12 Magnificent Hidden Gems To Discover In New Mexico This Year

Whether or not you are a believer in extraterrestrial life, a trip to the International UFO Museum & Research Center in Roswell is a must. Back in 1947, there was a documented incident that involved metal debris from an unknown (at the time) source. This museum is dedicated to that particular Roswell incident as well as worldwide UFO sightings and events. To learn more, visit the museum's official website.

Also referred to as the "Sky City," the Acoma Pueblo sits atop a mesa off Route 66 approximately 60 miles from Albuquerque. Established in the 12th century, it is still inhabited. A visit to this fascinating community is one of the best day trips in New Mexico.

If you've ever seen the movie Contact (1997) starring Jodie Foster, then this scene of giant satellite dishes may look familiar to you. The Very Large Array Radio Telescope facility is located about two hours from Albuquerque and is certainly worth the drive to see. This New Mexico hidden gem is quite remote but utterly fascinating. You can even take a self-guided walking tour with interpretive signs to learn more about what these massive dishes have discovered in our skies and beyond over the years.

El Morro National Monument is known for its sandstone cliff with a hidden waterhole. Over the centuries, it was a popular place for travelers to stop. The evidence they left behind is written in the rocks, literally! Take a hike at El Morro National Monument and view more than 2,000 petroglyphs, messages, dates, and signatures.

If you had to pick one of the most peaceful places in New Mexico, it would have to be the Dwan Light Sanctuary. Located on the United World College campus in Las Vegas, the temple's use of prisms creates a rainbow effect and a serene place to spend some time meditating.

Have you ever wanted to feel fully immersed in an art exhibit? Well, you will have your chance to do just that at Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe. Good for all ages, this is one incredibly fun and colorful place to explore.

As far as swimming holes in New Mexico go, this is one of the best. Not only does the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa have some of the clearest water in the state but it's a pretty epic scuba diving spot.

For those of you who love visiting and photographing abandoned places, Glenrio is a ghost town in New Mexico worth visiting. Located on the Texas/New Mexico border, a railroad once ran through town and, then, Route 66 was built. It was a tourist destination for many years until the railroad station closed.

Did you know that there is a wolf sanctuary in New Mexico you can visit? Located in Ramah, Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is home to over 65 rescue wolves from around the country. The public is welcome to visit and learn about these wonderful animals.

This museum and planetarium is a must-visit for anyone who is fascinated with space. See the International Space Hall of Fame as well as exhibits on rockets, astronauts, and more. Head to the official website to plan your visit.