I spent a month and a half traveling around this intriguing state, and it quickly became clear why it was chosen as the setting for one of TV’s most iconic series! From mesmerizing geological wonders to colorful adobe towns, these are the places that made me fall hard for the Land of Enchantment…
1. Santa Fe
I fell hard for Santa Fe — glowing adobe walls, art-filled streets, and mountain views gave it a timeless beauty, but the real magic was its soulful, creative pulse that felt both vibrant and calming. Just over an hour’s drive from Albuquerque along the scenic Turquoise Trail, past desert vistas and quirky towns, brought me to the city where I stayed three days and just soaked it all in.
I wandered the historic Plaza, explored the impressive galleries on Canyon Road, visited the interesting Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and San Miguel Chapel, dined on veggie burrito smothered in red and green Christmas chile at the fun Shed Restaurant and paid a visit to the artisan-packed Santa Fe Farmers Market, where local food, crafts, and live music spilled into a festival-like atmosphere!
Location: Northern part of the state | Size: population ~90,500 | Vibe: creative, historic and bohemian
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the unique La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel – I loved the rooftop hot tub and decor which included locally crafted tin chandeliers, colorful Talavera tiles, and original Pueblo-style artwork!
2. White Sands National Park
The White Sands National Park was one of the most dazzling natural wonders I’ve ever seen — an endless sea of wave-like white gypsum dunes that shifted color in the sun, giving the whole place a dreamy, otherworldly vibe.
I drove 3.5 hours southwest from the Blue Hole of Santa Rosa, passing quirky Roswell, to reach the glowing dunes near Alamogordo, where I spent a full day exploring and stayed overnight at the quirky Classic Desert Aire Hotel. I hiked the Dune Life Nature Trail, sledded down the soft white dunes, joined a ranger-led walk, and watched the sunset set the desert ablaze — an experience I’ll never forget.
Location: Southern New Mexico | Size: 145,762 acres | Vibe: surreal, otherworldly and serene
My favorite highlights…
- The ranger-led walk from the visitor center, we spotted rare wildlife like the white sands incredibly hardy pupfish (which survived in desert harsh conditions!), yucca plants adapting to the moving dunes, and even saw a half-buried picnic table being swallowed by the shifting sands!
3. Albuquerque
Albuquerque surprised me — New Mexico’s biggest city was far more scenic than I expected, with the Sandia Mountains as a backdrop, golden Southwestern light, and adobe buildings, Spanish churches, and murals adding color and character. I completely fell for its effortlessly cool vibe — a mix of Southwestern heritage, retro Route 66 charm, and modern city energy!
After landing at Albuquerque International Sunport, I stayed three days to wander Old Town, ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for epic views, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and spot murals along Central Avenue. As a huge Breaking Bad fan, I toured filming spots — Walter White’s real car wash (Octopus Car Wash), his house, Saul Goodman’s office, and even stopped at The Dog House Drive-In!
Location: Central New Mexico | Size: population ~565,000 | Vibe: Southwestern, artsy and sun-drenched
My highlights…
- Staying at the unique and trendy 4-star ARRIVE Albuquerque – I loved how they checked me in at the onsite coffee shop and bar – not a traditional lobby desk with a cup of fiery Chile Mocha in hand!
4. Bisti Badlands
I thought this remote desert landscape felt completely otherworldly — jagged hoodoos, rippling rock layers, and strange formations like the “Cracked Eggs” painted in reds, greys, and beiges gave it a haunting, alien vibe. The silence made it feel raw and almost surreal!
After a two-hour drive northwest from Chaco Culture National Historical Park, I based myself for the weekend at the charming Casa Blanca Inn and Suites. From the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness parking area, I hiked out to the photogenic Cracked Eggs, photographed the hoodoos glowing at sunset, and explored the fossil-rich De-Na-Zin area nearby.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: 41,170 acres | Vibe: alien, remote and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
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Exploring the surreal “Cracked Egg” formations east of the Bisti/De-Na-Zin parking area – these smooth, split boulders looked like giant fossilized eggs, with weathered ridges and marbled patterns that glowed in the desert light!
