49 Epic Things to Do in New Mexico

👉 Jump to: Best Things to Do in New Mexico | Seasonal | Sites & Attractions | Museums & Culture | Shopping | Unique & Fun | Food & Drink | Podcast

New Mexico is drenched in artistic energy, Native American culture, and mouthwatering queso. It’s almost impossible to share the best things to do in New Mexico because there is something to do in every town and beyond.

In this guide, I’ll cover popular New Mexico attractions alongside my favorite unique gems. There’s a lot here, so make sure you review all the best places in New Mexico to choose your top spots before you go.

Let’s dig in!

49 Best Things to Do in New Mexico

San Antonio Hot Springs

Relax in a hot spring surrounded by beautiful trees.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 438-5300 | Website | Entrance: free

Visiting the San Antonio Hot Springs is one of my favorite free activities in New Mexico. Located in Los Alamos, the hot springs are surrounded by breathtaking forests and are just a short walk from the parking area. 

Just keep in mind that these are some of the most popular hot springs in New Mexico. The site does get crowded. Try going during off times for a more private soak in the wilderness.

Taos Ski Valley

Ski or hike in New Mexico’s high desert where you’ll find plenty to do year-round.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 388-8457 | Website 

Taos Ski Valley is only a 30-minute drive from the historic Taos Pueblo and is a must-see when you’re in town. The high elevation and cool, crisp air give you a completely different atmosphere from historic Taos, so it’s great if you’re looking to switch up your experience.

The drive up to Taos Ski Valley is breathtaking – the trees here are very unique, and the landscape is perfect for hiking. I especially recommend hiking to the Bavarian Restaurant and Lodge. It’s a little off the beaten path, but you’ll enjoy an incredible view of the town while getting in some German food and drinks.

From skiing to horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and festivals, there is so much to do here year-round!

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re wondering where to stay in Taos while visiting Taos Ski Valley, then I recommend The Blake. You can rent ski equipment right at the hotel and it has a spa for apres-ski relaxation.

Meow Wolf

Transport yourself into an alternative world in this interactive art museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (866) 636-9969 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily; until 10 pm on Thu; Closed Wed | Entrance: $34-84 adults

Located in Santa Fe, taking a trip to Meow Wolf will make you feel like Alice in Wonderland for a day. What is essentially an interactive and immersive art space, this House of Eternal Return features 70 themed rooms, including a slide inside the laundry machine and a door inside the refrigerator. 

This is personally one of my favorite quirky adventures in the USA and one of the most unique things to do in Santa Fe.

You could easily spend an afternoon or more here, but most people spend an average of 2 hours inside.

👉 Locals Only: New Mexico residents can buy tickets for $25 by showing a valid state ID. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Wander around awe-inspiring rock formations and limestone caves.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 785-2232 | Website | Visitor Center: 9 am – 5 pm daily; 9:30 am – 2:30 pm daily for cave hiking | Entrance: $15 adults, free under 15 

A top national park in New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the most unique things to do in the state. Located in Southern New Mexico in the Chihuahuan Desert, this park features more than 100 caves and takes about two hours to explore from start to finish. 

There are so many ways to experience the Caverns – you can go at your own pace, sign up for a ranger-guided tour, or rent an audio guide at the visitor center. Even though it can be a crowded tourist attraction, visiting these rock formations is worth the trip.

Santa Fe Salt Cave

Relax in a zero-gravity chair inside wall-to-wall healing pink Himalayan salt crystals.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 954-1602 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Tue; 10 am – 5 pm Wed-Fri; 10 am – 6 pm Sat-Sun; Closed Mon | 1 halotherapy session: $45.44

When you’re at a fairly high elevation in New Mexico, a trip to the Santa Fe Salt Cave is a rejuvenating prospect. Also known as salt therapy, halotherapy features rooms covered in pink salt crystals and a halo generator that spreads tiny particles in the air. 

The experience will have you relaxing in a zero-gravity chair while the negative ions give you multiple benefits for skin inflammation, respiratory health, and mood. Santa Fe Salt Cave also offers full moon, reiki, and sound healing events. 

Rio Grande Gorge

Explore one of the highest bridges in the U.S. and try out activities including hot springs, climbing, rafting, and camping. 

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Rio Grande Gorge Rafting Trip 

When traveling to New Mexico, you must visit the Rio Grande Gorge. The West Rim Trail is a perfect hiking spot with cascading views of the Rio Grande River and Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.

