10 Nicest Small Towns In New Mexico
Known for having a vibrant arts scene as well as a unique history and culture, New Mexico is a beautiful state. New Mexico's cities, such as Santa Fe, the state's capital, beautifully encapsulate the culture of New Mexico with its historic plaza surrounded by adobe buildings. However, outside the metropolises, New Mexico has many lovely small towns that show off other authentic aspects of the state. Chimayó, for example, is home to the famous El Santuario de Chimayo church, while Galisteo, part of the Galisteo Basin, has different Indigenous Rock art. Beautiful landscapes can also be found in the quiet towns of New Mexico; here we will explore ten of the state's nicest.
Chimayó
Chimayó is one of New Mexico's most charming towns. Located near Santa Fe, the town is known for its Chimayó heirloom chili. Taste local cuisine by visiting Rancho de Chimayo. The restaurant has traditional New Mexican cuisine and has been open since the 60s. The signature dish is Carne Adovada. Beyond the food, Chimayó has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in the town's numerous historic landmarks. Visit the famous El Santuario de Chimayo church. It is renowned across North America as an important and sacred pilgrimage site. To experience some of the town's unique culture firsthand, visit the Centinela Traditional Arts gallery. This showcases the town's important tradition of Spanish weaving, which goes back to the 17th century. Here, visitors can learn about the weaving process and buy traditional Spanish weaving products.
Madrid
Madrid is one of New Mexico's hidden gems; the town has just 300 residents and is located on the beautiful Turquoise Trail. This natural scenic byway shows off the area's rich turquoise deposits. Stroll through Madrid's cozy streets and stop at some of the eateries. Java Junction is known for its food made from fresh ingredients and coffee from Santa Fe Roasters. Madrid also has cute art galleries and shops to enjoy. Ghost Town Gallery features jewelry, pottery, and clothing. Alchemy Studio is another interesting gallery to check out. The gallery features a variety of art made by women artists. 10PM Steampunk is one of the town's most quirky shops, featuring steampunk clothing and accessories.
Ruidoso
An enchanting town in the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ruidoso is a town with beautiful natural surroundings. This is the perfect place to enjoy some hiking, skiing, biking, or time at the lake. Hiking enthusiasts visiting the town from Spring to Fall should check out the Cedar Creek Recreation Area. The recreation area has camping, hiking, and a beautiful picnic area. Other popular options for exploring the outdoors in Ruidoso include Grindstone Lake Trails and Fort Stanton Equestrian Trail Head. In the winter, head to the Ski Apache ski resort. Downtown, Ruidoso has a thriving art scene with many shops and galleries. A few to visit include Mountain Arts Gallery and Framing, DJ's Jewelry, Hurd La Rinconada Gallery and Guest Homes.
Taos
Set against the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is a town that looks like a postcard. Admire the view from a hike on the rim of the Rio Grande Gorge. Visitors might see ancient petroglyphs or even a herd of bighorn sheep. Taos is also near the famous Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considering the town's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it is no wonder there is a thriving art scene. Check out the Harwood Museum to see traditional and modern Taos art. The museum has twelve galleries and is well worth exploring. 203 Fine Art is another gallery in Taos that showcases pre- and post-war modern and abstract art from artists in Taos.
Red River
Another enchanting mountain town, Red River, has something for everyone. Take some time to relax and enjoy the area's natural scenery at Eagle Nest Lake State Park. This is a beautiful spot for a picnic, relaxation, and soaking in your surroundings. Enjoy more scenic views on the popular Enchanted Circle Trail. The eight-mile hike shows off both stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and offers insight into the area's history. For more history, folks can tour the historic Red River Mining District. This popular tourist destination has drawn in tourists near the Colorado border since the late 19th century. The entire area is considered a National Historic Landmark, and visitors can spend the afternoon exploring the old mines and homesteads. To learn even more about the town's history, visit the Red River Historical Society & Museum. The museum delves into the town's humble beginnings as a trading post in the 1800s and has artifacts from the early settlers.
