Taos, New Mexico: home to a thriving art scene, savory southwestern food and amazing outdoor recreation. This unique combination makes this city a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here’s a short weekend guide to Taos, New Mexico.
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Day 1: Get to Taos
Plan your visit here as part of a New Mexico road trip or fly into the Santa Fe airport, which is 1.5 hours away. It’s also about a 4.5 hour drive from Denver, so it’s easily accessible for those from Colorado as well.
Where to Stay
There are actually two distinct areas here: Taos and Taos Ski Valley. You can stay in Taos downtown or at the ski valley, which is lovely even in the summer.
- There is great camping along the Hondo River on Highway 150, which is located between the Ski Valley and Arroyo Seco. You can find paid campgrounds or also dispersed camping along this road.
- If camping isn’t your thing, stay in one of the incredible puebloan style hotels here. This particularly unique style of architecture is only found in this region of New Mexico.
- Another fantastic option here is Hotel Luna Mystica, a “campground” of sorts made up of amazing vintage and renovated trailers.
What to Do
Firstly, after you arrive, drive to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. This bridge is the 2nd highest bridge in the US highway system. You can either drive across or walk across, as there is parking on either side of the bridge for access.
Afterwards, drive into the historic downtown Taos area. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering around this area. This is also a great area to have dinner on your first night in town. Highlights include:
- New Mexican style food (Hatch Green Chili) – best spot: La Cueva Cafe
- Puebloan architecture shops at Taos Plaza
- Art galleries
- Taos Art Museum
Day 2: Explore Taos Ski Valley and Arroyo Seco
The best place to start your second day here is at the base of the Taos Ski Valley Resort. After grabbing a coffee or breakfast from one of the local spots here, sit and watch the sleepy summer town come to life.
What to Do
Taos Ski Valley – In the summer, you can still ride Lift 1 to a gorgeous mountain overlook, which is a perfect picnic lunch spot. However, if you feel more like hiking than riding the lift, try the Williams Lake Trail.
- This hike is a moderate 3.7 miles with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. After enjoying the fabulous lake views, head back down to grab a snack at the Bavarian Lodge. This watering hole, which is on the hiking route, will make you feel like you are right in the Alps.
After exploring the Ski Valley, head down to the tiny town of Arroyo Seco.
- It’s likely you passed through here on your way earlier, so make time to stop now. This village is home to pottery shops, unique restaurants and also Taos Cow. Not only does this spot have an incredibly calming stream location, but it also serves the best ice cream in Taos.
Day 3: Visit Taos Pueblo and the Hot Springs
On your last day here, visit the Taos Pueblo, Black Rock Hot Springs, and also grab some New Mexican fare for your journey home.
What to Do
First, visit the Taos Pueblo, which is a Native American community located 5 minutes from downtown Taos. This Puebloan style village has been continually inhabited for over 1,000 years, with around 150 full time residents. In addition to this, it’s the only place of its kind in the US.
Following your visit to the pueblo, head for a soak at one of the nearby hot springs. There are at least 5 hot springs near Taos, some natural and some built up.
- Try the free Black Rock Hot Springs, which are located directly on the Rio Grande River. This spot is particularly beautiful as it’s hidden on the side of the river and completely natural.
Last, but certainly not least, make sure to stop at a grocery store, gas station, or tourist shop to find some form of New Mexico Green Chilies. There are salsas, the plain chilies themselves, desserts, infused honey…you name it. These make for a great souvenir to take home with you!
Enjoy Taos!
Taos is an incredible spot to visit as it offers a bit of something for everyone. Hope you enjoyed this weekend guide to Taos, New Mexico and get to enjoy this wonderful city sometime soon! Also, for additional information on Taos, check out our guide to the Top 6 Things to Do.
Jonathan, Caroline and Queso