There are so many charming small towns in New Mexico that we love to visit and find ourselves frequently recommending. But, if you have a bit of a free spirit, there are several hippie towns in New Mexico and one seems to stand out from the rest. Let’s take a look at one of the best New Mexico hippie towns.
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Welcome to Madrid! A former coal mining town, this tiny place has turned into an artist enclave and one of the most charming NM hippie communes.
This unique place dates to the 1940s and served as a replacement for the original tavern that was built in the late 1890s. Here, you'll find plenty of drinks that will quench your thirst as well as live entertainment.
And, if you're looking for a place to sleep between visiting all of the cool places around town, you'll find several bed and breakfasts set up in the historic buildings. Java Junction has some cozy accommodations that are affordable, plus it includes breakfast!
Madrid seems like a pretty cool little place to visit, don’t you think? Have you visited this hippie town in New Mexico before? Are there any other New Mexico hippie towns that are worth exploring? Let us know in the comments!
If you prefer something besides hippie communes in NM, then you might want to check out the one New Mexico town that’s so perfectly southwestern. And, if Madrid is just one stop on a New Mexico road trip, make sure you are prepared! Check out our ultimate road trip packing list.
Whether you’ve lived in New Mexico your entire life or just had the good sense to relocate here, you know that the Land of Enchantment is full of amazing places. Here are several experiences (numbered, but not ranked in any order!) that you should add to your New Mexico bucket list:
In New Mexico, life happens on the plaza. Stroll, attend an event, listen to music, or just people-watch. Many cities and towns have plazas so you have plenty of options.
As you’d expect, New Mexican cuisine is available throughout the Land of Enchantment. Rancho de Chimayo, which just won a James Beard Award, serves authentic New Mexican food. Many more such New Mexican restaurants are scattered throughout the Land of Enchantment.
Be one of the thousands of people who flock to the world’s largest ballooning event and you’ll understand why it’s a must-see. Learn more about the International Balloon Fiesta.
There are clusters of primitive and developed hot springs near Jemez Springs and also in Truth or Consequences. Let the stress melt away at one of these wonderful hot springs in New Mexico. (Pictured: San Antonio hot springs.)
Bonus points if you can go during the annual Festival of the Cranes, held each November. You won’t forget a sight like this. Find out more about the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
While you’re on the way to or from Bosque del Apache, stop at San Antonio for a juicy green chile cheeseburger at either Buckhorn Tavern or Owl Bar and Café.
This elevated catwalk trail in the Gila National Forest steers you through Whitewater Canyon, along the route of an old water pipeline that once supplied mines in the area.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is massive. In fact, right up until the 19th century, the structures here - which in their heyday amounted to 600 rooms piled four stories high - were the largest in North America. Discover more about the Chaco Culture National Historic Park.
Get close to the hoodoos, hike a slot canyon, then ascend to a mesa that offers panoramic views. Check out the official Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument webpage.
The Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History are both very informative. Learn more at the Nuclear Museum website.
Lava flows can be found at El Malpais National Monument and in Valley of Fires Recreation Area. Visit the El Malpais National Monument website to learn more.
This is where the Lincoln County Wars took place. Walk in the footsteps of some of the most infamous folk in the Wild West in this perfectly preserved town.
Have you already made a New Mexico bucket list? What spots in New Mexico do you want to see in your lifetime? Feel free to add your suggestions on the Only In New Mexico Facebook Page or our nominations page. Need a place to stay while doing all your exploring? Check out the amazing options from our friends at VRBO.
The Unassuming Town Of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Is One Of America’s Best Hidden Gems For A Weekend Getaway
Las Cruces, New Mexico, offers a mix of natural beauty, local brews, green chile dishes, and cultural attractions, making it a top hidden gem in America.
Craving a weekend getaway? The unassuming town of Las Cruces is one of the best hidden gems in America, and after you see what it has to offer, you'll understand why! Dine on delicious green chile burgers, sip on local brews, and learn more about New Mexico's fascinating history in this charming city.
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Located west of the Organ Mountains, Las Cruces is surrounded by majestic beauty.
Nestled inside Soledad Canyon Day Use Area sits an easy 3.4-mile hiking trail. On this breezy hike, you'll weave through portions of the canyon and witness some of New Mexico's astonishing natural beauty.
The New Mexico Ale Trail features some of the most delicious local brews available. Make sure to stop by Bosque Brewing Co. for a flight of their refreshing beers!
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D.H. Lescombes Winery serves refreshing wine and delectable French cuisine in a gorgeous setting.
Hosted by the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, this cherished event has everything you could want: chuckwagon cooking demonstrations, living history displays, and rodeos. But even if you aren't able to attend this exciting festival, you can stop by the museum and learn more about New Mexico's rich history.
Make yourself at home and book a charming vacation rental!
This pet-friendly VRBO rental in Las Cruces can accommodate up to six people and costs less than an average hotel! Enjoy a refreshing beverage in your private backyard and cook breakfast in your full kitchen. This unique place to stay in Las Cruces is just minutes away from beloved attractions such as the Zuhl Museum and Prehistoric Trackways National Monument.