Taos is an unusual place; a small community of artists, entrepreneurs, and outdoor enthusiasts, many hiking to their own beat…or hum (if you are one of the people who can hear the “Taos Hum”). With approximately 6000 full-time residents, the density of talented creative professionals is impressive.
Taos is almost 7000-feet above sea level and Wheeler Peak is the tallest peak in New Mexico. They get more snow than most of the state, with a world class ski resort outside of town. It isn’t unusual to have fresh powder and bluebird skies. Mother Nature can be moody in the spring, with multiple seasons in a day, accompanied by howling winds. Due to the elevation, summers are milder than most of New Mexico, with cool nights.
Travelers Guide To Taos
Taos is one of New Mexico’s travel and tourism treasures. I am not sure what percentage of the population is visiting on a day-to-day basis, but the flow of visitors is pretty steady throughout the year. The weather is wonderful, often mild during the winter, with world class skiing under bluebird skies. The setting is southwestern spectacular and the arts, culture, history, and food scenes are extraordinary. There is ample dining, lodging, and sight-seeing to keep people enthralled while they are there and, often, eager to return for more.
Taos is in close proximity to a smorgasbord of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Located at the base of Wheeler Peak, surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and expansive plateau, the breakdown of enticing out-of-town options evolved into a separate entry: Outdoor Adventures Around Taos.
This town has an intricate tapestry of tales to tell. Like the outdoor recreation breakdown, the history section also evolved into a separate article. However, here is a short-form synopsis: Taos Pueblo has been at the same address for roughly 1000 years. Ranchos de Taos was founded as a Spanish farming settlement. Then, a couple of artists heading west at the turn of the century opted to find inspiration in the shadow of Wheeler Peak. They invited their friends and fellow artists to join them over the ensuing decades, forming an arts colony. Today, all three influences infuse and influence the community, which is evident given the prolific density of art, culture, and history to explore. For more information, check out the History of Taos.
Downtown Taos is filled with interesting shops, galleries, adobe architecture, and visceral history. Grab some breakfast or a cup of coffee at one of many outstanding cafes and restaurants, browse the shops and museums around the plaza, and soak up the history of the streets under your feet.
Arts & Museums
Taos Arts & Museums
Couse-Sharp Historic Site
138 & 146 Kit Carson Road, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-0369
Site of the early 20th century homes and studios of E.I. Couse and J.H. Sharp, founding members of the Taos Society of Artists. Gardens, 1830s chapel, 1930s machine shop and lab, brand-new research center, and galleries with exhibitions on the 2+ acre campus.
Museum Hours
2-hour tours by appointment Mon–Sat
Gallery hours Tue–Sat 1pm–5pm for exhibitions when installed.
Ernest L Blumenschein House
222 Ledoux Street, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-0505
Ernest Blumenschein, co-founder of the Taos Society of Artists, the E.L. Blumenschein Home and Museum is maintained much as it was when the artist and his family were alive. The home is filled with a superb collection of the Blumenschein family’s art. Portions of the Blumenschein Home and Museum were built in 1797. The artist moved into the home in 1919, living there for more than 40 years.
Museum Hours
Open Mon, Tues, Friday and Saturday 10am-4pm. Sunday Noon – 4pm
Governor Bent Museum
117 Bent Street, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2376
Home of the first territorial governor of New Mexico, which features adobe architecture, 19th-century frontier artifacts and family furnishings. He was assassinated during the Taos revolt.
Hacienda de Los Martinez
708 Hacienda Way, Taos, New Mexico 87571
(575) 758-0505
La Hacienda de los Martinez is one of the few northern New Mexico style, late Spanish Colonial period, “Great Houses” remaining in the American Southwest. Built in 1804 by Severino Martin (later changed to Martinez), this fortress-like building with massive adobe walls became an important trade center for the northern boundary of the Spanish Empire. The Hacienda was the final terminus for the Camino Real which connected northern New Mexico to Mexico City.
