Did you know Santa Fe was named one of the best cities in the world? That’s right! Readers of the travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, voted the city among their top ten favorite places to visit. Keep reading to learn more about the best things about Santa Fe and why it deserves this title:
This should come as no surprise to those who live in or have visited New Mexico’s state capital because, when it comes down to it, Santa Fe is filled with beauty.
In fact, we think it’s home to some first-rate spots and that's what entices tourists from around the world to flock to this northern New Mexican city. Here’s a look at some of the reasons we agree it's one of the best cities in the world.
While we’re in the midst of sharing our love of Santa Fe, be sure to let us know what you love about our state’s capital city! Are there any places, in particular, you love to visit when here? What are the best things about Santa Fe in your opinion?
I believe that New Mexico is one of the most underrated states in the country. But frankly, we like it that way. It just means that we can enjoy the tremendous beauty without dealing with the extra crowds. And when I say beauty, the gorgeous landscape will leave you breathless. Especially when driving through the Gila National Forest in southwestern New Mexico. Witnessing the rugged terrain adorned with canyons, rolling hills, desert, and more, will certainly enchant you in the best way. One canyon worth seeing is Cooney Canyon near Glenwood. The stunning views from this remote destination in New Mexico is certainly worth the drive to get here.
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You can find Gila National Forest near Silver City off Highway 180 about 85 miles north of La Cruces. No matter where you’re coming from in the state, the scenic drive to get to the forest is well worth it.
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At over 3 million acres, this expansive forest is a playground for outdoor fanatics. AllTrails has over 100 curated hikes inside the forest to explore, but one of our favorites is the Cooney Canyon Trail.
The views from inside this vast slot canyon are quite spectacular. Surrounded by those towering rock formations will have you believing you’re in another world. The terrain on this trail is quite rugged with lots of creek crossings along the way. It meanders along and crosses Mineral Creek over 20 times - yes that many! And while you can skip over some of the rocks on the creek bed, more than likely, you can’t avoid getting wet. Best thing for you to do is to wear water shoes and trekking poles will come in handy too.
The good news is that there will be many places to cool off and rest, especially if you plan to hike during the hottest part of the year. Bring the dogs along for this adventure. The kiddos will love it, too. Keep in mind that this out-and-back trail is 5.5 miles long, so bring lots of water and plan your trek accordingly. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but it wouldn’t hurt to have AllTrails+ on your phone in case you might need it.
Aside from the jaw-dropping canyon and the water crossings, you’ll come across old mines and mining equipment on this trek. Which is pretty cool if you ask me. But my favorite part about hiking to this remote destination in New Mexico is that you might just have it all to yourself. Once you’re done marveling at the views on this exhilarating hiking trail, get back in your car and continue on Highway 180 to take in more of the scenic vistas inside Gila National Forest.
What is your favorite remote destination to drive to in New Mexico? Drop a comment on our Only In New Mexico Facebook page and share some pics there with us too.
Whether you’ve lived in New Mexico your entire life or just had the good sense to relocate here, you know that the Land of Enchantment is full of amazing places. Here are several experiences (numbered, but not ranked in any order!) that you should add to your New Mexico bucket list:
In New Mexico, life happens on the plaza. Stroll, attend an event, listen to music, or just people-watch. Many cities and towns have plazas so you have plenty of options.
As you’d expect, New Mexican cuisine is available throughout the Land of Enchantment. Rancho de Chimayo, which just won a James Beard Award, serves authentic New Mexican food. Many more such New Mexican restaurants are scattered throughout the Land of Enchantment.
Be one of the thousands of people who flock to the world’s largest ballooning event and you’ll understand why it’s a must-see. Learn more about the International Balloon Fiesta.
There are clusters of primitive and developed hot springs near Jemez Springs and also in Truth or Consequences. Let the stress melt away at one of these wonderful hot springs in New Mexico. (Pictured: San Antonio hot springs.)
Bonus points if you can go during the annual Festival of the Cranes, held each November. You won’t forget a sight like this. Find out more about the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
While you’re on the way to or from Bosque del Apache, stop at San Antonio for a juicy green chile cheeseburger at either Buckhorn Tavern or Owl Bar and Café.
This elevated catwalk trail in the Gila National Forest steers you through Whitewater Canyon, along the route of an old water pipeline that once supplied mines in the area.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is massive. In fact, right up until the 19th century, the structures here - which in their heyday amounted to 600 rooms piled four stories high - were the largest in North America. Discover more about the Chaco Culture National Historic Park.
Get close to the hoodoos, hike a slot canyon, then ascend to a mesa that offers panoramic views. Check out the official Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument webpage.
The Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History are both very informative. Learn more at the Nuclear Museum website.
Lava flows can be found at El Malpais National Monument and in Valley of Fires Recreation Area. Visit the El Malpais National Monument website to learn more.
This is where the Lincoln County Wars took place. Walk in the footsteps of some of the most infamous folk in the Wild West in this perfectly preserved town.
Have you already made a New Mexico bucket list? What spots in New Mexico do you want to see in your lifetime? Feel free to add your suggestions on the Only In New Mexico Facebook Page or our nominations page. Need a place to stay while doing all your exploring? Check out the amazing options from our friends at VRBO.
