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Taos, New Mexico: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!

Most of what Taos holds is free. The San Francisco de Asis Church costs nothing to look at. Walking across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge costs nothing either. The Enchanted Circle Drive runs 85 miles and asks for gas. And the dirt at the Santuario de Chimayo is free.

Are you planning a trip to Taos, New Mexico? This charming town runs artistic soul, historical landmarks, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, unique attractions, culinary delights, shopping and nightlife. Local history, hiking in the mountains or a soak in a hot spring, Taos has an answer for each.

Taos is known for its distinct architecture, adobe buildings and flat roofs included. The town is also home to many notable personalities: artists, writers, musicians. Visit the homes and studios of some of these famous residents, or just take in the creative energy running through the place.

For a unique vacation destination that carries a little of everything, Taos is the place. Keep reading for the fun things to do and places to visit in Taos, New Mexico.

Key Takeaways

• Taos is a charming town full of artistic soul, historical landmarks, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, unique attractions, culinary delights, shopping, and nightlife.
• Taos is known for its distinct architecture and notable personalities, including artists, writers, and musicians.
• Whether you’re interested in exploring the local history, hiking in the mountains, or relaxing in a hot spring, Taos has something for everyone.

The Charm of Taos, New Mexico

You are in for a treat in Taos, New Mexico. This charming town sits in the northern part of the state and is known for its long history, its landscapes and its culture. Taos has been inhabited for over a thousand years, and the weight of that history sits in the streets.

The architecture is one of the things that makes Taos unique. The town is filled with adobe buildings that are handsome and functional at once. These buildings keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which matters where the temperature can swing from hot to cold in a matter of hours.

The arts scene is the other thing that sets Taos apart. The town has been a haven for artists for decades, and their influence shows everywhere you look. The galleries lining the streets and the murals on the walls make art an integral part of the identity of Taos.

Taos is not only history and culture. The town is surrounded by natural landscapes waiting to be explored. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge through the Taos Ski Valley, the outdoor activities here run long.

And the food. Taos holds some of the stronger Southwestern cuisine in the country, running traditional New Mexican dishes through fusion cuisine that blends flavors from all over the world.

In short, Taos carries the lot. History, culture, art, nature or food, this charming New Mexico town has an answer for each. Pack your bags and come for the adventure.

Artistic Soul of Taos

Welcome to Taos, where the artistic soul of New Mexico comes alive. Art lovers are in for a real treat. Museums through art galleries, Taos runs the range.

The Taos Art Museum is one of the stronger places to visit. Housed in the former home of Nicolai Fechin, a Russian-American artist, this museum preserves and promotes the artistic heritage of the town. Astounding artworks and adobe architecture sit inside.

For something more eclectic, take some of the many art galleries in town. Traditional Southwestern art through cutting-edge contemporary pieces, the range is here. And on the lucky days you meet some of the artists themselves.

The artistic soul of Taos is not limited to museums and galleries. Artifacts of New Mexico art sit all around town, from the colorful murals on the sides of buildings to the intricate carvings on wooden doors.

And to get the full feel of the artistic soul of Taos, head over to the Fechin House. This historic home was once owned by Nicolai Fechin, and it is now a museum showing his work and the work of other Taos artists. The heyday of the artistic community here comes back in that building.

Seasoned art aficionado or someone who just appreciates a good painting, Taos has an answer. Come and explore the artistic soul of this New Mexico town.

Historical Landmarks

You cannot visit Taos, New Mexico without taking a trip back in time. The area is steeped in history, with plenty of historical landmarks to explore. Here are a few of the spots to take:

Taos Pueblo

You cannot miss Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Wander through the adobe buildings and take in the history and culture of the Taos Pueblo people. Be respectful, because this is a living community and not a museum.

Gorge Bridge

For anyone feeling brave, take a walk across the Gorge Bridge, which spans the Rio Grande Gorge. It is the fifth-highest bridge in the United States, and the views justify the walk. Just do not look down if heights are a problem.

San Francisco de Asis Church

The San Francisco de Asis Church turns up in more photographs than almost any church in New Mexico, thanks to its iconic adobe architecture. It is also a National Historic Landmark and has appeared in countless paintings and photographs.

Kit Carson Home and Museum

Learn the life of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson at his former home, now a museum. Artifacts from his life sit inside, along with his role in shaping the American West.