Today, the Hacienda’s 21-rooms surrounding two courtyards provide the visitor with a rare glimpse of frontier life in the early 1800s.
Harwood Museum of Art
238 Ledoux St, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-9826
The Harwood Museum showcases a diverse tapestry of over 100 years of art in Taos. They enhance learning, creativity, and cultural life for the Taos community by enabling the power of arts to honor the past and inspire the future.
Museum Hours
Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Closed: Monday – Tuesday
Imagine Children's Museum
104 Des Georges Ln, Taos, NM 87571
(505) 423-2225
Imagine Children's Museum is dedicated to serving the children, families, and community of Taos, New Mexico, locals and visitors alike. Imagine's mission is to provide an immersive, creative, and inspiring environment that allows children to learn, play, and grow because Imagine understands that every child is unique and has the potential to achieve great things.
Kit Carson Home & Museum
113 Kit Carson Road, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-4945
The Kit Carson House is a historic house museum at 113 Kit Carson Road in central Taos, New Mexico. Built in 1825, it was from 1843 until his death the home of frontiersman Kit Carson (1809-1868). A good example of Spanish Colonial architecture, it is now owned by the local Masonic fraternity, and serves as a museum dedicated to Carson’s life. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963.
Millicent Rogers Museum
1504 Millicent Rogers Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 758-2462
Established as a memorial to Millicent Rogers, whose inspiration, patronage, and collections form the cores of its holdings.
Taos Art Museum at Fechin House
227 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2690
Visit the Fechin House, home of the Taos Art Museum, for a truly authentic Taos experience. Delight in soft adobe walls, exquisitely carved furniture and woodwork, and some of the finest artworks ever created in Taos.
Museum Hours
April – October
Tuesday – Sunday, 11pm – 5pm
November – March
Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm-4pm
Cool Shops & Fun Stops
Chimayo Trading del Norte
1 St. Francis Church Plaza, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 758-0504
Chimayo Trading del Norte specializes in Native American art, Pueblo pottery, Mata Ortiz pottery, Navajo rugs and fine art. Representing the best contemporary artists and historical classics, Chimayo Trading del Norte is where history meets art.
Chokola Bean to Bar
100-198 Juan Largo Ln, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 779-6163
Single-origin chocolate, made with just cocoa beans and sugar. No added cocoa butter, lecithin, or vanilla. No soy, dairy, eggs, and gluten. Made in a factory that does not process nuts.
Enchanted Circle Pottery
26871 US-64, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 737-9640
The studio and gallery are owned and operated by artists Kevin and JoAnne DeKeuster. The couple create a variety of functional and sculptural ceramic pieces.
Las Comadres
120 Bent St #G, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 737-1023
Artisan gifts created by talented and unique local women each with their own independent vision.
Ranchos Antique Furnishings
4179 NM-68, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 613-0036
Spanish Colonial furniture, paintings, ceramics, santos, etc. There are three stores in one, so make sure you ask to see all three. Whoever is on hand may need to unlock them.
Taos Drums
3956 NM-68, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 758-3796
Taos Drums offers free tours of their drum-making workshop and showroom, which features the world's largest selections of Indian drums. Ochover a year-long process, the drums are crafted from natural materials and renewable resources by native craftsmen from Taos Pueblo who continue the age-old tradition. The showroom also has a diverse display of rawhide furnishings, primitive folk art, ethnic crafts, and jewelry.
Taos Rockers Mineral & Fossil Outlet
Twirl Playground
225 Cam De La Placita, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-1402
Great place for families with young children. The outdoor play space, including 2 playgrounds and multiple magical exhibits, is free and open to the public. The indoor play space is open for free play when not being used for classes and events.
Dining
Taos Dining
Aly’s Á La Cart
625 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-7503
Affordable lunch in Taos, New Mexico, inspired by street food from around the world: Mediterranean, Moroccan, Slovaki, Cuban, Mexican, Thai, American… and more.
