Posted in New Mexico
December 24, 2016
17 Reasons Why New Mexico Is The Most Underrated State In The US
Let’s face it, New Mexico is a shoo-in for the title of “Most Underrated State” because an alarming number of our fellow citizens don’t even realize that the Land of Enchantment is one of the United States. However, even when you look beyond that misguided belief, there are plenty more reasons why New Mexico is awesome. Here are 17 of them:

In case you’re wondering, those would be Taos Pueblo, Chaco Canyon, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

For instance, Santa Fe is the oldest state capital. It was founded in 1610, years before the Pilgrims had even made a packing list.

Indigenous people have lived in New Mexico for centuries (there are 19 pueblos in our state). You'll also find Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo influences.

Other states might have signature dishes, but we have our own cuisine.

Fine, just the world. But did you know that 37% of chile grown in the U.S. come from the Land of Enchantment?

It wouldn’t be Turkey Day without pecan pie and 27% of all the pecans produced in the U.S. are grown right here.



In fact, there are more than 80 mountain ranges here. Our tallest mountain, Wheeler Peak, is 13,161 feet high.

You probably know it as White Sands.

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail passes through New Mexico.

If you’re intrigued by abandoned places, you’ll never be bored.

Las Fiestas de Santa Fe have taken place each year since 1712! This photo depicts the celebration in 1921.

If the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. The festival holds the Guinness World Record for the most balloons launched in one hour - 345 of them!

For centuries, New Mexico has been a haven for travelers. You can still drive along portions of the original Route 66.

Georgia O’Keeffe, Willa Cather, Tony Hillerman… the list goes on.

Over 100 movies have been shot here, many of them Westerns.

What would you add to this list?
If you’re looking for specific underrated spots in the Land of Enchantment, read this previous article: “The 10 Most Underrated Places In New Mexico That You Must Check Out.”