Posted in New Mexico Attractions, Day Trips, Small Towns October 11, 2021 by

The Tiny Historic Town In New Mexico That’s The Perfect Day Trip Destination

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.
Luz from Houston/Wikimedia Commons
The beauty of the area is mesmerizing. The name "Chimayo" comes from the Tewa Indian language and it means "superior red flaking stone."
Luz from Houston/Wikimedia Commons
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).
Luz from Houston/Wikimedia Commons
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.
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.
Wheeler Cowperthwaite/Flickr
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.
Rancho De Chimayo/Facebook
Jascine Hammond/Google
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.
Gary Bodman/Google
Nali Yan/Google
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.

Address: Chimayo, NM, USA

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.