60 Fun & Best Things to Do in New Mexico (Places to Visit)

New Mexico is located in the southwest United States.

Called the “Land of Enchantment,” New Mexico is an icon of the southwest.

• Read our article about best New Mexico Ski Resorts, always up to date.

During your visit to the state, you will have the opportunity to visit numerous historical sites that include archeological digs and exhibits.

To help you plan your itinerary, you will find a list below of the best things to do in New Mexico.

Are you wondering what New Mexico is known for?

The state has a classic southwest feel and an Old West atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over, as well as amazing food and superb shopping and art.

Things to do in New Mexico

1. New Mexico History Museum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $12.00

Address: 113 Lincoln Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Open Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

The New Mexico History Museum offers a detailed and fascinating look into the state’s past.

During your time there, you will be able to peruse numerous exhibits and take part in interactive programs.

At the Native American Artisans Program, you can not only find breathtaking jewelry and clothing but speak with the artists who created them.

Afterward, visit the Palace of the Governors.

While there, tour the structure that was built in 1610 by the Spanish Crown and learn about its rich history.

Peruse photographs and negatives, as well as postcards, lantern slides, and stereographs.

Visit the Palace Press and learn about New Mexico’s literary traditions and printing history.

Observe the printing presses in action and even print a keepsake during the holidays.

2. Santa Fe Plaza

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 63 Lincoln Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Dates back to the 17th century
• Traditional adobe structures

Surrounding the Palace of the Governors is Santa Fe Plaza, one of the top things to do in New Mexico.

While at the plaza, you will be able to stroll through charming streets in the same style as a Spanish Colonial town.

Feel as though you have stepped into the Old West and peruse the handmade creations of artisans.

Moreover, you will find local boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, and restaurants.

Also on hand throughout the year are cultural events, such as Fiestas de Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Indian Market, and the Spanish Market.

When you are ready for a break, enjoy a cup of hot coffee and sit beneath shady trees as you listen to live music performed on the plaza’s bandstand.

Afterward, visit the central monument and the site of a buried time capsule.

3. New Mexico Museum of Art

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: $12.00, Ages 16 and Under: Free

Address: 107 W Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Open Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 -2 hours
• Walking tours at 2:00 pm, Wednesday through Sunday

Over a century old, the New Mexico Museum of Art was built in 1917 and boasts architecture that is a blend of Spanish Colonial and Native American styles.

Presently, the museum offers contemporary art that spans numerous cultures, with a particular focus on the local region.

Tour mixed-media photography exhibits, see contemporary paintings that showcase the western United States, and view a wide range of portrait styles, as well as glasswork and sculptures.

Additionally, on offer by the museum are art walking tours that cost $20.00 for anyone over the age of 16.

During the walking tour, your guide will lead you to some of the spectacular architecture and art of Santa Fe.

4. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 131 Cathedral Place, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Open Sunday through Tuesday
• Gift shop

Take a tour of The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis Assisi, and you won’t be disappointed.

The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and has a distinct and beautiful Romanesque Revival style.

Visit the statue of St. Francis outside the building, as well as additional figures of the Saint at the entrance.

While inside the cathedral, peruse art and artifacts in addition to the main nave.

The baptismal font was created out of beautiful Brazilian granite and is a breathtaking centerpiece.

At the main altar, you will find a replica of the San Damiano Crucifix, an artifact that was discovered in Assisi.

Before leaving the cathedral, be sure to get a look at the stained-glass features, carvings, and architectural details.

5. Loretto Chapel

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $5.00, Seniors: $4.00, Children: $3.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Open daily
• Audio tour

Among the interesting attractions & places to visit in New Mexico, Loretto Chapel is perhaps the most fascinating.

Visitors from around the world come to the chapel to see the “miraculous staircase.” 

Learn about how the construction came about after the Sisters of Loretto prayed to St. Joseph.

Legend has it that a carpenter appeared to build the staircase with only wooden pegs, a hammer, and a carpenter’s square.

While viewing the staircase, you will also be able to see the beautiful, rare wood that is not native to the southwestern United States.

In particular, you will be perplexed as the entire spiral staircase’s heavy weight rests upon only the bottom staircase and nothing else.

6. Take a Ride with Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co.

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $199.00, Children: $99.00

Address: 5601 Eagle Rock Avenue NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

• No one pregnant or under the age of 5
• Allow 3 hours

Are you wondering what to mark off your bucket list in New Mexico?

Soar across the skies with Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co., and you will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

Launch at sunrise with the knowledgeable team and get a bird’s eye view of New Mexico.

In particular, you will see the Rio Grande and southwestern landscapes bathed in morning light.

We prepared a comprehensive article about attractions, places and fun things to do in Albuquerque with family and friends.

Afterward, you and the team with have a traditional toast, and you will receive a commemorative flight certificate.

7. Pecos National Historical Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Pecos, NM

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Bring sunscreen and water
• Pet-friendly on designated trails

Pecos National Historical Park has a rich history that covers thousands of years.

While at the park, you will be able to see a 19th-century homestead, prehistoric sites, and even a Civil War battlefield.

