This Charming Town In New Mexico Is Perfect For A Summer Day Trip
When searching for “day trips near me in New Mexico,” there’s a reason why Taos pops up near the top of the list. For a small town, it has a huge amount to offer, including an abundance of charm. Many think of it as a skiing spot, but Taos is also the perfect destination for a summer day trip. If you don’t live close enough for that to be feasible, extend your stay – we promise you won’t get bored. Whatever your interests, this quaint small town can deliver.
The word “charm” doesn’t even begin to cover the beauty and history you’ll find at Taos Pueblo, perhaps one of the most historic towns in New Mexico. There are 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the U.S. and this is one of them. People have been living in Taos Pueblo for more than 1,000 years and it’s an amazing place to visit.
The Fiesta de Taos is an annual celebration honoring the patron saints of Taos: Santa Ana and Santiago. The festivities include a procession, a parade, live music, and dancing. If you can time your day trip to coincide with this event, which takes place every July, you’ll be in for a treat!
Taos is surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you want to take a stroll through a forest or climb a mountain, it's easy to regain a sense of calm here. One visit and you'll understand we say that it is one of the best New Mexico day trips.
Black Rock Hot Springs (pictured here) and Manby Hot Springs, which is also known as Stagecoach Hot Springs, both let you soak for free, surrounded by nature. Please note that Manby Hot Springs is accessible at only the river or via a two-mile trail from the John Dunn bridge.
The view from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge which flows through the Taos, New Mexico area, is spectacular if vertigo-inducing. But it's a view that everyone should admire at least once. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area also provides excellent panoramic views of the gorge.
If you're searching for "day trips near me in New Mexico," you just might be in the mood for an exciting rafting adventure, There are several rafting companies around Taos that can help you to experience the Rio Grande up close, and provide all the equipment you would need. Besides, the sight of all that water can be too alluring to resist!
A visit to Taos opens you up to really appreciate being in one of the most historic towns in New Mexico. And the town's architecture is one of the most beautiful aspects of it. But if you're interested in learning a little more, stop by Hacienda de los Martinez to gain an idea of what Northern New Mexico looked like in Spanish Colonial times.
Touring an earthship is a one-of-a-kind experience. It's fascinating to see how these unique, sustainable homes are made, and what they're like on the inside.
Taos is blessed with some of the best restaurants in the state. Eat breakfast at Gutiz, stuff yourself with authentic New Mexican Cuisine at Orlando's New Mexican Cafe (pictured here) for lunch, then splurge on dinner at Lambert's of Taos.
The highest natural point in the state of New Mexico, Wheeler Peak is located northeast of Taos and south of the beautiful Red River.
Have you ever been to Taos? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there.
If Taos is too far from where you’re living or staying, we also have some suggestions for day trips from Albuquerque or Las Cruces.
Address: Taos, NM 87571, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Day trips near me in New Mexico
August 04, 2022
Lysa Allman-Baldwin
How hot does it get in Taos in the summer?
Compared to some other states in the country during the summer, Taos weather is pleasant enough to handle. July is the hottest month of the year where the average high temperature hovers around 83 degrees Fahrenheit. At night you can expect an average low of 51 degrees Fahrenheit.
How far is the drive from Taos to the Albuquerque airport?
The drive from Taos to the Albuquerque International Sunport is a little under two and a half hours. If you have the time, either coming or going, you really should plan to spend some time in Albuquerque. There is a wealth of things to see, do, and experience here including wonderful museums, great hikes, and outstanding restaurants, just to name a few.
Where is Valles Caldera National Preserve?
Valles Caldera National Preserve is located about an hour and a half northwest of Santa Fe. Situated in the Jemez Mountains, it is the home of what is called a volcanic caldera stretching approximately 13.7-miles wide. The landscape is peppered with volcanic domes, hot springs, natural gas seeps, and other related natural elements. A visit here as one of the best day trips in New Mexico.
Address: Taos, NM 87571, USA
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