Discovering New Mexico: A Cultural and Natural Wonderland

Known as the Land of Enchantment, the state of New Mexico in the southwestern United States lives up to its nickname. Home to 23 native tribes, this is an ideal spot to learn about indigenous culture, art, and music while also enjoying the food and natural beauty of the American Southwest.

My name is ShanDien Sonwai LaRance, and I am a Native American hoop dancer from the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo of the Eight Northern Pueblos of New Mexico. My tribal affiliations are Hopi, Tewa, Navajo, and Assiniboine.

I am very proud of the Indigenous land from which my ancestors and I come, and I love sharing my culture through performance art. At one point in my career, I toured with Cirque du Soleil; today, I spend my time teaching the next generation of Indigenous youth Native American hoop dance.

Why You Should Learn About New Mexico

What I love most about my home, New Mexico, are the desert landscapes and the influence of both Indigenous and Spanish cultures. Moreover, I cherish the fresh air, open skies, and stunning sunsets.

Nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico will surely bewitch you with its unique cuisine, unforgettable sunsets, and the incredible art and history of its Indigenous peoples. Ultimately, this is where you can experience what I like to call “true American culture.”

For an ideal day in New Mexico, I would start in artsy, historic Santa Fe. Located at 7000ft (2134m) above sea level, it is the highest state capital in the USA. In addition to its great museums, its location makes for an excellent launching point for outdoor adventures like mountain biking and hiking.

Cultural Heritage: Bandelier National Monument and Pueblos

One important aspect of our culture is our connection to the earth and to this land. Bandelier National Monument represents a significant piece of this history. Here, you’ll see caves and alcoves that were home to ancestral Puebloans until the mid-1500s.

Consider taking the High Road between Santa Fe and Taos to visit pueblos that still exist today. This winding route provides a picturesque tour of stunning landscapes, showcasing numerous adobe homes along the way. Just north of Taos, you’ll discover Taos Pueblo, a 1000-year-old village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Chimayó, don’t miss the El Santuario de Chimayó, a Roman Catholic Church established in 1813. This site has long been a place for those seeking spiritual and physical healing, and the church was built over a spot believed to possess miraculous healing properties. Generations of Pueblo people have visited, bringing tokens of gratitude after rubbing the “tierra bendita” (holy dirt) on their ailments.

For another rejuvenating experience, check out the natural hot springs of Ojo Caliente. More than 140 years old, it is one of the oldest known health resorts in the country. The Pueblo people also frequented these sacred springs for healing, and today, the resort offers 11 unique mineral soaking pools, including a meditative soda pool and a mud-bath experience to soothe both body and soul.

Art: Immerse Yourself in Santa Fe’s Rich Creative Scene

Wander through the galleries and shops in Santa Fe to immerse yourself in the local art scene. In the very same places where Puebloans have sold their artisan work for generations, Indigenous creators today offer unique pieces to visitors. You’ll discover everything from crafted jewelry to traditionally woven rugs and clay pots, making it a perfect opportunity to support local artists.

Take a well-deserved break for lunch, sampling New Mexican cuisine at Del Charro. Afterward, delve deeper into Indigenous arts, from ancient times to the present, at the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. Both institutions provide invaluable insights into the stories of Puebloan peoples through the works of Indigenous artists.

For a unique experience, be sure to visit Meow Wolf, an immersive, hands-on art space where you’re encouraged to touch, open, and crawl through installations to appreciate the various multisensory surprises fully.

Tip: Enjoy breakfast or a midday snack at Chocolate Maven Bakery & Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious tarts and handmade biscochitos.

Land: Experience Ghost Ranch and Hot Air Ballooning

To truly connect with the beauty of the land, take a day trip from Santa Fe to the 21,000 acres of open space at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiú.

Famed painter Georgia O’Keeffe had a home and studio here, and the surrounding desert often inspired her artwork. This stunning location has also served as the backdrop for major Hollywood films like City Slickers and Wyatt Earp.

There’s an array of activities available, from horseback riding to hiking along its eight trails. If you prefer indoor explorations, you can visit the Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology and the Georgia O’Keeffe Home. Participating in one of the scheduled tours or activities is also a rewarding option.

Once you’ve connected with New Mexico from ground level, consider getting a bird’s-eye view. New Mexico is renowned for its hot-air ballooning tradition, and one of the best ways to witness the state’s beauty is from the air. The Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, celebrated every October, has reached its 50th anniversary. While this is an unmissable chance to see hundreds of beautifully decorated balloons soar into the sky, hot-air ballooning is also available throughout the year across the state, weather permitting.