Summary
New Mexico is a state characterized by a diverse range of landscapes, from expansive deserts to towering mountain ranges. Throughout American history, artists have been drawn to New Mexico, inspired by its natural beauty. Consequently, it is not surprising that many travelers, while visiting New Mexico, prefer to explore its smaller towns instead of its major cities.
Small towns in New Mexico often cultivate distinctive and vibrant identities, perhaps owing to the spaciousness they enjoy. For instance, one small town has named itself after a game show, another is famous solely for its pies, and various towns proudly claim Billy the Kid—a well-known outlaw—as a part of their heritage. Each of these quaint locations possesses a unique charm and character.
The small towns featured below serve as excellent destinations for extended stays or simply as appealing stopovers. Regardless of the duration of your visit, each location merits exploration, and you will quickly discover why.
Let us examine the top small towns to visit in New Mexico:
1. Taos
Surrounded by the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is a small town renowned for its thriving arts scene. Prominent artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams have drawn inspiration from the area’s breathtaking scenery. The town boasts a rich tapestry of spiritual traditions, culture, and remarkable architecture and serves as an excellent base for visiting Taos Pueble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Aside from immersing oneself in cultural experiences, Taos offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. In winter, there are nearby ski resorts, while warmer months invite activities such as hiking, hot air ballooning, ziplining, camping, and lake exploration.
2. Silver City
Silver City plays a significant role in the vivid narratives surrounding the American Wild West, notably serving as the location where Billy the Kid was apprehended.
Presently, Silver City offers a wealth of attractions for visitors interested in live performances, western heritage, and a dynamic downtown square. Notable museums include the Western New Mexico University Museum and the Silver City Museum, housing artifacts that reflect the unique culture of America’s Southwest.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the town provides countless opportunities to enjoy nature at locations like Big Ditch Park, Chino Mine Vista Point, Penny Park, the Gila National Forest, and the Mimbres River Preserve, making it apparent why the local community cherishes this vibrant locale.
3. Chimayó
Chimayó, a charming town located near Santa Fe, is celebrated for its heirloom chili. Its proximity to Santa Fe makes it an accessible day trip where visitors can indulge in flavorful, spice-laden cuisine while also experiencing traditional weaving techniques. The town is renowned for its extraordinary textiles produced by the Ortega and Trujillo families, with each piece showcasing incomparable artistry.
Moreover, Chimayó is historically significant as a pilgrimage site where the dirt is considered sacred. Thousands of visitors journey to El Santuario de Chimayó church, which houses a portion of this revered soil, often applying it in hopes of alleviating ailments.
4. Truth or Consequences
Truth or Consequences, often affectionately referred to as T&C by locals, earned its name in 1950 when a radio host challenged any town to adopt the title. The playful spirit of the residents led to the town’s new identity, thus attracting a community of fun-loving inhabitants.
Visitors to T&C can explore various spas and hot springs that dot the landscape, providing opportunities for relaxation and leisure. The town also serves as a prime location for accessing Elephant Butte Lake State Park, an outdoor hub for fishing, hiking, and swimming.
5. Cloudcroft
Cloudcroft, a small town with over a century of history, has developed from its humble beginnings as a pioneer village to a beloved destination set against breathtaking mountain vistas. Many visitors come to enjoy the remarkable natural surroundings, yet they often find themselves charmed by the unique architecture and amiable locals. In winter, adventure awaits in the form of winter sports, including cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowmobiling.
Life in Cloudcroft seems to center around celebrations. This small town, despite its modest size, hosts events such as the Badass Mountain Music Festival, the July Jamboree Arts and Crafts Show, and a variety of live performances, showcasing the vibrant community spirit.
6. Rodeo
Rodeo is a remarkably small town that lacks even a gas station. Nevertheless, it showcases a deep-rooted heritage steeped in the traditions of the Wild West. Nestled between the Chiricahua and Peloncillo mountains, this town features the popular Rodeo Tavern, a local gathering spot that comes alive on weekends. Art enthusiasts can visit numerous galleries, including the Chiricahua Desert Museum and Gallery, Davidson’s Mini Dreams display, and the Sky Gypsies exhibit. When seeking outdoor activity, numerous hiking trails beckon explorers to delve into the area’s stunning landscapes.
7. Las Vegas
Las Vegas in New Mexico stands in stark contrast to its namesake in Nevada. This small town proudly embraces authenticity, with its myriad antique shops, eclectic art displays, and numerous museums, all complemented by lively music venues. The town’s motto, “Damn Authentic,” is evidenced by its selection as a filming location for various movies, underscoring its genuine character.
