8 Most Idyllic Small Towns In New Mexico
With its breathtaking scenery, sweeping vistas, and rugged landscapes, it is no wonder that the southwestern state of New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment. Throughout the state are several small towns that captivate visitors with their vibrant cultures, rich history, and natural beauty. From the enchanting town of Farmington, located in the Four Corners region, to the historic town of Mesilla in the southwestern corner of the state, here are eight idyllic small towns in New Mexico that offer something for everyone.
Taos
With a population of just over 6,042, Taos offers a unique blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico, the town’s adobe architecture is enhanced by the backdrop of rugged, snow-capped peaks. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking and biking in the surrounding mountains during warmer months while skiing at the iconic Taos Ski Valley in the winter.
The town is also famous for its adobe architecture, art galleries, and the historic Taos Pueblo. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a multi-storied adobe village that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. In town, art lovers and history buffs alike can discover works and history at the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House, located in the former house of Russian artist Nicolai Fechin. More art and history can be viewed at the Harwood Museum of Art, featuring local artworks that date back more than 400 years.
Cloudcroft
Tucked away in the Sacramento Mountains at 8,676 feet above sea level, Cloudcroft is a charming mountain town known for its cool climate, scenic beauty, and seasonal outdoor adventures. Situated within the Lincoln National Forest, hikers can explore scenic trails and the enchanting Trestle Vista Observation Site, where steam engines climbed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The area provides views of the Mexican Canyon Railroad Trestle, a wooden bridge from 1899 built among the lush pine forest. In the winter, the town boasts the southernmost ski area in New Mexico, known as Ski Cloudcroft. Visitors can ski and snowboard on 25 trails, as well as tube on five snow-covered lanes.
Cloudcroft also offers an idyllic downtown area with wooden buildings, scenic views, and rich history. Take a guided tour at the Sacramento Mountains Museum and Pioneer Village to learn more about the early settlers in the area. Afterward, grab a bite and a local pint at Cloudcroft Brewing Company, all while soaking in the scenic views of the towering pines on the outdoor patio.
Mesilla
Nestled in the Mesilla Valley near Las Cruces, Mesilla is a charming historic town known for its adobe buildings, tree-lined streets, and vibrant plaza. The Mesilla Plaza is surrounded by historic buildings, such as the Basilica of San Albino, one of the oldest churches in the area. Located in Old Mesilla, visitors enjoy strolling the idyllic downtown area, viewing art at Galeria on the Plaza, and enjoying delicious southern New Mexico food at the Double Eagle, housed in a historic building from 1849. History can also be explored at the Gadsden Museum, an eclectic museum showcasing a Billy the Kid jail cell, a replica of the Gadsden Purchase, and Native American art.
Beyond its historic roots, Mesilla offers scenic outdoor adventures. The Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is less than two miles from the historic downtown area. Situated along the Rio Grande River, nature lovers can hike along picturesque trails with views of wildlife and cacti. This park is also a stop on the Statewide Birding Trail, designated an Audubon Important Birding Area.
Las Cruces
The enchanting town of Las Cruces is nestled in the picturesque Mesilla Valley of southern New Mexico, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant charm. Surrounded by the majestic Organ Mountains and the Rio Grande River, Las Cruces boasts stunning vistas at the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, mountain bike, and ride on horseback along the idyllic mountain peaks that rise above the Chihuahuan Desert. More outdoor adventures and history can be explored at the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in the Robledo Mountains. The trackway features hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as animal footprints that are more than 280 million years old.
For a look at the town’s history, Las Cruces has a network of museums in the historic downtown area, all boasting free admission. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History for exhibits on desert life, Permian trackways, and astronomy. Nearby is the Railroad Museum, situated in a historic Santa Fe Railroad depot. The area is also home to the Las Cruces Museum of Art, showcasing local, regional, and international artists.
Farmington
Farmington is nestled in the heart of the Four Corners region, where the states of New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado meet. Situated along the Animas River, Farmington is an enchanting town known for its outdoor adventure, Native American culture, and scenic beauty. The town is a gateway to several rivers, and National Parks. Outdoor adventures await nearby at Lake Farmington, a great spot for fishing, boating, and sunbathing on the beach. Just south of town is Bisti Badlands, home to rugged landscapes and idyllic natural formations. Visitors can explore hoodoos and sandstones while hiking through the wilderness.
In town, Farmington offers rich history and idyllic views of nature. Nature and history buffs can explore natural history at the Bolack Museum of Fish and Wildlife, as well as art exhibits and regional history at the Farmington Museum. Nearby is the Riverside Nature Center, overlooking the wetlands along the Animas River. Visitors can view wildlife, learn more about local ecosystems, and discover native plants in the center’s garden.
Corrales
Located just north of Albuquerque, Corrales is a tranquil village known for its rural charm and rugged beauty. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque streets in the Corrales Arts and Cultural District to discover folk art at Pachamama and work by various artists at the Corrales Bosque Gallery. For history buffs, the town boasts historic adobe structures, such as the Casa San Ysidro, also known as the Albuquerque Museum History House, is an adobe house built in the 1870s. Visitors can view art collections and local furnishings inside the historic home, which is also a stop along the El Camino Real de la Tierra Adentro National Interpretive Trail.
The town is also home to idyllic outdoor adventures, such as kayaking and fishing in the Rio Grande River and hiking in the Sandia Mountains with panoramic views of the valley below. Another scenic spot to view the surrounding natural beauty and wildlife is The Corrales Bosque Preserve. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, or horseback ride along several trails in the cottonwood forest.
Silver City
Nestled in the Gila National Forest, Silver City is a serene town for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The town allows visitors to escape the crowds by exploring the town’s Historic District, where more than thirty art galleries showcase the town's rich cultural heritage. For a taste of nostalgia, visitors step back in time and catch a movie at the historic Silco Theater, built in 1923. History buffs also enjoy exploring the Silver City Museum, showcasing exhibits about the town’s past.
Along with its vibrant art community and incredible history, Silver City boasts scenic outdoor activities. Explore the ancient mysteries of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, an enchanting historical site dating back to the 1200s. The Continental Divide Trail also winds its way through the scenic Gila National Forest, offering a unique hiking adventure. The National Forest also provides many hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails in the area.
Chama
Situated in the Chama Valley in northern New Mexico is Chama, a charming railroad town known for its historic train depot and steam-powered trains. History comes alive in Chama, where visitors can step back in time and experience the golden age of railroads aboard the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. The train ride winds through both New Mexico and Colorado, providing breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. The town itself is known for its Western-style buildings and business district with local restaurants, such as the Outlaw BBQ Company and the Rio Chama Espresso Kitchen and Wine Bar.
The town is also a great base for scenic outdoor adventures. The Sargent’s Wildlife Area offers an incredible elk overlook area along with several hiking trails. More hiking and mountain biking trails surround the enchanting town in the majestic Rocky Mountains, including the Continental Divide Trail. The area is also home to the Rio Chama, a serene place for anglers to fly fish.
Scenic Towns in New Mexico
These idyllic towns offer incredible views of nature, rich history to explore, and vibrant art communities. From soaking in the scenic beauty in Taos to strolling the historic streets of Mesilla, New Mexico offers several enchanting towns that allow visitors to discover the magic of the southwest. Whether exploring the eclectic art community in Corrales or the network of museums in Las Cruces, these towns in New Mexico provide a memorable getaway for all visitors.
