New Mexico, known as the Land of Enchantment, is filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and quirky attractions that make it a must-visit for any traveler. While places like Santa Fe and Carlsbad Caverns get plenty of attention, there are plenty of hidden gems that showcase the state’s unique character. From mysterious staircases to UFO lore and breathtaking mountain retreats, here are 15 must-see spots in New Mexico that you won’t want to miss.

1. Loretto Chapel and the Miraculous Staircase

Location: Santa Fe, NM
Address: 207 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Phone: (505) 982-0092
Website: www.lorettochapel.com

One of Santa Fe’s most mysterious landmarks, Loretto Chapel is famous for its “Miraculous Staircase.” Built in the 19th century, this spiral staircase has no visible support and is said to have been constructed by a mysterious carpenter who vanished without a trace.

2. Roswell & the International UFO Museum

Location: Roswell, NM
Address: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203
Phone: (575) 625-9495
Website: www.roswellufomuseum.com

Home to the infamous 1947 UFO incident, Roswell has embraced its extraterrestrial reputation. Visit the International UFO Museum to explore artifacts, eyewitness accounts, and conspiracy theories surrounding the crash. Don’t miss the quirky alien-themed shops and streetlights shaped like alien heads!

3. Angel Fire & Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Location: Angel Fire, NM
Address: 34 Country Club Rd, Angel Fire, NM 87710
Phone: (575) 377-2293
Website: www.vietnamveteransmemorial.org

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Angel Fire is known for its ski resort, outdoor adventures, and the touching Vietnam Veterans Memorial—a stunning tribute to those who served in the war.

4. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

Location: Near Farmington, NM
Address: 6700 Bisti Hwy, Bloomfield, NM 87413
Phone: (505) 564-7600
Website: www.blm.gov/visit/bisti

A surreal desert landscape featuring strange rock formations, hoodoos, and fossilized dinosaur bones. It’s an otherworldly destination perfect for hikers and photographers.

5. Meow Wolf: House of Eternal Return

Location: Santa Fe, NM
Address: 1352 Rufina Cir, Santa Fe, NM 87507
Phone: (505) 395-6369
Website: www.meowwolf.com

An immersive art installation blending interactive exhibits, neon lights, and mind-bending storytelling. It’s a must-see for fans of the bizarre and the imaginative.

6. The Blue Hole

Location: Santa Rosa, NM
Address: 1085 Blue Hole Rd, Santa Rosa, NM 88435
Phone: (575) 472-3763
Website: www.santarosabluehole.com

A crystal-clear, 80-foot-deep natural pool popular with divers and swimmers. The water stays at a refreshing 62 degrees year-round!

7. The Wave Cave

Location: Near Las Cruces, NM
Address: Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
Website: www.blm.gov/visit/organ-mountains

A scenic hike leads to a unique wave-shaped rock formation overlooking the stunning desert landscape.

8. El Santuario de Chimayó

Location: Chimayó, NM
Address: 15 Santuario Dr, Chimayó, NM 87522
Phone: (505) 351-9961
Website: www.holychimayo.us

A historic pilgrimage site famous for its healing dirt and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors come from all over the world seeking spiritual solace.

9. White Sands National Park

Location: Near Alamogordo, NM
Address: 19955 US-70, Alamogordo, NM 88310
Phone: (575) 479-6124
Website: www.nps.gov/whsa

Miles of pure white gypsum dunes create a dreamlike landscape. Great for sand sledding, sunset photography, and stargazing.

10. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Location: Near Silver City, NM
Address: 26 Jim Bradford Trl, Mimbres, NM 88049
Phone: (575) 536-9461
Website: www.nps.gov/gicl

Ancient cave dwellings built by the Mogollon people over 700 years ago. A fascinating blend of archaeology and natural beauty.

11. The Very Large Array

Location: Socorro, NM
Address: NM-60, Magdalena, NM 87825
Phone: (575) 835-7000
Website: www.nrao.edu

One of the world’s most powerful radio telescope observatories, famous for its role in movies like Contact. Tours are available for those curious about deep-space research.

12. Bandelier National Monument

Location: Los Alamos, NM
Address: 15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544
Phone: (505) 672-3861
Website: www.nps.gov/band

Explore ancient cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and scenic trails in this stunning park showcasing Native American history.

13. Tinkertown Museum

Location: Sandia Park, NM
Address: 121 Sandia Crest Rd, Sandia Park, NM 87047
Phone: (505) 281-5233
Website: www.tinkertown.com

A quirky roadside museum filled with hand-carved miniatures, folk art, and oddball Americana.

14. The Catwalk Trail

Location: Glenwood, NM
Address: Catwalk Rd, Glenwood, NM 88039
Website: www.fs.usda.gov/gila

A unique metal walkway built along a stunning canyon, offering a scenic and adventurous hike.

15. Pie Town

Location: Pie Town, NM
Website: www.pietownrisingstars.org

A tiny town famous for—you guessed it—amazing homemade pies! Stop by the Pie-O-Neer or Pie Town Café for a slice of heaven.

New Mexico is a land of history, mystery, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re chasing UFOs in Roswell, hiking through surreal landscapes, or standing in awe at the Miraculous Staircase, there’s always something new to discover.

What are your favorite hidden gems in New Mexico? Let us know! 🚀