We all know New Mexico is the Land of Enchantment and the evidence is all around us: deserts, forests, canyons, mountains, and stunning little towns. If you agree there’s no place you’d rather be, let’s take a look at some of the best places to visit in New Mexico that really highlight the state’s beauty.

1. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
John Fowler/Flickr
This southern New Mexico location near San Antonio is a great escape for both humans and birds! You’ll find the area is lively with hundreds of migrating birds flying and resting here, as well as many other animals taking advantage of the wetlands. You can embark on a guided tour to explore Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge more thoroughly.
2. Carlsbad Caverns
Sathish J/Flickr
Carlsbad Caverns feel a bit like New Mexico's crown jewel. With more than 100 stunning caves, massive chambers, and a thriving wetlands nearby, it’s no wonder this location is a UNESCO Heritage Site!
3. Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu
Ron Cogswell/Flickr
When visiting Ghost Ranch, it doesn’t take long to realize why Georgia O’Keeffe fell completely in love with it. The striking area is now a retreat that offers workshops, tours, and even overnight stays.

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4. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Editor's note: this national monument is closed to the public. Visit the Bureau of Land Management website for current updates.

This impressive park near Jemez Springs has some of the prettiest views you’ll ever see. The cone-shaped formations look surreal and there’s plenty of hiking trails for you to enjoy the area around Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.
5. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument
Dustin Spengler/Flickr
Found in northern New Mexico, this scenic area hosts plains, the Rio Grande, and one truly impressive gorge. Enjoy a day of hiking, kayaking, or even just driving across the bridge for an awe-inspiring view of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
6. Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Dave Hensley/Flickr
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world or even in heaven when you visit these mountains in northern New Mexico. This is the southern portion of the Rockies and New Mexico’s tallest peak -- Mount Wheeler -- can be found within the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
7. White Sands National Park
Diana Robinson/Flickr
This national monument is home to one of the most stunning sights in our state and we bet you've never seen so much glistening white sand! Enjoy a day of hiking or riding on select trails on the dunes st White Sands National Park.

Are you ready to explore more incredible places around the state? Check out some of our favorite secret spots in 12 Hidden Gems You Have To See In New Mexico Before You Die.

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More to Explore

Best Places To Visit In New Mexico

Leah | January 29, 2021

What are the most unique things to do in New Mexico?

There are many unique places in New Mexico that are worth checking out. On the opposite end of the spectrum from the stark white landscape of the White Sands, the Bisti Badlands, or the De-Na-Zin Wilderness, is enchantingly colorful. The pigmented stripes in the unusually shaped landscape create quite a spectacle. You can visit it for yourself and hike through the unique area. New Mexico is also home to one of the quirkiest towns - Roswell, known for UFOs and everything else extraterrestrial. Some may think it's a bit over-the-top, but many visitors enjoy all of the alien-themed stores, attractions, restaurants, and more.

Which hidden gems in New Mexico should I visit?

The Land of Enchantment has hidden treasures hiding around every corner. One place many people probably overlook is Clayton Lake State Park. What makes this place special, you ask? Dinosaur footprints! Yes, there are real dinosaur footprints, preserved in the ground for millions of years, crossing through this park. There is a boardwalk around the area that will allow you to walk right up close to the tracks and see them for yourself. It's fascinating to think where you are standing is where dinosaurs once did, as well, with the proof right in front of your eyes. Clayton Lake State Park is the perfect place to take the whole family on a fun outing.

What are the best free things to do in New Mexico?

Want to know what places to visit in New Mexico won't break the bank? There are plenty of options for free fun in New Mexico. The state is full of wilderness to explore, with many parks or areas not requiring entry fees. Some of them even include free-to-use natural hot springs. If you enjoy the state's history and beautiful architecture, hang out in one of the gorgeous plazas. Santa Fe and Albuquerque have amazing plazas in their historic areas that are open to the public and perfect for an afternoon outing.

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Featured Addresses
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 1001 NM-1, San Antonio, NM 87832, USA
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Carlsbad, NM, USA
Ghost Ranch, 280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, 0 NM-22, Cochiti Pueblo, NM 87072, USA
New Mexico 68, Embudo, NM 87531, USA
Sangre de Cristo, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
White Sands Visitor Center, 19955 US-70, Alamogordo, NM 88310, USA