When escaping to somewhere beautiful in the Southwest, you'll have plenty of options. However, this historic inn in the Rio Grande River Valley is straight out of a storybook. From lush fields of lavender to fresh ingredients grown on-site for mouthwatering meals, there's no better—or more interesting—place to get away in New Mexico.
Though the history of this ranch goes way back, to this day it represents the original 800-acre establishment owned by the Congressman, Albert Simms, and his wife, Ruth Hanna McCormick Simms as their private home.
The wife commissioned architect John Gaw Meem to turn this ranch into something new in 1932.
Numerous artists, craftsmen, and gardeners turned the ranch into a beautiful new place to hold community events. This new center was deemed the La Quinta Cultural Center and it still holds art from the beginning.
John Gaw Meem is responsible for this breathtaking inn.
Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm is located at 4803 Rio Grande Blvd. NW,
Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM
Learn much more and book your stay today on their website right here!
Have you stayed at this incredible inn? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments, and make sure to share your photos from your visit on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The advantage of chain hotels is that you know what you're getting, but it's rarely an experience that will stand out in your memory. Thankfully, New Mexico has plenty of places to stay that are a little beyond the norm. From treehouses to an Earthship, you won't forget a night spent at these unique places to stay in New Mexico.
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Treehouse Rentals in New Mexico
What could be a more memorable experience than falling asleep in the treetops? If you're looking for cool places to stay in New Mexico, especially with kids, then check out the various treehouse rentals. Not only will you be able to enjoy the whimsy of the space, but you'll also have some pretty stellar views throughout your stay.
Imagine waking up to views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Moreno Valley! At this unique treehouse rental, you’ll be at 9200’ in elevation in the mountains. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning as you watch the sun come over the treetops. This is fresh air and tons of natural beauty without even needing to try.
Are you ready to glamp in style? Head on over to this incredible eco villa in the treetops. Situated in a meadow below the cliffs in Quiet Historic Tijeras Village Canyon, this one-of-a-kind rental is the perfect no-frills getaway in New Mexico. Take a hot shower under the stars and listen to the coyotes howl as you drift off to sleep.
If you prefer to keep things tiny in terms of accommodations, we have a few fun places to stay in New Mexico to consider. First, what could be tinier than sleeping in an actual cave?! But this is only the beginning. We have another tiny home rental to consider in the form of an old-world cabin.
How many people can say that they've spent the night in a cave? This subterranean dwelling is 70 feet below the cliffs. It's one of the most unique places to stay in New Mexico.
The texture of the surrounding, 65-million-year-old sandstone walls may be rough, but the accommodations sure aren't. This 1700-square-foot suite comes with its own kiva, a waterfall shower, a TV, and a DVD player. there's no other place quite like Kokopelli's Cave!
Set in the tall Ponderosa pines, this tiny home rental is an incredible place to unwind in the woods. Built back in the 1940s, this home is filled with old-world charm. Tuck away in front of the wood-burning fireplace, or curl up on the recliner with a book. This tiny home rental may be small, but with a cozy front porch and a fully equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need.
If you're the type of traveler that loves to wake up on a sprawling piece of land, then check out these farmhouses for rent. As far as unique rentals in New Mexico go, farmhouses usually offer the most bang for your buck. Where else can you enjoy acres upon acres of land, plus the potential for a few animal sightings, too?
5. Cozy-Chic Farm House at Los Alio Farm, La Union, NM
Amenities: Fireplace, parking, heater, swimming pool, washer, dryer, pets welcome.
Ratings: 5 stars
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This farmhouse rental in New Mexico is a perfect family-friendly spot to unwind near the New Mexico and Texas border. Situated in the middle of the desert, you’ll have bright shining stars overhead at night but sunny days by the pool. Bring the whole family and even fido, too, in this family-friendly rental.
Tucked away on a 160-acre working farm, you can have your own slice of paradise with some peace and quiet. This beautiful abode is perfect for families and large friend groups as it sleeps up to eight. Enjoy cooking in this giant farmhouse kitchen before enjoying a walk around the farm.
Maybe tiny homes or farmhouses aren't your thing - fear not. We have a few humongous rentals that will also make your entire vacation. These mansions for rent in New Mexico are each vastly different from one another, but still incredible finds. Really, who wouldn't want to stay in a 22-room mansion?!
Amenities: Spa, sauna, fireplace, hot tub, parking, pets welcome.
Ratings: 4.8 stars
Bring the whole family to rent out this 22-room adobe mansion in Taos, New Mexico. With this unique adobe rental, you’ll have access to your own private hot tub, sauna, covered deck, barbecue, and five different fireplaces. At 7,000 square feet, this getaway is humongous. Plus, there is a fascinating history behind this rental that is shown through the coats of arms and battle axes adorning the walls!
The Bottger Mansion has hosted the likes of Machine Gun Kelly and his gang (they were on the run and in disguise), Elvis Presley, and Janis Joplin. It's also the only hotel that is actually inside the boundaries of the Old Town Historic District. If you're looking for cool places to stay in New Mexico, be sure to check out the Bottger Mansion of Old Town.
As far as castles go, the Earthships in New Mexico are about as close as they come. This studio Earthship is built into the ground, making it one of the most unique places to stay in New Mexico. While it might look like such a fascinating place from the outside, just wait until you see the inside!
Go eco for a night by renting an Earthship home in the Taos area. Whether you're toying with the idea of building your own or are simply curious, staying in one of these amazing structures is sure to make an impression. There are several Earthship Airbnbs you can rent. They are such cool places to stay in New Mexico.
Have you been to these one-of-a-kind rentals? There are so many unique places to stay in New Mexico. What other offbeat New Mexican establishments have you stayed at? Let us know in the comments!
