City Guide: Taos, New Mexico

Today I am sharing one of our favorite travel destinations that we cannot wait to visit again: Taos, New Mexico. Impromptu road trip, anyone?

Though the three of us are definitely “girly-girls” who love the city life, escaping the fast paced lifestyle and venturing out into nature is surprisingly one of my favorite things to do. Since my sisters and I all attended SMU in Dallas, we all participated in SMU’s Summer in Taos program, which meant we spent three weeks living in casitas, hiking, camping, learning, and exploring the entire area with a great group of friends. After the weeks flew by, we knew Taos was one of our favorite destinations and we recommend it to anyone!!

The best part about Taos is that it offers something for everyone. From spas to camping, arts and photography to sports and adventure, the town is really a one-of-a-kind destination. Since we love live music, visiting the Taos Summer Music Festival in the ski valley was one of the highlights of the trip. Blair and some friends rented a beautiful cabin overlooking the valley, while I camped out underneath the stars in the mountains with a crew. Both experiences were amazing, and it was fun experiencing both the outdoor and luxury stays over the weekend.

With stunning mountains and gorgeous riverbanks, spending the day (sans cell phones) exploring the surroundings is an absolute must. One of my favorite afternoon activities was packing a picnic and cooler and heading down to the river. With natural hot springs and 100% serenity, this experience was unforgettable!

Taos Ski Valley in Summer via

Rio Grande via Blue Mountain Belle

Taos Pueblo via

With combined cultures (Native American, Spanish, and Anglo), the city offers history and influence throughout the community through arts, architecture, festivals, and galleries – be sure to add a visit to Taos Pueblo on your list! For those of you who appreciate unique homes, the Taos Earthships are one of the most fascinating aspects of the city. These unique homes offer sustainable living in these solar abodes created out of natural and recycled materials. Rentals and tours are available throughout the year!

Earthship Photo Cred: Joseph Lekas

Another highlight of our trip was a quick weekend getaway to Santa Fe for the weekend. This picturesque and quick drive from Taos had some of the best views, and we loved visiting the the wineries along the way and stocking up on turquoise jewelry in the city!

WHAT TO DO:

Taos, New Mexico, is a picturesque town known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty. Here’s a brief city guide to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Explore Taos Pueblo: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States, offering a unique glimpse into Native American culture and history.

2. Art and Culture: Taos has long been a magnet for artists, and you’ll find numerous galleries and studios showcasing everything from traditional Native American art to contemporary works. Don’t miss the Harwood Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of Southwestern art.

3. Outdoor Adventures: Surrounding Taos are the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, skiing, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, Taos has something for everyone.

4. Taos Plaza: The historic Taos Plaza is the heart of the town, offering unique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to check out the local shops for handmade crafts, jewelry, and other unique finds.

5. Cuisine: Taos boasts a diverse food scene with a focus on Southwestern and New Mexican cuisine. From upscale dining to casual eateries, you can savor everything from green chile stew to gourmet fusion dishes.

6. Taos Art Museum at Fechin House: This museum is housed in the former home of Russian-American artist Nicolai Fechin and features an impressive collection of his works alongside other regional art.

Remember, this is just a snapshot of all the amazing things Taos has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Taos is sure to delight.

WHERE TO STAY:

El Monte Sagrado (luxurious)

Taos Earthship

AirBNB homes

WHERE TO EAT:

Taos offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, with a range of dining options to suit every taste. Here are some recommendations for where to eat in Taos:

1. The Love Apple: This charming restaurant is housed in an adobe chapel and focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features creative dishes inspired by traditional Northern New Mexico cuisine.

2. Lambert’s of Taos: Known for its upscale Southwestern cuisine, Lambert’s offers a refined dining experience with a menu that includes dishes such as green chile mac ‘n’ cheese and house-smoked trout.

3. Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe: A Taos institution, Orlando’s is the place to go for classic New Mexican fare. From sizzling fajitas to flavorful chile rellenos, the menu is packed with delicious options.

4. El Meze: This restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is designed for sharing, allowing you to savor a variety of flavors.

5. Taos Mesa Brewing: If you’re a fan of craft beer, don’t miss Taos Mesa Brewing. In addition to a rotating selection of brews, the brewery also features a diverse menu with options ranging from wood-fired pizzas to hearty burgers.

6. Guadalajara Grill: For authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Guadalajara Grill. The restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with classic dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and sizzling fajitas.

7. Taos Diner: If you’re looking for a casual, no-frills breakfast or lunch spot, Taos Diner is a beloved local favorite. The menu features hearty diner fare, including fluffy pancakes, omelets, and green chile cheeseburgers.