In addition to its intriguing aesthetics and setting, Las Vegas hosts one of New Mexico’s few drive-in theaters and has a rich and colorful history marked by legendary figures such as Billy the Kid, Jesse James, and Wyatt Earp. Fortunately, the days of violent confrontations have passed, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of this unique town.
8. Aztec
Aztec is a quintessential destination for history enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its cultural landmarks and serves as a tranquil base for appreciating traditional western aesthetics. Visitors can explore the Aztec Ruins National Monument to discover ancient Pueblo architecture, with large ruins dating back over 900 years and the Great House showcasing over 400 masonry rooms. Additionally, the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village highlights the resilience of pioneers and features authentic artifacts.
Nature lovers will revel in the presence of over 300 sandstone natural arches, creating a surreal landscape reminiscent of another planet. For further exploration, the nearby San Juan River offers excellent fishing opportunities within picturesque sandstone canyons.
9. Madrid
Once a ghost town, Madrid has transformed into a vibrant community with a population of around 300. This small town serves as a prominent stop along the scenic Turquoise Trail on Highway 14, famous for its turquoise mining heritage. Regardless of whether you are passing through, indulging in a green chili burger from Mine Shaft Tavern, the town’s most frequented establishment, is highly recommended.
Visitors to Madrid can discover an array of galleries and art shops. Notable favorites include Trading Bird, Indigo Gallery, and Starshine Gallery, where unique Turquoise handcrafted jewelry can be discovered. For those interested in shopping, Madrid also houses various antique shops and boutique clothing stores, presenting items that cannot be found elsewhere.
10. Mesilla
Over the past century, Mesilla has retained much of its architectural charm. The plaza and village remain as beautiful as ever, allowing visitors to envision the days when Billy the Kid held sway. The Mesilla Plaza has earned distinction as a National Historic Landmark due to its cultural significance.
Locals proudly express their hospitality by adorning their homes and businesses with ristras, which are strings of red chile. Attending a cultural event in Mesilla is highly rewarding, as numerous celebrations take place throughout the year. Popular festivities include Cinco de Mayo, Día de los Muertos, Mariachi Festivals, Jazz Concerts, and Christmas Eve celebrations, when the town illuminates with hundreds of luminarias.
11. Ruidoso
Ruidoso is a mountain town enveloped by over a million acres of natural beauty, featuring national forests, hiking and mountain biking trails, along with peaceful lakes and streams. During the winter months, Ski Apache ski resort provides an excellent getaway for winter sports enthusiasts. Ruidoso stands out as an ideal destination for those passionate about outdoor adventures.
This town is also recognized for its flourishing art scene, particularly showcasing Native American styled jewelry and artwork. It features an array of restaurants, boutique shops, and historical sites. However, when in Ruidoso, it is best to embrace the local lifestyle by taking the time to relax and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. Two guiding principles here are: don’t rush.
12. Red River
Regardless of the season, Red River remains an essential destination for any visitor to New Mexico, as it offers an abundance of activities. Although this town once carried a more tumultuous identity characterized by brothels and bar fights, it has since evolved into a more tranquil community bustling with annual events.
Adventure seekers can utilize Red River as a base for zip-lining, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and much more. Visitors can also find an assortment of cozy cabins for rent, perfect for warming up in winter or relaxing during the warmer months. Should the wide array of activities become overwhelming, consider indulging in one of the town’s spas for a soothing massage or mud wrap.
13. Pie Town
Prepare for puns in Pie Town, where the Pie-o-neer Pie café offers delightful pies that may indeed be a dream come true. The town was named after a café famous for its exceptional apple pies, though some locals humorously suggest its title derives from its remoteness, described as being “3.14 miles from nowhere.”
This locale serves as an excellent rest stop for travelers on the Continental Divide Trail, where one can enjoy a generous slice of artisanal pie. One well-known creation is the Mexican Apple Pie from Good Pie Café, featuring blends of locally grown green chile and pinon. Many visitors flock to Pie Town not only for the desserts but also for the captivating isolation it offers, which inspires artists seeking to create in a true pioneer town surrounded by expansive nature.
14. Belen
The residents of Belen have long embraced self-sufficiency. The town emerged from a group of forty families who transformed Belen into a thriving community, now featuring a variety of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, and citizens who cherish the beauty of the Rio Grande Valley. While in Belen, an essential stop is the Belen Harvey House Museum, a historical structure ideal for exploration and photography. Additionally, Belen serves as a convenient resting point for long-distance travelers, conveniently situated off the I-25 and I-40 highways.
15. Clayton
Clayton, known as the Town of Enchantment, boasts a rich historical narrative rooted in the Dust Bowl era when families migrated to seek new opportunities. It was the first town established along the Santa Fe Trail following the advent of the railroad from Kansas. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in Native American culture, enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Rabbit Ear Mountains, and experience the unique allure of this charming town.