There are also a ton of activities to do at the Gorge including soaking in New Mexico hot springs, climbing, rafting, and camping.

🛎️ Need a Hotel? Stay overnight for the epic sunset and book a stay at one of the themed Airstream campers at Hotel Luna Mystica.

White Sands National Park

Take in a rare landscape sighting of gypsum sand dunes.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 479-6124 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 9 pm daily with closing hours changing with the seasons | Entrance: $15-25

White Sands National Park is just as the name implies – a gorgeous, sprawling terrain of stunning white sands. It’s in the southern part of the state, about a 3-hour drive from Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

While here, bring a sled (or grab a board from the gift shop) and ride down the cascading white sand dunes. It is truly one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the nation. Although sunsets are spectacular here, you can enjoy the beauty and awe of White Sands no matter the season or time of day.

Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm

Go off the grid at a farm stay featuring a lavender distillery, yoga in a yurt, and animals.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 985-5000 | Website 

A 12-minute drive north of downtown Albuquerque, Los Poblanos is an inn and organic farm that offers a restaurant, an onsite lavender distillery, fun public events, overnight stays, and so much more. The acres are surrounded by local wildlife, fruit trees, a pool, a garden, and a yurt that has one of my favorite yoga classes. 

Their lodging is serene, the spa is top-notch, and the restaurant is worth the hype. They also have a farm shop that carries their lavender distillery products, tea, nuts, and herb spice cooking blends. 

Definitely check out their event calendar for live music, aromatherapy classes, and seasonal attractions.

Blue Hole

Swim through hidden caves at one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in the U.S. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 472-3763 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily; Saturday 10 am – 5 pm; Closed Sundays | Entrance: $10 Parking 

Blue Hole is a natural lake located in the middle of a desert in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Many people refer to Blue Hole as a magical place, but you’ll have to check it out for yourself!

Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will love discovering hidden underwater caves. This is also a great activity for families and kids – there are cliff jumping and swimming opportunities with places for parents to sit and watch.

Ten Thousand Waves

Soak under the stars in a Japanese spa complete with food and lodging.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 982-9304 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: $64 community soak

Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-style spa only 12 minutes from Santa Fe. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a good massage, jacuzzi, cold plunge, sauna, foot soak, or all-encompassing relaxation sesh.

The view from the hill is incredible. At night, you can see the stars while the whole spa lights up. They have a gift shop with unique souvenirs, lodging, and an on-site restaurant called Izanami. It was so impressive that I easily spent a whole day there.

For added fun, be sure to reserve a soaking tub or dinner reservation during sunset hours.

👉 Pro Tip: The spa and walk up to the entrance are at a very high elevation, so drink plenty of water.

Seasonal Things to Do

El Molero

Grab fajitas and tamales in the heart of Santa Fe Plaza.

📍 Google Maps | Instagram | Hours: Seasonal 

At Santa Fe Plaza Park, you’ll be lucky to find a food cart with cheap and delicious homemade tamales baked fresh. This hidden gem is seasonal, so it’s quite the adventure to stumble upon it. Budget travelers will enjoy the simplicity of grabbing a snack at El Molero while picnicking on the grass and soaking up the beauty of the Santa Fe Plaza. 

It’s the perfect spot for people-watching, catching some live music, and eating your heart out.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Get a bird’s eye view of New Mexico and witness a magical yearly festival.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Private Balloon Rides

Held every October, New Mexico’s most popular yearly festival brings pilots from around the world to fly hundreds of hot air balloons. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta isn’t just about balloons, though – you’ll find special exhibitions, light shows, a rodeo, performances, and so much more. 

If you have the chance, visit during this sky-spectacular event, otherwise, you can still enjoy being up in the clouds with a private ride. Just know that spots fill up fast so book a hot air balloon ride ahead of your trip.

Botanic Garden ABQ Biopark

Stroll the unique gardens and diverse plants of the southwest.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 764-6200 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily; Closed Mon | Entrance: $19.50, adults, $12.50 seniors, $11 youth (ages 3-12), free under 3 

ABQ BioPark, also known as Albuquerque’s Botanic Garden, is perfect for outdoor-loving visitors and families looking to entertain children. This incredible park has a large array of dry-climate plants with plenty of opportunities to catch a bit of shade and rest.