Aji Restaurant
309 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2712
Peruvian food: Pisco Sour, Ceviche Nikkei, Paella, and more.
Antonio's
Next to Ace Hardware Southside, 1379 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2599
Traditional New Mexican & Authentic Mexican cuisine. Indoor Dining & Take-Out. Patio dining.
Blue Deer Barbeque and Bakery
832 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 240-1567
Texas style BBQ. Excellent brisket, good bark, very tender. Pulled pork is good too. Outstanding flatbread. 3 kinds of BBQ sauce- regular, spicy and blueberry. All good, but I prefer the spicy. Small space inside, with few tables. New restaurant, with a limited menu, but what they are serving is well done.
Doc Martin's
125 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2233
A truly Southwestern restaurant in the heart of Taos, Doc Martin’s celebrates all that is New Mexico. Authentic dishes are handcrafted using local ingredients and served alongside an award-winning wine list.
Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery
1405 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 758-5683
Farmhouse Café and Bakery sources from 20 local farmers and ranchers. They strive to provide healthy choices, featuring fresh fruits and vegetables in season, with several vegan and gluten free options.
Gutiz
812B Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-1226
Gutiz was founded in 2004 by Chef Eduardo Gutierrez who was born in Spain and raised in France. He combined elements of both regions to create the eclectic and flavorful menu at Gutiz. The kitchen remains under the lead of Gaby Garcia who had already worked at Gutiz for years and was trained by Gutierrez to make his dishes to perfection.
KOKO Coffee Deli Carry-Out
1033 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur # H, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-9448
Espresso and specialty drinks, fresh pies and pastries, delicious sandwiches, soups, deli salads and prepared dishes offered in a comfortable casual atmosphere.
La Cueva Cafe
135 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-7001
The food at La Cueva is prepared fresh daily and is 100% natural. There are several vegetarian item. The entire menu is gluten-free. Menu items include ceviche Mexicano and enchiladas de camarón enchipotladas. Favorite plates include chicken mole enchiladas and fajitas.
Lambert's of Taos
123 Bent St, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-1009
Chef James Crowther III's cuisine is distinct and delicious. He uses wonderful local produce, meats, and seafood from farmers and ranchers both small and large to create a delicious menu that is loved by our Taos locals and tourists afar.
Leonel's Fresh Tamales
715 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 776-7054
Very good tamales in a variety (3) of flavors. All varieties were good.
Love Apple
803 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-0050
The Love Apple is a Northern New Mexican restaurant emphasizing local, organic home cooking, housed in what was once known as the Placitas Chapel.
Medley
100 NM-150, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 776-8787
Modern spins on nostalgic classics, craft cocktails and innovative desserts.
MIchael's Kitchen
304-C North Pueblo Road, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-4178
Originally built in the 1940s, the existing building was purchased by Michael Ninneman. After nearly three years of fine tuning the recipes and getting the menu where they wanted it, along with acquiring the Fiesta Bakery two blocks away, the name changed to Michael's Kitchen Coffee Shop and Bakery.Today, his step-daughter and her husband run the place. Same great food. Same great service. A Taos gem.
Orlando's
1114 Don Juan Valdez Ln, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-1450
Colorful Mexican eatery with an open kitchen for enchiladas, fish tacos, margaritas & craft beer.
Parcht
103 E Plaza, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-1994
pärCht Bottleshop + Bites is nestled underneath The Gorge Bar & Grill in the historic Taos plaza. We are a wine and beer retail shop specializing in unique finds and local favorites. We also offer a relaxed space for a glass, a pint, and a bite.
Ranchos Plaza Grill
8 Ranchos Plz, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 758-5788
Taste the Love. Family owned and operated for 20+ years.
Taos Java
1006 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-7770
Taos Java is a family-run coffee shop that has been a part of the Taos community for 18 years. A standout among coffee shops, it has been voted Best Coffee in Taos several years. They brew and sell coffee from Ohori's Roasters in Santa Fe.
