The Tiny Historic Town In New Mexico That's The Perfect Day Trip Destination
By Courtnie Erickson|Published October 11, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
If you have traveled the popular High Road to Taos Scenic Byway in New Mexico, you’ve come across one small town with a rich history, the most beautiful surroundings, and fascinating attractions — Chimayo. This tiny historic town in New Mexico has it all and many New Mexicans don’t even realize it is the perfect day trip destination in the Land of Enchantment.
As you drive into Chimayo, get ready to be impressed. This tiny historic town in New Mexico is located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and has a population of approximately 3,000 residents.
Chimayo’s history began centuries ago. As early as the 12th-century, Native Americans lived in the valley. Then, in the late 1600s and early 1700s, Spanish settlers began to move in from New Spain (Mexico).
The Spanish wanted to convert the Pueblo people to Christianity, which caused much contention between the Spanish and the Native Americans. However, by the late 1600s, the Spanish gained control of the area and a steady stream of settlers moved into the area.
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El Santuario de Chimayo is one of the most visited locations in this small town. In fact, more than 300,000 people make the journey to this spiritual destination each year.
This beautiful small shrine was constructed in 1813 and it is believed that its dirt floor boasts remarkable healing powers. Today, you can explore this sacred place in Chimayo. Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the intricate details and the beauty of this building. Click here to learn more about this remarkable building and its history.
While El Santuario de Chimayo is certainly a must-see attraction in this small historic town in New Mexico, when hunger strikes, make sure to stop by the award-winning Rancho De Chimayo.
This restaurant is not only located in the most beautiful setting, but the food is incredible. This restaurant serves New Mexico cuisine including spicy guacamole, blue corn enchiladas, and fluffy sopapillas. Click here to learn more.
For more than 400 years, blanket weaving has been a tradition passed down in Chimayo from generation to generation. As you explore this small historic town in New Mexico, you’ll likely come across many Chimayo weaving galleries and shops like the well-known Ortega’s Weaving Shop.
At this shop, you can purchase and order beautiful handmade coats, vests, rugs, blankets, and various accessories. You can learn more about Ortega’s Weaving Shop here.
Have you spent time in Chimayo? If so, we want to hear all about your experience! Tell us what you did and your favorite attractions in the comments.
To complete your day trip to Chimayo, continue your drive on the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway. Click here to learn about this absolutely stunning drive.
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