Your ticket also gets you into the aquarium, while the Zoo and Japanese Garden are right nearby. All these attractions so close together make for a convenient sightseeing location.

Please note that while the park is still open, there will be partial renovations until 2027.

👉Locals Only: New Mexico residents can get half-price tickets.

Taos Goji Farm & Eco Lodge

Stay at a tucked-away organic goji berry farm near Taos.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 776-3971 | Website

Taos Goji Farm & Eco Lodge is an eco-village in San Cristobal near Arroyo Seco that has acres of open fields, beautiful farming, gardens, rustic cabins, and glamping tipis. Staying here means you can wander around the property, enjoy fresh eggs and goji berries, and spend time in their cedar sauna.

Eco-conscious travelers will enjoy staying at or visiting the farm, especially since it’s one of the best places to stay in Taos. You don’t have to be an artist to enjoy Taos, but the onsite rooms are named after the visionary authors and creative explorers who have stayed here.

Taos Pueblo

Experience this popular Southwest Pueblo and learn more about Native American culture.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 758-1028 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Sunday – Saturday | Entrance: $25 adults, $22 seniors/students, free under 10 | 👉 Browse Taos Pueblo Tours on Viator 

Visiting Taos Pueblo is one of the most special and unique things to do in Taos. The only living Native American community deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark, Taos Pueblo is a collection of stunning Adobe buildings, rich history, and vibrant culture. 

Objectively, one of the most breathtaking sites in New Mexico, these Adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. Today, there are about 150 permanent residents at Taos Pueblo.

Please be respectful of the residents of the community. Do not photograph tribal members without permission, and don’t enter private buildings.

👉 Pro Tip: Another gorgeous Pueblo is Acoma Sky City, an hour from Albuquerque. Regardless of which Pueblo(s) you visit, they all have a rich history and incredible architecture.

New Mexico Sites & Attractions

Cliff’s Amusement Park

Take the kids to Albuquerque’s top theme park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 881-9373 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm Wed-Fri; 11 am – 7 pm Sat-Sun | Entrance: $37.99 adult (ages 8-64), $31.99 child (ages 2-7), $26.99, senior (64+), free under 3

Cliff’s Amusement Park in Albuquerque is one of the best activities for a family day out. It features a water park, over twenty rides, and carnival-style comfort foods in case you get hungry.

The park is open for six months out of the year. If you’re visiting New Mexico from May to October, definitely plan a day here.

Four Corners Monument

Stand in the only place where 4 states meet.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (928) 730-5551 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: $10

When looking for things to do in the state, the Four Corners Monument should be high on your New Mexico bucket list. Located inside the Navajo Tribal Park, this historical monument marks where Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah intersect. 

How many opportunities do you have to set foot in four states at once? This is your chance!

Pecos National Historical Park

History buffs can walk the path of historic culture in Pecos Valley.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 757-7241 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: free

Southwestern history and culture collide at Pecos National Historical Park. Walk the path where a civil war was once battled, check out trails preserved from ancient villages, visit a Spanish Mission, learn at the museum, and indulge your silver-screen sensibilities at a movie star’s ranch. 

History buffs will enjoy touring the ruins and setting foot on this historic and connected land.

Petroglyph National Monument

Decipher ancient symbols carved into stone walls in Boca Negra Canyon.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 899-0205 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: free

Petroglyph National Monument protects thousands of petroglyph symbols that Native Americans and Spanish settlers carved into the volcanic rocks of Boca Negra Canyon. It’s one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America! 

This is a great activity for hikers and culture seekers alike. While the trail is fairly short, plan at least an hour here, depending on how long you plan to stop to take pictures of the designs. 

Bandelier National Monument

Hike up ancestral dwellings and explore caves near Los Alamos.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 672-3861 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $15-25

Bandelier National Monument will excite visitors with evidence of human life dating back 10,000 years. With miles of trails to check out, ladders to climb, and petroglyphs to spot, there is a lot to see here.

As long as you don’t have a fear of heights, Bandolier is a favorite attraction. Some of the hiking trails are high above the canyon.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Adventure amidst ancestral Puebloans at one of the most notable national historic parks in New Mexico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 786-7014 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 7 pm (Mar-Apr), 7 am – 9 pm (May-Oct), 7 am – 5 pm (Nov-Feb) | Entrance: $25 parking

Located in Northwest New Mexico, Chaco Culture National Historic Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore Indigenous archaeological sites, spot native wildlife, and hike trails with awe-inspiring vantage points. 