The Coffee Apothecary
616 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 779-8706
"Ethically sourced, thoughtfully roasted, and expertly poured in the high desert. They are a small part of a large coffee community worldwide and a larger part of a small coffee community in Taos."
Trujillo's Diner
1351 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 779-7780
Not an impressive atmosphere by Taos standard, but the food is delicious and very affordable compared to other options. I love a good dive and this is a great one. Hidden treasures.
Thing to See & Do
Things to See & Do
Around the Plaza
No visit to Taos is complete without roaming around the Plaza. It is the heart of Taos, with a dense concentration of galleries, museums, cool shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. Many of these key places in the Plaza are mentioned in other sections of this article. Please reference the interactive map for a visual reference.
However, there are a couple more businesses below that might be of interest to families or travelers with dietary restrictions.
Ledoux Street
This small street just off the Taos Plaza is loaded with great shops, art, wine, food and Museums. Named after the French trapper and guide, Antonine Ledoux, the short, narrow street was originally built with gates at both ends to fortify the homes.
Ledoux Street is home to the Blumenschein Home and Museum, the Harwood Museum of Art, several art galleries, and several original adobe homes.
If you happen to be in Taos around the holidays, Ledoux Street on Christmas Eve is magical, with New Mexico's classic farolitos lining the road.
Historic Churches
There are numerous historic churches in Taos. The three below are highlights for anyone interested in ecclesiastical tourism and Catholic history in the region.
Our Lady of Guadalupe
205 Don Fernando St., Taos, NM 87571
(575)758-9208
Located near the Taos Plaza, construction on the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church began in November, 1801. The church was completed the following year. The church was established as a Franciscan mission of San Geronimo Parish at Taos Pueblo. The feast day for the parish is December 12.
San Francisco de Asís
60 St Francis Plaza, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 758-2754
Completed in 1815, construction on the adobe edifice began in 1772. The church doubled as a temple of worship and a formidable fortress. Treasures of the Spanish Colonial period are preserved inside, including two hand-carved and hand-painted reredos (altar screens). The distinctive architecture, particularly the massive “beehive” shaped buttresses in the back, made the church iconic. The church has served as a compelling muse for countless artists and photographers over the years, including Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams.
The Parish Hall, north of the church, houses an 18th century oil painting by Canadian artist Henri Ault, The Shadow of the Cross, aka The Mystery Painting. The 8-foot painting depicts Jesus standing on the banks of the Sea of Galilee. However, the enigmatic painting changes in the dark, glowing mysteriously, with shadows and silhouettes appearing in the background, including a large cross and a ship in the distance.
San Geronimo Mission
Taos Pueblo
(575) 758-1028
Built in 1706, San Jerónimo was a large church with massive walls and a tower on its southern facade. The convento adjoined the church, rising to two stories in places. It was also a formidable fortress, because raiding parties visited Taos Pueblo regularly. The church tower doubled as a guard tower, with a clear view of the surrounding plains.
Hot Air Ballooning
With the Sangre de Cristo mountains's adjacent to the Taos Plateau, slashed by the Rio Grande Gorge, the view from the air is spectacular.
Rio Grande Balloons
94 NM-150 Suite 5A, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 208-1888
Offering sunrise hot air balloon flights over the beautiful and unique landscape of the Rio Grande Gorge.
Eske's Paradise Balloons
31 Reynolds Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 751-6098
Hot air balloon rides into and over the Rio Grande Gorge since 1991.
Taos Balloon Rides
35 Eototo Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 224-6022
Rio Grande Gorge Sunrise flights, followed by a delicious continental Champagne brunch.
Sights to See
Pot Creek Cultural Site
13 Farrell St, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
An abandoned 13th century pueblo located on private land owned by Southern Methodist University, as well as the Carson National Forest. The site includes a large plaza, great kiva, as well as small plazas with multi-storied blocks of rooms and smaller kivas. Archaeologists believe it was occupied for about three generations before the residents moved, possibly joining Taos or Picuris Pueblos.
