8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in New Mexico
New Mexico is a melting pot of Native American culture, mixed with Spanish and Western traditions, right from the rugged mountains down to the desert plains. Life moves somewhat languidly here in the so-called Land of Enchantment, where its small towns act as havens for relaxation. From natural hot springs to historic sights, grab a pen and paper to make note of the eight most laid-back small towns in New Mexico.
Taos
Taos is known for its artistic, natural wonders. Its downtown plaza speaks to local interests, including Taos Mountain Outfitters and Op. Cit. Books sell weird trinkets that tourists go to this city for. Taos Pueblo is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which has much to tell about Native American history in this place. Harwood Museum of Art showcases regional art, and Kit Carson Home and Museum takes visitors into the life of the legendary frontiersman.
Visitors can take leisurely walks through the John Dunn Shops and observe artisans and craftspeople at their respective crafts, or catch an outdoor summer concert series in Kit Carson Park. For more history, just minutes from downtown, the La Hacienda de los Martinez is an intact 1804 Spanish colonial hacienda.
Silver City
The mining past and a vibrant arts community combine in Silver City. Turn stops into local treasure troves at places like the Seedboat Gallery, or pick up handmade gifts at The Silver City Food Co-op. The Silver City Museum delineates Wild West history, while a little further away, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument allows visitors to hike and explore ancient cliff homes.
There is also the Western New Mexico University Museum, home to Mimbres pottery and cultural items. Penny Park is a great place for parents to relax while children enjoy the playground. For outdoor enthusiasts who love to hike, check out Dragonfly Trail.
Ruidoso
Ruidoso is favored as a regular escape since it blends outdoor prettiness with the appeal of a small town. Try the burgers at Hall Of Flame Burgers, or find relaxation at Blue Lotus Day Spa & Yoga Studio. Explore local artistry and draw inspiration at Mountain Arts Gallery-Framing or check out Casino Apache for a fun night of gambling.
Grindstone Lake provides good opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Ruidoso Downs Racetrack brings excitement in summer. Worth a visit, too, is the Noisy Water Winery, the hot spot for wine tastings among locals, and the nearby Alto Artists Studio Tour, which includes an annual showcase of works by local artists.
Madrid
Right in the middle of this section of stunning natural beauty along the Turquoise Trail is the ghost town of Madrid, now populated with artists. The Jezebel Studio offers hand-crafted jewelry, and one can also stop by the Indigo Gallery for an exhibition of works by locals. Mine Shaft Tavern serves food, drinks, and often live music in a historic mining building, serving as the town hangout.
The Madrid Old Coal Town Museum showcases mining history in the town, and there are handmade candies available at Shugarman's Little Chocolate Shop. Close by is also Cerrillos Hills State Park, with its quiet trails and views of the surrounding landscape.
Truth or Consequences
Truth or Consequences, or "T or C," as it's affectionately known, is host to natural hot springs and is, consequently, inherently a relaxing retreat. The highlight of the town is Riverbend Hot Springs, where guests can soak in natural mineral springs by the Rio Grande. A meal is served up at the Passion Pie Café, while local crafts can be found at Dust & Glitter.
This town offers a Native American and pioneer history at the Geronimo Springs Museum and a rich soak at Blackstone Hotsprings Lodging & Baths. A short drive brings one to Elephant Butte Lake State Park, New Mexico's largest lake, where one can go boating or fishing.
Jemez Springs
Jemez Springs is a quiet little village with hot springs and is surrounded by prettier mountain landscapes. Take a soak in Jemez Hot Springs or investigate the ancient ruins at the Jemez Historic Site. Downtown, take your time to see the local bathhouse called the Jemez Springs Bath House or purchase handmade crafts from the Jemez Fine Art Gallery.
Local flavor is provided by Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon, while Spence Hot Springs and Soda Dam are nearby. Take an easy walk into the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a huge volcanic caldera now sheltering wildlife and stunning views for nature lovers and environmental enthusiasts.
Cloudcroft
Located in the Sacramento Mountains, Cloudcroft is a world of cooler air and easy pacing, the perfect escape. Find fresh pastry downtown at The Burro Street Baker. The Sacramento Mountains Museum is the place to go to learn about the area's history, while the historic Lodge at Cloudcroft is famous for having hosted celebrities and presidents.
Nearby, there is also the Lodge Golf for golf lovers or onlookers who want to enjoy the sunshine while hitting a few putts. Afterward, take a hike on the Osha Trail or visit Sunspot Solar Observatory for quiet space observation.
Las Vegas
It is unhurried, laid-back, and plain fun. Las Vegas, New Mexico, is home to more than 900 preserved historic buildings, along with fresh Southwestern cuisine full of homemade goodies at Charlie's Spic & Span Bakery and Café. Natural hot water springs at Montezuma Hot Springs, just out of town, keep things low-key. The Rough Riders Memorial Collection gives a look into the unusual military history of this town, while the recently renovated Castaneda Hotel offers up historic digs.
Meanwhile, the proximity to Storrie Lake State Park keeps boating and fishing serene. Other attractions include the City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection, which documents the Las Vegas and Rough Riders regiment.
New Mexico's small towns welcome visitors into the quiet, unhurried pace of Taos, Silver City, and beyond. It is the perfect place to unwind while soaking in all of the wonders that exist in the desert. Discover why New Mexico's small towns carry so much wonder and history. From natural hot springs to rich history and unique shops, these quiet towns are sure to give you everything you would want in one calm, rejuvenating getaway.