At the visitor center, watch an introductory film before touring the museum.

During your tour, you can see exhibits that showcase the archaeology and history of the region.

Hike along the trails and be immersed in the history of the southwest, stopping at the sites of historical ranches and learning about Route 66, as well as visiting a stage stop on the Santa Fe Trail.

Moreover, you’ll want to visit Pecos Pueblo, a former Native American community.

In particular, you will be able to view the Pecos Pueblo Mission Church and what remains of a ceremonial kiva.

Walk along the Glorieta Pass Battlefield, and you will see the western-most Civil War battlefield.

8. ABQ BioPark Zoo

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $14.50, Seniors: $7.50, Children: $6.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 899 12th Street SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Allow 2 hours

At the ABQ BioPark Zoo, you and your family will be able to see a plethora of animal species.

Visit bird habitats and get a close-up look at vibrant flamingoes, birds of prey, penguins, macaws, and peacocks, as well as storks and doves.

Take a look at the big cats and enjoy an abundance of beautiful creatures.

See ocelots, mountain lions, and a snow leopard before viewing a massive Malayan tiger.

Additionally, the zoo has primates, such as chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas.

Before leaving, be sure to also tour habitats that are home to elephants, zebras, hippos, marine life, and much more.

Moreover, the museum offers daily activities and feeding times for the public to watch.

For a break, stop and get a sweet treat or lunch at one of the eateries or browse the 2 gift shops.

9. Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $8.95, Seniors, Military, Teachers, and Students: $7.95, Children: $6.95, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 202 San Felipe Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

• Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 am – 5:30 pm
• Animal conservation organization

Would you like to see some rattlesnakes in New Mexico?

The most interesting and safest place to see these reptiles that are native to the American southwest is at the Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop.

During your time at the museum, you will be able to see a large collection of live rattlesnakes.

In particular, there are 34 species of rattlesnakes that call the museum home.

Tour the recreated habitats of the snakes and see a live Gila Monster and turtles, as well as other venomous reptiles.

10. Coronado Historic Site

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $7.00, Ages 16 and Under: Free

Address: 485 Kuaua Road, Bernalillo, NM 87004

• Open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

Located just outside of Albuquerque, the Coronado Historic Site is a fascinating look into the history of the area.

The site was formerly the Kuaua Pueblo and was discovered by Coronado while he was on his legendary hunt for the Seven Cities of Gold.

In 1540 Coronado met the villagers who were prosperous farmers and spoke Tiwa.

Subsequently, Coronado named them “Los Indios de los Pueblos,” or Pueblo Indians.

Presently, you can visit the ceremonial kiva uncovered by archeologists, mural paintings, and artifacts.

11. Carlsbad Caverns

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Ages 115 and Under: Free

Address: Carlsbad, NM 88220

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 2:15 pm
• Bring water and a jacket

If you’re searching for the best things to do in New Mexico, be sure to visit Carlsbad Caverns.

During your time at Carlsbad Caverns, you will be able to tour some of the more than 100 caves housed inside the natural wonder.

Visit the Big Room and be awed by the giant stalactites reaching down before seeing the Balloon Ballroom.

Also available to see are the Bat Cave, where a large population of bats lives, the Bell Cord Room, and the Bifrost Room.

The Bifrost Room is named for the oxide-stained formations that are vibrant and colorful, reminiscent of the Norse myth about the world of the same name.

See a massive white stalagmite in the Hall of the White Giant, as well as the emerald-colored pool in the Green Lake Room.

What’s more, you can see castle-like formations at the King’s Palace, and the Mystery Room that is home to a strange noise heard frequently.

Additionally, Carlsbad Caverns hosts events, such as bat viewings and stargazing parties.

12. No Scum Allowed Saloon

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 933 White Oaks Road, White Oaks, NM 88301

• Open Friday through Sunday, starting at noon.
• Ranked by “American Cowboy” as one of the top 10 western bars

Curious about where the best bar is in New Mexico?

Head to the No Scum Allowed Saloon, and you will not only be able to wet your whistle with a great drink but take a step into the Old West.

Located in an 1884 building, the saloon got its name from a Young Guns movie.

Sit back in the western saloon and enjoy a cocktail, beer, or wine.

Additionally, you can dance the night away to live music or happen upon an Old West event.

See a horse race or a shootout, or cozy up by the outdoor fire while listening to the band play.

And don’t forget to pet the horse.

13. Bandelier National Monument

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 3 hours

Bandelier National Monument is located on 33,000 acres of New Mexico land that is home to not only beautiful landscapes but historical sites.

Begin your day at the visitor center, where you can browse exhibits that showcase the life of the ancient inhabitants.

Get an up-close look at daily life for the Pueblo Indians with displays of pottery, tools, and artifacts.

Dating back to 1600 AD, you will find the remains of Pueblo structures.

View a reconstructed ceremonial kiva, petroglyphs, rock paintings, and structural ruins.

Additionally, cliff dwellings dot the area and building sites, such as the Long House.

