New Mexico is the fifth largest state in the nation, but the population continues to hover just above two million. As a result, we have an abundance of small towns. Here are 10 best small towns in New Mexico that are full of their own unique charms, quirks, and quaintness.

1. Madrid
Antonio Gómez
A mining town turned artist’s colony, Madrid has a thriving art scene and some unexpectedly good restaurants. Plus it was used as a filming location in the movie "Wild Hogs." Just don’t make the mistake of pronouncing the town’s name like the Spanish city. Locals prefer to emphasize the MAD in Madrid!
2. Arroyo Seco
Kent Kanouse
This charming town lies under the shadow of Taos Mountain. In addition to spectacular views, Arroyo Seco offers a mercantile and several galleries that sell art and ceramics.
3. Cloudcroft
Travis Swicegood
Outdoor activities are plentiful in the mountain town of Cloudcroft that, until the 1940s, was only reachable by train or pack mule.
4. Abiquiú
Liz Castro
Teeny Abiquiú is barely a speck on the map, but artist Georgia O’Keefe made her home here amid the red rocks. Abiquiú Lake offers plenty of recreational options and, in summer months, visitors can explore Purple Adobe Lavender Farm.
5. Tucumcari
thelostadventure
Tucumcari provides visitors with a hint of what Route 66 must have been like during its heyday.

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6. Taos
Thomas Raymond
Many are surprised to learn that Taos has fewer than 6000 permanent residents. Maybe that’s because, for a small town, it has loads to offer - from the charming 300-year-old Plaza to the art collection at Millicent Rogers Museum. But the highlight is undoubtedly Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which dates back to the late 13th and early 14th centuries.
7. Truth or Consequences
Michael Swigart
Come for the name, stay for the hot springs! The thermal water, which bubbles from a rift along the Rio Grande, is packed with minerals and has attracted visitors to this small town since the 1920s.
8. Chimayó
Ali Emino
Chimayó has long been known for its weavers. The town features several of the studios on the North Central Loop of New Mexico’s Fiber Arts Trail, where you can watch these artists at work. El Sancturio de Chimayó is also a popular pilgrimage site for those searching for physical or spiritual healing.
9. Jemez Springs
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Surrounded by vermilion rocks, the town of Jemez Springs makes a great base for fishing, hiking, or soaking in hot springs. Soda Dam, a natural rock creation, is a popular spot on the Jemez Mountain Trail, a National Scenic Byway that passes through the town.
10. Red River
Matthew
Despite its small size (fewer than 500 people live here) this town has a rowdy past featuring bar rooms and brothels. There continues to be an unexpectedly high number of annual festivals and events in Red River, although the wildest aspect of this small town is now the breathtaking land around it.

What other towns belong on this list? Nominate your favorites by clicking here. Discover more charming places to visit in New Mexico right here.

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More to Explore

Best Small Towns In New Mexico

Leah | September 11, 2020

What is the most beautiful small town in New Mexico?

If you're planning a New Mexico getaway, you should put the state's most beautiful town on your itinerary. Chama, New Mexico has its own historic charm, but the stunning natural scenery surrounding it push it to the top. The population is only just around 1,000 residents and the buildings in town will make you feel like you've traveled back to an idyllic time. Chama is nestled in the Rocky Mountains in northern New Mexico and the sights are absolutely gorgeous. Many people enjoy a visit to this town for that very reason.

What is the smallest town in New Mexico?

Of all these small towns to see in New Mexico, none of them hold the title of the smallest town in the state. That honor would probably go to the village of Folsom. Only 56 people were living in the town as of the 2010 census. Though few people live there now, the area the town is in is known for having quite a history going back thousands of years. Early people of the Paleo-Indian culture are thought to have used the area as a hunting ground as early as 9000 B.C.

What is the most unique town in New Mexico?

There are many quirky towns and cities in the Land of Enchantment that could be considered some of the most unique. Roswell would probably be considered a contender, with its UFO-themed everything and fun stories. A truly unique small town that is unlike any other would probably be Hatch, New Mexico. This chile-centric town is said to be the Chile Capital of the World. You can buy chiles grown right in Hatch or enjoy some chile-topped meals in the town's restaurants. It's a must-visit destination if you want to enjoy a fun slice of New Mexico.

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Featured Addresses
Madrid, NM 87010, USA
Arroyo Seco, NM 87580, USA
Cloudcroft, NM 88317, USA
Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA
Tucumcari, NM 88401, USA
Taos, NM 87571, USA
Truth or Consequences, NM, USA
Chimayo, NM, USA
Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Red River, NM, USA