New Mexico isn’t called the Land of Enchantment by accident. From ancient pueblos and otherworldly landscapes to quirky roadside stops and healing hot springs, this Southwest state delivers surprises at every turn.
While many travelers stick to the usual highlights, New Mexico is packed with hidden gems, underrated towns, and iconic landmarks that often fly under the radar. These are the places that feel a little different: unexpected, historic, scenic, and sometimes delightfully strange.
If you’re looking for a destination that blends culture, nature, history, and quirkiness, these New Mexico attractions deserve a spot on your itinerary.
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Quirky & Unexpected Places in New Mexico
Looking for something you wouldn’t expect? These are a bit quirky, but fun to visit.
Earthships -Taos
Just outside Taos, the famous Earthships of New Mexico showcase off-the-grid living at its most imaginative. Designed by architect Michael Reynolds, these eco-homes are built using recycled tires, glass bottles, cans, and natural materials.
Powered by solar and wind energy, Earthships collect rainwater and reuse gray water for plants, all while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. Touring this community offers a fascinating glimpse into sustainable living and futuristic architecture rooted in the desert. Plus, they’re just unusual enough that you want to see them.
Ra Paulette’s Hand-Carved Caves -Near Santa Fe
For more than 25 years, artist Ra Paulette has carved intricate underground caves entirely by hand. Located north of Santa Fe, these sandstone caves feel like a hidden spiritual sanctuary beneath the desert.
Each space features flowing walls, sculpted alcoves, and skylights that channel natural light underground. Visiting these caves feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into a living work of art.
Blue Hole -Santa Rosa
One of New Mexico’s most surprising roadside attractions, the Blue Hole is a crystal-clear, bell-shaped natural pool in Santa Rosa. Fed by underground springs, the water stays a constant 61°F year-round.
Once used by Indigenous tribes, cowboys, and even as a fish hatchery, the Blue Hole is now a popular destination for scuba divers, swimmers, and travelers looking for an unexpected desert oasis. It was cold when we were there, so we didn’t swim but it is pretty cool to see.
Historic & Cultural Places to Learn in New Mexico
These will help you understand more of New Mexico’s history.
Ghost Ranch -Abiquiú
Set against the colorful cliffs near Abiquiú, Ghost Ranch is both an education center and retreat space. It’s home to the Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology and the Florence Hawley Ellis Museum of Anthropology.
After exploring the museums, visitors can hike through the dramatic desert landscapes that inspired artist Georgia O’Keeffe or book wellness and outdoor experiences surrounded by striking red and yellow cliffs.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center -Albuquerque
Founded in 1976, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is one of the most important cultural attractions in New Mexico. The museum’s permanent exhibit, “We Are of This Place: The Pueblo Story,” shares the history and living traditions of New Mexico’s Pueblo communities.
Don’t miss the Indian Pueblo Kitchen, where traditional dishes like calabacitas, red Chile stew, and Pueblo-style breads bring history to life through food. This is one of my favorite places to visit when we’re in Albuquerque. When we were there, they had a cultural dance, and it was amazing! All of the exhibits are great. In my opinion, this is a must stop if you’re in Albuquerque.
Sky City Cultural Center & Haakú Museum -Acoma Pueblo
Dating back to around 1100 A.D., Acoma Pueblo is considered the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America. The Sky City Cultural Center and Haakú Museum sit atop a 367-foot sandstone mesa.
The museum highlights Acoma history, pottery, and art, and serves as the starting point for guided tours of the mesa-top village, a deeply meaningful cultural experience. Visiting the village was an amazing experience and I am so glad we did this.
Iconic Scenery & Scenic Landmarks in New Mexico
These stops will give you amazing view of the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico.
Sandia Peak Tramway – Albuquerque
The Sandia Peak Tramway near Albuquerque offers one of the most breathtaking views in the Southwest. In just 15 minutes, the tram ascends the Sandia Mountains, revealing panoramic views spanning over 11,000 square miles.
At the top, visitors can hike, enjoy scenic overlooks, or dine at TEN 3 with unforgettable sunset views. Best way to see Sandia Mountain in my opinion.