Silver City
Sitting in the Gila National Forest's foothills is the little New Mexico town called Silver City. The bustling downtown of Silver City is a mix of art and history. Learn about the town's history at the Silver City Museum, which opened in 1967. The museum is in the restored 1881 Mansard/Italianate H.B Ailman House and features 20,000 objects telling the story of the region's history. Visitors can take in stunning views at the Gila National Forest near the town and enjoy the smell of the juniper, piñon and ponderosa pine trees. Just a fifteen minute drive north of Silver City is the Little Walnut Picnic Area-Gomez Peak Trail System, an excellent spot for an afternoon stroll. Silver City is also near the ancient Gila Cliff Dwellings, dated 800 B.C. This unique historic site shows insight into the lives of the people of the Mogollon culture, who lived in the area from the 1280s until the early 1300s. The reason why the people left their homes in the 1300s is still unknown, but the caves remain a fascinating site to explore.
Gallup
Gallup is a town in New Mexico that is a blend of indigenous and Southwest Hispanic culture. Visit the George Galanis Multicultural Center to see a celebration of the Native American cultures that neighbor Gallup. The center is a place where visitors can gather to learn, including forums and lectures that delve into the town's past and present. Downtown, Gallup also has over 20 colorful murals within walking distance of each other, celebrating the town. Beyond its rich culture, Gallup boasts stunning landscapes with the red mesas to the north and east, and the beautiful Arizona desert to the west. Enjoy some of Gallup's beautiful landscapes at Red Rock Park, a 640-acre park featuring red sandstone cliffs from the age of dinosaurs. The park has hiking trails, a camping area, and a museum. Check out the High Desert Trail System for a more thrilling outdoor adventure in Gallup. This trail system includes 22 miles of trails and features unique rock sculptures, metal sculptures, and sundials.
Galisteo
Galisteo is a small town in Santa Fe county New Mexico with under 300 residents. A treasure trove of history and culture, Galisteo is a town where visitors feel they have stepped back in time. Tourists can admire stunning Indigenous Rock Art in the Galisteo Basin and learn about the lives of Galisteo's indigenous people. You can see these ancient artworks in a few different sites, including La Cienega Petroglyph Site and Petroglyph Hill. Other cool historical locations in the Galisteo Basin include ancient Pueblo ruins. Be sure to check out the San Cristobal Pueblo Ruins. These ruins show the place where over 1,000 people once lived. This is one of the largest sites in the Galisteo Basin and features multi-story buildings and kivas. Beyond the town's history, Galisteo has a thriving arts community. There is even a Galisteo Studio Tour in conjunction with Galisteo Arts, showcasing the local talent.
Aztec
Aztec is another New Mexico small town to explore with unique historic landmarks. Learn more about the history of Aztec at the Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village. The history of people in the area goes back a thousand years to when the Ancestral Puebloan people settled along the Animas River. Today visitors can see the ruins of this Puebloan community in Aztec, known as the Aztec Ruins National Monument. Downtown Aztec is full of buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. To see some local art in Aztec head to the Feat of Clay shop. The idea of eight local potters, the pottery shop is where local potters can sell their work. This is an excellent stop for a souvenir.
Las Vegas
New Mexico has its own Las Vegas, and no, it is not centered around casinos and bars. The small town is a jack of all trades, with something for everyone. From historic sites to art galleries, outdoor adventures, and superb local restaurants, Las Vegas offers a wealth of things to do. The town even has New Mexico's last classic drive-in. Those looking for an outdoor adventure will have fun birding or walking around Storrie Lake. History buffs will love going on the town's History Walking Tour and seeing everything from the historic old town plaza to the Library Park Historic District.
Overall, these small towns in New Mexico have a lot to offer. From famous landmarks in Aztec and Galisteo to the art scene in Madrid, there are many interesting sites to explore in these small towns. Many of these towns also give visitors the opportunity to enjoy stunning natural landscapes that nowhere else has to offer, such as hiking on the rim of the Rio Grande Gorge in Taos. These are rare opportunities to enjoy a bit of quiet from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What makes these towns some of the nicest in New Mexico is their unique history, culture, and natural scenery. Reading about these places does not give them justice. Decide for yourself what your favorite New Mexico town is by planning to visit one on your next adventure!