Taos Pueblo
120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-1028
Taos Pueblo is one of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos. It is considered the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States. It is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark; recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1965. The World Heritage Society recognized Taos as one of the most significant historical cultural landmarks in the world in 1992, on par with the Acropolis, Stonehenge, Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, etc.
Tours
D.H. Lawrence Ranch
506 D.H. Lawrence Ranch Rd, Taos, NM
(575) 776-2245
D. H. Lawrence, author of literary classics like Women in Love and Lady Chatterley’s Lover, visited Taos for the first time in September 1922 at the invitation of Mabel Dodge Luhan, a New York socialite and arts patron who lived in Taos.
He returned in March, 1924. On this visit, Mabel Dodge Luhan gave Lawrence's wife, Frieda, a 160-acre ranch she owned, located 20 miles northwest of Taos. When Lawrence passed away in France in 1930, his widow returned to New Mexico. She had Lawrence cremated, building a small chapel on the ranch to house the ashes. Shortly before her death in 1955, Frieda Lawrence gave the ranch to the University of New Mexico to be used for educational, cultural, and recreational purposes. The chapel is open to the public as a memorial to D.H. Lawrence.
Directions: From US-64 West Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, continue straight onto NM-522 North for approximately 10 miles, take a slight right onto Lawrence Ranch Rd and continue for 4.7 miles. The Ranch will be on the right.
Earthship Biotecture
2 Earthship Way, Tres Piedras, NM 87577
(575) 613-4409
visitorcenter@earthship.com
Michael Reynolds pioneered the development of Earthships in the 1970s, off-grid homes using passive solar technology, wind power, recycled water, old tires, car batteries, glass bottles, and every form of off-grid technology available. The Earthship community is fully off-grid on more than 300 acres of shared land. They rely exclusively on solar and wind power. A few homes, like the Phoenix, can be rented out.
Hours
Summer hours | Memorial – Labor Day, 9 AM – 5 PM.
Fall/Winter/Spring | Labor Day – Memorial Day, 10 AM – 4 PM.
Taos Trolley Tours
102 S Plaza A, Taos, NM 87571
(505) 550-5612
Narrated tours about the culture and magic of Taos. Taos Pueblo Tour and Culture & History Tour.
Taos Country Club
54 Golf Course Dr, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
(575) 758-7300
Measuring 7,302 yards from the back tees, this Jep Wille design will easily test the skills of the best golfers, while its gently rolling terrain and four sets of tees make the course enjoyable for all players. This magnificent layout was awarded a 4 Star Rating by Golf Digest, placing it among the best places to golf in New Mexico.
Lodging
Taos Lodging
Though Taos is a small community, it relies heavily on tourism, with an abundance of wonderful places to stay, regardless of budget or preferred environment. The suggestions below represent a small variety, based on my favorites.
Casa Gallina
613 Callejon Rd, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2306
Located just five minutes from the historic Taos Plaza, in a quiet, pastoral, farmland setting, Casa Gallina’s five adobe casitas offer an oasis of home and renewal for visitors to Taos. Casa Gallina is the perfect base for exploring the Taos area, and it’s also the perfect place to stay put and to “Slow Down”. Pet friendly. Fresh eggs.
El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-3502
The perfectly manicured grounds make this mountain retreat an oasis only a few blocks away from the town of Taos’s historic plaza and 20 miles away from world class skiing at Taos Ski Valley. Serene setting surrounded by waterfalls, ponds, and towering cottonwood trees.
El Pueblo Lodge
412 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(800) 433-9612
Built long before WiFi was even an acronym, El Pueblo Lodge offers our guests all the modern-day amenities you desire while traveling. Gorgeous park-like grounds, spacious outdoor swimming pool and freshly baked cookies all await your enjoyment.
