This Charming Town In New Mexico Is Perfect For A Summer Day Trip
There’s a reason why most people have heard of Taos. 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.
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The word “charm” doesn’t even begin to cover the beauty and history you’ll find at Taos Pueblo. 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 1000 years and it’s an amazing place to visit.
This year, the Fiesta de Taos will take place 22-26th July. The celebration honors 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, 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.
Manby Hot Springs (also known as Stagecoach Hot Springs) and Black Rock Hot Springs both let you soak for free, surrounded by nature. Manby Hot Springs is accessible at only the river or a two-mile trail from John Dunn bridge.
Or you could chill out in one of Taos' spas.
The view from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge 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.
The sight of all that water can be too alluring to resist. If you're in the mood for adventure, there are several rafting companies around Taos that can help you to experience the Rio Grande up close.
The Millicent Rogers Museum contains an intriguing collection of jewelry, artwork, and woven items. Maria Martinez's pottery is a definite highlight.
Just being in Taos lets you appreciate the town's architecture. 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 for lunch, then splurge on dinner at El Meze.
The 67-mile long High Road connects Taos and Santa Fe.
In the other direction, the Enchanted Circle forms an 84-mile loop around Wheeler Peak.
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.
