16 Places in New Mexico That’ll Make You Swear You’re On Another Planet
Juliet White
Author
Beyond the towns and cities of New Mexico lies a landscape shaped by volcanoes. From one million years ago, until fewer that one thousand years ago, the Rio Grande Rift and the area around Valles Caldera saw a lot of volcanic activity. The resulting rock formations, paired with New Mexico’s low population density, make it easy to imagine that you’re no longer on Earth. While the space tourism industry spearheaded by Spaceport America sounds intriguing, there’s no need to sign up for a trip to outer space just yet. After all, you can always visit these surreal places instead. Check out some of the spots that are considered to have a unique landscape in New Mexico:
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What areas of the unique landscape in New Mexico convince you that you’ve been beamed to a different planet? Many would say the state’s famous town of Roswell literally did that, and you can experience a quirky space attraction there yourself.
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Unique Landscape Of New Mexico
Does New Mexico have any natural wonders?
When it comes to natural wonders in New Mexico, there is no shortage here. The Land of Enchantment is full of absolutely spectacular, naturally-formed places that blow people away. The Bisti Badnalds, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks, Carlsbad Caverns, and White Sands all are great examples of this. Each has its own unique characteristics and mesmerizing sights. Plus, they are all accessible through parks and will show you the true wonders of New Mexico's ever-changing landscapes. From deep underground to the towering mountains above, there is no shortage of jaw-dropping wonders in this state.
What are the most well known parks in New Mexico?
There are some must see places in New Mexico that have become necessary visits for anyone visiting. Well-known parks like the Gila Cliff Dwellings are worthy of their popularity. Not only is the 800-year-old cliffside structures fascinating, but the area is also known for impressive hot springs and beautiful natural areas. If you love history, the Chaco Culture National Historic Park is a great option. This spot is praised for its historical significance because of its importance to the ancient Puebloan residents of the area. There are great ways to experience this park, including hiking on nearby trails that'll give you terrific views of the historic remnants.
What are the most unique places in New Mexico?
If you're looking for more interesting places in New Mexico to explore, you have lots of options. Quirky towns like UFO-centric Roswell is just the start when it comes to unique cities. If you like Route 66 history, try visiting the town of Tucumcari. It's almost like taking a step into the past, with preserved neon lights, retro restaurants and hotels, and even the New Mexico Route 66 Museum. Along those lines, other places in the state hold titles no other place in the country can. For example, the oldest church in the United States is in New Mexico - the San Miguel Mission in Santa Fe - and there is a church that is said to have special healing soil that thousands of people make a pilgrimage to, located in Chimayo.