Make your way along the hiking trails and discover other small archeological sites, as well as natural beauty.

What’s more, you will most likely catch sight of native wildlife, which includes squirrels, deer, and black bears.

14. See the Art of Canyon Road

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Approximately ½-mile
• Located between Garcia Street and E Palace Avenue

Are you wondering where to find fantastic art in New Mexico?

Canyon Road is a street in Santa Fe dedicated to local artists and hosts over 100 shops and galleries to peruse.

While you make your way down the street, you will see outdoor sculptures and beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Stop by Canyon Road Contemporary Art and enjoy the outdoor metalwork, as well as the fine art located inside.

At Sage Creek Gallery, you can see works that range from whimsical to emotional.

Discover pottery, photographs, and paintings that capture the spirit and heritage of New Mexico.

What’s more, you’re sure to find a gift at one of the unique boutiques along the street.

Additionally, you’ll be able to find studio tours, small museums, and an atmosphere of southwest artistry.

Once you’re ready for a break, you will have numerous restaurants to choose from, or you can grab a cup of coffee and relax outside as you people-watch.

15. Santa Fe Opera

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on show or event

Address: 301 Opera Drive, Santa Fe, NM 87506

• Book in advance
• Opened in 1956

Are you looking for things to do in New Mexico at night?

At Santa Fe Opera, you will be able to enjoy a night of entertainment and great food, as well as an outdoor experience.

The open-air opera house is host to amazing operatic performances.

See brand-new operas being introduced on stage, in addition to classic and world-renowned pieces.

Additionally, you can enjoy a preview dinner that includes an opera-themed buffet and a cantina.

16. Visit Roswell

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Roswell, NM 88201

• Lodging and restaurants
• Population of 48,000

For a unique, out-of-this-world experience, visit the town of Roswell, New Mexico.

Known as the rumored site of a UFO crash in 1947, the town attracts visitors from all around with strange and whimsical things to do and see.

Take your kids to the Roswell UFO Spacewalk and enjoy time at the indoor amusement complex before getting your photo taken with an extraterrestrial at Alien Zone Area 51.

Afterward, stop by the visitor center and learn about the town’s history with UFOs.

What’s more, you’ll also want to see the most unusual McDonald’s around while in Roswell, with the fast food restaurant being lit up like a UFO once the sun goes down.

In addition to UFO attractions, you’ll find the Spring River Zoo, an aviation museum, and a wildlife refuge.

Take a walk through the historic downtown district before heading to the Historical Society’s Museum.

17. International UFO Museum and Research Center

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $7.00, Seniors, Military, and First Responder: $5.00, Children: $4.00, Ages 4 and Under: Free

Address: 114 N Main Street, Roswell, NM 88203

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• “Alien autopsy video” available to see

While in Roswell, a must-see is the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

The museum is located in a charming 1930s movie theater and provides staff that will help you with any questions.

Focused on the “Roswell Incident” of 1947, the museum has numerous exhibits that offer insight into the history of UFO encounters.

Learn about crop circles, UFO sightings, and alien abductions, as well as Area 51 and the Roswell incident.

Moreover, you will be able to see a large collection of UFO material from the museum’s library.

18. Grindstone Lake

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: $10.00 per vehicle

Address: 501 Resort Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345

• Additional boating fee
• Open year-round
• Pet-friendly

Grindstone Lake is a great place in New Mexico to get outside and enjoy what the state has to offer.

During your time at the lake, you can explore the 5 hiking trails on foot, bicycle, or horseback.

Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the outdoor tables before cooling off with a swim.

Additionally, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake or play a game of disc golf.

Do you want to do some fishing in New Mexico?

Grindstone Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, as well as catfish and smallmouth bass.

Fish from the shoreline or take a non-motorized boat out onto the water and catch your dinner.

While at the lake, you will also see some native wildlife, such as deer, elk, and blue herons.

For some fun with the kids, head to the Wibit Water Park and enjoy the inflatable platform, slides, trampolines, and other features.

19. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $8.00, Seniors and Children: $7.00, Ages 3 – 12: $5.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 1801 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

• Open Wednesday through Monday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Guided tours available

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is something both you and your kids will love.

The museum offers numerous exhibits that will pique your curiosity, as well as educate you about our world.

Tour Time Tracks: A Walk Through Time, and you can peruse displays that take you from the origins of the Universe to the Ice Age of New Mexico.

See the dawn of dinosaurs, the one-time seacoast of New Mexico, and the age of volcanoes before having a caveman experience.

Additionally, the museum has a planetarium that has daily programs.

After visiting the planetarium, head to the galleries that showcase space exploration in addition to astronomy.

20. Take a River Trip with Far Flung Adventures

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $125.00

Address: 15 NM-522, El Prado, NM 87529

• Available between March and October
• Book in advance
• Ages 6 and older

If you are looking for adventure while in New Mexico, take a trip down Rio Chama with Far Flung Adventures.

You can choose to explore the river in a number of ways.

Use a paddle boat, inflatable kayak, or paddleboard, as well as an oar boat, during your adventure.

