A beautiful, meandering road following the scenic Rio Grande River Valley connects the iconic towns of Taos and Santa Fe. This leisurely drive is rich in food, art & culture, and outdoor activities. A must for any New Mexico vacation. Driving Taos to Santa Fe can take as little as an hour and a half, but we recommend taking a full day (or more) to enjoy all the amazing sites!

Driving From Taos To Santa Fe:

• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Get Directions
• Stops Include scenic driving, historical sites, river activities & rafting, art, culture, food & beverage.

Breakfast to Power Your Trip

No day can properly begin without a good breakfast, and Taos has some amazing spots. Gutiz is a wonderful French Latin fusion featuring decadent French toast, Egg’s Benedict, and so much more. If you’re hoping for a quick bite, grab a coffee and pastry from either Wild Leaven Bakery or Bearclaw Bakery and Café.

With baked goods in hand, make a short drive north of town to the Rio Grande Gorge Suspension Bridge. Enjoy sweeping views, a staggering 800 feet above the river, and a glimpse at the famous Taos Box. Watch as New Mexico River Adventures’ exciting Rio Grande whitewater rafting adventures float below. Vendors are often stationed at the Gorge Bridge visitor center offering souvenirs for sale.

Pit Stops to Swim, Fish, or Hike

Expansive vistas continue as you make your way via NM-567 past the Bridge further into the Rio Grande National Monument. This road is generally passable as long as the weather has been clear recently. If it’s been dry, make your way down some switchbacks overlooking the Rio Grande and cross it via the Taos Junction Bridge.

With plenty of spots to swim, fish, or even hiking trails lining the road you can tailor your own adventure. Keep a close eye for pictographs hidden throughout the rocks. Always practice leave no trace when out and about, packing all trash out and admire the pictographs from a distance.

Cool Off in the Rio Grande River

20 minutes past Taos Junction Bridge brings you to the small artist community of Pilar to link up with Hwy 68. Enjoy a cup of coffee or cold drink at the Pilar Yacht Club and Café located at the intersection. Take a right onto Hwy 68 and begin your drive right along the Rio Grande! You might see our red rafts navigating the Class II-III rapids of the racecourse in the summertime. Our outpost is about 10 minutes from Pilar.

Feel free to swing in and ask about our trips or check out our awesome t-shirt selection for a souvenir. Looking for a full-day adventure? Check out our full-day Rio Grande rafting trip. If not and you’re feeling hungry you can pop across the street to the Blue Heron Brewery for a pizza and a beer. Otherwise, continue down the meandering road for a glass of wine at Vivac, or Black Mesa a few minutes away. The small community of Dixon is a short detour from Hwy 68 and offers a deli and local produce selection.

Experience Art and Culture

Continue south towards Santa Fe, keeping a close eye out for farmers’ market stands in the summertime. Eventually, you’ll continue on Hwy 68 further south leaving the Rio Grande Valley. Santa Fe offers an assortment of food, museums, and local artists to complete your New Mexican vacation. For more information on Santa Fe history & culture, one of our favorite resources is History in Santa Fe.

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier New Mexico whitewater rafting outfitter. Our trips range from family-friendly to extreme adventure. Our guides are having a blast on the rivers in Santa Fe each and every day. Won’t you join us? Book your Santa Fe white water rafting trip online today!

Looking to travel across the American southwest? When planning a road trip, starting from Las Vegas and traveling to Santa Fe is the perfect way to do it! Las Vegas and Santa Fe are both beautiful cities that everyone should visit, and there are many amazing places to stop at in between. We hope you’re ready to have some fun!

Red Cliff National Conservation Area

After leaving Sin City, the first stop on your epic road trip should be Red Cliff National Conservation Area. Only two hours away from Las Vegas, the Red Cliff National Conservation Area is filled with beautiful scenery and a diverse ecosystem. This area is a transition zone between the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and the Colorado Plateau, so there is a fun mixture of plants and animals to see. The name comes from the beautiful red cliffs scattered throughout the 44,724-acre area. With lots of space to hike and camp, the Red Cliff National Conservation Area is the perfect stop on your southwestern adventure.

