7 Cutest Small Towns In New Mexico To Visit In 2024
If you’re looking for an exciting new adventure in 2024, then look no further than New Mexico. There is no need to worry about getting a passport, as New Mexico has been considered a state in the US since 1912 as the 47th state. New Mexico has been referred to as the Land of Enchantment for over 100 years, and once you visit, it is easy to see why. The state holds a rich history of their land, with the beauty of nature and exciting experiences unique to each town. All you have to do is decide which of these seven towns you want to visit first!
Taos
Taos is located in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the northern central region of New Mexico. This town has approximately just under 6,000 members in its population. The history of this town has deep roots with the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taos Pueblo. It dates back over 1,000 years. You can visit any day of the week starting at $25 per adult. You can take scenic day trips in a hot air balloon to enjoy the gorgeous view of the Rio Grande Gorge from up high. This vast canyon is over 50 miles long and has unparalleled views.
Silver City
Silver City is located in the southwestern part of New Mexico and has seen a decline in its population over the years. There were between 10 and 15,000 people in the 1990s, and now, fast-forward to 2022, the latest data shows that there are under 10,000 people. However, This bustling town is home to the Western New Mexico University Museum. In this museum, you can peruse old artifacts such as pottery, rooms, school desks, and various other crafts. If you’d rather spend time outdoors, visit the Gila Wilderness, where you can spend the day hiking or horseback riding. This wilderness has over 500,000 acres of nature that is calling your name.
Ruidoso
Ruidoso is a small town often referred to as a village in the Sierra Blanca mountains. As you can imagine, this town is filled with the beauty of Mother Nature. There is a sky resort known as Ski Apache, which features plenty of exciting attractions, such as ZipTours and Mountain Biking. You can visit historical landmarks such as Fort Stanton, Lincoln Historic Site, and the Hubbard Museum of the American West for a dose of New Mexico history if that is your cup of tea! Each of these activities offers unique experiences with well-preserved structures that date back to the 19th century.
Truth or Consequences
Yes, believe it or not, Truth or Consequences is the actual name of this New Mexico town. And yes, the name has been up for discussion to be changed because of how peculiar it is. It was first known as Hot Springs after a popular radio show and later became Truth or Consequences in the 1950s. This town has a deep heritage that keeps its residents busy. You can enjoy festivities such as Truth or Consequences Fiesta, which includes rodeos, live entertainment, a long parade, and plenty of fun activities for the kids if you're coming here on a family trip! There is also the famous Hot Springs Festival which dates back to the 50s and features arts and crafts and wellness workshops for people to participate in.
Los Alamos
Los Alamos is probably most famous for being the location of the world’s first nuclear explosion that happened on July 16, 1945. It was on a test site in Los Alamos, and you can view this site on a guided tour twice a year. There is plenty to enjoy from the wide-open outdoors at one of New Mexico's wonders in the Valles Caldera National Preserve. You can enjoy the wildlife, such as chipmunks, bears, and yes, even fish. Enjoy the change of seasons with the trees that surround the log cabins on site. Los Alamos is a great destination to visit, no matter the time of year.
Cloudcroft
Cloudcroft is tucked away in the Sacramento Mountains in the southern part of New Mexico. There are estimated to be less than 1,000 people in this town, making it a superb place to visit that is quiet and offers a lovely escape from the busy city sounds. Take the time to surround yourself with Mother Nature by hiking her trails in the Lincoln National Forest. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced hiker, there are trails for everyone here. Cloudcraft also has other famous trails, such as The Osha Trail, Rim Trail, and Trestle Recreation Area, that tourists love to visit.
Jemez Springs
Last on our list but certainly not least in importance, Jemez Springs is located in the Jemez Mountains in the northern part of New Mexico. The Jemez Mountains are a perfect place to hike and get back in tune with nature. For those who are fans of wildlife, you can see various bears, cougars, and even an endangered species known as the Jemez Mountains salamander, if you're lucky!
Enjoy local New Mexican cuisines such as Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon and Jemez Mountain Brewhouse. Couple your stay in the Laughing Lizard Inn to get all the experiences you need in one stay. By staying at this Inn, you are just a short drive from the popular towns of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, making it a truly ideal destination while remaining close to the metropolises of the state.
New Mexico is a fantastic and underrated destination that features a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of natural beauty in its many mountain ranges. Enjoy the taste of some of the best enchiladas and tamales you’ve ever had. Then, take the family for a hike in one of the famous mountain ranges these seven towns offer. Make these cute towns the must-see places in 2024, you will not be disappointed!
