New Mexico welcomes you with its scenic landscapes and breathtakingly beautiful forests. Located on the Northwestern side of America, it is also nicknamed ‘Land of Enchantment’. It is blessed with top tourist attractions which make the state the best place to visit in the world. The state mesmerises you with an expanse of white desert in the North. More than that, it has beautiful cities like Santa Fe and Albuquerque which present you with balloon festivals and UFO museums. Head to the state of New Mexico to enjoy enchanting experiences, unique culture and more. Hence, we present you with the 9 Top Tourist Attractions in New Mexico.

Mexican city in the night time — Image Credit: Unsplash

9 Top Tourist Attractions in New Mexico

Carlsbad Caverns National Park
White Sands National Monument
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Petroglyph National Monument
Taos Ski Valley
Wheeler Peak Wilderness
International UFO Museum and Research Center
The Very Large Array

1.Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-visit in the state of New Mexico. It has 120 caves which are located underground. Being one of the famous attractions in Mexico, Carlsbad caves pulls in a lot of tourists. When you are here at the National park, there are many options to explore these caves. You can choose between a ranger-led tour and a self-guided tour. The ranger takes you around the park and guides you inside the caves. In addition to this, you can also take a walk through these formations inside. There are also exclusive trips to specific caves, which you can choose at the entrance.

the cave entrance — Image Credit: Unsplash

2. White Sands National Monument

White Sands National Monument lies in the Northern side of the Chihuahua Desert. From Alamogordo in the south of New Mexico, it takes about half-an-hour to reach the monument. You will be awe of the shimmering sands and the beautiful landscapes of the desert. The great wave-like sand dunes stretch to about 275 square miles. Above all, you can learn about the fascinating geology, history of its formation. Do not forget to pose and take pictures in the desert.

plants in sand desert — Image Credit: Unsplash

3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

How about sighting hot air balloons when you are in New Mexico? Yes, the city of Albuquerque is known for the world-famous hot air balloon festival. Tourists all over the world throng in to witness the nine-day balloon festival. Do you know that the balloon festival was started in the year 1973? Almost 50 years ago, a festival which began with 13 balloons is now a grand celebration with an ostentatious show of 500 balloons. Once you are here, you will be stunned by the colourful show of balloons in the sky. You can roam around the 345-acre park where the festival happens and engage in several activities. More than that, you can listen to musicians performing live and dance to their tunes.

a hot air balloon with travellers — Image Credit: Unsplash

4. Petroglyph National Monument

The Petroglyph National Monument is a well preserved cultural and educational site in the state of New Mexico. It stretches to about 7244 acres in the area which comprises dormant volcanoes, basalt rocks and others. Above all, the National Monument is known for its famous features like Petroglyphs. The speciality of this attraction is that you go on a hiking trail and explore the monument at your own pace. Put on your trekking shoes, carry enough amount of water and you are all set!

Petroglyphs on wall — Image Credit: Unsplash

5. Taos Ski Valley

Located in the Northeastern side of the Taos village, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is a must-visit when you are in New Mexico. These magnificent mountains can be visited in all seasons. In the summer months, you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing and fishing. People from the cities plan a holiday to this mountain retreat to escape summer. Similarly in winter, you can experience several winter sports like Skiing and skating.

a kid playing in the snow — Image Credit: Unsplash

6. Wheeler Peak Wilderness

The Wheeler Summit is the highest point in Mexico. At a height of 3,161 ft, the mountain is a part of Carson National Forest. Embark on a nature trail and enjoy visiting these mountains. You can explore the wilderness of the national forest and walk along with a forest guide. There are several other trails that take you into the forest. More than that, you can spot exotic wildlife in the Carson National Forest and take several Instagram worthy pictures.

a sign board in a park — Image Credit: Unsplash

7. International UFO Museum and Research Centre

The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a top tourist attraction in the Mexican state. Started in the year 1992, the research centre is also a full-fledged tourist entertainment spot. The museum has several exhibits which have been collected from all over the world. In addition to this, there are documents, artefacts related to UFO incidents and research. And, you can take the most intimidating UFO tour and discover the famous spots in the centre. Curious already? The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a must-visit when you are here in the state of New Mexico.

8. The Very Large Array

VLA often abbreviated as the Very Large Array (VLA) is a radio astronomy observatory in the state of New Mexico. It is located on the western side of Socorro to observe black holes and other astrological phenomena. Scientifically curious? Every first Saturday, the Very Large Array hosts guided tours which introduces you to the site.

9. Taos Pueblo

Located outside the city of Taos, Taos Pueblo is a heritage site and a must-visit attraction in New Mexico. Built with mud bricks and timber-supported roofs, the buildings in Taos Pueblo are about 1000 years old. These home-like structures are up to five stories high and 100 people live here. Being a UNESCO heritage site, Taos Pueblo has established itself as a well-developed tourist attraction. Once you are here, the residents will invite you for a home tour. You can explore the house and take amazing pictures. You can learn about the historicity and the culture of this place. In addition to this, you can also choose a driving tour with a guide and roam around the site. There are several attractions near the building where you can spend some time. The attractions include St. Francis de Assisi Roman Catholic Church, Gorge bridge and others.

a house in the Taos Pueblo area — Image Credit: Unsplash

Mexico Travelers from countries that are eligible for a Mexico tourist card (and that’s most visitors!) do not have to go through the hassle of getting a visa. You can find complete information on it at Natvisa.

So, Get, set and visit these amazing attractions in the state of New Mexico. Its right time to plan an unforgettable vacation to the US State. All you have to do is pack your bags and plan your vacation to the United States. You can read more travel stories about the United States and get inspired. In addition to this, Check out the Pickyourtrail website and customize your vacation. Download the super-cool Pickyourtrail app and get your queries answered on the go.