5. Taos Gorge Bridge
One of the highest bridges in the U.S., this spot blew me away — spanning the 650-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge with sheer cliffs, wide desert plains, distant peaks, and golden Southwestern light making it ridiculously photogenic.
After a 2.5-hour drive from the Cumbres–Toltec Scenic Railway, I reached Taos and checked into the quirky Dreamcatcher B&B, then headed just outside town to the bridge. It felt bold, beautiful, and also slightly vertigo-inducing with those jaw-dropping canyon views! I strolled the pedestrian walkway, peered down into the gorge, watched the light shift across the cliffs, and browsed local crafts at the rest area.
Location: Near Taos, Northern New Mexico | Size: 650-ft-deep gorge | Vibe: dramatic, vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring
My highlights…
- Researching before my trip and finding out that it featured in several famous films including my favorites Natural Born Killers and The Long Kiss Goodnight!
6. Bandelier National Monument
I thought this protected archaeological site was an absolute gem — set in a dramatic canyon framed by volcanic cliffs, with ancient cave dwellings carved into soft tuff rock, the stone ruins of Tyuonyi Pueblo, and forested trails weaving through a landscape rich in history and beauty. It had a peaceful, almost mystical vibe that felt steeped in ancient culture.
After a 1.5-hour drive northwest from Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks through the scenic Jemez Mountains, stopping to admire pine-filled valleys and red rock formations, I checked into the quirky, cozy Pueblo Canyon Inn. I spent the day hiking the Main Loop Trail, climbing into the cliff dwellings of Frijoles Canyon, tracing petroglyphs near Tyuonyi Pueblo, and exploring the exhibits at the visitor center.
Location: Near Los Alamos, Northern New Mexico| Size: 33,677 acres | Vibe: ancient, canyon-carved and unique
My favorite highlights…
- Climbing the wooden ladders into the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings carved into the canyon wall – I loved seeing the soot-stained ceilings, stone rooms, and hand-carved alcoves that were an intriguing insight into daily life centuries ago!
7. Blue Hole of Santa Rosa
I completely fell for this natural artesian spring — the Blue Hole was a perfectly round pool of crystal-clear turquoise water set in the desert, its vivid color creating a striking, almost otherworldly contrast with the arid surroundings. It had a fun, refreshing vibe — like stumbling across a hidden desert oasis.
After a scenic three-hour drive southeast from Wheeler Peak Wilderness across wide-open plains and mesas, I reached Santa Rosa’s Blue Hole, spent a peaceful afternoon there, and stayed nearby at the funky Hotel Blue 66, just five minutes away. I swam in the cool, clear water, watched scuba divers drop into the deep blue shaft, and visited the nearby center to learn about the area’s unique geology!
Location: Eastern New Mexico | Size: 80 ft deep | Vibe: unexpected and refreshing
My personal highlights…
- Picnicking under the cottonwood trees at one of the sturdy sandstone tables and watching a few brave swimmers leap from the rocks (in the permitted areas) into the blue spring — definitely not for the faint of heart!
8. Shiprock
I thought this towering volcanic rock was truly special — formed around 30 million years ago, its jagged spire rose dramatically from the flat desert, glowing with shifting colors. It felt powerful and sacred, radiating a raw, remote beauty and deep spiritual energy.
After an hour’s drive west from the Bisti Badlands through remote Navajo Nation lands and striking desert scenery, I spent an inspiring morning here. I hiked a nearby trail for incredible views, joined a Navajo-guided tour to learn about the site’s cultural and spiritual significance, and browsed roadside stalls for locally made rugs, jewelry, and crafts.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: rises ~1,583 ft above the desert | Vibe: sacred, monumental and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
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Going on a Navajo Tours USA guided tour – our friendly guide pointed out hidden petroglyphs and ceremonial sites, and even native plants such as fragrant juniper, sagebrush, and sculptural yucca!
9. Wheeler Peak Wilderness
While exploring the Taos Mountain Trail, I stayed two nights at the trendy 4-star Blake at Taos Ski Valley, so I could hit the Wheeler Peak trails right from my doorstep — no extra driving needed! I spent a full day on the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail, picnicking by Williams Lake, spotting elk and bighorn sheep in the blooming meadows, and pausing often to soak up the incredible summit views.