Zion National Park

The next stop on your road trip is Zion National Park! A must-do hike in the park is the Narrows. With beautiful canyon walls to walk through, the Narrows is a life-changing hike. You can make the hike as long or short as you want! The total hike is sixteen miles long, but a mile hike is just as fun. Zion is an amazing place to visit!

Grand Canyon

One of the United States’ most recognizable landmarks is the Grand Canyon. The south rim is better for first-time visitors because there is a higher number of experiences and views. The Grand Canyon has life-changing sunsets and amazing scenery. The Grand Canyon is a must-stop on your road trip!

Petroglyph National Monument

The next stop on the road trip is the Petroglyph National Monument. Petroglyphs are art on prehistoric rocks. The Petroglyph National Monuments are home to volcanic rocks that are filled with designs and carvings. There is a deep cultural significance to the Pueblo people. The area is perfect for a short stop before making it to Santa Fe.

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

The final stop on your road trip is Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. The monument is a massive plain cut by deep canyons. There are many exciting outdoor activities at the monument including white water rafting! White water rafting on the Rio Grande is the perfect way to enjoy the monument. After these five incredible stops, we hope you enjoyed your epic road trip from Las Vegas to Santa Fe!

Looking for adventure after your Las Vegas to Santa Fe Road Trip?

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier adventure outfitter for Santa Fe white water rafting, New Mexico kayaking, climbing, and many other activities in the area. We’re located in Embudo — just 45 miles from Santa Fe. Book your next Santa Fe adventure in the Land of Enchantment today!

Looking to get a permit for a Rio Chama rafting river float trip? The Land of Enchantment is filled with many gems, but a Rio Chama river float trip is sure to deliver an unforgettable overnight experience. A 23-mile float along this Rio Grande tributary allows you to dive into the landscape that inspired Georgia O’Keefe and many others. The popcorn clouds, blue skies, and stunning colored cliffs will leave you with that breath of awe that only comes from floating down a river.

This Class II-III stretch is permitted from April 15 to September 15 with highly variable flows. Here are three tips to get your own DIY Chama adventure underway!

1. Understanding the Seasonal Flows

The 23 miles of the Rio Chama from El Valdo Ranch to Chavez Canyon are permitted from April 15-September 15. You can sign up for a lottery assigned launch date between December 1 and January 31. There are two-time frames within this permitted season: early season and release season.

The early season runs from April 15-July 15 with water levels reflecting inflow to upstream reservoirs. No water level is guaranteed during this time, making it tricky for trip planning. July 16-September 15 is Release Season and flows are guaranteed on weekends as water is sourced from reservoir storage.

2. Planning a Rio Chama River Float Trip

Once you’ve snagged a winning lottery ticket, the planning begins! With water levels variable, it’s not a bad idea to have a backup plan to have a successful trip down the mighty Chama.

Keep an eye on flows and feel free to contact the BLM office to see what they have planned. 200 CFS and below, a canoe or inflatable kayak is the way to go. The one class III can be portaged albeit with a bit of effort if you aren’t comfortable testing your low water skills.

300-400 CFS is enough water to squeak along smaller rafts. For anything 14 feet or larger, we recommend a minimum of 500 CFS. Three days is the perfect window to casually float and still have time for exploring the many side canyons.

3. Didn’t Pull a Rio Chama River Float Permit?

Sometimes the stars don’t align, and the permits don’t get pulled. Never fear, we still have some options to explore the Chama River. Permits that were won, but not pulled are back up for grabs beginning April 1.

If you still weren’t able to snag one of those golden tickets in the second round, a slight adjustment of plans can ensure your Chama adventure dreams live on. Just downstream of Chavez Canyon takeout there is a popular day stretch along Forest Road 151 to Big Eddy.