Historic Taos Inn
125 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
(855) 963-2180
Set across several original adobe houses dating from the 1800s, Taos Inn offers a relaxed place to stay. Charming details line every guest-room, from antique furniture and hand-carved doors, to wood-burning fireplaces. Guests have access to offsite amenities including complimentary yoga sessions, gym passes, and an indoor pool.
Hotel La Fonda
108 S Plaza, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2211
In 1820, the Historic Taos Plaza saw its first “La Fonda” (Spanish for “the Inn”) in the form of a mercantile store that also rented rooms. This historic location is where you will find the Hotel La Fonda de Taos. When it comes to Taos hotels, we are the only lodging with a premier spot on the plaza.
Hotel Luna Mystica
25 ABC Mesa Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 613-1411
Hotel Luna Mystica is a vintage trailer hotel and starlight campground on Taos mesa, between Taos and the gorge. Trailers are equipped with a deck, bathroom, comfortable beds, and kitchen facilities.
Tent sites are also available as well as primitive RV spaces without hook-ups. Hotel Luna Mystica is 8 miles from the heart of Taos, 12 feet across a dirt road from the Taos Mesa Brewery, and very pet friendly.
La Doña Luz Inn, An Historic Bed & Breakfast
114 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-9000
Adjoining the original home of La Doña Luz Lucero de Martinez, parts of the building date to as early as 1802. It is constructed in the traditional way of adobe mud bricks with walls two feet thick, vigas (ceiling beams) and latillas (ceiling decking).
Mabel Dodge Luhan House
240 Morada Ln, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-9686
Rich in history, authentic in architecture, The Mabel Dodge Luhan House has been a center of Taos arts and education for nearly 100 years. Experience the rustic and relaxing ambience that makes the Mabel Dodge Luhan house an artistic salon of the Southwest.
Palacio de Marquesa
405 Cordoba Ln, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-4777
Eight-room property offers visitors a beautiful mountain retreat in northern New Mexico. The eclectic town beckons to artists, innovators, and those seeking an escape. The rich and diverse history of Taos is largely defined by the Native American and Spanish cultures.
Sagebrush Inn
1508 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-2254
Sagebrush Inn opened in 1931 as a 13-room hotel, catering to guests traveling by carriage along the trade route between New York and Arizona. Today, the newly restored Sagebrush Inn & Suites offers authentic Southwest charm amidst modern comforts and conveniences with 156 graciously appointed guestrooms & suites and onsite patio dining. Pet friendly.
Annual Events
Annual Events
Taos Winter Wine Festival | January
1000 Cordova Place #723, Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 690-4499
info@taoswinterwinefest.com
A multi-day celebration of food and wine. The event includes seminars, wine tastings, wine dinners hosted by vintners paired with Taos chefs. The Grand Tasting features more than 150 different wines paired with tastes from a dozen of Taos and Taos Ski Valley’s finest restaurants.
Dennis Hopper Day | May
Taos celebrates the life and times of Hollywood’s rebel icon, Dennis Hopper, with the annual Dennis Hopper Day in Taos, New Mexico. The event includes a motorcycle ride, music, food and more! The event is held around May 17th, Dennis Hopper Day in Taos.
Las Fiestas de Taos | July
PO Box 3300, Taos, NM 87571
fiesta@newmex.com
Fiestas de Taos held annually on the Historical Taos Plaza features music, food, parades, markets & dance. A celebration of Spanish culture.
FUTURE FIESTA DATES
July 19-21, 2024
July 25-27, 2025
July 24-26, 2026
50th Taos Fall Arts Festival | September
P.O. Box 675, Taos, NM 87571
info@taosfallarts.com
Nestled amongst breathtaking vistas, blanketed under luminous skies, and steeped in an enticing blend of cultural diversity, Taos has inspired artists for over a century and risen to prominence as a world class art destination.
