When searching for day trips in New Mexico, there’s a reason why Taos pops up near the top of the list. For a small town, it has a huge amount to offer, including an abundance of charm. Many think of it as a skiing spot, but Taos is also the perfect destination for a summer day trip. If you don’t live close enough for that to be feasible, extend your stay – we promise you won’t get bored. Whatever your interests, this quaint small town can deliver.

1. Visit Taos Pueblo

The word "charm" doesn’t even begin to cover the beauty and history you’ll find at Taos Pueblo, perhaps one of the most historic towns in New Mexico. There are 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the U.S. and this is one of them. People have been living in Taos Pueblo for more than 1,000 years and it’s an amazing place to visit.

2. Experience Fiesta de Taos

The Fiesta de Taos is an annual celebration honoring the patron saints of Taos: Santa Ana and Santiago. The festivities include a procession, a parade, live music, and dancing. If you can time your day trip to coincide with this event, which takes place every July, you’ll be in for a treat!

3. Immerse yourself in nature

Taos is surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you want to take a stroll through a forest or climb a mountain, it's easy to regain a sense of calm here. One visit and you'll understand we say that it is one of the best New Mexico day trips.

4. Soak in a natural hot spring

Black Rock Hot Springs (pictured here) and Manby Hot Springs, which is also known as Stagecoach Hot Springs, both let you soak for free, surrounded by nature. Please note that Manby Hot Springs is accessible only through the river or via a two-mile trail from the John Dunn Bridge.

5. Relax with a spa treatment

Whether you fancy a soak in a spa facility or get a massage, mud bath, or another kind of spa treatment, you will find it in Taos.

6. Witness the wonder of the Rio Grande Gorge

The view from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge which flows through the Taos, New Mexico area, is spectacular if vertigo-inducing. But it's a view that everyone should admire at least once. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area also provides excellent panoramic views of the gorge.

7. Go rafting!

If you're searching for "day trips near me in New Mexico," you just might be in the mood for an exciting rafting adventure, There are several rafting companies around Taos that can help you to experience the Rio Grande up close and provide all the equipment you would need. Besides, the sight of all that water can be too alluring to resist!

8. Head to one of Taos' many museums

The Millicent Rogers Museum contains an intriguing collection of jewelry, artwork, and woven items. Maria Martinez's pottery is a definite highlight.

9. Learn about architecture

A visit to Taos opens you up to really appreciate being in one of the most historic towns in New Mexico. And the town's architecture is one of the most beautiful aspects of it. But if you're interested in learning a little more, stop by Hacienda de los Martinez to gain an idea of what Northern New Mexico looked like in Spanish Colonial times.

10. Go green

Touring an Earthship is a one-of-a-kind experience. It's fascinating to see how these unique, sustainable homes are made, and what they're like on the inside.

11. Sample local food

Taos is blessed with some of the best restaurants in the state. Eat breakfast at Gutiz, stuff yourself with authentic New Mexican Cuisine at Orlando's New Mexican Cafe (pictured here) for lunch, then splurge on dinner at Lambert's of Taos.

12. Scenic drives

The 67-mile-long High Road connects Taos and Santa Fe. It's one of the most beautiful drives in the state.

In the other direction, the Enchanted Circle forms an 84-mile loop around Wheeler Peak.

The highest natural point in the state of New Mexico, Wheeler Peak is located northeast of Taos and south of the beautiful Red River.

Learn a little more about the fascinating Taos Pueblo in this video from Geographics:

If you are looking for interesting day trips in New Mexico, a visit to Taos Pueblo might just be in order. Stay at this luxury guesthouse in Taos as you explore everything this beautiful area has to offer.

Have you ever taken a Taos day trip? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences. Tell us all about it with a comment.

If Taos is too far from where you're living or staying, we also have some suggestions for day trips from Albuquerque or Las Cruces.