This scenic stretch includes some class II-III whitewater as it meanders its way along the cottonwood groves and sandstone cliffs. With campsites available at the Rio Chama campground, your land-based river adventure can still be filled with the fresh enchanting air of northern New Mexico.

If you are uncertain about taking a DIY rafting trip, New Mexico River Adventures takes pride in providing a safe yet exhilarating adventure for all. The Rio Chama is a great option for white water rafting near Taos. Learn more about all of the available options for whitewater rafting in New Mexico with New Mexico River Adventures.

Top 4 Youth Group Activities in New Mexico

New Mexico has tons of youth group activities for those who are searching to mature and learn new skills through the exploration of, and interaction with, the land. Our list ranges from Boy Scouts of America ranches to faith-based wilderness treks, here are the top 4 youth group activities in New Mexico. 

1. Philmont Scout Ranch

Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico, Philmont Scout Ranch is a National High Adventure Base that is also home to the National Scouting Museum and the Seton Memorial Library. The ranch is a working ranch that maintains small herds of cattle and other livestock. 

Philmont treks are not for the faint of heart. If your child is interested in exploring land through backpacking treks or would enjoy seeing the inner workings of what it means to be a rancher make sure they meet all the requirements for signing up. Check out all of the adventures at Philmont Scout Ranch! (Must be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America) 

2. Gorham Scout Ranch

Located in Chimayo, New Mexico, Gorham Scout Ranch is home to 2,650 acres of adventure. The acres of adventure include a 40-foot-tall climbing tower, half-Olympic sized pool, ATV-ing, rocket launching, high ropes course, opportunity to work on First Aid, and—of course—s’mores. The camp is open to boys and girls of all ages.

Although the pandemic is not over yet, Gorham Scout Ranch has not had a single COVID-19 case in all of 2021! If your child is looking for a more immersive experience than staying in a cabin/lodge, Gorham Scout Ranch offers a ‘Webelos Week in the Woods’ (participants must be entering the fourth or fifth grade for this program).

3. Wilderness Trek 

Wilderness Trek is a faith-based outdoor adventure program located in several states, including New Mexico. This experience provides humans of all ages the potential to learn leadership skills, and outdoor skills.

Group and individual trek options are available, and anyone can see the Northern New Mexico area. The individual trips available include College Week, Female Leadership, High school Discipleship, Mother and Daughter, Father and Son, and Student-Athlete. Check out Wilderness Trek for mostly week-long immersive outdoor adventures that are sure to change your life forever.

4. Glorieta Camps

Glorieta Camps is a Christian summer adventure camp operating out of an area near Santa Fe, New Mexico. From school to family retreats and even an opportunity to build your own retreat. Glorieta Camps contain an offering for everyone in your family. It doesn’t end there, for Glorieta Camps even also offers races! The races include Tatonka 5k and 10k runs to the Big Mountain Enduro race.

The staff at Glorieta are trained and passionate about providing a morally, emotionally, and physically sound environment for every camper there. If you and/or your child are looking to challenge the body in order to inspire the mind (a fundamental principle at Glorieta). Then check out the camp for your next summer adventure.

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier whitewater rafting & adventure company. Our daily trips depart to the Rio Grande River and Rio Chama. From family-friendly to exciting adventures, we’re sure to have a trip for everyone. Join us this summer and cool off in the scenic canyons of New Mexico. Happy adventuring, and be sure to stop by New Mexico River Adventures before or after your other adventure!

Angel Fire New Mexico offers its own unique set of arts and outdoor adventure. Just 30 minutes East of Taos this village in the Rocky Mountains is home to Angel Fire Resort, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and many other sights and attractions sure to please the whole family! Come visit Angel Fire!

