in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos, New Mexico, is a charming town known for its rich Native American heritage, thriving arts scene, and stunning desert landscapes. Whether you’re exploring ancient Pueblo ruins, skiing in the Rocky Mountains, or admiring world-class art galleries, Taos offers an authentic and unforgettable Southwest experience.
From the historic Taos Pueblo to the breathtaking Rio Grande Gorge, Taos is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, artists, and history enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions in Taos
1. Taos Pueblo – A UNESCO World Heritage Site 🏡🏜️
- One of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the U.S. (over 1,000 years old!).
- Multi-story adobe dwellings, ancient traditions, and guided tours provide a deep insight into Native American culture.
- Best time to visit: During traditional feast days and celebrations.
2. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge – One of the Highest Bridges in the U.S. 🌉🌊
- A spectacular steel bridge spanning 650 feet above the Rio Grande River.
- Walk along the bridge for breathtaking canyon views and watch for bighorn sheep.
- Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for stunning photography.
3. Taos Art Scene & Taos Art Museum 🎨🖼️
- Taos has long been an artists’ colony, attracting painters like Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams.
- Best art museums & galleries:
- Taos Art Museum at Fechin House – Features Taos Society of Artists’ works.
- Millicent Rogers Museum – Showcases Native American jewelry and Hispanic folk art.
- Harwood Museum of Art – Offers a mix of contemporary and Southwestern art.
4. San Francisco de Asís Mission Church – An Iconic Adobe Church ⛪📸
- A historic 18th-century adobe church in Rancho de Taos.
- One of the most photographed buildings in the Southwest, painted by Georgia O’Keeffe and photographed by Ansel Adams.
5. Taos Plaza – The Historic Heart of Town 🛍️🎶
- A quaint town square lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
- Live music, farmers’ markets, and cultural events happen year-round.
- Best for shopping: Handmade pottery, turquoise jewelry, and Navajo rugs.
6. The Earthship Community – Off-Grid Sustainable Homes 🌍🏡
- A fascinating collection of eco-friendly homes made from recycled materials.
- Take a guided tour of the Earthship Visitor Center to learn about sustainable living in the desert.
7. Kit Carson Home & Museum – A Peek into the Wild West 🏛️🤠
- The former home of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson, now a museum.
- Offers insight into 19th-century pioneer life and the history of the American Southwest.
Outdoor Adventures in Taos 🚴♂️🏔️
1. Taos Ski Valley – A World-Class Ski Destination 🎿❄️
- Located 30 minutes from Taos, this high-altitude ski resort offers:
- Challenging runs for expert skiers and snowboarders.
- Beginner-friendly slopes and ski lessons.
- Scenic hiking trails in summer.
2. Hiking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains 🥾🏞️
- Best hikes near Taos:
- Williams Lake Trail – A 4-mile roundtrip hike to a pristine alpine lake.
- Devisadero Peak Trail – Offers stunning panoramic views of Taos and the valley.
- Italianos Canyon Trail – A lush, forested trail with waterfalls and wildlife.
3. Whitewater Rafting on the Rio Grande 🚣♂️🌊
- Best river rafting tours:
- The Taos Box – A thrilling Class IV+ whitewater adventure.
- The Racecourse – A beginner-friendly rafting trip with scenic canyon views.
4. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs – A Relaxing Natural Spa ♨️💆
- One of the oldest natural hot springs in the U.S., featuring soaking pools, spa treatments, and yoga classes.
- Perfect for relaxing after a day of outdoor adventures.
Day Trips from Taos 🚗🏜️
1. Santa Fe (1.5-hour drive) 🌵🏛️
- New Mexico’s capital city, known for its Pueblo-style architecture, historic Plaza, and Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
- Visit the Santa Fe Railyard for local crafts, galleries, and live music.
2. Bandelier National Monument (2-hour drive) 🏞️🏺
- Explore ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs from the Ancestral Puebloans.
- Hike through Frijoles Canyon to see cave dwellings and waterfalls.
3. Ghost Ranch (1.5-hour drive) 🎨🌄
- The former home and inspiration for Georgia O’Keeffe, featuring desert landscapes and art workshops.
Taos’ Food & Drink Scene 🌮🍷
1. Must-Try Local Specialties
- Green Chile Stew – A hearty New Mexican dish made with pork, potatoes, and roasted green chiles.
- Blue Corn Enchiladas – Traditional enchiladas made with blue corn tortillas.
- Sopapillas with Honey – A puffy, deep-fried pastry served with local honey.
- Bison Burgers – A delicious Southwest twist on a classic burger.
2. Best Restaurants in Taos 🍽️
- The Love Apple – A farm-to-table restaurant in a historic adobe chapel.
- Lambert’s of Taos – Upscale dining with New American cuisine.
- Doc Martin’s Restaurant – Famous for chile rellenos and regional Southwestern dishes.
- Orlando’s New Mexican Café – A local favorite for enchiladas and tamales.
3. Best Breweries & Wineries 🍺🍷
- Taos Mesa Brewing – A laid-back brewery with live music and craft beers.
- Black Mesa Winery – Offers wine tastings of locally grown New Mexico wines.
Where to Stay in Taos 🏨
Luxury & Boutique Stays ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- El Monte Sagrado – A high-end resort with a spa and mountain views.
- Hacienda del Sol – A charming boutique inn with traditional adobe-style rooms.
Mid-Range & Family-Friendly Stays ⭐⭐⭐
- Taos Inn – A historic hotel with a cozy, Southwestern vibe.
- Hotel Luna Mystica – Stay in a vintage Airstream trailer for a unique glamping experience.
Budget & Camping Options 💰🏕️
- SnowMansion Adventure Lodge & Hostel – A budget-friendly stay with a fun community atmosphere.
- Taos Valley RV Park & Campground – Perfect for campers and road-trippers.
Best Time to Visit Taos ☀️❄️
- Spring (March–May) – Perfect for hiking, art festivals, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August) – Best for rafting, outdoor concerts, and warm weather.
- Fall (September–November) – Stunning golden aspens and cool hiking weather.
- Winter (December–February) – A top destination for skiing and holiday charm.
Why Visit Taos?
Taos is a perfect blend of art, history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring ancient pueblos, skiing in the mountains, or enjoying New Mexican cuisine, this desert town offers an authentic Southwest experience like no other.
🏜️🎨⛰️ Plan your trip to Taos and discover the magic of Northern New Mexico