The park is self-guided and home to sunrises and sunsets you won’t want to miss. Make sure to bring enough water on your trip and plan ahead since you won’t have reliable cell service here.

Sandia Peak Tramway

Take in a 360-degree view of New Mexico’s landscape.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 856-1532 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm daily; Closed Tue | Tram ride: $35 adult, $25 child 2-12

Take the scenic route with Sandia Peak Tramway, located less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Albuquerque. 

Sandia Peak’s high elevation gives you a panoramic view of New Mexico, especially from its Ten 3 Restaurant. This aerial tram is one of the longest in the world, spanning over 10 minutes of tram time. Visitors can hop off and hike trails during the spring and summer, or hit the ski slopes in the winter.

Bisti Badlands / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area

Go off-grid while spotting abstract rock formations in 45,000 acres of badlands.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 564-7600 | Website | Hours: Open 24 hours | Entrance: free

The Bisti Badlands/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is located north of Albuquerque, and it is truly an unforgettable thing to do while in New Mexico!

Maintained by the Bureau of Land Management, the land spans 45,000 acres of badlands and contains very unusual, alien-looking rock formations.

The remote wilderness of Bisti Badlands is a unique place to go camping in New Mexico, but you can also go hiking and horseback riding here.

New Mexico Museums & Culture

New Mexico History Museum

Stroll the exhibits inside this Santa Fe Landmark and Museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 476-5200 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily; Closed Mon | Entrance: $12

The New Mexico History Museum is a must-see for history lovers in the city. It’s located in the heart of the Santa Fe Plaza.

This museum is part of the Department of Cultural Affairs and is one of the biggest state-sponsored museums in the U.S.

The museum is made up of three interlocking buildings: the Palace of the Governors, the Chavez Library Building, and the Pete V. Domenici Building. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of exhibits ranging across different artistic mediums.

👉 Pro Tip: To get the most out of your trip, book your days and itinerary ahead of traveling. Many local restaurants are closed on Sundays, and a handful of museums are closed on Mondays.

Turquoise Museum

Stroll through an Albuquerque castle filled with gorgeous gems.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 433-3684 | Website | Hours: 12 pm –  2:30 pm daily; Closed Sunday | Entrance: $20 adult, $15 child

Turquoise, the state gem of New Mexico, can be found at Albuquerque’s Turquoise Museum. The gallery is moving and reopening in 2028!

The museum is filled with gorgeous turquoise preserved in jewelry and decor. 

It’s the perfect place to dive into the history of the stone and learn more about the mining process. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop if you’re looking to buy authentic turquoise, and book your museum ticket ahead of time to secure your spot.

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Get inspired by the life and paintings of New Mexico’s iconic artist, Georgia O’Keeffe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 946-1000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily; until 4 pm Thu; Closed Wed | Entrance: Gallery — $22 adult, $12 youth (age 6-18) and student, free under 6; Home & Studio — $65 adult, $55 child (age 10-18)

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is the perfect opportunity to learn more about one of New Mexico’s most iconic artists. There are two museum sites: the Museum Galleries in Santa Fe and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Home & Studio in Abiquiu (52 miles from Santa Fe).

All sites are worth checking out, whether you’re an avid art fan or just want to learn more about this specific side of New Mexico. Georgia O’Keeffe’s work eventually inspired many other artists to come to the Southwest landscape for inspiration in their own creative endeavors. 

I appreciated the strong contextual storytelling around her artwork that not all museums provide. Please note that children under 10 are not admitted to the Home & Studio tour.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Learn about the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico and celebrate the vibrant culture at this center.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 843-7270 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily; Closed Mondays | Entrance: $12 adult, $8 senior/student/youth (age 5-17), free under 5

Albuquerque’s Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a foundational site in New Mexico. With galleries, exhibits, and a calendar of special events, this site is a beautiful way to learn about the past, present, and future initiatives of the Pueblo people. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of New Mexico as a whole. 

The center often hosts live music and dance performances, as well as the scrumptious Indian Pueblo Kitchen, the on-site restaurant that foodies won’t want to miss. Plus, this is a great place to start when deciding which of the 19 Pueblos to visit. 

👉 Locals Only: New Mexico residents get $10 admission with a valid ID.