Martinez Hacienda

Step back in time at the Martinez Hacienda, a historic site dating back to the 18th century. Life for the early settlers in the area opens up there, along with the history of the region.

Couse-Sharp Historic Site

Explore the home and studio of two of the famous artists of Taos, Eanger Irving Couse and Joseph Henry Sharp. The site has been preserved as a museum, with some of their works on display.

Carson National Forest

For outdoor adventure with a side of history, head to the Carson National Forest. This sprawling wilderness area is named after Kit Carson and holds plenty of historic sites, the San Jose de Garcia mission church included.

History buff or someone after something new, Taos runs plenty of historical landmarks. Do not forget your camera, because these are memories worth keeping.

Natural Wonders in Taos

You may come to Taos for the art galleries and museums, and the natural wonders are what hold you. This Northern New Mexico town is surrounded by serious landscapes, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains through the Rio Grande Gorge. Here are the natural wonders not to miss:

Rio Grande Gorge

The Rio Grande Gorge earns the stop for any nature lover. This 800-foot-deep canyon was carved by the Rio Grande river over millions of years. Walk across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which spans the canyon and hands you long views. And for the brave, bungee jumping off the bridge is on the table.

Wheeler Peak

Wheeler Peak is the highest mountain in New Mexico, and it sits a short drive from Taos. The peak runs some of the longer views in the state, with hiking trails for all skill levels. Watch for wildlife, bighorn sheep and marmots included.

Black Rock Hot Springs

For a more relaxing natural wonder, head to Black Rock Hot Springs. These natural hot springs sit along the Rio Grande river, and a soak there settles the day. Be prepared for the sulfur smell.

Enchanted Circle Drive

The Enchanted Circle Drive is a scenic drive through some of the finer landscapes in Northern New Mexico. The drive runs about 85 miles, through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, past Williams Lake and through the town of Red River.

Big Arsenic Springs Trail

The Big Arsenic Springs Trail is a hiking trail running through the Carson National Forest. The trail follows a creek and passes several natural springs, the Big Arsenic Spring among them. The water in the spring is said to have healing properties, though we cannot guarantee it will cure all your ailments.

There are plenty of natural wonders to explore in Taos, the Rio Grande Gorge through the Enchanted Circle Drive. Put on your hiking boots and get out into the great outdoors.

Outdoor Adventures

You are in Taos, New Mexico, ready for some outdoor adventures. Taos runs plenty of opportunities to get out into nature.

Start with hiking. Taos is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which hold some of the stronger hiking in the state. The trails cover all skill levels, easy strolls through challenging treks. And the views up there put you on top of the world.

If skiing is more your thing, head to Taos Ski Valley. With over 300 inches of snowfall each year, this ski resort is a winter wonderland. Seasoned pro or first-timer, there are runs for each. And without skiing, snowshoeing and tubing still fill a day.

Now the fishing. Taos holds the Rio Grande, which is one of the stronger places in the state to cast a line. Rainbow trout, brown trout and native Rio Grande cutthroat trout all turn up. And without experience, the guides and outfitters here get you started.

For something more adventurous, try river rafting. The Rio Grande runs some of the stronger whitewater in the state, with rapids from Class I to Class V. And without a full day to give it, half-day and sunset trips are available.

And boating. The Rio Grande also suits kayaking and canoeing. For something more laid back, a leisurely float down the river handles the relaxing and the scenery at once.

So there you have it. Thrill-seeker or someone who just likes nature, Taos has an answer. Get out there and explore.

Unique Taos Attractions

In Taos you notice quickly that the attractions here are ones you will not find elsewhere. Here are the most interesting of them:

Earthships

No, not spaceships that travel to other planets. Earthships are eco-friendly homes made from recycled materials. These homes are designed to be self-sustaining, generating their own electricity and water. Some even carry greenhouses so you can grow your own food. Take a tour of these unique homes and learn about sustainable living.

Llamas

For a fun and unique way to explore the Taos area, take a llama trek. These friendly animals carry your gear while you hike through the mountains. The scenery comes with the walk, and so do the adorable llamas.

Navajo Village

Get right into Native American culture at a Navajo Village. Their history, traditions and way of life are all covered there. And handmade jewelry and pottery made by Navajo artisans are available to buy.

