9 Incredible Hidden Gems In New Mexico You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
The world is a wonderfully beautiful place and there are endless places to discover. That also goes for our own country and every state including New Mexico! Home to natural wonders like White Sands, Capulin Volcano, and Shiprock as well as man-made wonders like the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and Taos Pueblo. While many well-known attractions draw crowds, there are some that not many, even locals, know about. These places are hidden gems, and here are a few of the hidden gems in New Mexico that we think you should discover in 2024:
1. Lincoln, NM
Lincoln, NM 88338, USA
Take a trip back in time to the Old West with a visit to Lincoln, NM. This small town is where you'll find the Lincoln Historic Site and several preserved buildings from the late 19th century at the height of the Wild West, shoot-outs, and outlaws including Billy the Kid. This is one of the most unique places to visit in New Mexico.
2. Navajo Lake
Navajo Lake nm
Navajo Lake is the second-largest lake in the state. Here you'll find a sandy beach for one of the best secret getaways in New Mexico. Not only can you go swimming here but also boating -- both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake. The views are spectacular as well. Outdoor adventurers will love it here!
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3. Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, 378 Candy Kitchen Rd, Ramah, NM 87321, USA
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary has a mission to rescue wolves, wolfdogs, and other wild canid species. Located off the beaten path in New Mexico, this remote rescue allows the public to visit on certain days. Guided tours are available and special events are held here throughout the year. This is one of the most memorable places you could visit in the state!
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4. Abó Ruins at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument Quarai Unit, 122 Manzano Quarai Rd, Mountainair, NM 87036, USA
If you're looking for non-touristy things to do in New Mexico, you should consider a visit to the Abó Ruins at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. This area is rich in history that dates back to the 1600s when Spanish settlers settled in the area. When you're here, you can see the ruins of the Mission of San Gregorio de Abó as well as Spanish Resettlement Structures.
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5. Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge
County Road A-2, Co Rd A-2, New Mexico 87728, USA
At Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge, you'll be able to see a variety of landscapes and habitats. From prairies to lakes, woodlands, and wetlands as well as mesas and extinct volcanos, there's something quite special about this wildlife refuge. And then there's the wildlife you'll have the opportunity to see like migrating birds and waterfowl that make this a birdwatchering paradise.
6. El Morro National Monument
New Mexico 53, NM-53, Ramah, NM, USA
Located in the high desert, El Morro National Monument is one of the most beautiful hidden places in New Mexico. The sandstone bluffs and headland here were once a popular camping destination for Puebloans, Spanish, and Americans traveling through the area. The evidence they left behind is carved in the rocks. You'll have the opportunity to see thousands of petroglyphs, dates, signatures, and messages. Before visiting, check the National Park Service website for closure announcements.
7. Dwan Light Sanctuary
Forest 263 Road, Forest 263 Rd, Las Vegas, NM, USA
For those of you looking for cool places to visit in New Mexico, head to Dwan Light Sanctuary in Las Vegas. This sanctuary serves as a temple of light, a peaceful place where you can meditate and ponder the mysteries of life. Included in the building's design are prisms that reflect in the most fascinating and beautiful ways. Located on the UWC-USA campus, you must check into the Welcome Center before you're able to visit.
8. The Museum of Space History
3198 State Rte 2001, Alamogordo, NM 88310, USA
If you're as in awe of everything space-related as I am, a visit to The Museum of Space History is a must. With a museum and a planetarium, you'll learn all about space exploration and the discoveries that have been made.
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9. Elena Gallegos Open Space
7100 Tramway Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122, USA
Elena Gallegos Open Space is a paradise for nature lovers of all ages. Located in the Sandia Mountains, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding along with wildlife viewing and birdwatching. You'll also be in awe of the views which are absolutely spectacular!
Which of these hidden gems in New Mexico do you want to visit first? Let us know! If you want to see several hidden gems in one trip, take our Ultimate New Mexico Hidden Gems Road Trip. You can also check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before embarking on that or any other road trip through the state.
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