Nestled in the scenic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos offers an authentic Southwestern experience like no other. From the ancient Taos Pueblo to the bustling Taos Plaza with its art galleries and shops. The town's art scene is legendary, attracting artists and creatives from around the world. The region's natural wonders provide outdoor enthusiasts with endless opportunities for adventure. With its rich Native American heritage, vibrant arts community, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Taos captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders.
This historic Native American village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. It is made up of multi-story adobe buildings, with some structures dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the village and learn about the rich Native American culture and history through guided tours led by tribal members. Inside the pueblo, you'll find traditional dwellings, ceremonial spaces, and artisan shops where you can purchase handmade crafts, pottery, and jewelry.
Surrounded by historic buildings, the plaza exudes a charming atmosphere with its adobe architecture and traditional Southwestern style. You can spend hours exploring the unique shops, art galleries, and boutiques that line the plaza, offering a wide range of locally made crafts, jewelry, and artwork. Taos Plaza is also known for its vibrant art scene, and you'll often find street performers and musicians adding to the lively ambiance. The plaza is an excellent spot to relax on a bench, people-watch, and soak in the vibrant energy of Taos.
Housed in the former residence of Russian-American artist Nicolai Fechin, the museum showcases a collection of Fechin's remarkable paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Fechin, known for his expressive style and mastery of capturing light and shadow, was an influential figure in the Taos art colony in the early 20th century. The museum provides an intimate look into Fechin's life and artistic process, with many of his personal belongings and studio preserved in their original setting. The Fechin House itself is a work of art, with its unique architecture and hand-carved details.
The Kit Carson Home and Museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of the American West's most legendary figures. Christopher "Kit" Carson was an explorer, fur trapper, and soldier who played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. The museum is located in Carson's former adobe home, which has been meticulously restored and filled with exhibits showcasing his life and achievements. Explore artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings that tell the story of Carson's adventures and his interactions with Native American tribes.
Spanning 650 feet above the Rio Grande River, this steel arch bridge offers breathtaking views and a sense of grandeur. The bridge is one of the highest suspension bridges in the United States and provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. You can walk along the pedestrian walkways to take in the stunning panoramas of the dramatic gorge and the rugged beauty of the river below. It's a popular spot for photographers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers who enjoy bungee jumping or rappelling from the bridge.
Taos Ski Valley is a winter paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. This renowned ski resort offers a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert terrain. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy other winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. If you're visiting during the summer months, Taos Ski Valley transforms into a playground for hikers and mountain bikers, with scenic trails offering stunning alpine views and wildflower-filled meadows.
Named after Millicent Rogers, an influential fashion designer and art collector, the museum houses an extensive collection of Native American jewelry, pottery, textiles, and contemporary Southwestern art. The exhibits take you on a journey through time, exploring the cultural heritage of the region's Native American tribes and their artistic expressions. You can marvel at intricate turquoise and silver jewelry, delicate Pueblo pottery, and vibrant Navajo weavings. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits that highlight different aspects of Southwestern art and culture, providing a well-rounded experience.
Developed by architect Michael Reynolds, Earthship homes are self-sufficient, off-grid dwellings made from recycled and natural materials. These unique structures utilize renewable energy sources such as solar power and rainwater harvesting to create a sustainable living environment. Visitors can take guided tours of the Earthship Biotecture community, where they can explore different types of Earthship homes and learn about their construction and environmental principles. It's a fascinating opportunity to see firsthand how sustainable living can be achieved.
This popular brewery combines craft beer with live entertainment, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere. The brewery features a spacious taproom where you can sample a variety of their handcrafted beers, including seasonal and experimental brews. The rustic charm of the taproom, with its exposed beams and adobe walls, adds to the authentic Taos experience. Taos Mesa Brewing Company is also known for hosting live music events, ranging from local bands to nationally recognized acts. The outdoor amphitheater provides a unique setting to enjoy great music.
As the highest peak in New Mexico, standing at an elevation of 13,167 feet, Wheeler Peak offers breathtaking alpine scenery and a rewarding challenge for hikers. The trail to the summit takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, and rocky slopes. Along the way, you'll encounter cascading streams, wildlife, and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Reaching the summit provides a sense of accomplishment and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and distant horizons.