1. Angel Fire Bike Park and Ski Resort

If you are looking for adventure and plenty of fun this summer, then Angel Fire Resort may be the place for you! Beginning in 1966 as a small ski operation in northern New Mexico this resort now packs four seasons of adventure and experiences for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Sitting at an elevation of 10,650 ft above sea level and boasting a whopping 60+ miles of trails this high alpine resort offers the best mountain biking in the southwest. With purpose-built, lift-served terrain that gives you access to the 2,000 vertical feet of downhill adrenaline-pumped action. There is something available for every skill level, not to mention riding lessons, a bike shop, dining, hotel lodging, and camping at the base area!

2. Nancy Burch’s Road Runner Tours

Looking to explore Northern New Mexico’s scenic alpine forests? Why not do it by horse back! Nancy Burch’s Road Runner tours allows you to do just that. Just 30 to 40 minutes from Taos or a 2-hour drive from Santa Fe you and your family could be exploring Carson National Forest or the Enchanted Circle with some four-legged friends. Never ridden a horse? They offer beginner to advanced lessons. Nancy Burch offers tours spanning from 1 hour to all day trips making this an exiting get away versatile enough for all ages.

3. Balloons Over Angel Fire

Seated in the Moreno Valley the Balloon Festival in Angel Fire offers one of the only high- altitude locations for balloon launches in the US. Spend time getting to know the pilots, learning the history of ballooning and how these feats of aviation work as they take the imagination to new heights. This sunrise event is the perfect morning to a fathers day weekend.

4. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is an excellent way to honor and remember those who have participated in serving our country. Dedicated to Victor David Westphall and the sixteen men who perished in Con Thien, Vietnam, this memorial seeks to serve as a reminder to the fragility of life and the need to preserve and pursue peace.

5. Enchanted Circle Pottery

This ceramic studio and kiln features wood-fired sculptures and pottery from artists Kevin and JoAnn DeKeuster. Their process utilizes Japanese pottery techniques and woodfired kilns which add one-of-a-kind finishes and glazes to an already unique collection of ceramic arts. You can find their studio between Taos Valley and Angel Fire on highway 64 making it a great pit stop for those on long road trips or those just seeking some beautifully crafted art for home!

Only an hour away from Angel Fire is the best whitewater rafting in New Mexico! Find high adventure on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama with New Mexico River Adventures. Our family-friendly floats take place in the scenic Orilla Verde section of the Rio Grande while our whitewater rafting trips feature the famous Rio Grande Racecourse & Taos Box sections. There’s no better way to spend a hot summer day in New Mexico. View our New Mexico whitewater rafting trips today!

Looking for some of the best outdoor jobs in New Mexico? Join the team at New Mexico River Adventures! We’re actively hiring new and experienced guide staff along with many other supporting positions each year. Our family owned operation strives to provide the greatest outdoor adventures and whitewater rafting in New Mexico. Guess what? Our team gets to have a lot of fun too! Keep reading to learn more about becoming a river guide.

1. Connecting With Rivers

There is no doubt that many people have or develop strong connections with rivers.  Rivers are very powerful forces in nature that will draw you in.  There is nothing like the connectivity you feel when you surf your first wave and delicately carve back and forth while watching the speed of the current swiftly pass you by on its way downstream.  Listen to the river sing sweet songs as you retell the stories of the day with your fellow Guides.   It’s not uncommon at all for river guides to work hard all-day taking care of their gusts through fun whitewater and when the day is done, load up their kayak or raft and head right back out for more with friends.  The river tends to draw you in and help connect you with all your surroundings including the canyon, flora, fauna as well as the friends you’re out their taking it all in with.

2. Learning To Lead

One of the most empowering aspects of river guiding is growing your leaderships skills.  Many career river guides started out as young as 18 years old.  To be put in charge of safely and informatively guiding groups, many of whom are much older than you, for a day or longer, is quite empowering.  Make sure to choose the right Guide Training program which will give you all the tools you need to excel as a guide and evolve into a day and multi-day trip leader with a wide variety of responsibilities beyond simply steering the boat downstream.