Additionally, you can choose a 1, 2, or 3-day trip and go camping in some of New Mexico’s most beautiful areas.

Moreover, the river has some rapids to keep you entertained, and a riverside lunch is included.

If you decide to have a 2 or 3-day trip, you will be camping in tranquil wooded areas, in addition to being able to add special extras, such as live music, yoga instruction, and gourmet food.

21. The Blue Hole of Santa Rosa

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Santa Rosa, NM

• Pet-friendly
• 81-feet deep

Would you like to go scuba diving in New Mexico?

While you may not think of diving as a New Mexico activity, The Blue Hole of Santa Rosa offers fantastic diving conditions, as well as swimming and snorkeling.

Stop by the Blue Hole Center for a diving permit, then head to Blue Hole to dive or Perch Lake to do some training.

In addition to permits, you can also rent equipment at the Santa Rosa Dive Center.

During your dive, explore the collapsed sinkhole in crystal clear waters.

In particular, you will be able to see aquatic life that calls the Blue Hole home.

Get a close-up view of crawdads, koi fish, carp, and goldfish.

If you would prefer to just swim or snorkel, the sinkhole stays at a constant 61 degrees year-round. 

22. Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Children, Seniors, and Military Veterans: $10.00

Address: 378 Candy Kitchen Road, Ramah, NM 87321

• Open Friday through Sunday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 1 hour for guided tour

Visit the home of rescued wolves and create the memory of a lifetime.

During your time at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, you will be able to view numerous species, such as wolves, foxes, Australian dingoes, and domestic dogs, as well as New Guinea singing dogs.

If you’d prefer a guided tour, you will learn about the animals through the sanctuary’s caregivers.

Moreover, the sanctuary offers specialty tours that range in cost.

Choose the Feeding Tour and help prepare food for the animals, in addition to assisting in their feeding.

While on the VIP Tour, you can view the entire facility, get superb photos of the animals, and help out.

In particular, the tour allows you to participate in an in-depth discussion about the behaviors and lives of the animals.

Take the Enrichment Tour and enjoy your time as you distribute enrichment items to the animals.

Watch the animals as they interact with the items you bring them and learn why the enrichment materials are important.

Before leaving, stop by the gift shop and purchase a souvenir to help support the sanctuary’s residents.

23. White Sands National Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $25.00 per vehicle

Address: New Mexico

• Open daily, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Pet-friendly
• Obtain camping permit at entrance booth

White Sands National Park is one of the most popular spots to enjoy in New Mexico.

With an other-worldly atmosphere, wide-open spaces that seem to be endless, and sparkling white sand, the park attracts visitors from around the globe to see one of the world’s natural wonders.

Located near Las Cruces, the dunes of the park are created by gypsum crystals that began to develop approximately 12,000 years ago.

What’s more, the park offers numerous activities.

Go for a bike ride and enjoy the fantastic views from the easy to maneuver road.

Additionally, you can go on a Dunes Drive, an 8-mile tour that will take you over the hard-packed gypsum road.

Go for a hike and immerse yourself in the environment or along the 5 trails.

Would you like to go camping in New Mexico?

White Sands National Park offers a unique backcountry camping opportunity with 10 campsites available.

Other activities at the park include sledding down the dunes and ranger programs.

You will also want to stop by the visitor center, where you can shop, walk through native gardens, and tour the museum, as well as see an informative film.

24. Oldest House Museum

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 215 E De Vargas Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Historical furniture and artifacts

The Oldest House Museum is a historic building in Santa Fe that is rumored to be one of the oldest structures in the country.

While the exact date of the building’s construction is unknown, it is estimated to have been built in the early 17th century.

During your tour of the museum, you will see Pueblo architecture that predates Spanish Colonial.

Moreover, you can walk through two stories that contain 19th-century paintings and photographs.

Walk through low-ceilinged rooms that showcase the thick adobe walls and crude floors.

Before leaving, stop by the adjacent Oldest House Indian Shop, where you will find a trove of treasures.

Peruse pottery, handmade flutes, and jewelry.

25. Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free, permit required for some activities

Address, San Juan County, NM

• No motorized vehicles or bicycles allowed
• Pet-friendly
• Bring water and sunscreen

Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness will transport you to another world as you enjoy the outdoors of New Mexico.

The multicolored badlands area attracts visitors because of its breathtaking beauty and unusual sandstone formations.

During your time in the wilderness area, you will see towering sandstone cap rocks, native plants, and surrounding soft colors.

Explore the area with a hike and discover fossils and petrified wood, as well as catch sight of native wildlife.

In particular, you won’t want to forget your camera, as the landscapes offered are unique and exceptional. 

26. Four Corners Monument

Rating: 4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 6:45 pm
• Located near Farmington, NM

Although Four Corners Monument has its address in Arizona, it is also located in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah.

The only spot where 4 states meet, the monument is a popular tourist attraction for photo opportunities.

Get your picture taken as you stand in 2 or more states at one time.

Additionally, you will see the marker that displays the state seals and tribal nations of each boundary.

After getting your picture taken, visit the Native American artisans and peruse beautiful handmade jewelry and crafts.

27. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: $20.00

Address: 217 Johnson Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Additional locations in Albuquerque and outside of Santa Fe
• Open Friday through Monday

Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and you will get a look at the work of one of New Mexico’s most famous residents.

During your time at the exhibit, you will learn about O’Keeffe’s work, life, and philosophies through an optional audio tour.

Tour the photography exhibit and see pictures of Georgia O’Keeffe in her later years.

In addition to photographs, get an up-close look at the artist’s works.

Showcased beautifully throughout the museum, the pieces are rotated throughout the year, allowing the public to see a variety of her paintings.

28. Martinez Hacienda

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors: $8.00, Children: $5.00

Address: 708 Hacienda Road, Taos, NM 87571

• Open daily
• Allow 1 hour

Martinez Hacienda is an impressive and large example of one of the original “Great Houses” built in Spanish Colonial times.

Built in 1804, the house became an important trade center, as well as the terminus between New Mexico and Mexico City.

During your tour of the home, you will be able to view the fortress-like walls, learn about the farming operation it once boasted, and understand the lives of the Martinez family.

Walk through 21 rooms and 2 courtyards that are much like they were when the hacienda was a thriving location.

What’s more, there are scheduled demonstrations that will let you take a look at the everyday traditions of New Mexico.

29. Visit Acoma Pueblo

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Acoma Pueblo, NM 87034

• Sky City tour is $25.00
• Tour packages available

Acoma Pueblo is a community established in approximately the 12th century or earlier.

Presently, the town is home to fewer than 50 tribal members, making it the country’s longest-continuously inhabited community.

During your time in Acoma Pueblo, you can take a tour of the Sky City Cultural Center and Haak’u Museum.

While there, view pueblo pottery and art created by Native American artists.

Additionally, you will peruse artifacts and have the opportunity to watch informative films at the Ts’ikinum’a Theater.

Take a guided tour of Sky City, and you will ride to the top of a sandstone mesa to visit the historic village.

30. Tinkertown Museum

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $6.00

Address: 121 Sandia Crest Road, Sandia Park, NM 87047

• Closed in the winter
• Open daily April 1st – November 1st

Tinkertown Museum is a great option if you are looking for fun things to do in New Mexico with kids.

A passion project for 40 years, the museum is the work of Ross Ward.

Once you enter the museum, you will be surrounded by a whimsical and magical world of miniature wood-carved figures.

View animated characters interact in a western town, carnival, and circus, as well as villages and farms, plus much more.

As you wander through the 22 rooms, you can see the fascinating figures in addition to memorabilia and other sculptures.

31. Lincoln Historic Site

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: 

Address: Highway 380 Mm 97, Lincoln, NM 88338

• Open Thursday through Monday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

Made famous by such Old West legends as Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett, the Lincoln Historic Site will immerse you in a time and place long gone.

Visit the buildings of the town that have been meticulously maintained.

See the courthouse, jail, and Tunstall Store.

In particular, the store still displays some of the original 19th-century merchandise.

Additionally, you can tour the museum and see exhibits, as well as a film about the Lincoln County War.

32. Historic Walks of Santa Fe

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $40.00

Address: 608 E Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Book in advance
• Allow 2 hours

Take a private tour with Historic Walks of Santa Fe and learn about the rich history of the town.

What’s more, you will have several types of tours to choose from.

Take the daily downtown tour and see the historic area, beginning at Santa Fe Plaza.

Get an up-close view of the architecture and landmarks in the downtown area as your knowledgeable guide answers any questions.

During the art gallery tour, you will have the opportunity to see some of the best art and shops in Santa Fe.

Additionally, you’ll learn about the town’s renowned art colony and talk to shop owners.

Take the Artist at Home tour, and you can have a behind-the-scenes look at an artist’s studio, followed by lunch.

The Ghostwalkers tour will regale you with folk tales of the city, from Puebloan stories to the Old West.

Are you looking for the best shopping in New Mexico?

With the Prestige Shopping tour provided by Historic Walks of Santa Fe, you will be able to visit some of the best shops around, ending with a lunch.

33. Wander New Mexico Food Tours

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $149.00

Address: 417 E Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Book in advance
• Allow 4 hours

Are you wondering where the best food in New Mexico can be found?

Take a tour with Wander New Mexico Food Tours, and you will discover mouthwatering food that has shaped the city of Santa Fe and the southwest region.

Additionally, your tour ofo either the downtown area or the railyard arts district will be informative.

Learn about the history of the town as you sample tacos, posole, and tamales, as well as margaritas and Italian drinks.

In the arts district, you’ll hear about the culture and development of the area.

Particularly, hear stories from chefs, distillers, and farmers while you sip a cactus mimosa or try craft ice cream.

34. Riverbend Hot Springs

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $25.00

Address: 100 Austin Street, Truth or Consequences, NM 87901

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Must be 12 or older
• Pet-friendly

If you are looking for relaxing things to do in New Mexico, make your way to Riverbend Hot Springs.

