The Land of Enchantment is one of the most historically rich and culturally diverse places in the country. From Native American life to Spanish conquistadors, there is so much to see. Here are a few of our recommendations.
Bandelier National Monument
In an hour-long drive, you can travel back in time 11,000 years by visiting this historical wonder. Bandelier features not only 33,000 acres of canyons and mesas, but historical evidence of the life of the Ancestral Pueblo people who inhabited the area from 1150 to 1550 C.E. All their trails are currently open, giving you the chance to see this amazing site up close.
Taos Plaza
This well-known tourist destination and weekend getaway dates back to the 17th century, when Spanish settlers first appeared. The actual plaza was established in 1796 through a land grant given to 63 families by the king of Spain. The designs and buildings currently in the plaza date back to the 1930s. Spend a weekend strolling through the plaza, enjoying the galleries, handcrafted jewelry, and delicious New Mexican cuisine. And don’t miss their incredible live music scene!
Jemez National Historic Landmark
Just an hour and a half away, this incredible tourist attraction mixes prehistoric and historic sites. There are stone ruins of a 700-year-old village, a church dating back to 1621, and a beautiful canyon to explore. You’ll learn all about early Spanish settlers and the Jemez (Walatowa) people.
Coronado Historic Site
This is the location where Francisco Vásquez de Coronado arrived on his search for the Seven Cities of Gold and where he met the native Tiwa people, whom he called the Pueblo Indians. The kiva (ceremonial center) at this site is covered in murals widely recognized as some of the finest and most famous examples of pre-Columbian art in the country. You’ll also get to enjoy some of the most stunning views of the Rio Grande River and Sandia Mountains.
Fort Seldon
Next time you head out to White Sands, be sure to stop at this historic location. Here, you’ll see 1,400 years of history spool out before you, from the explorations of the Mogollon farmers of 400 A.D. to the development of a military presence in the 19th Century.
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