The 20 Best Things to Do in Taos, NM
Experience the magic of a high desert town where ancient traditions, vibrant art, and outdoor adventures collide.
Taos, New Mexico isn't your average small town. It's a place where the past and present dance together in a swirl of adobe buildings, world-class art, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Nestled in the high desert of northern New Mexico, Taos has been captivating visitors for centuries with its unique blend of Native American, Spanish colonial, and American frontier history.
But there's more to Taos than just its rich past. This quirky town of roughly 6,000 residents has long been a magnet for artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and free spirits of all kinds. Maybe it's the crisp mountain air, the 300 days of sunshine a year, or the mysterious "Taos Hum" that some claim to hear. Whatever it is, there's an undeniable energy here that keeps drawing people in.
Ready to experience the magic for yourself? From exploring thousand-year-old pueblos to soaking in natural hot springs, here are the 20 best things to do in Taos that will make your visit unforgettable.
Step Back in Time at Taos Pueblo
Start your Taos adventure with a journey into the past at Taos Pueblo. This ancient Native American settlement isn't just old - it's been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest communities in the United States. As you walk through the multi-story adobe buildings, you'll feel like you've stepped into another world. The earthy smell of sage and piñon pine fills the air, while the sound of a crackling fire or a distant drum beat might catch your ear.
But Taos Pueblo isn't a museum frozen in time. It's a living, breathing community where around 150 people still call home. Chat with local artisans selling their handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and bread baked in traditional hornos (outdoor ovens). You might even catch a ceremonial dance if you're lucky.
Key Information:
- Location: 120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: 8am-4:30pm daily (closed for certain tribal rituals)
- Admission: $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, $8 for students
Why Visit: It's a rare chance to experience a millennia-old culture that's still thriving today.
Insider Tip: Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the pueblo's history and customs.
Marvel at the San Francisco de Asis Mission Church
If Taos Pueblo represents the area's Native American heritage, the San Francisco de Asis Mission Church is a stunning example of its Spanish colonial past. This adobe church, with its stark white facade and geometric shapes, has been turning heads since 1816. It's so striking that it's inspired countless artists over the years, including Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.
Walk around the exterior to admire the play of light and shadow on the smooth adobe walls. Then step inside to see the hand-carved altar screens and santos (religious icons) that have watched over parishioners for generations. The church is still active, so you might even catch a mass or a festival if you time your visit right.
Key Information:
- Location: 60 St Francis Plaza, Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557
- Hours: 9am-4pm Monday-Saturday (hours may vary for religious services)
- Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Why Visit: It's one of the most photographed churches in the U.S. for a reason.
Insider Tip: Visit in June to see locals re-mud the church's exterior - a community tradition that's been going on for centuries.
Get Inspired at the Harwood Museum of Art
Taos has been a magnet for artists since the late 19th century, and the Harwood Museum of Art is the perfect place to dive into this creative legacy. Housed in a beautiful Spanish-Pueblo Revival building, the museum's collection spans from early Taos Society of Artists paintings to cutting-edge contemporary works.
Don't miss the Agnes Martin Gallery, a peaceful octagonal room featuring seven of the minimalist artist's serene paintings. It's like stepping into a zen garden of art. As you wander through the galleries, you'll get a sense of how the unique light and landscapes of Taos have inspired generations of artists.
Key Information:
- Location: 238 Ledoux Street, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
- Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, free for students
Why Visit: It's the second oldest art museum in New Mexico, offering a comprehensive look at Taos art history.
Insider Tip: Check out the museum's calendar for artist talks and workshops - it's a great way to dive deeper into the local art scene.
Cross the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Get ready for some serious jaw-dropping views at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. This steel deck arch bridge spans a whopping 1,280 feet across the Rio Grande Gorge, with the river rushing 565 feet below. It's not for the faint of heart, but the panoramic views of the surrounding mesas and mountains are worth conquering any fear of heights.