While at the hot springs, you can soak your muscles and unwind in healing waters.

In particular, the hot springs have been used for centuries and are considered sacred by native tribes of the area.

The mineral waters will leave you feeling rejuvenated and recharged as you gaze out at the scenic river.

Additionally, you can book a private soak for a completely tranquil and quiet experience.

35. Sandia Peak Tramway

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: For Round Trip: Adults: $29.00, Teens, Seniors, and Military: $24.00, Children: $19.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 30 Tramway Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

• Open Wednesday through Monday, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Ride each way is approximately 15 minutes

Escape the city with a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway and enjoy stunning views of the New Mexico landscape.

Ascend to the crest of the Sandia Mountains, which is over 10,000 feet high.

During the trip, you will view not only the mountains but the native plants and the city of Albuquerque.

Once you are at the top, enjoy lunch and views at the Ten 3 restaurant.

Afterward, visit the gift shop and pick up a souvenir before heading back down.

36. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 26 Jim Bradford Trail, Mimbres, NM 88049

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a great way to learn about some of New Mexico’s heritage and history.

While at the national monument, you will be able to tour ancient cliff dwellings that were created in the late 13th century.

Additionally, learn about the Mogollon nomads who built the shelters using caves.

Hike along Cliff Dweller Trail to view the dwellings and access the visitor center.

Also, be sure to bring your camera to capture the scenic views of the nearby canyons.

37. Silver City Museum

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 312 W Broadway Street, Silver City, NM 88061

• Open Tuesday through Sunday
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

During your time at Silver City Museum, you can peruse exhibits and collections that tell the story of the area’s history and heritage.

Learn about the lives of local residents through personal memorabilia, photographs, and documents.

Additionally, art and artifacts are on display, allowing you to view items that tell the stories of miners, ranchers, and other residents.

See everyday items that were used throughout the history of Silver City, such as clothing and furnishings, as well as equipment and tools.

38. Kit Carson Park

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 211 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571

• Open daily
• Pet-friendly

Kit Carson Park is a public park that offers numerous outdoor activities.

While at the park, you and your family can grill up lunch at the barbecue area and enjoy a picnic at one of the outdoor tables.

Afterward, go for a walk through the tranquil area, taking a break to let your kids enjoy the playground.

What’s more, the park offers sports like tennis and basketball.

A must-see while at the park is the Kit Carson Cemetery, where you can visit the final resting place of Kit Carson.

39. Kit Carson Home & Museum

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors: $8.00, Students and Military Veterans: $7.00, Active Military, First Responders, and Ages 12 and Under: Free

Address: 113 Kit Carson Road, Taos, NM 87571

• Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 1 hour

Tour what was once the home of New Mexico’s famed residents at the Kit Carson Home & Museum.

During your time at the museum, you will be able to learn about the life of Carson as you walk through the adobe structure.

Built in 1825, the home now houses displays of artifacts, photos, and personal memorabilia.

See Spanish Colonial furnishings and take a stroll through the courtyard.

40. Explora Science Center

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors and Students: $7.00, Children: $6.00

Address: 1701 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

• Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 – 3 hours

Among the fun things to do in New Mexico with family and places to visit, Explora Science Center is a fantastic choice.

While at the museum, you and your kids will both love the interactive exhibits and activities.

Learn about gravity with experiments that include balls and ramps before heading to the electricity exhibit.

At the electricity exhibit, you and your kids can find out how electricity is made and how it works.

Also on hand is a bubbles exhibit, experiments with air, and math projects that make learning fun.

Head to the Light and Shadow display before starting a building project at the Rotary Pavilion.

If you have teenagers, you will both love the X Studio, where your teen can experiment and explore, allowing them to envision a career in science.

41. Visit Taos Pueblo

Entry Ticket: Adults: $16.00, Seniors and Students: $14.00, Ages 10 and Under: Free

Address: 120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571

• Open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Pet-friendly

Taos Pueblo has a population of approximately 150 and is located just outside of Taos.

The ancestors of Taos Pueblo date back approximately 1000 years and it contains numerous fascinating landmarks.

During festivals, you can attend activities, such as foot races, the Koshare, and feasts.

Take a guided tour and learn about the culture and heritage of the pueblo.

Moreover, you’ll see San Geronimo Chapel, which was built in 1850.

Additionally, there is an annual Pow Wow that includes songs and dancing.

42. Take a Ride on Sky Railway

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on ride

Address: 410 S Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501

• Book in advance
• Runs between Santa Fe and Lamy

Enjoy a luxury adventure aboard the Sky Railway.

The train of Sky Railway offers numerous types of rides, allowing you to choose the one that is perfect for you.

Take a scenic ride through the landscapes of New Mexico, enjoy a holiday trip where you can travel to a magical village, or learn about the history of the area as you travel to the Galisteo Basin.

Also on offer is an exciting murder mystery train ride where you can solve the case.

Are you searching for a romantic date idea in New Mexico?

Surprise your significant other with a Sunset Serenade while aboard the Sky Railway as you sip cocktails and listen to jazz music, as well as receive first-class service.

