Tucked in northern New Mexico, bordered by two National Forests, is the tranquil village of Dixon. With deep Native American and Spanish beginnings, the area has evolved into a community of writers, artists, organic farmers, and winemakers. The combination of atmosphere, food, wine, and galleries makes a day in Dixon a prime adventure, especially as the season turns toward fall. Read on to learn more about the magic of Dixon, New Mexico.

The Dixon area has a long history beginning with the Picuris Pueblo people. Later, in 1725, Spanish settlers were granted the land and took up farming. Originally called El Puerto del Embudo de Nuestro Señor San Antonio, (later shortened to Embudo), this area got its name from the shape of the land that funnels the Embudo River through the valley. Embudo is Spanish for funnel.
Dixon Studio Tour/ Facebook
In the early 1900s, when a post office was established, the town was renamed Dixon after local resident, Collins Dixon. By the way, "Dixon" is one of the few American town names in northern New Mexico. Most town names come from Spanish or Native American words.
A lot of Dixon residents can trace their roots to the Embudo Land Grant settlers. However, in the 1960s, artists and craftspeople began moving to the area. Though smaller and less well known than places like Santa Fe and Taos, the Dixon of today is a solid and respectable arts community.
Rift Gallery/Facebook
Rift Gallery, a few minutes away, in Rinconada, shows many of the artists who live and work in the Embudo Valley.
As well as a thriving arts community, the city has a schedule of seasonal events, from a fireman's pancake breakfast to a farmer's market that runs from June to October.
Dixon Market/Facebook
In late August it's time for the Fiestas de Santa Rosa. This beloved community event comes complete with a parade, music, and local food.

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The biggest event of the year is the Dixon Studio Tour. During this two-day event that take place the first full weekend in November, the local artists spruce up their studios and invite the public to visit.
Nicole DeMaret: Dixon Studio Tour/Facebook
Even business and farms invite visitors to wander through and pursue the wide array of fine art and crafts. A fall tradition for more than 30 years, the Dixon Studio Tour is the oldest continuously run studio tour in the state.
Due to its productive farmland, the Embudo Valley is dense with organic farms. Plus, there are two wineries, La Chiripada Winery & Vineyard and Vivac Winery.
Vivac Winery/Facebook
The family-run La Chiripada Winery has been producing award-winning wines for more than 35 years, making it the oldest winery in New Mexico.

Vivác Winery , on the other hand, is a relative newcomer to the wine business. Run by two brothers from Dixon and their wives, Vivac's wines have received raves in the wine community. Both wineries have tasting rooms.
There are dining options in Dixon too. Among the favorites is Zuly's Cafe. This spot serves up all types of food, from omelets to wings, but it is their authentic their New Mexican dishes that really shine.
Coop54 /TripAdvisor
Their breakfast burritos have people from around the state making long drives for breakfast and their burgers get top marks too.
After all the food, wine, merriment and art, you might just decide to stay in Dixon overnight. The closest traditional hotel is 30 minutes away, in Taos, but several vacation rentals are available in the Valley. From riverfront cabins to casitas, most folks will find lodging that suits their style.
Crawford Farm/AirBnB
You can even stay in a tower guesthouse on an organic garlic farm. Once used as a writing studio, the Tower Guest House is a mile and a half from the center of Dixon. This cute little abode is equipped with WiFi, and a TV and DVD player and more. The beauty of the farm is just a bonus.

If You Go: Dixon is located in Rio Arriba County on New Mexico Highway 75, just east of New Mexico Highway 68 in the north-central part of the state.

Have you been to Dixon, New Mexico? Ever shopped at their long-running studio tour? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below. And if you’re searching for more autumn fun, check out these 12 fall day trips in New Mexico.

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Dixon, New Mexico

Elisa Regulski | August 17, 2022

What are the best fall festivals in New Mexico?

If you love fall in New Mexico, you can’t miss out on the Corrales Harvest Festival. This weekend event is put on every year by the Kiwanis Club of Corrales Foundation, and it’s full of excitement. Here, you can vote for the pet mayor, drink delicious beer, and embark on some hay rides! Bring the kiddos along – this outing is perfect for the whole family. For more fun, stop by the Festival of the Cranes in Bosque del Apache, NM. This gorgeous event showcases the beloved cranes as they fly through the area. Learn all about the birds and watch the sunset! This experience belongs on everyone’s bucket list. 

What are the best fall day trips in New Mexico?

There are so many wonderful things to do in New Mexico! This season, plan a day trip to McCall’s Pumpkin Patch in Moriarty. Here, you can weave through a corn maze and munch on tasty pumpkin-flavored treats! If you’re a nature lover, venture to the Frijolito Pueblo archeological site in Los Alamos and explore the Frijolito Loop Trail. This 2.5-mile hike is home to some of the most gorgeous fall foliage in New Mexico. Need more ideas? Check out our full list of the best fall day trips in New Mexico.

What are the most unique towns in New Mexico?

Dixon isn’t the only cool town to visit! We also recommend taking a trip to the town of Madrid, New Mexico. This eclectic arts town is home to whimsical galleries and exciting events. It’s perfect for the whole family! If you loved exploring this vibrant area, you should also pay a visit to the small town of Corrales, NM. The views are incredible, and the history is fascinating.

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