WANDERLIST New Mexico: Ten must-see attractions (and some off-the-beaten-track)

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Located in the southwestern United States, New Mexico offers a mix of rich Native American heritage, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes. 

  • Santa Fe Plaza: A haven for art lovers and history buffs, this historic square in the heart of Santa Fe is surrounded by adobe-style buildings housing shops, galleries, and museums.
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Venture deep underground to explore the caverns adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations, creating a truly otherworldly experience.
  • Taos Pueblo: Immerse yourself in Native American culture and history by visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the oldest continuously inhabited community in the country.
  • Bandelier National Monument: Wander through the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people, hike scenic trails, and Admire the dramatic landscapes of canyons and rock formations.
  • White Sands National Park: Lose yourself in the sea of dazzling white gypsum dunes, which span miles of untouched wilderness and create a dreamlike desert landscape.
  • Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Admire the works of one of America’s most iconic artists in this Santa Fe museum, showcasing her paintings inspired by the landscape of New Mexico.
  • Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: Join the spectacular hot air balloon festival held annually in October, where hundreds of balloons colour the sky, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
  • Ghost Ranch: Discover the rugged beauty that inspired Georgia O’Keeffe herself. This sprawling retreat offers hikes, flora and fauna, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
  • Petroglyph National Monument: Explore a vast array of ancient rock art etched into volcanic cliffs, offering a glimpse into the past cultures that once roamed the region.
  • The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge: Admire this engineering marvel as you cross over the deep, jagged gorge, providing panoramas that will take your breath away.

Off-the-Beaten-Track Delights:

  • Tent Rocks National Monument: Embark on a hike through the narrow slot canyons and towering cone-shaped rock formations, known as hoodoos, for a truly surreal experience.
  • Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge: Witness the spectacle of migratory birds as they flock to this haven, creating a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise.
  • Jemez Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs Located within the Jemez Mountains, offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst scenic beauty.
  • Very Large Array: Journey to the plains of San Agustin to witness a collection of massive radio telescopes at work, providing a window into the mysteries of the universe.
  • Shiprock: Stand in awe of the towering volcanic plug rising from the desert and venture into the Navajo Nation, embracing the traditions and culture of the indigenous people.
  • El Malpais National Monument: Explore ancient lava flows, lava tubes, and cinder cones, offering extraordinary landscapes and opportunities for hiking and stargazing.
  • Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: Uncover the history of the Mogollon people by exploring the intricate cliff dwellings Located within the Gila Wilderness, a true hidden treasure.
  • Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument: Trek through narrow canyons to witness the cone-shaped rock formations, shaped by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago.
  • Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs: Visit this historic hot springs resort, offering a variety of mineral-rich pools and tranquility in the desert landscape.
  • Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Step back in time and discover the ancient ruins and incredible stone masonry techniques of the ancestral Puebloan people.
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