New Mexico’s beauty isn't restricted to the natural world. We also have unique and impressive architecture, much of which has endured for centuries. The wonders on this list range from intricately decorated theaters and hotels to structures that expertly combine form and function. You'll also notice some famous buildings in New Mexico that have made the cut. Read on to learn about 16 examples of what we think are the best examples of New Mexico architecture for your travel adventures.

1. El Rancho Hotel, Gallup

The El Rancho Hotel was constructed by the brother of movie director D. W. Griffith and opened in 1937. The goal was to create a place for stars to stay while they filmed movies (usually Westerns) in the area. The building, which is one of the finest examples of New Mexican architecture, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It earned a spot on this list as much for its lovely interior as for its exterior.

2. Taos Pueblo, Taos

The adobe homes at Taos Pueblo are almost 1,000 years old - talk about architecture that endures! Many of the building's walls are several feet thick, which has a great deal to do with that face. This UNESCO World Heritage site is in a gorgeous setting against the backdrop of the Taos Mountains. When it comes to New Mexico architecture, Taos Pueblo exhibits some of the finest.

3. New Mexico Military Institute Campus, Roswell

The New Mexico Military Institute Campus in Roswell is a military high school and junior college built in an imposing Gothic style. Although not one of the more famous buildings in New Mexico, it is still a fine example of New Mexican architecture.

4. The Gila Cliff Dwellings, in the Gila Wilderness

The Mimbres peoples built the Gila Cliff Dwellings in the 13th and 14th centuries and the remains are still in decent shape today. The use of interlinked caves as the basis for a complex is a creative and smart design strategy, as well as another form of New Mexican architecture.

5. The Roundhouse, Santa Fe

Aside from being the country's only round state capitol building, the New Mexico State Capitol in Santa Fe is one of the most beautiful New Mexico architectural structures. The building combines New Mexico Territorial revival style with some neoclassical touches and features protruding entrances that make it looks like the Zia sun symbol. But the best part is that the Capitol building is an art museum. Plan to spend at least a few hours here appreciating the many famous New Mexico architects who have their amazing works of art displayed here.

6. Basilica of San Albino, Mesilla

The first church built on this site in the town of La Mesilla was located in Mexico! The current Basilica of San Albino is a stunning Romanesque church constructed in 1906 after the Gadsden Purchase made this area part of the United States. It remains one of the most famous buildings in New Mexico.

7. Santa Fe Opera, Santa Fe

Like the previous Santa Fe opera houses, the Crosby Theater here, home to the Santa Fe Opera, is open on the sides. This allows patrons to view the performance on the stage while simultaneously watching the sunset over the surrounding landscape.

8. Plaza Hotel, Las Vegas

You wouldn’t know it today, but in the 1870s, Las Vegas, the one in New Mexico, not the one in Nevada, was the largest city in the territory. The Plaza Hotel was built here in 1881 and featured 37 guest rooms, a dance hall, a restaurant, and a saloon. In terms of New Mexican architecture, it is among the most beautiful. It's also a big draw for folks from all over the state.

9. La Fonda Hotel, Santa Fe

There has been an inn at this exact location since the 17th century! Today’s La Fonda Hotel is one of the most well-known hotels in Santa Fe as well as in the state. It dates back to 1922 and still retains many original features like the 25-foot tall cathedral ceiling, hand-carved beams, and large tin chandeliers. The La Plazuela Restaurant inside serves up amazing food, and it is located on the old patio and surrounded by vibrantly painted interior windows. If you love New Mexican architecture, this one will knock your socks off!

10. Elephant Butte Dam, Elephant Butte

The Elephant Butte Lake and Dam is located along the Rio Grande River. Known as a concrete gravity dam, it was finished in 1916, is 301 feet high, and produces hydroelectric power.

11. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, near Taos

Suspended 650 feet above a gorge, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is an architectural achievement. It's also the second-highest bridge to be included in the U.S. highway system. The views from up top are simply awe-inspiring!

12. The Chaco Canyon complex, near Nageezi

The Ancient Pueblo people lived in the Chaco Canyon area between roughly the 9th and 13th centuries. It is now part of the Chaco Culture National Historic Park, earning a UNESCO World Heritage designation because of the distinctive architecture found here. Construction occurred on a massive scale, using sophisticated building methods, and the Great Houses at Chaco consisted of hundreds of rooms spread over multiple stories. Although we might not call the Pueblo people famous New Mexico architects, when you look at what they built, the title seems more than fitting.

13. Earthships, near Taos

Earthships are an impressive example of sustainable New Mexico architecture. There are quite a few of these complete off-grid homes near Taos, and you can take a tour or stay the night in some of them located in what is called the Earthship Biotecture. If you're looking for unusual New Mexico architecture, this is it!

14. Isleta Resort Casino, Albuquerque

The Isleta Resort Casino in Albuquerque is simply stunning. The use of glass in the casino is not just beautiful; it's awe-inspiring. Even if you aren't into gambling, you need to come here just to take in the ambiance.

15. KiMo Theatre, Albuquerque

Located in downtown Albuquerque, the KiMo Theatre, built-in 1927 theatre, is a fine example of the Art Deco-Pueblo style. One of the finest examples of New Mexico architecture in the state, it is also said to be haunted!

16. Lensic Theater, Santa Fe

The Lensic Theater in Santa Fe is a "Spanish-style" theater that opened in 1931 and its unusual design has wowed people ever since. It is a big draw for folks who appreciate unique New Mexican architecture. Be sure to take in a show while you're here!

Have you been to any of these famous buildings in New Mexico? Which ones were your favorites? What else would you add to this list? We'd love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there in the following comments section.

If you'd like to explore more of The Land of Enchantment after discovering New Mexico architecture, how about a visit to White Sands National Park?