New Mexico’s Rising Star: This Underrated City is Ideal for Any Traveler

I love the state of New Mexico. With cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, there is a seemingly endless amount of restaurants, shopping, attractions, and things to do when you visit. However, there are other cities, some that maybe you've heard of, or maybe not, that are well worth your time to visit and explore. One underrated city in New Mexico that I happen to love is Los Alamos. With its history and scenery, no other place compares. I'll share some of the sites, attractions, dining options, and places to stay in Los Alamos to help you plan a visit.

First thing's first — where is Los Alamos, New Mexico? The small city of Los Alamos is located just 34 miles to the northwest of Santa Fe. Its population as of 2022 is 13,460 and is considered a good place to live. Not only does it have a family-friendly community for its residents but with its historic sites and outdoor recreation, it's a lovely place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Whether you live in Los Alamos or you're just visiting, there are several wonderful restaurants that are worth checking out. There's Blue Window Bistro serving from scratch food and an eclectic ambiance, Boese Bros Brewpub for fun along with good food and drinks, and Secret City Kitchen that serves breakfast all day, just to name a few places. If you love to shop, head to Los Alamos' Main Street where you'll find several stores and a few of the town's museums.

If you've ever learned about the Manhattan Project in school or even seen the Blockbuster film Oppenheimer (a personal favorite of mine), you'll know that the world's first atomic bomb was created right here in Los Alamos during World War II. That is what really put Los Alamos on the map. When you visit, make sure you visit the Manhattan Project National Historic Park as well as the Los Alamos History Museum. You can also learn about the Manhattan Project at the Bradbury Science Museum.

But it's not just nuclear history that can be found here in Los Alamos. The city is also home to Bandelier National Monument a 33,000-acre area comprised of ancient historic sites, petroglyphs, ancestral dwellings carved into cliffs, canyons, mesas, and miles of trails to explore it all. As someone who has been to Bandelier, this is a must-visit attraction for both history and nature lovers.

And if you love perfect sunsets and endless views, visiting Los Alamos should be at the top of your list of places to visit in New Mexico.

If you plan on spending a few nights in Los Alamos, there are both hotel and vacation rental options. For example, you may choose to book a room at the highly-rated and quiet Pueblo Canyon Inn or perhaps reserve a Vrbo like Casa Little Bird, a charming home that can sleep up to five guests.

Have you visited this underrated city in New Mexico? If you have a favorite place in Los Alamos you'd like to share, please do so by filling our out nomination form.