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

After a thrill? Head to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which spans 650 feet across a deep canyon. Walk across the bridge and take the long views, or for the brave, bungee jump off the bridge.

Ancient Ruins

Taos holds some fascinating ancient ruins, the Taos Pueblo and its UNESCO World Heritage Site listing among them. These ruins open onto the lives of the people who lived in the area thousands of years ago.

Points of Interest

Plenty of other unique attractions sit in Taos, the Harwood Museum of Art, the Kit Carson Home and Museum and the Millicent Rogers Museum included. Each carries a different angle on the history and culture of the area.

Culinary Delights in Taos

You may have heard that the way to someone’s heart runs through their stomach. In Taos, the culinary delights on offer will win over plenty of hearts.

First, the restaurants. Taos runs options for every taste bud and budget, casual dining through fine dining. For classic New Mexican food, head to Lambert’s of Taos, an iconic restaurant serving delicious dishes for decades. For something more upscale, try The Love Apple, housed in a 100-year-old adobe chapel, where the New Mexico dishes do the work.

It is not only the restaurants. Taos also runs food tours that take you on a culinary journey through the city. Eat like a local and take the food of Taos with these tours. Check out the Top 10 Taos Food & Culinary Tours for some inspiration.

And for a road trip, consider the Enchanted Circle Drive. This scenic drive runs through some of the finer landscapes in New Mexico, with plenty of dining options along the way. Stop in at the Enchanted Circle Brewing Company for craft beer and tasty pub food, or head to the Angel Fire Resort for fine dining with a view.

In Taos, food is not fuel but something to sit with. Go ahead and indulge in the culinary delights of this charming city.

Shopping in Taos

You cannot go to Taos without the shopping scene. The town is known for its unique and eclectic shops. Handmade jewelry, pottery or just a cool souvenir, all three turn up in Taos.

Jewelry buyers do well here. Taos is home to some of the more talented jewelry makers in the country. Traditional Native American pieces through modern, funky designs, the range runs long. And on the lucky days you watch a craftsman at work.

Jewelry is not the only thing Taos runs. The shopping scene is full of unique and interesting stores, handmade candles through vintage clothing. And southwestern art and craftsmanship are handled properly here.

The strongest thing about shopping in Taos is that you never know what turns up. A quiet find or a new favorite store, both happen. And with that many shops, something will catch your eye.

So set aside some time for shopping in Taos. It is the break from the outdoor activities, and the charm of the town comes with it.

The crosses are the first thing you notice here. Adobe crosses on the churches. Metal and glass crosses too. Crosses at the roadside shrines. The Santuario de Chimayo draws people for its dirt. Taos Pueblo has been lived in for over 1,000 years. The San Jose de Gracia church dates from the late 1700s.

Nightlife and Entertainment

You might think Taos is all about the outdoors. This town knows how to party. Live music, a sunset cocktail or a night of dancing, all three are covered.

The Adobe Bar is one of the stronger places to catch live music. This local meet-and-greet spot is often dubbed “Taos’s living room” and books talented acts, solo guitarists through small folk groups. You never know who turns up on stage, so grab a drink and settle in.

For something more laid-back, head to one of the many bars and lounges in Taos for a sunset cocktail. Sip a margarita under the stars on one of the restaurant patios, or do the two-step with a cowboy or cowgirl in a country-style bar. Whatever your vibe, a spot to slow down is here.

And to dance the night away, Taos has options for that too. Take The Alley Cantina for a lively atmosphere and strong drinks. This popular spot is known for its live music and late-night dancing, so put on your dancing shoes.

Whatever you are in the mood for, Taos runs a version of it. Let loose, have some fun, and make some memories.

Historic Sites Near Taos

History buffs do well here, because Taos and the surrounding areas are filled with fascinating historic sites. Here are the spots to take:

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is not technically near Taos, and it is only about an hour’s drive away and worth the trip. This charming city is filled with historic sites: the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States, the Palace of the Governors, a 400-year-old adobe structure, and the Loretto Chapel, home to the mysterious “miraculous staircase.”

El Santuario de Chimayo

This historic Catholic church in Chimayo is said to have healing powers, and it draws pilgrims. Legend has it that the dirt in the back room of the chapel has cured people of all sorts of ailments.

Las Trampas

This tiny village holds the San Jose de Gracia Church, built in the late 1700s. The church counts among the finer examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in New Mexico.