3. Community

When you become a raft guide, you enter a large community of great, like minded people.  You gain access to some of the most beautiful parts of the planet.  This world of river guides always feels much smaller than it actually is.  It doesn’t matter if you choose to check out a different river in the Southern Hemisphere in the winter or check out a close by river on our day off, you will be welcomed as a kindred spirit into the local guiding community often times with instant river running partners to explore and adventure.

4. Career Opportunities

One of our favorite comments from people is “when are you going to start your real job or career?”.  Guess what…You Have!  Many career river guides started their river life not knowing that it would become their life long passion.  If it speaks to you, you will soon see how many different places and amazing opportunities exist for you.  Rivers can take you all around the world and introduce you to unique and amazing people places and cultures.  Think about any number of southern hemisphere destinations during your off season like Chile, Zambia or New Zealand as premier destinations.  All forward!

5. Become a Kayaker

I challenge you to find a job that is more fun than being a river guide.  Our office is a beautiful canyon and you typically have the opportunity to learn other ways of paddling downstream on your off time (cough cough New Mexico kayaking).  With certified instructors on the staff, there is usually a bribe you can offer for an after-work lesson and then you’re off.  Even if river guiding doesn’t become your career, you will have leaned other ways to enjoy the river for a lifetime!

Becoming A River Guide At New Mexico River Adventures

Excited about this opportunity? New Mexico River Adventures as a great training program that offers new river guides all of the experience and support they need to get started. Don’t let another adventure-less summer pass you by. Apply online today!

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Rock climbing New Mexico is filled with a diversity that is rarely rivaled with fewer crowds, Whether you are a pebble wrestler, a traditional adventurer, summit bagger, or bolt clipper, New Mexico has a place for weekend warriors and dirtbags alike.

1. For The Pebble Wrestler: Box Canyon In Cibola National Forest

Location: Magdalena, New Mexico

Just about every corner of the state is brimming with established boulders waiting for you to explore. From the roadside classics to the backcountry epics, the land of enchantment is overflowing with possibility. Box Canyon will keep you stoked with its quality rhyolite and acrobatic movements. In addition to spectacular bouldering, you’ll find moderate sport routes in the 5.10-5.11 range. You’ll find camping on site close to your beloved boulders, however many folks like to stay 10 miles away at Water Canyon Campground.

2. For the Traditional Adventurer: Jemez Mountains

Location: Sandoval County, NM

No proper adventure epic can begin with a simple approach, and Capulin Canyon of the Dome Wilderness does not fall short. A steep descent traversing the remains of wildfires in 1996 and 2011 promise a rugged start to the day, but soon make way to extraordinary, Indian Creek quality splitter cracks. Yep, that’s right, splitters in New Mexico. However, the welded tuff here is not for the inexperienced. Soft rock and the backcountry nature of this crag are not to be taken lightly. With summer temps roasting in the canyon, we recommend this crag for a winter four wheel drive adventure. This is one of our favorite places for rock climbing in New Mexico!

3. For the Summit Bagger: Wheeler Peak

Location: Taos Ski Valley, NM

At 13,167 feet, Wheeler Peak of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is the highest point in New Mexico. No technical climbing is required making it a great rest day activity for those of you whose fingers need a break. There are several options to ascend the peak including the longer scenic route. Bull of the Woods Trail (Wheeler Peak Trail) offers a 16 mile round trip journey to the top of this mountain giant. For a shorter option, the Williams Lake trail is roughly 7 miles round trip with the final 1000 feet comprised of scree. Wheeler Peak is located in the Carson National Forest, but most trail options cross private property at some point. Be sure to respect the landowners when out adventuring! Best season is May through November, although start early to avoid monsoons in the summer months.