Billy The Kid Museum

Venture back to the 1800s and learn about the life of an outlaw legend.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 355-2380 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm daily; Closed Sundays | Entrance: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 child (ages 7-15), free under 6 7

If you’re a lover of outlaw stories from the Wild Wild West, then this one’s for you. The Billy The Kid Museum is a privately owned museum in Fort Sumner. It’s dedicated to the life and story of this outlaw legend. 

Featuring over 60,000 relics from “The Kid’s” life, this museum is one of the most unique ways to learn about the Wild West.

International UFO Museum and Research Center

Connect with unexplained phenomena in New Mexico’s cosmic town of Roswell.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 625-9495 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $7 adult, $4 child (ages 5-15), free under 5

The International UFO Museum and Research Center is truly a one-of-a-kind experience in New Mexico. I mean, where else can you learn about flying saucers and alien sightings? 

At the museum and research center, discover what happened at the 1947 “Roswell Incident” via a library of written, audio, and visual UFO research. Then, on your way out, grab an alien souvenir in the gift shop.

Ghost Ranch

Be inspired by a famous landscape and rejuvenate your spirit.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 685-1000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily | Ticket price: varies by program

Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center is located in Abiquiu, New Mexico. Its red cliff landscapes were made famous by artist Georgia O’Keeffe. The ranch offers budget travelers plenty of ways to rebirth their minds, bodies, and souls. 

You can visit using a day pass or stay overnight at local accommodations. At Ghost Ranch, there are plenty of activities, including a museum, tours, massages, hiking, horseback rides, kayaking, and retreat workshops. 

Bed & Breakfasts

Have a homemade breakfast and afternoon snacks while connecting with other travelers.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse B&B Accommodations

Of all the accommodation options in New Mexico, I highly recommend staying at a bed & breakfast. Not only will this give you a cozy place to sleep, but B&Bs are often an experience in and of themselves.

For those who adore the charming adobe-style homes throughout New Mexico, you can find the perfect B&B with gorgeous architecture and rooms inspired by famous artists. The best part is that communal areas give you a chance to dine with other travelers and connect with locals.

Some of my favorite B&Bs that have delicious home-cooked breakfasts and afternoon snacks include Inn of the Turquoise Bear in Santa Fe, Bottger Mansion in Albuquerque, and Palacio de Marquesa in Taos.

Shopping in New Mexico

Santa Fe Farmers Market

Try local produce, blue corn pupusas, and other unique hand-crafted items.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 1 pm Sat | Admission: free

It’s no secret that one of the best ways to taste a new city is by heading to one of the local weekly farmers’ markets. While New Mexico has growers’ markets in almost every major city, the absolute best farmers market in all of New Mexico is the Santa Fe Farmers Market.

Also one of the top Santa Fe attractions, the weekly farmers market offers a variety of unique produce, made-to-order blue corn pupusas, handmade floral sage brushes, and fresh skincare. 

Albuquerque Historic Old Town

Frolic in colorful streets full of artisanal small businesses.

📍 Google Maps | Website

New Mexico is home to some truly one-of-a-kind shopping experiences, and many of the city centers have unique gift shops. Albuquerque has the most shops available among a plethora of districts, including Albuquerque’s historic Old Town, which is close to some of the best places to stay in Albuquerque. 

You can find a range of souvenirs from olive oil to apothecary goods, handmade leather shoes, and artwork. 

Santa Fe Plaza

Search for authentic turquoise jewelry and boutique lifestyle finds in the heart of downtown Santa Fe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 955-6200 | Website | Most Shop Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily  

In the heart of downtown Santa Fe, you’ll find the elevated Santa Fe Plaza, a unique destination amongst the shopping districts in New Mexico. The Santa Fe Plaza is a National Historic Landmark that has been the beating heart of the city since its inception in 1610.

Here, you’ll find exquisite Native American-inspired fine jewelry and other fine goods. Meander through the downtown alleys for a collection of over 200 specialty shops, home decor, artifacts, and imports.

The Santa Fe Plaza is a must-see, especially if it’s your first time in the city. Make sure you book a place to stay in Downtown Santa Fe to be as close to it as possible.

Canyon Road Art Galleries

Discern over distinguished artists’ masterpieces in a multitude of curated studios near Santa Fe.

📍 Google Maps

While in New Mexico, you must visit an art gallery. This state has been a holy place for artists for centuries. So many famous painters, sculptors, and writers have created some of their best work in the inspiring New Mexico landscape.