Rio Grande Gorge Bridge -Taos
An unmistakable New Mexico landmark, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge stretches 1,280 feet across a dramatic canyon just northwest of Taos. Completed in 1965, it offers jaw-dropping views of the Rio Grande far below.
While you are here, be sure to visit the great shops and galleries in Taos. The big draw is Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Learn more about Taos: First timers guide to Taos, NM
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – Chama
A ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is one of the best ways to experience northern New Mexico’s landscapes. Operating from May through October, this steam-powered train climbs through mountain passes, alpine meadows, and rugged wilderness.
As the longest and highest narrow-gauge steam railroad in North America, it’s also a National Historic Landmark. Wildlife sightings along the route are common.
Must-Visit Towns in New Mexico
These are all unique in their own right but tell different stories of New Mexico.
Santa Fe Plaza – Santa Fe
At the heart of Santa Fe lies the historic Santa Fe Plaza, surrounded by adobe architecture and centuries of history. Highlights include the Palace of the Governors, Loretto Chapel, and the New Mexico Museum of Art.
The plaza is ideal for shopping, people-watching, enjoying local cuisine, and soaking up the city’s Spanish and Pueblo influences. Santa Fe is one of our favorite places to visit. We love the food, history and I love all the great shopping!
Read next: Enchanting Santa Fe: Great Adventures
Abiquiú
Forever linked to Georgia O’Keeffe, Abiquiú is surrounded by dramatic red cliffs and wide-open desert landscapes. The village continues to inspire artists, photographers, and travelers seeking quiet beauty and creative energy.
Pro Tip: Whenever you travel, be sure to have a camera. You will always make memories and having a camera helps to remember those great times. We use a Kodak PixPro. Not only does it have wide angle lens capability, but it also takes great videos.
Tucumcari
A classic stop along Route 66, Tucumcari celebrates mid-century Americana with neon signs, retro motels, and old-school diners. It’s a town that embraces its quirky history.
It’s a nostalgic slice of road trip history and a must-visit for Route 66 fans.
Aztec
Located in northwestern New Mexico, Aztec is home to the Aztec Ruins National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The massive stone complex includes a three-story central building and a reconstructed Great Kiva once used for ceremonies.
After the monument, take a stroll through Historic Downtown for more area history.
Roswell
New Mexico’s most famous extraterrestrial hotspot, Roswell leans into its UFO lore with museums, themed attractions, and plenty of sci-fi fun. Highlights include the International UFO Museum and Research Center and the Roswell UFO Spacewalk.
If you’re a sci-fi lover or just want to see the “little green men”, put Roswell on your bucket list.
Hot Springs & Relaxing Escapes in New Mexico
Jemez Springs – Jemez Springs
The Jemez Mountains hide some of New Mexico’s best natural hot springs. Popular spots like Spence Hot Springs and Jemez Soda Dam feature riverside soaking pools, mineral formations, and forested surroundings.
San Antonio Hot Springs – Near Jemez Springs
Reaching San Antonio Hot Springs requires effort, first is a rough forest road and then a scenic hike, but the reward is worth it. Cascading mineral pools offer mountain views and peaceful soaking, especially magical in winter. Four-wheel drive is recommended.
Riverbend Hot Springs – Truth or Consequences
Formerly named Hot Springs, Truth or Consequences (or T or C) is known for its quirky personality and abundance of hot spring resorts. This is only one of many hot springs available in Truth or Consequences. Vintage motels, art spaces, and natural mineral baths make it a unique wellness destination.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs – Ojo Caliente
One of the oldest health spas in the country, Ojo Caliente offers nine sulfur-free mineral soaking pools, along with full-service spa treatments including massages and sound healing.
Final Thoughts: Why New Mexico Belongs on Your Travel List
New Mexico offers a rare combination of natural beauty, deep history, vibrant culture, and unexpected attractions. Whether you’re chasing scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, quirky roadside stops, or relaxing hot springs, the Land of Enchantment delivers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re craving a destination that feels authentic, surprising, and endlessly fascinating, New Mexico is calling. If you are planning a road trip and want some help with places to stay or eat, check out roadtrippers.com. If you use code BTR5QTP, you will save $5.
We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way with you to make planning your next trip a bit easier. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.