Michael Hearne's Big Barn Dance | September
Kit Carson Park
211 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
Michael Hearne’s Big Barn Dance Music Festival boasts a lineup of the best artists in Americana, Folk, Bluegrass, Singer-Songwriter and everything in between.
San Geronimo Day | September
A typical Feast Day is a day of eating, visiting with family, friends and enjoying the traditional dances that are allowed to public spectators. Traditionally, a trade fair for visitors near and far. Footraces in the morning, open to the public at 8 am. Through out the day an open market will be accessible to take home wares from an array of artisans and vendors. The Koshare (Sacred clowns for lack of term in English) greet the community from approximately 1 – 5 PM. This is considered a sacred day. NO RECORDING DEVICES of any kind. Cell phones, cameras, drones, etc. will be confiscated.
Taos Mountain Balloon Rally | October
P.O. Box 3096, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 737-8846
Every year on the last full weekend in October, as the trees in the high country surrounding this historic village erupt into a painter's canvas of oranges, reds, ambers and yellows, even more color is added to the vista as the Taos skies are filled with dozens of brightly colored hot air balloons lifting into the clear, cold dawn of a Taos Mountain sunrise.
Frank Morgan Taos Jazz Festival | November
(575) 758-3147
info@taosjazz.org
Taos Jazz Bebop Society created the Festival in 2015 to honor the late, great alto saxophonist, Frank Morgan, who called Taos home. Every year since the beginning, its roster of world-class jazz artists has attracted capacity crowds from Taos and beyond.
Taos Pueblo Christmas Procession | December
Dec. 24 Procession of the Virgin Mary | Mass will start at 5 pm (approximately), procession proceeds after mass, as well as the burning of the bonfires, lasting 2 hours or so. Parking is limited, showing up early would be ideal, dress warm! (FREE ADMISSION after a designated time)
Dec. 25 Deer or Matachina Dance | Dependent on which dance here is the tentative schedule: Deer dance will start at 1 pm (approximately), lasting all afternoon. Matachina dance will start at 11 am (approximately), lasting all day. (FREE ADMISSION)
No cellphones or recording devices allowed during this time. Taos Pueblo has a strict confiscation NO RETURN policy with these devices. Also, there is no guaranteed handicap parking.
Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Recreation
Taos is a travel treasure for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The Carson National Forest and Rio Grande del Norte National Monument provide ample opportunities for all forms of outdoor recreation: hiking, biking, skiing, fly fishing, horseback riding, rafting, golfing, hot air ballooning, and llama trekking. It is a "choose your own adventure" destination.
NOTE: In the process of compiling options, this section got really long. Descriptions spawned a separate article, Outdoor Adventures Around Taos, with more information and details. What follows below is a distilled, abbreviated version of that article.
Outdoor Adventures Around Taos
Rio Grande del Norte National Monument
New Mexico 68, Embudo, NM 87531
(575) 751-4899
Wild Rivers Visitor Center
1120 Cerro Road, Cerro, NM 87519
(575) 586-1150
Taos Field Office
226 Cruz Alta Road
Taos, NM 87571-5983
(575) 758-8851
The Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument is a swath of more than 240,000 acres of protected public land in northern New Mexico. Much of the monument’s land abuts fifty miles of the Rio Grande.
Rio Grande Gorge
2873 NM-68, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-4899
The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument encompasses the awe-inspiring Rio Grande gorge, an 800-foot deep slash in the Taos plateau that dramatically reveals the depth of the lava flows in the area.
The gorge hosts some of New Mexico’s top trout fishing waters and there are hiking and mountain biking trails along the rim and deep into the recesses of the canyon.
At 650 feet above the river, The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and the fifth highest bridge in the United States. During construction of the bridge in the 1960s, funding did not exist to continue the road on the other side, leading to its nickname, the “Bridge to Nowhere.” The gorge bridge has appeared in numerous films, inlcuding Natural Born Killers, Terminator Salvation, Wild Hogs, and White Sands.