So, it’s only fitting to explore the hundreds of art galleries that line Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Canyon Road offers over 100 rows of galleries all on one street! One of the best ways to take in all the creative work is by booking a private art tour to get a more intimate way to experience the local art scene.

Santa Fe Railyard, Baca Street District

Shop for crafted goods in Santa Fe’s arts district.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 982-3373 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 10 pm daily

When visiting Santa Fe, you’re bound to find great souvenirs at the Railyard’s boutique storefronts in the Baca Street District. Located right across the street from the Farmers Market,  there are tons of galleries, art spaces, cafes, and antique shops to find the perfect gift. 

Baca Street isn’t too far from the main plaza so it’s a nice place to walk about. 

House of RMC

Shop for custom jackets and upcycled vintage fashion from Ralph Lauren’s original jacket designer.

📍 Google Maps (building next door)

Looking for a hidden gem that’s not even on Google Maps? Right next to the Garrett Seawright State Farm Insurance building, you’ll spot a yellow sign that reads House of RMC. Call the number on the sign to schedule a visit or request a custom jacket.

When my fashion designer friend was picking up our leather goods at Collect (another place I mention in this guide), she serendipitously met the owner of House of RMC. I happily crashed her invitation for a tour. 

House of RMC has some amazing vintage fashion pieces for sale. This place is a true adventure to find. Here, artists are in their element, doing what they do best: creating.

Unique & Fun Things to Do

Apothecary Dining & Oxygen Bar

Breathe in extra oxygen at a downtown Santa Fe restaurant.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 986-5037 | Website | Hours: 3 pm – 10 pm Tues & Wed; 10 am – 10 pm Thurs-Mon | O2 Bar: $40, 20 minutes of oxygen 

The Oxygen Bar near Santa Fe Plaza is a great choice and a unique thing to do here, especially if you get altitude sickness. Grab one of their preventative aerosol bottles of pure oxygen boosts or a 15-minute session of their 02 oxygen bar. 

They also offer food and elixirs, specializing in kava potions. Downstairs at their sister company, One Sacred Body Spa, you can get a flower essence massage, a Reiki session, or Vedic astrology. 

Santa Fe School of Cooking

Learn to cook the traditional flavors of the Southwest.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 983-4511 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Mon-Sat; 10:30 am – 3 pm Sun | Cooking Classes: $95-120 

New Mexico is famously home to many healing modalities. To fully take advantage of this, I highly recommend taking a cooking class in which food is treated as medicine.

At the Santa Fe School of Cooking, learn how to make tamales, soups, chiles rellenos, secret sauces, and more.

Collect Sante Fe

Make leatherwork keychains, bookmarks, luggage tags, coasters, bracelets, necklaces, and more.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 231-1067 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Mon-Tue & Thu-Fri; 11 am – 6 pm Sat, 12 – 5 pm Sun; Closed Wed | Call for pricing 

Scott Horn is the leather designer behind Collect Santa Fe. Here, you’ll find a gorgeous gallery, shop, and leather studio. Scott offers private leatherwork workshops that will teach you step-by-step how to design and stain a piece. 

There are plenty of hands-on souvenir-making activities like this all over New Mexico, so be on the lookout!

Chokola Bean To Bar

Go chocolate tasting in a quaint corridor of old town Taos.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 779-5925 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily

Down the cobblestone streets of Historic Taos Plaza is the cutest little single-origin chocolate shop, Chokola Bean To Bar. They have a large array of cacao, mousse, truffles, bars, mixes, coffee, and pastries. 

For a mix of all this goodness, try their chocolate-tasting flight. It’s the perfect accompaniment to sitting on the patio and enjoying the scenery of the plaza.

El Monte Sagrado Living Spa

Take a blissful soak in an eco-conscious spa at a resort in Taos.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 737-9880 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Sun-Thu; 9 am – 7 pm Fri-Sat

El Monte Sagrado Resort and Living Spa is an eco-conscious luxury lodge in the heart of historic Taos. The grounds, restaurant, dining areas, and rooms are spectacular. The spa is one of a kind. 

Book well in advance at El Monte for a massage or accommodations, as this place is highly sought after. 

👉 Pro tip: Budget travelers can stay at their cheaper sister property, Palacio de Marquesa. This spot is just three blocks away and gives you access to their pool and amenities.