Cordova

This village holds the Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion Church, built in the early 1800s. The church is known for its well-preserved frescoes.

High Road to Taos

For a scenic drive, take the High Road to Taos. This winding road runs through charming villages, past historic churches and through mountain scenery. Stop in the village of Truchas, which was used as a filming location for the movie “The Milagro Beanfield War.”

Notable Taos Personalities

Taos has been home to many notable personalities over the years, and their legacies still shape the town. Here are a few of the notable Taos personalities to know:

Nicolai Fechin

Nicolai Fechin was a Russian-American painter who settled in Taos in the 1930s. He was known for his portraits of Native Americans and for a style blending Russian and Native American art. His former home in Taos is now a museum showing his artwork and personal belongings.

Georgia O’Keeffe

Georgia O’Keeffe is one of the more famous American artists of the 20th century, and she spent many summers in Taos painting the local landscapes and adobe buildings. Her paintings of the Taos area count among her more famous works, and her former home in Abiquiu is now a museum showing her artwork and personal belongings.

Ansel Adams

Ansel Adams was a renowned American photographer who visited Taos several times during his career. The landscapes of northern New Mexico drew him in particular, and he captured many iconic images of the area, the famous “Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico” photograph included.

D.H. Lawrence

D.H. Lawrence was a British writer who spent time in Taos in the early 1920s. The natural beauty of the area drew him, along with the chance to escape the constraints of British society. His time in Taos produced several works, the novel “The Plumed Serpent” and the travelogue “Mornings in Mexico” among them.

Art lover, nature enthusiast or history buff, Taos has an answer. Explore the town and take the legacies of these notable Taos personalities firsthand.

Camping and Picnic Spots

Anyone who likes sleeping under the stars is covered in Taos. Plenty of campgrounds in the area run everything from basic tent sites to full RV hookups.

The Taos Valley RV Park and Campground is the popular one. This park sits close to the heart of Taos and runs full hookups, showers and laundry facilities. A playground for the kids and a pet area for your furry friends sit there too.

For a more rustic camping experience, head up to the Carson National Forest. Several campgrounds in the forest run long views of the mountains and plenty of hiking and fishing. Pack your bug spray, because the mosquitos can be quite pesky.

For a more leisurely outdoor experience, several picnic areas in Taos handle a meal with friends and family. The Fred Baca Park is the popular spot for picnics, with plenty of shaded tables and a playground for the kids.

The Kit Carson Park is the other picnic spot, with long views of the mountains and plenty of space to spread out. Watch for the mule deer that frequent the park, because they are quite friendly.

Whatever your outdoor preferences, Taos has an answer. Pack up your camping gear or your picnic basket and head out into the great outdoors.

The Distinct Architecture of Taos

As you wander the streets of Taos, the architecture reads unlike anything else. The town runs a unique blend of Spanish Colonial and Pueblo Indian styles, and the atmosphere follows from it.

The San Jose de Gracia church is the notable example of that architecture. This 18th-century mission church is a serious piece of Spanish Colonial work, with its adobe walls, vigas and corbels. It earns the stop for anyone interested in history or architecture.

The historic buildings are not the only ones worth looking at. Even the modern structures in Taos carry a style that sets them apart. Colorful adobe homes through quirky art galleries, something is always worth a look.

And for the adventurous, why not try building your own adobe home? Taos is known for its Earthships, sustainable homes made from recycled materials and natural resources. You might turn up a talent for architecture you did not know about.

In short, the architecture of Taos mixes old and new, traditional and modern. It is a feast for the eyes, and the unique buildings and structures of the town do not run out. Put on your walking shoes and go find them.

The Spiritual Side of Taos

For a spiritual experience, Taos has it covered. Healing dirt through crosses, the opportunities here run long.

Healing Dirt

Yes, you read that right. Taos is home to a type of dirt said to have healing properties. It is called “Tierra Bendita” or “Blessed Earth” and it sits at the Santuario de Chimayo. People come from all over the world to scoop up this dirt and take it home. Legend has it that the dirt has cured everything from cancer to arthritis. We cannot vouch for those claims, and it is worth checking out either way.

Crosses

Crosses are handled properly here. Taos holds some of the more unusual crosses you will ever see. Classic adobe crosses through modern metal and glass crosses, the range runs wide. Crosses turn up everywhere you go in Taos, from the churches to the roadside shrines. Take a stroll and count how many you spot.