Wild Earth Llama Adventures
(800) 758-5262
llamatrek@aol.com
Wild Earth Llama Adventures offers educational multi-day llama trekking adventures and gourmet lunch day hikes in the seldom visited wilderness areas of New Mexico's Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Rio Grande Gorge, near Taos and Santa Fe.
Trekking the Trails Near Taos
From the rocky, stark high desert lava-scape around Taos to the streams and forests of the surrounding mountains, Taos is blessed with a smorgasbord of landscapes. It is the perfect base camp for outdoor enthusiasts. The map above is not all-inclusive...there are a lot more trails in the area; however, this selection will get you started regardless of skill level or terrain preference. For more information, please see Outdoor Adventures Around Taos.
Hot Springs Near Taos
Black Rock Hot Springs | To get to Black Rock Hot Springs, cross the one-lane bridge that spans the Hondo River. After that, cross the John Dunn Bridge over the Rio Grande. Park near the first switchback at the top of the hill beyond the bridge. The Black Rock Hot Springs are by the river, accessible via a 1/3-mile trail.
Located next to the Rio Grande, there are two walled pools, with mud and rock bottoms. Water temperature varies between 97°F to 101°F.
Manby Springs/Stagecoach Springs | Thermal springs located near Arroyo Hondo. The spring fills three rock pools next to the Rio Grande. The springs are located near the ruins of an old bathhouse and a historical stagecoach stop. There is a parking area, with a trail that is about a mile long. Moderate traffic. Both Manby and Black Rock springs tend to vanish INTO the Rio Grande during spring runoff.
Taos Fly Fishing
Taos is a prime location for fly fishing, with both shops and guides available to help anglers navigate the area. Taos provides anglers with the opportunity to find solititude and serenity, with the Rio Grande providing world-class trout fishing waters through the gorge. Red River, a tributary of the Rio Grande, is also a popular place to catch trout. Additionally, fishing is also decent at Eagle Nest Lake for both fly-fishing and conventional tackle, with trout, yellow perch, and northern pike up to 4-feet long.
Taos Fly Shop
338 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur Unit B, Taos, NM 87571
(575) 751-1312
The Solitary Angler
204B Paseo del Pueblo Norte
(575) 758-5653
Taos Rafting
Rafting in Taos is wonderful, with easy access to rafting the Rio Grande Gorge, one of the most beautiful canyons in New Mexico. Enjoy incredible views, with experienced guides, through exhilarating rapids. Whether you are looking for a half-day float trip or a full day of white water. The rafting season starts in the early spring when the snow starts melting and ends in the fall.
Big River Raft Trips
13 Cam del Rio Grande, Pilar, NM 87531
(575) 758-9711
Far Flung Adventures
15 NM-522, El Prado, NM 87529
(575) 758-2628
New Mexico River Adventures
2217 NM-68, Embudo, NM 87531
(800) 983-7756
Los Rios River Runners
2884 NM-68, Peñasco, NM 87553
(575) 776-8854
Winter Sports
Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding, and more. Taos has options for anyone looking to enjoy a winter wonderland.
Angel Fire Ski Resort
10 Miller Ln. Angel Fire, NM 87710
800-633-7463
Enchanted Forest XC Ski & Snowshoe Area
29 Sangre De Cristo, Red River, NM 87558
(575) 754-6112
Red River Ski Area
400 Pioneer Rd, Red River, NM 87558
(575) 754-2223
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort
5224 NM-518, Vadito, NM 87579
(575) 587-2240
Big Al's Snowmobile Tours
P.O. Box 2, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
(575) 751-6051
bigaltsv@taosnet.com
Guided snowmobile tours to the peaks and ridges above Taos Ski Valley. Tours are available November through April, based on weather.
Camping & RVs
Looking for a place to camp for the weekend (or longer)? The interactive map above provides some options for both RVs and tent camping in and around Taos. If you would like more information, please check out Outdoor Adventures Around Taos or Camping NE New Mexico.
