exhibitions, there’s always something exciting happening at t...
Ocotillo Performing Arts Center
The Heritage Walkway is an outdoor exhibit that celebrates Artesia's rich history and community spirit. Stroll through the walkway to see beautiful murals, sculptures, and informative plaques that highlight significant events and figures from Artesia...
Heritage Walkway
Located in a historic building, the Artesia Historical Museum and Art Center offers a deep dive into the local history and culture. The museum showcases artifacts from the region’s past, including exhibits on the oil industry, ranching, and Native Am...
Artesia Historical Museum & Art Center
Other Areas of Interest
These locations offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders to hiking in stunning landscapes and learning about Native American history and culture. Each destination showcases the unique beauty and heritage ...
Situated near Carlsbad in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to more than 100 limestone caves. Visitors can explore the underground chambers, stalactites, and stalagmites on guided tours or self-guided hikes. The park als...
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Located near Alamogordo in southern New Mexico, White Sands National Park is famous for its stunning white gypsum sand dunes. Visitors can hike, sled down the dunes, and even camp under the star-filled desert sky. It’s a unique and otherworldly lands...
White Sands National Park
Located near Los Alamos in northern New Mexico, Bandelier National Monument preserves ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Visitors can hike along the Main Loop Trail to explore the cliff dwellings and climb ladders to reach the alcoves wh...
Bandelier National Monument
Near Silver City in southwestern New Mexico, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument features ancient Mogollon cliff dwellings nestled in a rugged canyon. Visitors can hike along the trails to reach the dwellings and explore the fascinating archaeolog...
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Located near Glenwood in southwestern New Mexico, The Catwalk Recreation Area offers a unique hiking experience along a narrow canyon with a suspended walkway. Originally built as a mining flume in the early 20th century, the catwalk provides stunnin...
Catwalk Recreation Area
Situated in Taos, northern New Mexico, Taos Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of multi-story adobe buildings that have been home to the Taos Pueblo people for...
Taos Pueblo
Located in northwestern New Mexico, Chaco Culture National Historical Park preserves the remnants of an ancient Puebloan civilization. The park features monumental stone architecture, including massive ceremonial buildings and astronomical alignments...
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Just outside of town is the Cerrillos Hills State Park, where visitors can hike among old mining sites and learn about the history of this area.
Madrid New Mexico Ghost Town | Haunted Places: Old Abandoned ...