Conclusion

Believer or skeptic, there is no denying that Taos carries a certain spiritual energy. Embrace it and see where it takes you. You might end up more at home in the world around you.

Local Specialties of Taos

A visit to Taos turns up local specialties worth your time. Here are a few of the items to try:

Dried Chili Powder

You cannot visit Taos without the local dried chili powder. It runs through many dishes, enchiladas through stews, and it carries a flavor you will not find elsewhere. Be warned, because this chili powder is not for the faint of heart. It is spicy, so keep a glass of water nearby.

Fry Bread

Fry bread is a staple of Native American cuisine, and it turns up all over Taos. It is a simple dish of flour, water and salt, deep-fried until crispy outside and soft inside. Eat it plain or add toppings like honey, jam or powdered sugar.

Blue Corn

Blue corn is grown in New Mexico and used in many dishes in Taos. It carries a nutty flavor and a slightly sweeter taste than yellow corn. Blue corn tortillas, pancakes and even beer all turn up in Taos.

Piñon Nuts

Piñon nuts are a pine nut harvested from the piñon tree, which is native to New Mexico. They carry a buttery, nutty flavor and turn up in desserts or on top of salads. Many shops and markets in Taos stock them.

Green Chile Cheeseburger

The green chile cheeseburger is a New Mexico classic, and it sits on many menus in Taos. It is a simple burger topped with melted cheese and roasted green chiles. The combination is hard to beat, and it belongs on your list in Taos.

So try these local specialties when you visit Taos. Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see sights near Taos?

Taos is surrounded by serious natural beauty, so picking a few sights is hard. The popular attractions include the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, Taos Pueblo and the Enchanted Circle Drive. Take a scenic drive through the mountains or hike to a secluded waterfall and the day sorts itself out.

What are some unique activities to do in Taos?

After something different? Try a hot air balloon ride over the Taos landscape, take a pottery class at Taos Pueblo, or go on a llama trek through the mountains. And for something genuinely unusual, visit the Earthship Visitor Center and learn about sustainable living in these homes made from recycled materials.

Where can I find the best green chile in Taos?

Green chile is a staple of New Mexican cuisine, and Taos runs plenty of delicious options. For a classic green chile cheeseburger, head to the Taos Diner or Michael’s Kitchen. For something more upscale, try the green chile pork at The Love Apple or the green chile stew at The Gorge Bar and Grill.

What are some fun events happening in Taos?

Taos is a hub of arts and culture, so something is always happening. Take the Taos Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts, or the Taos Fall Arts Festival for a showcase of the region’s artists. The Taos Ski Valley also hosts events through the year, live music and outdoor film screenings included.

What are some hidden gems in Taos?

Taos runs plenty of well-known attractions, and a few quieter ones sit alongside them. Visit the Harwood Museum of Art for works by local artists, or hike to Williams Lake. And for something genuinely unusual, take the Millicent Rogers Museum and its impressive collection of Native American art and artifacts.

Why is Taos known as an artist’s haven?

Taos has been a haven for artists for over a century, thanks to its natural beauty and its cultural heritage. The Taos Society of Artists was founded in 1915, and many famous artists have called Taos home, Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams among them. Taos is still a hub of arts and culture today, with galleries, museums and festivals showing the creative talent of the region.

Frequently asked questions about Taos, New Mexico

Which Taos museum is worth the morning?

The Taos Art Museum, easily. It sits in the former home of Nicolai Fechin, the Russian-American artist, and holds astounding artworks. The Millicent Rogers Museum is the other one. That one runs Native American art and artifacts. The Harwood Museum of Art covers local artists.

Is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge worth the walk across?

Yes, and it is free. The bridge spans 650 feet across a deep canyon, and the bungee jumping is there if you want it. Wheeler Peak is the higher one. That peak is the highest mountain in New Mexico. The gorge below was carved over millions of years.

Which trail near Taos is worth the boots?

The Big Arsenic Springs Trail, comfortably. It runs through the Carson National Forest, follows a creek, and passes the Big Arsenic Spring itself. Wheeler Peak is the harder one instead. That mountain runs trails for all skill levels. Williams Lake sits along the Enchanted Circle Drive.

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