Another great date can be had on the Stargazer train ride, where you can learn about constellations as you gaze out at the night sky.

43. Rail Yards Market

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 777 1st Street SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

• Open May through October part of December
• Open Sundays, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

The Rail Yards Market is one of the top free things to do in New Mexico.

During your visit to the market, you will be able to peruse vendors, sample delicious food, listen to live music, and peruse beautiful art.

Purchase fresh produce, flowers, and products from local farmers, like meat and eggs.

Additionally, you can enjoy a barbecue lunch, try freshly baked breads, grab a cup of coffee, and buy some homemade jerky.

Find a gift among vendors that sell clothes, jewelry, and artisan creations, or enjoy some live entertainment.

What’s more, the market has holiday events with vendors that showcase the season, along with festive music.

44. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1001 NM-1, San Antonio, NM 87832

• Open daily
• Pets must stay in vehicle

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is nestled between the San Pascual Mountains and Chupadera Mountains.

During your visit to the refuge, you will have the opportunity to see native birds that call the refuge home.

Hike or drive through the scenic landscape and catch sight of geese, cranes, and ducks, as well as other wildlife.

Would you like to see New Mexico wildlife?

Go wildlife viewing at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, and see deer, elk, raccoons, and muskrats, in addition to amphibians and reptiles.

Additionally, you can explore trails by foot or bicycle, go fishing or hunting, or enjoy a picnic.

Stop by the visitor center to browse exhibits, as well as visit the gift shop for a souvenir or book.

45. Meow Wolf Santa Fe

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $42.00, Seniors and Military: $32.00, Children: $27.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 1352 Rufina Circle, Santa Fe, NM 87507

• Open Friday through Wednesday 
• Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult

For a unique experience in New Mexico, visit Meow Wolf Santa Fe.

The interactive art inside Meow Wolf is a trip through a magical and colorful world.

Visit the House of Eternal Return and be thoroughly entertained as you make your way through a vibrant and creepy atmosphere of characters, lights, and intriguing rooms.

See glowing dinosaur bones protruding from rock walls, explore a pirate ship, and walk down a seemingly charming street.

Explore quaint houses, and you will discover another world inside a washing machine and a luminescent interior of a refrigerator.

Visit a treehouse like none you’ve ever seen inside an enchanted forest. 

46. Museum of International Folk Art

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Ages 16 and Under: Free

Address: 706 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505

• Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

The Museum of International Folk Art strives to connect communities through artwork created by diverse cultures.

Tour Dressing with Purpose and see traditional Scandinavian clothing, such as Swedish folkdrakt, Sami gakt, and Norwegian bunad.

Afterward, see face masks that were created in response to the pandemic.

While at the exhibit, you will see masks that represent everything from fashion and politics to self-expression and hope.

In addition to the pandemic masks, you can also view Japanese masks at the Yokai exhibit.

Particularly, the exhibit focuses on the ghosts and demons of Japan, with displays from anime, manga, art, and games.

Also on hand are a plethora of other exhibits that rotate throughout the year and focus on whimsical ideas, as well as commentaries on the human condition.

47. El Rancho de las Golondrinas

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $6.00, Seniors and Teens: $4.00, Ages 12 and Under: Free

Address: 334 Los Pinos Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507

• Open June through October
• Guided tours available

Take a step into history at El Rancho del las Golondrinas.

During your visit to the historic ranch, you can learn about the area’s past through the living history museum.

Watch as guides who are dressed in period pieces demonstrate southwest life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

While strolling through the ranch, you will see weaving, blacksmithing, tanning, and milling.

Moreover, the museum offers events throughout the year.

Attend festivals that include wine, herbs, fabric, and traditional dancing, in addition to holiday events.

48. Taos Ski Valley

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on date

Address: 116 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525

• Equipment rentals
• Lessons

Are you looking for fun spots for skiing in New Mexico during the winter?

Visit Taos Ski Valley and find not only great skiing but also pampering amenities.

Spend a day on the slopes before going to the spa for a massage or warming up with a drink at the bar.

Take your kids ice skating or enjoy a family meal at one of the numerous restaurants offered by the ski resort.

Escape to a winter paradise and discover more of the best ski resorts in the US.

49. KiMo Theatre

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on event

Address: 423 Central Avenue NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

• Book in advance
• Event calendar online

Are you looking for something to do in New Mexico at night?

Visit KiMo Theatre and enjoy diverse entertainment, such as ballets, concerts, and plays, as well as films.

See local bands perform in addition to holiday musicals, burlesque shows, and comedy acts.

Additionally, the iconic theatre offers free guided tours on select dates.

50. Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: $25.00 per vehicle

Address: New Mexico

• Open daily, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Pets allowed in designated areas

Located between Farmington and Albuquerque, Chaco Culture National Historical Park offers beautiful scenery and historical sites.

Visit ruins of New Mexico that date back to the pre-Columbian era.

See archeological sites, such as the Sun Dagger Petroglyph, that shows evidence of archeoastronomy.

Additionally, you can make your way through the central part of the canyon and see a large collection of Chacoan complexes.

