The Land of Enchantment is home to dozens of towns that are perfect for a getaway, but during the holiday season, you’ll want to pick the perfect destination to fully embrace the Christmas spirit and spend some time somewhere cozy. These eight towns are filled with so much charm, warmth, and holiday spirit, that you’ll be feeling at home no matter where you choose. From ghost towns to art towns and mountain towns, these eight towns are enchanting and just perfect to cuddle up in (whether there’s snow or not!) during New Mexico in winter.

1. Madrid
Madrid, NM 87010, USA
The Mine Shaft Tavern/Facebook
This recovered ghost town is as charming as it gets. With eclectic shops filled with artists, this small town will feel just like home. Christmas in Madrid is a beautiful time where the town lights up and kicks off with a Christmas parade. There are plenty of small shops to visit as you take in the culture and holiday spirit. Check this article out for more details about Madrid. It may be the best place to visit during winter in New Mexico.
2. Ruidoso
Ruidoso, NM, USA
Ruidoso, New Mexico/Facebook
This resort town is bursting to life in the winter, whether there’s snow on the ground or not. This magical mountain town is the perfect place to cuddle up in the winter and enjoy incredible scenery. If you hit the town, you can take a horse drawn sleigh ride and then check out the incredible bakery at the village buttery.
3. Belen
Belen, NM 87002, USA
The Hub City - Belen NM/Facebook
Belen, also known as The Hub City, is a hidden gem in New Mexico. You might not think to come here, but this historic town is an affordable way to get some Christmas spirit. The Bugg Lights is an annual event with over 200,000 lights, and it’s completely free. Check out the Bugg Lights Facebook page for all the details.
4. Angel Fire
Angel Fire, NM, USA
Angel Fire Resort/Facebook
Angel Fire is a charming town in the mountain valleys, where the Rockies meet northern New Mexico. In December, you’ll find many locals skiing, but if you prefer to stay inside there are many beautiful accommodations like Angel Fire Resort. A torchlight and Christmas tree lighting are taking place at the end of December. Check out more about this gorgeous little town here. It's perfect for a New Mexico winter vacation.

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5. Mesilla
Mesilla, NM, USA
Old Mesilla/Facebook
Old Mesilla is a charming and historic town. We all know Santa Fe is one of the oldest cities in our state, but Mesilla is close as it dates back to 1848. During Christmas time, the town square is filled with lights and luminarias, making an enchanting backdrop for a cozy town. Don’t be surprised if Christmas carols are coming from the square. For more information about Mesilla, New Mexico, check this article out.
6. Truth or Consequences
Truth or Consequences, NM, USA
MainStreet Truth or Consequences/Facebook
While this New Mexico town with the interesting name is most known for its ghost towns, Truth or Consequences is also the perfect getaway destination. With dozens of hot springs and amazing little shops and bakeries, you won’t need to look anywhere else for a secluded getaway this holiday season. There are so many fun things to do in New Mexico in the winter here!
7. Carlsbad
Carlsbad, NM 88220, USA
Carlsbad New Mexico - Tourism/Facebook
Carlsbad is a popular spot this holiday season, and that's because they take Christmas to the next level. While you'll find charming restaurants and shops in Carlsbad, there's no other town in which the river acts as a light display with over 100 displays on the Pecos. Christmas isn't complete without a trip to Carlsbad. Learn more about why Carlsbad is so famous.
8. Red River
Red River, NM, USA
Red River, NM/Facebook
Located in the beautiful Taos county, this mountain town is an enchanting getaway. Not only is it full of dozens of charming restaurants, it offers a homely feel that’ll make you feel like one of the locals. If you’re up to getting out in the snow, Red River offers an amazing ski hill and plenty of winter hikes. You can even stay in a yurt for a truly one of a kind experience.

Have you spent the holiday season in any of these charming towns? What’s the best part? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share Christmas and New Mexico in winter photos from your getaways with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!

If you’re still not in the Christmas spirit, a stroll through New Mexico’s largest walk-through light show might just do the trick.

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More to Explore

Best Winter Hikes In New Mexico

Tori Jane | December 12, 2021

What are some fun things to do in the winter in New Mexico?

Some fun things to do in the winter in New Mexico include:

  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Hiking
  • Sightseeing

 

New Mexico is one of those states that people don’t usually think about when thinking of winter wonderlands, but maybe they should. As it turns out, the land of enchantment is filled to the brim with delightful holiday cheer, and there are plenty of super-fun, super-awesome things to do during winter in New Mexico. For example, did you know there’s plenty of great skiing here? There totally is! Check out the beautiful Taos Ski Valley, in Taos, or Ski Apache in Mescalero. If you’re not really about the ski life, that’s fine – plenty of parts of the state see some snowfall during the coldest months, and you can always visit for a day of sledding, snowball fights, or any other wintery activity that might speak to you. There are also plenty of festivals and events to attend to get you into the winter spirit, like countless Christmas lights displays and even entire towns that love transforming themselves entirely for the winter season. Check out the Luminaria Beach Walk and Floating Parade of Lights in Elephant Butte, or maybe head to Santa Fe for the Christmas Eve Farolito Walk! While you’re at it, check out this list of the best Christmas towns in New Mexico. You’re sure to love them as much as we do!

Where can I go winter hiking in New Mexico?

Winter weather and mountainous terrain mean winter hiking! Yep, hiking: it’s not just for summer anymore. There are plenty of places around the state where snow and/or winter hiking is not only common, it’s a much-loved hobby! Of course, there are also plenty of places that aren’t snowy (or even that cold!), and they’re just as much fun. Some of our favorite snowy hiking destinations are places like Taos, where you can find some trails that are open year-round, and the Bandelier National Monument is great, too, if you have some hiking poles. As for warmer (warmish?) places for winter hiking, check out White Sands National Park, which is beyond breathtaking, and the Oregon Mountains, which are amazing year-round.

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