Location: Northern New Mexico | Size: 19,661 acres | Vibe: alpine, untamed and quietly majestic
My favorite highlights…
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The challenging 5-hour Wheeler Peak Summit Hike — I passed wind-twisted bristlecone pines, blue columbines and Indian paintbrushes, and the incredible summit views from Wheeler Peak — the highest point in the state — made it all worth it!
10. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
I thought Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument Website was am extraordinary geological wonder — cone-shaped formations carved by ancient volcanic eruptions, framed by high desert mesas and winding slot canyons. It felt both otherworldly and full of adventure!
I drove 25 minutes southwest from Santa Fe to my base at the unique Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, then took a 50-minute day trip to the park. I spent the day hiking the narrow Slot Canyon Trail, climbing to see incredible views on the scenic Summit Trail, and learning about the area’s volcanic history at the interesting visitor center.
Location: Central New Mexico | Size: 4,106 acres | Vibe: surreal, sculpted and otherworldly
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the steep 3-mile Summit Trail took me two hours, but the incredible ridge-top views over the monument made it worth it, I spotted a scurrying desert spiny lizard and a cute canyon wren calling from the cliffs along the way!
11. A Road Trip Along the Rio Grande River
Following the Rio Grande through New Mexico turned out to be one of my most photogenic adventures — every turn revealed red-rock canyons, peaceful valleys, desert plains, and mountain peaks dotted with charming riverside towns, steamy hot springs, and breathtaking overlooks.
After my Magdalena drive (my photo is above!), I continued north from Carlsbad, passing Truth or Consequences and other quiet river towns. The whole route had that laid-back, cinematic vibe — empty roads, endless skies, and golden desert light that felt straight out of Breaking Bad! Over the next few days, I crossed the soaring Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, soaked in the Truth or Consequences’ hot springs, tackled the ancient trails of Frijoles Canyon, and admired the fiery red cliffs glowing at Ghost Ranch.
Location: Along the Rio Grande | Size: stretches ~1,900 miles | Vibe: scenic, slow-paced and soul-stirring
My personal highlights…
- Staying overnight at the peaceful mountain hideaway The Inn at Ten Thousand Waves – I loved soaking in the open-air Japanese onsen beneath the stars and then relaxing by my room’s cozy kiva fireplace after a blissful hinoki oil massage!
12. Acoma Pueblo Village
Perched on a high desert mesa, Sky City felt like stepping back in time — its weathered adobe homes, ancient footpaths, and sweeping mesa-top views gave it a powerful, peaceful presence that felt both sacred and still.
After a 2.5-hour drive southwest from Bandelier through glowing sandstone cliffs and endless desert roads, I based myself at the budget-friendly SureStay By Best Western Grants. From there it was just a 30-minute drive to Sky City. I spent an afternoon exploring with a local guide, touring the adobe homes, visiting the Haak’u Museum, stepping inside the 17th-century San Esteban del Rey Mission Church, and soaking up the panoramic desert views from atop the mesa.
Location: Western New Mexico | Size: population ~4,800 | Vibe: ancient, sacred and deeply atmospheric
My highlights…
- Seeing inside a village home – it had thick adobe walls for insulation, tiny windows, exposed wooden vigas, and shelves filled with handmade pottery, woven baskets, and strings of dried red chilies.
13. The Taos Mountain Trail
This high-altitude trail to New Mexico’s highest peak blew me away — cutting through wildflower-filled meadows, pine and aspen forests, and opening onto constant, big-sky views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It felt raw, quiet, and properly remote. Even the 30-minute drive from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge to Taos Ski Valley set the tone, with alpine meadows and jagged peaks leading straight to the trailhead.
I based myself at the 4-star Blake at Taos Ski Valley, which made the hike effortless logistically. From Taos Ski Valley, I took the 7.5-mile route to Wheeler Peak’s summit, climbing through flower-strewn meadows, pine-lined switchbacks, and wide-open mountain panoramas, reaching the top in about four hours — while others I met were tackling the full 15-mile, 6–8-hour round trip!
Location: Near Taos, Northern New Mexico | Size: ~7 miles round trip (11.3 km) | Vibe: challenging, alpine and deeply rewarding
My highlights…
- Finally reaching the summit – I was blown away by the 360-degree views of the striking Sangre de Cristo ridgelines, alpine lakes, the distant Rio Grande Gorge, and the golden meadows which stretched out like an Insta-worthy patchwork quilt!
14. Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
I was in awe of this historic steam train — the ride felt like stepping back in time, with vintage cars winding through mountain landscapes, ancient forests, green meadows, dramatic canyons, and high-altitude passes that seriously looked straight out of a postcard! After a 3-hour drive east from Shiprock, I based myself for two nights at the charming Sterling & Sage Guest House in Chama.
I spent a full day on the Cumbres–Toltec Scenic Railway, riding six scenic hours in the open gondola car — stopping for lunch at Osier Station, crossing the towering Cascade Trestle, and watching the steam engine carve its way through Toltec Gorge. It was the perfect slow-travel experience, and the sweeping Rocky Mountain views seemed to delight everyone — from excited kids to couples on romantic date adventures.
Location: Northern New Mexico & Southern Colorado| Size: 64 miles (103 km) | Vibe: nostalgic, slow-travel and wildly scenic
My highlights…
- Dining in the buffet cart when we stopped at Osier Station – I especially loved the hearty Green Chile Enchiladas, the perfectly seasoned Pinto Beans, and the sweet potato salad which had a hint of cinnamon and crunchy pecans!
15. El Malpais National Monument
I thought this vast protected area was stunning — a rugged landscape of ancient lava flows, towering sandstone cliffs, hidden ice caves, and dramatic volcanic craters, all shaped by fire and time. It felt remote, raw, and humbling.
After a 40-minute drive west from Acoma, I checked into the South West Motel in Grants, just 25 minutes from the monument, passing ancient lava fields along the way. I spent the whole day exploring — hiking the Lava Falls Trail, stepping into the chilly Bandera Ice Cave, marveling at the soaring La Ventana Natural Arch, and finding ancient petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls of Cebolla.
Location: Western New Mexico | Size: 114,277 acres | Vibe: volcanic, otherworldly and quietly dramatic
My favorite highlights…
- Going inside the Bandera Ice Cave lava tube was freezing, but seeing the thick green-tinged ice, misty air, and giant icicles hanging from the jagged walls made it feel otherworldly (and worth a visit for sure)!
16. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
I thought this family-friendly wonder was extraordinary — a vast underground world with towering chambers, glittering stalactites and stalagmites, and a thrilling descent through its Natural Entrance. The whole place felt mysterious, awe-inspiring, and otherworldly.
After a three-hour drive from White Sands National Park through the vast Chihuahuan Desert — all sun-scorched hills, jagged outcrops, and flashes of desert blooms — I based myself at the comfy Hyatt House Carlsbad. Just 30 minutes away, I explored the cathedral-like limestone formations of the Big Room, tackled the steep Natural Entrance Trail, and finished with a peaceful walk along the palm-lined Rattlesnake Springs Trail!
Location: Southeastern New Mexico | Size: 46,766 acres (189.3 km²) | Vibe: subterranean, cathedral-like and awe-inducing
My highlights…
- Seeing thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the cave at dusk – it was both a seriously surreal and slightly scary moment!
17. Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Dating from 900–1150 AD and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I thought this place was surreally beautiful — a vast desert basin filled with ancient sandstone ruins, intricate kivas, and grand ceremonial structures framed by rugged mesas. It felt sacred, remote, and deeply contemplative.
After a 3.5-hour drive north from El Malpais National Monument along quiet paved and gravel roads, I spent the day deep inside Chaco culture — wandering the vast 600-room ruins of Pueblo Bonito, hiking the Pueblo Alto Trail and gazing at far-reaching canyon views, standing inside the immense Casa Rinconada, and admiring the iconic spiral petroglyphs at Fajada Butte. I then drove 1 hour 45 minutes to my overnight stay at Best Western Territorial Inn & Suites.
Location: Northwestern New Mexico | Size: 33,960 acres | Vibe: ancient, mysterious and profoundly powerful
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the 5.4-mile Pueblo Alto Trail took me three hours, but I personally thought the rocky climb was worth it for the awesome views of ancient ruins, scattered pottery shards, and detailed Chacoan petroglyphs along the way!
