10 Must-See Places in New Mexico That You Should Visit Before You Die

This lifetime is too short just to be simply stuck in one place. You should definitely go out there and explore what the universe has to offer. In New Mexico, there are a lot of enchanting places that you won’t regret visiting. If you’re up for the challenge, don’t miss this opportunity to see these 10 must-see places in New Mexico before you die.

Check out the must-see places in New Mexico:

1. Brazos Cliffs

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If you want to know exactly where you can see beautiful sunsets, then you should visit Brazos Cliff! It is located just off the south of the Colorado border. The famous destination is outstanding in itself because it is made up of some of the oldest rock found in New Mexico. Some of the rocks in this dramatic landscape even date back to 1.8 billion years. It’s amazing, right? The Brazos Cliffs are created largely by volcanoes, the Precambrian quartzite cliffs rise upward from their base over 2,000 feet.

When you come here, you’ll see how the sun rays reflect against the rocks, and its illuminating colors are truly stunning. Don’t forget to bring your cameras to capture this beautiful mountain range. We are sure that you’d love to keep the beautiful memory.

Location: Rio Arriba County, New Mexico

2. Valles Caldera

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Have you seen the Netflix series “Longmire?” If you’re a fan of the show, all the more reason that you need to visit Valles Caldera because you’ll be able to see the Sheriff’s cabin right in front of your eyes. It is truly a must-visit destination. But, that’s not the only reason why you should see this Valles Caldera. Aside from the fact that it is Longmire’s filming location, it really is one of the must-see places in New Mexico. Not to mention, it has a rich wildlife and an amazing view of the mountain valleys.

Every year, thousands of visitors come to Valles Caldera National Preserve to explore the unique geology. You will also have fun learning about the historic cabins and other prehistoric sites. It is time to make lifelong memories here!

Fun Fact: Valles Caldera is actually the oldest caldera volcano in America!

Location: Sandoval County, New Mexico

3. Blue Hole

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Did you know that before becoming a popular diving spot, this stunning place in New Mexico was once a fish hatchery? Now, this pool with pristine blue waters is fit for scuba-diving and swimming. Many people from over the globe come here to tick this place off their bucket list.

What’s so interesting in this place is that Blue Hole is in the middle of a desert. When it becomes too hot, it would be convenient to cool down and stay refreshed in the cool waters.

Location: Guadalupe County, near Santa Rosa, New Mexico

4. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

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Who would’ve thought that a bridge is one of the must-see places in New Mexico? If you think this suggestion is “lame,” think again! Did you know that the 7th highest bridge in the United States of America is located in New Mexico? And yes, this is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge in Taos! The bridge is standing tall at 650 feet above the water, and spans across the Rio Grande Gorge.

While it may be just a bridge for others, it is actually named the Most Beautiful Steel Bridge back in 1966. Visitors or even locals who are looking for some breathtaking views of Taos should definitely go here. It doesn’t matter whether you look at the north or south side, the wondrous sights will delight your eyes!

Location: Taos, New Mexico

5. White Sands

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You’ve probably heard about some beautiful beaches with white sands around the world. Well, look at what this next destination is.

White Sands is a stunning wonder in New Mexico. It is not your ordinary beach. Instead, it has the whitest sands of all time! It’s so pure that it could be mistaken as snow, and we are not exaggerating. Just look at the photo! Indeed, White Sands is a picture-perfect spot for your Instagram photos. If you want to have a bit of fun, you can even slide down the dunes.

Location: Dona Ana County, New Mexico

6. Ghost Ranch

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If there’s one activity that you should not miss out when visiting the Ghost Ranch, it would probably be horseback riding. While you may have tried different horseback riding activities like the one that treats you to views of gorgeous streams, meadows, and scenic sites, this one in Ghost Ranch is equally enjoyable! The 21,000-acre place will give you a lot to see. The rock walls are vibrant and majestic, you’d just look at it with admiration. No wonder that the Ghost Ranch was the inspiration of Georgia O’Keeffe for her artworks. This kind of setting will uplift the artists!

Location: 280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, New Mexico

7. Carlsbad Caverns

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New Mexico has been blessed by the heavens with the 120 discovered caves (and counting) in Carlsbad. It is such a hit with many visitors because it shows the beauty and wonder of what you can find above and below. You will see ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, as well as desert wildlife.

What else? Even the waters inside the caves are so pure you can see clearly what’s below there. When visiting here, it’s best to join guided cave tours so that you’ll learn a lot about Carlsbad Caverns along the way. You have the option to take the hard tours that require scrambling and crawling, or the usual tours. Remember, this is one of the most stunning places in New Mexico.

Location: Carlsbad, New Mexico

8. Bisti Bad Lands

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One of the must-see places in New Mexico is definitely Bisti Bad Lands. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind place in the state, this spot is simply perfect. What you will see here are towering rock formations that may look unusual. For instance, the photo looks like a big mushroom. Look at everything from afar and frame it into one perspective and we are sure you will see it as one picturesque sight.

This wilderness area has a striking landscape of iconic rock formations. You may also hit the hiking or horseback trails if you want a more adventurous activity.

Location: County Road 7297, Bloomfield, New Mexico

9. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

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Is this picture real? Or is it a painting? Well, would you be surprised if our answer is the former? One of the must-see places in New Mexico includes a masterpiece made by a volcanic eruption. The cone-shaped tent rock formations were created around 6 to 7 million years ago.

This masterpiece is now considered as one of the most stunning places in New Mexico. The towering tent-shaped rocks that were created because of erosion are pretty amazing! If you want to take a hike here, just know that while the hike is easy, the trail to the top is not for everyone. Individuals who are physically capable of reaching the top will find that all the efforts exerted in climbing the steep stairs and squeezing in tight spaces are worth it.

The rangers you will see and be with are also friendly and accommodating. Don’t be shy to ask any questions if you want to learn more about the place and its history!

Location: 0 NM-22, Cochiti Pueblo, New Mexico

10. Santa Fe Baldy

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High mountains, clear blue skies, pine trees are some of the things we all want to see in a beautiful landscape. If you don’t want to waste your precious time going to different places for all that, you can check them out in Santa Fe Baldy! Expect that it will be quite a long hike to get to the top, but surely, you will be in awe once you see the amazing views!

Location: Santa Fe County, New Mexico

What do you think of these must-see places in New Mexico? Feel free to share with us your thoughts below!

Reminder before you check out the must-see places in New Mexico

Before you go to any of these destinations, we want to remind you to come only when it is safe. Given the global health crisis now, it is best if you exercise caution, or even postpone your planned trip if needed. Remember that safety and health should be your top priority. If you decide to go, make sure that you practice safe hygiene habits and proper social distancing. On some spots, the entrance tickets will also be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.