Creative Classes

Unleash your inner artist and make a souvenir at a local studio.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Hands-On Classes

There are so many visionaries from New Mexico, so why not immerse yourself in the creative environment by taking up a class in a local studio? Luckily for you, there are so many public and private classes to book. 

Instead of just exploring and observing, try a hands-on art class exploring mixed media, painting, stained glass, photography, and pottery. New Mexico also has fantastic cooking, oil blending, jewelry, writing, yoga, and dance classes. 

Food & Drink Activities

St. James Tearoom

Sip tea pairings with flavorful finger foods inside your own mid-century-themed tea room.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 242-3752 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm Tues & Sun; 11 am – 8:30 pm Wed-Sat; Closed Mon | Entrance: $69.85, adults, $55.95, children

Nestled in North Albuquerque, the Saint James Tearoom is a fun way to experience traditional high tea. Here, you’ll find themed tea rooms, waitresses in costume, a gorgeous garden, and a gift store.

The consistent storytelling from start to finish will transport you back in time to the traditional British tea era. 

The multi-course tea is paired with scrumptious sweet and savory bites that are just as pretty to look at as they are exquisite. You can also get alcoholic tea here, and they offer seasonal events.

La Cueva Cafe

Discover mouthwatering mole and other authentic flavors of New Mexico at this tiny Taos gem.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 758-7001 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon – Fri; 10 am – 5 pm Sat; Closed Sun 

La Cueva Cafe looks like a complete hole-in-the-wall restaurant, but don’t let that fool you. Its authentic Mexican dishes are nothing short of mouthwatering. 

In particular, the chicken mole, chile relleno, and tres leches cake are the best home cooking I’ve had in a while. The back patio under the tree is just perfect, and the prices are great too.

Tesuque Village Market

Dine at an eclectic cafe with New Mexican cuisine and cocktails.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 988-8848 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 9 pm daily 

If you want to dine as the locals do, Tesuque Village Market is worth a visit. This restaurant is located just 15 minutes north of downtown Santa Fe and nestled at the bottom of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. 

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a festive bar. It even features a grocery store and bakery. If you are stopping in Santa Fe, definitely check this place out!

Betterday

Get some work done in a lively Santa Fe Cafe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (505) 780-5638 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 5 pm daily

Santa Fe has a bustling coffee shop scene, and Betterday is one of its best. This cafe serves delicious breakfasts and lunches along with homemade pecan milk lattes and other artisanal drinks. 

Looking for a great place to do some work over public wifi? I highly recommend Betterday for its quality of food and drinks, the vibe, and the quintessential adobe-style interior.

Sparky’s BBQ and Espresso

Sip chile lemonade and burgers at this roadside eatery in Hatch, NM.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (575) 267-4222 | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm Thurs – Sun; Closed Mon-Wed

Calling all hot and spicy lovers! Have you ever tasted Hatch chile lemonade? Hatch chile, the native pepper of New Mexico, is infused into many of Sparky’s recipes and is a must-try while in the state. 

Taste green chile cheeseburgers and BBQ, handcrafted coffee, and enjoy live music on the weekends. The food here is unique, and the atmosphere is delightfully quirky. Sparky’s is definitely a great road trip stop.

Food & Drink Tastings

Sample a little bit of everything.

👉 Browse New Mexico Food & Drink Tours

Not sure where or what to eat and drink in New Mexico? I recommend trying a little bit of everything. Culinary connoisseurs will enjoy New Mexico’s variety of tasting options, best experienced via a food or drink tour.

You can pick between a ton of distilleries, chocolate, beer, wine, olive oil, spices, coffee, and tea tastings. 

For a popular attraction, taste your way through the olive oil and vinegar at Old Town Olive. For those who like the heat, head to the Las Cruces Green Chile Trail.

👉 Pro Tip: When dining at a Mexican restaurant and they give you chips and salsa, ask for Christmas (both green and red mixed salsa). You’ll sound like a local!

Want More? Listen to Our American West Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love our American West episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming American West”). 

Betty, Laura, & Abigail talk about the best things to do in New Mexico at minute mark 23:28.

They also discuss more desert road trips (20:00) and all the other common questions about travel to the American West.

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you arrive in the American West

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Thanks for reading my guide on the best things to do in New Mexico! Before you go, be sure to check out Travel Lemming writer McKenna’s list of the top national parks and monuments in New Mexico.