4. For the Bolt Clipper: Big Block

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Big Block is a sprinkled with a smattering of grades complimented by easy access and close enough to Albuquerque for beer at the end of the day. It makes for a short and accessible day of rock climbing in New Mexico! A short, marked trail leads you to this lovely nugget of limestone ready to provide a day of climbing moderates and a few challenging routes to keep you on your toes. With little sunlight making its way into the canyon, Big Block is a great summer reprise.

5. For the Top Rope Hero: Sugarite Canyon State Park

For the beginner leader, Sugarite offers a playground of possibilities. While all the 40-50 foot basalt climbs are able to be led, they also have the ability to be top roped. Most are bolted and easily set up, while some require a bit of static line or webbing and ingenuity to get going. 8000 feet up, the SE facing walls like to soak in the sun making it a tad warm at times. The state park requires a $5 day fee or a $10 camping fee to stay in Soda Pocket campground. While you dirtbags may scoff at this, that $10 camping fee includes a lovely, refreshing shower!

New to rock climbing New Mexico? Join New Mexico River Adventures for one of our various beginner climbing trips! It’s the perfect way to experience our various sandstone and limestone walls. Book online today!

Want to learn more about the history of the Rio Grande Gorge? Since we spend many of our days on the Rio Grande River, the Gorge holds a special place in our hearts. The Rio Grande Gorge is a vast canyon that starts near the New Mexico-Colorado border and stretches over 50 miles ending just southeast of Taos, New Mexico. This impressive geological formation which is well known for its unique whitewater thrills also holds an incredible ecological, historical, and cultural significance to the area.

Naming The Rio Grande Gorge

Historically, the Puebloans and other Southwestern peoples relied on and enjoyed the Rio Grande as much as we do today. Through the gorge walls, there are many places to see petroglyphs or ancient rock art that have been left by people for thousands of years! In the several native languages, there are different names for the river such as Posoge meaning “big” or “great” river in the Tewa language. The name we are most familiar with, Rio Grande, which means “big river” in Spanish, came into use in the early 16th century when the Spanish began occupying the area of Northern New Mexico.

Naturally History Of The Rio Grande

Millions of years ago, this area of New Mexico was undergoing a lot of geological changes such as earthquakes and lava flows which created a valley called the “Rio Grande Rift Valley.” The river followed the path of the valley and over time carved it deeper and deeper to create the gorge we know today.

The John Dunn Bridge

Most people know the John Dunn Bridge as the beginning of the magnificent, full-day Lower Taos Box trip, or maybe as a great place to enjoy the afternoon fishing, rock-climbing, or soaking in hot springs. You would be surprised to know that there was more to the history of the Rio Grande. In the early 1900s this area was also bustling with bars, restaurants, and hotels where people stopped to soak and relax during their long journeys in the West. The bridge you can see today is the third of its kind dating back to the 1930s!

Conservation Of The Rio Grande

In 1968, the Rio Grande was one of the eight rivers included in President Johnson’s original National Wild and Scenic River Act. This conservation designation ensured that rivers protected under the act would be maintained undammed and free-flowing to protect the ecological and historic integrity of the area.

In 2013, the Obama administration created the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument which further protects our beautiful gorge for its historical, cultural, and environmental importance.

Recreation On The Rio Grande

Ten miles northwest of Taos on Highway 64, The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, hovers 650 feet above the gorge giving you some jaw-dropping views.

Located at the confluence of the Rio Grande and Red River, the Wild River Recreation area near Questa, New Mexico provides beautiful overlooks and great hiking trails as you explore the 800-foot gorge.

Orilla Verde Recreation Area near Pilar, New Mexico has great opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, camping, or even just taking time to relax by the river.

Book a trip with New Mexico River Adventures on the Rio Grande River! Whether you are looking to experience the exhilarating class IV whitewater of the Lower Taos Box or the scenic and relaxing Orilla Verde, let us guide you down the Rio Grande in New Mexico! Be sure to check out one of our most popular full-day trips, Rafting on the Rio Grande. Families and friend groups from far and wide join us every whitewater season to witness this spectacular river. We hope you will consider joining us and we can’t wait to see you on the river!