Park your car and take a walk across the pedestrian walkway. About halfway across, stop and peer over the edge (if you dare) to spot bighorn sheep clambering on the canyon walls or rafters tackling the rapids far below. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction - it's like standing on top of the world.
Key Information:
- Location: US-64, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and offers unparalleled views of the Rio Grande Gorge.
Insider Tip: Visit at sunset for a breathtaking light show as the sun paints the gorge in vibrant oranges and purples.
Ski or Hike at Taos Ski Valley
Whether you're visiting in the snowy winter or the sunny summer, Taos Ski Valley has you covered for outdoor adventure. In winter, this world-class ski resort offers some of the best powder in the Southwest, with challenging runs that will get any adrenaline junkie's heart racing. Don't worry if you're a beginner - there are plenty of gentler slopes and excellent ski schools too.
Come summer, the ski runs transform into scenic hiking trails. The crown jewel is the hike to the top of Kachina Peak. At 12,481 feet, it's not for the faint of heart, but the sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains are worth every step.
Key Information:
- Location: 116 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
- Hours: 9am-4pm daily in winter; summer hours vary
- Admission: Lift tickets vary by season, check website for current prices
Why Visit: It's a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts with some of the best skiing in the Southwest.
Insider Tip: Take the scenic chairlift ride in summer for mountain views without the strenuous hike.
Soak in Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs
After all that hiking or skiing, your muscles deserve a break. Why not soak them in the healing waters of Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs? These natural hot springs have been soothing tired bodies for thousands of years. The Pueblo people considered this place sacred, and one dip in the mineral-rich waters will show you why.
Choose from a variety of pools, each with its own unique mineral composition and purported health benefits. The lithia pool is said to relieve depression, while the iron pool might boost your immune system. Or try the soda pool, which some claim can aid digestion. Whether or not you buy into the health claims, there's no denying how good it feels to soak in a steaming pool while gazing at the starry New Mexico sky.
Key Information:
- Location: 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549
- Hours: 10am-10pm daily
- Admission: Day passes $45-$65
Why Visit: It's one of the oldest natural health resorts in the U.S., offering a unique blend of relaxation and history.
Insider Tip: Book a private outdoor pool for a more secluded, romantic experience.
Explore the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
Hop in your car and get ready for one of the most scenic drives of your life. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is an 83-mile loop that takes you through some of northern New Mexico's most stunning landscapes. Starting and ending in Taos, the drive winds through mountain passes, alongside clear alpine lakes, and past quaint mountain towns.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and even black bears. Stop in the old mining town of Red River for a taste of the Wild West, or pull over at one of the many scenic overlooks to snap photos of Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest point. The drive is beautiful year-round, but it's particularly spectacular in fall when the aspens turn a brilliant gold.
Key Information:
- Location: Starts and ends in Taos, NM
- Hours: Open 24/7, but best driven during daylight hours
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's a chance to see the diverse landscapes of northern New Mexico in one unforgettable road trip.
Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and stop at Eagle Nest Lake State Park for lunch with a view.
Get Weird at the Earthship Biotecture
Ever wondered what it would be like to live on Mars? A visit to the Earthship Biotecture might give you an idea. These off-grid homes look like something out of a sci-fi movie, but they're actually cutting-edge examples of sustainable living. Built from recycled materials like tires and bottles, Earthships are designed to be completely self-sufficient, generating their own power and collecting their own water.
Take a tour of the visitor center to learn about the principles behind Earthship design. You can even stay overnight in one of the rentable Earthships if you want to fully immerse yourself in the experience. It's a fascinating glimpse into what the future of housing might look like.
Key Information:
- Location: 2 Earthship Way, Tres Piedras, NM 87577
- Hours: 9am-5pm daily
- Admission: $8 for adults, $6 for students
Why Visit: It's a unique opportunity to explore sustainable living in action.
Insider Tip: Book an overnight stay in an Earthship for the full eco-living experience.