Visit Pueblo Bonito and walk through the ruins of a great house that once contained 650 rooms.

Moreover, you will see ceremonial kivas at the historical park, as well as the ruins of other buildings.

51. Fort Union National Monument

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 3115 NM-161, Watrous, NM 87753

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Pet-friendly

While at Fort Union National Monument, you can tour what remains of the largest 19th-century military fort in the southwest.

Learn about the history of the fort, as well as the relations between the US Government and New Mexico.

Go on a self-guided tour or attend one of the interpretive programs led by rangers.

For kids, the fort is a great place to learn, with Junior Ranger programs that will allow your children to explore the ruins up close.

52. Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Military: $10.00, Seniors, Students, and Children: $8.00, Ages 4 and Under: Free

Address: 2401 12th Street SW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

• Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 1 hour

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center honors the legacy of the Puebloans through exhibits that showcase their stories.

Visit the exhibit We are of This Place: The Pueblo Story, and tour breathtaking works of pottery, as well as hear the stories of people throughout the history of New Mexico.

The museum also offers temporary exhibits that highlight regional artists through paintings, pottery, and murals.

53. National Museum of Nuclear Science

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Seniors: $13.00, Children: $11.00, Military Veterans: $8.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 601 Eubank Boulevard, Albuquerque, NM 87123

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

Do you want to find educational activities in New Mexico?

At the National Museum of Nuclear Science, you and your kids can learn about the atomic age through historical exhibits.

View architectural spaces that showcase the realities of nuclear history, as well as the psychology of Americans during the Cold War.

View mail-related artifacts and learn about Germany’s race to create the first atomic bomb.

Tour recreated spaces that teach about the Manhattan Project, in addition to learning about the pioneers of the nuclear world.

54. Petroglyph National Monument

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Parking fee: $2.00 on weekends, $1.00 on weekdays

Address: Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

• Open daily, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
• Pet-friendly

At Petroglyph National Monument, you will be able to view one of the largest North American petroglyph sites.

Get an up-close look at symbols and designs created up to 700 years ago by Spanish Settlers, as well as Native Americans.

Visit Boca Negra Canyon, Piedras Marcadas Canyon, and many others, where you will hike past hundreds of petroglyphs.

55. Trinity Site

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: $25.00 per vehicle

Address: New Mexico

• Open daily
• Bring camera

Located at White Sands Missile Range, Trinity Site is the spot where the first atomic bomb was detonated.

Conducted as a part of the Manhattan Project, the weapon was detonated on July 16, 1945.

Presently, you can visit the site, which includes an obelisk with a commemorative plaque.

A National Historic Landmark, the site is both otherworldly and contemplative.

56. Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 105 South Ripley Avenue, Mountainair, NM 87036

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Pets allowed in designated areas

The Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is where the Pueblo people first encountered the Spanish Colonials.

Begin your tour at the visitor center and learn about the effect the Spanish had on the Puebloans.

Additionally, you can learn about the ruins you can see today at Gran Quivira.

Hike through the open desert area and explore the fully excavated Pueblo site that includes the remains of missions, chapels, and homes.

57. The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Theatre

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $62.95

Address: 2101 Louisiana Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110

• Book in advance
• Located at the Marriott Albuquerque

For fun things to do in New Mexico, The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Theatre is a great choice.

Enjoy laughs, as well as a perplexing mystery, while you enjoy a mouthwatering dinner.

While you dine on delicious appetizers, grilled salmon, chicken Cardinale, and chocolate cake, you will be tasked with finding the culprit who is in plain sight.

Be surprised, shocked, and have your funny bone tickled throughout the show.

58. Millicent Rogers Museum

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $12.00

Address: 1504 Millicent Rogers Road, El Prado, NM 87529

• Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Guided tours available
• Allow 2 hours

Immerse yourself in the culture of the southwest at the Millicent Rogers Museum.

During your visit, you will be able to see a vast collection that includes Native American and Hispanic arts.

View breathtaking handmade jewelry, religious relics, and historical clothing, as well as contemporary art and sculptures.

Learn about the history of pueblos, in addition to seeing metalwork and pottery.

59. Very Large Array

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $6.00, Seniors: $5.00, Ages 17 and Under: Free

Address: Socorro, NM

• Open Thursday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Book in advance
• Located 50 miles west of Socorro

On the desolate plains of San Agustin, you will discover one of New Mexico’s most recognizable sights.

Famous from movies like Contact, the Very Large Array is a massive astronomical radio observatory.

During your walk through the area, you will be able to see 27 massive radio antennas.

The sight is both thrilling and otherworldly, plus a great place to take photographs.

60. Prehistoric Trackways National Monument

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Las Cruces, NM 88007

• Open 24/7
• Located in northern Las Cruces

The Prehistoric Trackways National Monument derives its name from the large deposit of footprint megatrackways left during the Paleozoic era.

While there, you will find footprints of reptiles and amphibians, as well as petrified wood.

Additionally, the monument offers numerous activities.

Go horseback riding, hike, or drive an ATV in designated areas.