Looking for the absolute best kayaking classes in New Mexico? Your search is over!

1. New Mexico River Adventures (Inflatable Kayaking, ‘duckies’)

2. New Mexico River Adventures (Hardshell Kayaking)

• RIO CHAMA 3 DAY WHITEWATER KAYAK INSTRUCTION
• PRIVATE OR CUSTOM WHITEWATER KAYAK TRIPS WITH INSTRUCTION
• 2 DAY BEGINNER WHITEWATER KAYAK INSTRUCTION

3. University of New Mexico

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier outfitter for family-friendly or challenging river adventures on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama. From multi-day trips to half-day trips, there’s a trip for everyone! Bring your group of family and friends for a smashing good time whitewater rafting and kayaking in New Mexico.

A New Mexico family vacation is family time on steroids; but the pressure to plan a perfect itinerary can often feel daunting. Will everyone be happy? Will everyone be safe? Dearest human, have no fear, this blog post is here! The following six items offer a wide range of itinerary amendments that will undoubtedly create the memorable, adventurous family trip you hope for while also invoking a smile within every member of your family.

Without further delay, here is our guide to the perfect New Mexico family vacation!

1. Meow Wolf
2. White Sands National Park
3. La Fonda Inn
4. Luna Mystica
5. Aceq Restaurant
6. Carlsbad Caverns

1. Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf is an interactive art museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The museum uses music and/or video to transport audiences of all ages into a creative world of experimental storytelling. Meow Wolf’s permanent installation, House of Eternal Return (HOER), supported by George R.R. Martin (Game of Thrones creator), also features a children’s learning center, cafe/bar, and music venue. 

2. White Sands National Park 

White Sands National Park, located in Tularosa Basin, creates the world’s largest gypsum (wave-like dunes) in the world. The activities at the park include walking, camping, sledding down the dunes, and much more. Plus, if your family includes someone with a little extra fur, all furry friends are welcome at White Sands.

3. La Fonda Inn

La Fonda Inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America, is the only hotel located on the historic Santa Fe plaza. With a four-diamond rating, and 400 years of experience, La Fonda Inn offers authentic lodging, restaurants, and no resort fees. 

4. Luna Mystica

Luna Mystica, operating out of the Mesa of Taos, is a vintage trailer hotel and campground. Each trailer contains its own deck, bathroom, bed, and kitchen. This itinerary amendment is the epitome of the intersection of modern and vintage. If you are looking to ‘glamp,’ camp, or simply stare at the famous New Mexico starry sky, then this is the place for you and your family to stay. 

5. Aceq Restaurant 

Aceq Restaurant, from 5:00-9:00 p.m. in Arroyo Seco, is a local New Mexican favorite. The menu changes daily, but the chef never fails to bring spunk and flavor. Plus, if your family has allergies or special diets, Aceq offers gluten-free pasta and the menu also has special labels indicating which dishes accommodate particular allergies or special diets. 

6. Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns is located in Eddy County. Known for its limestone caves, rock formations and hiking trails, this national park is notably good for kids. Plus, if your kids are under 15, they can get in for free! The caverns are meant to be enjoyed at your own pace, and they can be accessed by elevator and/or hiking. Lastly, if you plan to visit between late-May through October, you and your family can experience a ranger program about the Brazilian free-tailed bats that live in the Cavern and watch them emerge. 

At the very least, these six items should help alleviate at least some stress towards the delicate job of planning a family vacation itinerary. And, of course, be sure to add New Mexico River Adventures to your list of things to do. We offer rock-climbing to Rio Grande & Rio Chama rafting adventures for all ages where each adventure is guided by a knowledgable, friendly guide. We also can’t recommend New Mexico kayaking enough. Happy planning!