Shop and Stroll in Taos Plaza
The heart of downtown Taos beats in Taos Plaza. This historic square has been the town's central gathering place for centuries, and it's still the best spot to soak up the local atmosphere. Surrounded by adobe buildings housing art galleries, shops, and restaurants, the plaza is a microcosm of everything that makes Taos special.
Grab a coffee and people-watch from a bench under the shade of a cottonwood tree. Browse the Native American jewelry sold by local artisans. Or pop into one of the many galleries to see works by Taos artists. If you're lucky, you might catch a free concert or a festival in the gazebo at the center of the plaza.
Key Information:
- Location: Kit Carson Road & Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Open 24/7, but individual shop hours vary
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's the bustling heart of Taos, where you can experience the town's unique blend of cultures.
Insider Tip: Visit during the Taos Plaza Live concert series in summer for free live music every Thursday evening.
Dig into History at the Kit Carson Home and Museum
Step back into the 19th century at the Kit Carson Home and Museum. This adobe house was once home to the famous (and controversial) frontier scout, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into life in the American West. The rooms are furnished as they would have been in Carson's time, giving you a sense of what daily life was like for a frontier family.
As you explore, you'll learn about Carson's complex legacy. He was a skilled tracker and guide who played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. But he was also involved in the forced relocation of the Navajo people, a dark chapter in American history. The museum doesn't shy away from these complexities, offering a nuanced look at a complicated historical figure.
Key Information:
- Location: 113 Kit Carson Road, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 12pm-5pm
- Admission: $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for students
Why Visit: It offers a window into 19th-century frontier life and the complex history of the American West.
Insider Tip: Don't miss the beautiful courtyard garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Taos.
Hike to Williams Lake
Lace up your hiking boots and hit the Williams Lake Trail for a taste of the stunning natural beauty that surrounds Taos. This moderate 4-mile round trip hike takes you through fragrant pine forests and wildflower-filled meadows before reaching a pristine alpine lake nestled at the base of Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest mountain.
The trail starts at the Taos Ski Valley and gradually climbs about 1,000 feet in elevation. But don't worry - the views along the way are so spectacular you'll hardly notice the effort. Keep an eye out for marmots sunning themselves on rocks and listen for the distinctive whistle of pikas.
Key Information:
- Location: Twining Road, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
- Hours: Open 24/7, but best hiked during daylight hours
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's one of the most scenic hikes in the Taos area, offering stunning alpine views.
Insider Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and the afternoon thunderstorms that are common in summer.
Get Creative at the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House
Housed in the former home of Russian artist Nicolai Fechin, this museum is a work of art in itself. Fechin spent years hand-carving the home's intricate woodwork, creating a unique blend of Russian and Southwestern styles. Today, the house showcases Fechin's art alongside works by other members of the Taos Society of Artists.
As you wander through the rooms, you'll get a sense of the artistic community that flourished in Taos in the early 20th century. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary Taos artists, showing how the town's artistic legacy continues to this day.
Key Information:
- Location: 227 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
- Admission: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for students
Why Visit: It offers a unique combination of architectural beauty and fine art.
Insider Tip: Don't miss Fechin's studio on the second floor, preserved just as he left it.
Taste Local Flavors at the Taos Farmers Market
Get a true taste of Taos at the local Farmers Market. Every Saturday morning, the town comes alive with the colors, smells, and flavors of northern New Mexico. Local farmers and artisans set up shop, offering everything from fresh organic produce to handmade soaps and locally roasted coffee.
Don't miss the chance to try some local specialties. Look for Chimayó chile powder, a smoky-sweet variety unique to northern New Mexico. Or sample some fresh goat cheese from one of the local dairies. The market is also a great place to chat with locals and get insider tips on the best hikes or restaurants in town.
Key Information:
- Location: Taos Plaza (May-October) or Taos County Complex (November-April)
- Hours: Saturdays, 8am-1pm (May-October); 10am-1pm (November-April)
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's the best place to experience the local food culture and meet the people who grow your food.
Insider Tip: Come early for the best selection, especially in peak summer season.
