|
Things to do / Travel Guide
Colorado & New Mexico Tourist Attractions
This region is different from anywhere else in the U.S. Influenced mainly by Hispanic and Native American culture, adobe architecture and active pueblos are common. The magnetism of the area attracts artists, craftspeople, intellectuals, and others who prefer alternative lifestyles. The area offers a wide range of active pursuits in the high desert, alpine forests, and the southern parts of the Colorado Rockies.
Santa Fe Getaways
Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States and was early established as a cultural city, rich in history and art. It still preserves that reputation, so many of the tourist attractions that you'll see while you're in Santa Fe will be closely connected to the old city's rich historic and cultural past, present, and future.
You can learn about Native American culture by visiting some of the local museums, or you could learn about the unique culture a bit more "hands on" by touring some of the pueblos located around Santa Fe. While it may be a tourist attraction for you, many of these pueblos are still lived in by local Native Americans; therefore, some may prohibit photography and your respect for the personal dwellings is required at all times. That being said, this unique opportunity will give you the chance to speak with the natives about their life (past and present) and to attend a dance, ceremony, or spiritual ritual.
Don't miss the Santa Fe Fiesta, which has taken place every September since 1770. This popular festival attracts tourists from all over who get to enjoy the Spanish/Native American/Anglo cultural event. It's also a great place to buy souvenirs and crafts from the Native Americans who sit cross-legged to sell their creations, just as they have done for years and years.
Colorado & New Mexico Getaways
And you thought Santa Fe was heavy on the arts—well wait until you visit the small town of Taos and then you'll really see what an artist community looks like. Here you won't just encounter art and artists, but you'll encounter people who have chosen to live their lives artistically, naturally, and bit on the fringe. People in Taos have embraced the ancient Taos Pueblo culture, which means that some still choose to live without electricity and running water. Another interesting Taos feature: the food. Come prepared to eat…shall we say…creatively.
Another interesting spot to visit during your New Mexico getaway is the city of Albuquerque. Located along the legendary Route 66, Albuquerque serves as a great spot to take a break from your driving and just chill out for a few days of R&R (maybe at a B&B). You'll find a nice little downtown in this city, great good, and a rather vibrant nightlife. The city is also extremely family-friendly. Kids will absolutely love the Balloon Museum, and that being said, will also love the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta that takes place in October. They (and you) will also appreciate the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science and the Sandia Peak Tramway.
And if you are looking to plan a New Mexico road trip online, make sure to spell the 11 letter (2 of the Q's) name correctly. It is not spelled Albequerque, Albuqerque or Albuqurque.
New Mexico & Colorado Ski Resorts
People seem to think of New Mexico as completely desert and so conclude that there must not be any skiing. But they could not be more wrong. The Colorado Rockies dip into the northern part of New Mexico, so between southern Colorado and northern New Mexico, you actually get quite a large selection of ski resorts. And of course, since New Mexico does also include a large desert, the views from the peaks of these slopes are phenomenal. Check out Taos' Taos Ski Valley Resort, the Red River Resort Area, Angel Fire Ski Resort, Sipapu Ski Resort in Rio Pueblo, and Los Alamos' Pajarito Ski Resort.
Note that you will not find Taos, Colorado on your GPS - it is in New Mexico. But it is a good idea to get yourself a detailed map of Colorado.
Colorado & New Mexico Road Trip Getaway Planner
Give yourself at least a week to focus on this area, rather than just see it in a quick drive through. If you're coming from Colorado, you'll hit Taos first, then Santa Fe, and then Albuquerque. Go the long way between Taos and Santa Fe and stop for an afternoon in the Santa Fe National Forest and visit the Bandelier National Monument in Los Alamos. Use Santa Fe as a base and do what the locals do: enjoy!
Tourist Attractions and Highlights in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Northern NM, Southern CO
Tourist-Attractions-Highlights
|
|
|