Experience Native Culture at the Taos Pueblo Pow Wow
If you're lucky enough to be in Taos in mid-July, don't miss the annual Taos Pueblo Pow Wow. This three-day event brings together Native American tribes from across North America for a celebration of music, dance, and culture. The highlight is the dance competitions, where performers in colorful regalia showcase traditional dances passed down through generations.
Even if you're not in town for the Pow Wow, keep an eye out for other cultural events at Taos Pueblo throughout the year. From feast days to ceremonial dances, there are many opportunities to experience living Native American traditions.
Key Information:
- Location: Taos Pueblo, 120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Typically held second weekend in July, check website for exact dates
- Admission: Varies, check website for current prices
Why Visit: It's a rare opportunity to experience authentic Native American culture and traditions.
Insider Tip: Bring cash for food vendors and Native American craft booths.
Unwind at Taos Mesa Brewing
After a day of exploring, there's no better place to unwind than Taos Mesa Brewing. This local favorite is more than just a brewery - it's a community gathering spot and live music venue. The spacious taproom, housed in a renovated airplane hangar, offers stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Sample some of their craft beers, like the Lunch Pale Ale or the Great Scot! Scottish Ale. Pair your brew with some pub grub - the green chile cheese fries are a local favorite. If you're lucky, you might catch a live band or an open mic night.
Key Information:
- Location: 20 ABC Mesa Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm
- Admission: Free (cost of food and drinks varies)
Why Visit: It's the perfect spot to experience Taos' laid-back vibe and vibrant music scene.
Insider Tip: Check their event calendar for special beer releases and live music nights.
Explore the Millicent Rogers Museum
Fashion icon and art collector Millicent Rogers fell in love with Taos in the 1940s, and her passion for Southwestern art and culture lives on in this museum. The collection includes stunning examples of Native American jewelry, textiles, and pottery, as well as Hispanic religious art and contemporary Southwestern paintings.
Don't miss Rogers' personal collection of turquoise jewelry - it's one of the most impressive you'll ever see. The museum also offers a beautiful outdoor space with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, perfect for reflecting on the art you've just seen.
Key Information:
- Location: 1504 Millicent Rogers Road, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
- Admission: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $6 for students
Why Visit: It houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Southwestern art in the world.
Insider Tip: Take a guided tour to get the full story behind the artifacts and Millicent Rogers herself.
Go Llama Trekking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Looking for a unique way to explore the mountains around Taos? Why not go on a llama trek? These gentle, sure-footed animals make perfect hiking companions, carrying your gear while you enjoy the scenery. Several local outfitters offer guided llama treks ranging from a few hours to multi-day backcountry adventures.
As you hike through aspen groves and along mountain streams, your guide will share insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology. And of course, you'll have plenty of time to bond with your woolly hiking buddy.
Key Information:
- Location: Various trailheads in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
- Hours: Varies by outfitter, typically day trips or multi-day excursions
- Admission: Varies by outfitter and length of trek
Why Visit: It's a one-of-a-kind way to experience the beautiful wilderness around Taos.
Insider Tip: Book well in advance, especially for summer treks, as these unique experiences fill up quickly.
[Visit the Governor Bent House and Museum
Step into a pivotal moment in New Mexico's history at the Governor Bent House and Museum. This adobe building was once home to Charles Bent, the first American Governor of New Mexico Territory. Bent's tenure was short-lived - he was assassinated here in 1847 during the Taos Revolt, an uprising against American rule.
Today, the house serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life in Taos and the tumultuous period of transition from Mexican to American rule. The exhibits include period furnishings, historical artifacts, and information about the Taos Revolt and its aftermath.
Key Information:
- Location: 117 Bent Street, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 12pm-5pm
- Admission: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students
Why Visit: It offers insight into a crucial period in New Mexico's history.
Insider Tip: Look for the secret hiding place where Bent's family sought refuge during the revolt.
Relax at Manby Hot Springs
For a more off-the-beaten-path hot springs experience, head to Manby Hot Springs (also known as Stagecoach Hot Springs). These natural pools are tucked along the banks of the Rio Grande, accessible only by a moderate hike. The reward for your effort? Soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing up at the steep walls of the Rio Grande Gorge.
The springs consist of several small pools of varying temperatures. Find one that suits you and settle in for a relaxing soak. Keep an eye out for river rafters floating by or bighorn sheep on the canyon walls.
Key Information:
- Location: End of County Road 570, Arroyo Hondo, NM 87529
- Hours: Open 24/7, but best visited during daylight hours
- Admission: Free
Why Visit: It's a secluded, natural hot springs experience with stunning views of the Rio Grande Gorge.
Insider Tip: The last part of the road is rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Otherwise, park at the top and hike down.
Shop for Art on Ledoux Street
No visit to Taos is complete without a stroll down Ledoux Street, the town's famous "gallery row." This narrow, winding street is lined with adobe buildings housing some of Taos' best art galleries and shops. From traditional Southwestern paintings to contemporary sculptures and photography, you'll find a wide range of art to admire or purchase.
Don't miss the Blumenschein Home and Museum, once home to Ernest L. Blumenschein, one of the founders of the Taos Society of Artists. Even if you're not in the market to buy, the galleries offer a great overview of Taos' vibrant art scene.
Key Information:
- Location: Ledoux Street, Taos, NM 87571
- Hours: Most galleries open daily, but hours can vary
- Admission: Free to browse (prices vary for purchasing art)
Why Visit: It's the heart of Taos' art scene, offering a chance to see (and maybe buy) works by local artists.
Insider Tip: Visit during the "First Saturday" art walk for special exhibits and refreshments at many galleries.
Structuring Your Taos Trip: A 3-Day Itinerary
Now that we've explored the best things to do in Taos, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary. Remember, this is just a starting point - feel free to mix and match based on your interests and the time of year you're visiting.
Day 1: Taos Pueblo and Town
Start your Taos adventure with a deep dive into the area's rich history and culture.
- Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Taos Pueblo. Take a guided tour to learn about the pueblo's history and the Tiwa people who have called it home for over a millennium.
- Lunch: Head to Taos Plaza for lunch at one of the local cafes. Try some New Mexican cuisine - don't miss the chance to sample dishes made with local green chile.
- Afternoon: Explore the shops and galleries around Taos Plaza and Ledoux Street. Visit the Harwood Museum of Art to see works by Taos artists past and present.
- Evening: End your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by live music at Taos Mesa Brewing.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
Taos is surrounded by natural beauty, so dedicate a day to exploring the great outdoors.
- Morning: Start early with a hike to Williams Lake. The trail offers stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, or head back to Taos Ski Valley for lunch at one of the mountain restaurants.
- Afternoon: Take a scenic drive on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. Make stops in the charming towns of Red River and Eagle Nest.
- Evening: Unwind with a soak at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs. Stay for dinner at their restaurant, which uses locally sourced ingredients.
Day 3: Art and Architecture
Wrap up your trip with a focus on Taos' artistic heritage and unique architecture.
- Morning: Start at the Kit Carson Home and Museum to learn about this controversial frontier figure. Then visit the Millicent Rogers Museum to see an impressive collection of Southwestern art and jewelry.
- Lunch: Grab lunch at the Taos Farmers Market if it's a Saturday, or try another local cafe.
- Afternoon: Take a tour of the Earthship Biotecture to see these unique sustainable homes. Then visit the San Francisco de Asis Mission Church to admire its adobe architecture.
- Evening: End your trip with a visit to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge at sunset for breathtaking views.
Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Taos has so much to offer that you could easily spend a week or more exploring all its nooks and crannies. Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path - sometimes the best experiences are the ones you stumble upon by chance. Whether you're interested in art, history, outdoor adventure, or just soaking up the unique Taos vibe, this high desert town has something for everyone. Enjoy your trip!
West Parker, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about. West's expertise spans from exclusive real estate to fine dining, making him the go-to strategist for those who demand nothing but the extraordinary in their travels.
