Before I ever set foot in Taos, I’d heard it described as “Santa Fe’s quirky cousin”—more low-key, a little edgier, and incredibly soulful. And after spending several days wandering its historic streets, hiking through golden aspen groves, and soaking in riverside hot springs, I completely get the magic now. Taos is a place where centuries of Puebloan culture, Spanish colonial influence, and counterculture artistry come together under the wide New Mexico sky.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full Southwest road trip, here’s what I personally loved most about this high-desert gem.
📍 Start in Taos Plaza: Heart of the Historic District
I began my visit in Taos Plaza, the cozy downtown square that dates back to the 1700s. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a coffee while listening to live folk music, then duck into a bookstore or a gallery around the corner.
If you’re here in summer, keep an eye out for Music on the Plaza—a free concert series that makes the evenings feel especially festive.
🏛️ Visit Taos Pueblo: A Living Piece of History
A short drive from downtown brought me to Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. The multi-storied adobe structures are visually stunning, but what stuck with me most was the sense of living history. People still live here—baking bread in outdoor ovens, crafting pottery, and preserving traditions.
Tip: Go with a local guide if you can. I learned more in 30 minutes than I could’ve from hours of Googling.
🎨 Explore the Taos Art Scene
Taos has attracted artists for over a century, and you’ll feel it the moment you walk into town. I popped into the Harwood Museum of Art, which houses an eclectic collection ranging from Native American works to modern abstraction.
Don’t miss:
- Millicent Rogers Museum – A deep dive into Southwest jewelry, textiles, and personal history
- Taos Art Museum at Fechin House – A gorgeous Russian-influenced home filled with paintings and woodwork
- Dozens of indie galleries tucked throughout Kit Carson Road and Ledoux Street
🏞️ Hike the Rio Grande Gorge
This was a highlight of my trip. I headed to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, one of the highest in the U.S., and watched the river shimmer far below. Then I hiked the Rim Trail, where desert cliffs meet dramatic skies. It felt both peaceful and cinematic—like I was walking inside a Georgia O’Keeffe painting.
🌄 Drive the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
If you have a car (and time), set aside half a day to explore the Enchanted Circle. This 83-mile loop takes you through mountain towns like Red River and Eagle Nest, with views that shift from alpine forests to wide-open meadows.
I stopped often—once for elk sightings, once for cinnamon rolls, and once just because the view was that good.
💦 Soak in Local Hot Springs
Taos has its own laid-back version of spa culture, and it’s all about natural hot springs. I drove north to Manby Hot Springs, a clothing-optional spot by the Rio Grande that requires a short (and steep) hike down a canyon trail.
Tip: Go early in the morning if you want the pools to yourself. Bring water shoes—the rocks are slick!
⛷️ Hit the Slopes at Taos Ski Valley (Winter)
If you’re visiting in winter, Taos Ski Valley is a must. I’m not a pro skier, but even I could appreciate how thrilling the runs are—steep, snowy, and surrounded by mountain beauty. For non-skiers, there are cozy lodges, snowshoeing trails, and après-ski hot chocolate.
🛍️ Shop for Local Goods & Handmade Treasures
From turquoise jewelry to hand-woven rugs, Taos is full of artisans. I picked up a pair of silver earrings from a shop near Bent Street and a jar of local red chile powder that now lives in my kitchen.
Look out for:
- Taos Farmers Market (Saturdays, May–October)
- John Dunn Shops – Quirky boutiques and indie bookstores
- Cactus Flower – For boho fashion with a desert twist
🍽️ Where I Ate (and What You Should Try)
Taos might be small, but it knows how to feed you. Some of my favorites:
- La Cueva Café – Authentic New Mexican food with the best green chile enchiladas I’ve ever had
- Manzanita Market – Great for local farm-to-table lunches
- The Love Apple – Romantic dinner spot inside a former chapel
- Taos Mesa Brewing – Perfect for a beer and sunset views
💤 Where to Stay in Taos
I stayed at a cozy adobe-style casita just outside the Plaza, but there are options for every budget and travel style:
- El Monte Sagrado – Luxurious resort with a serene vibe
- Hotel La Fonda de Taos – Historic charm right on the Plaza
- Casitas in Arroyo Seco – Peaceful, artistic, and perfect for couples
🧭 Final Thoughts: Why Taos Felt Different
Taos surprised me. It wasn’t just about checking off sights—it felt like slipping into a slower rhythm, one shaped by nature, art, and centuries of history. If you’re looking for a destination that inspires creativity, reflection, and a little bit of adventure, this mountain town is calling.
FAQs About Visiting Taos
What is Taos best known for?
Taos is best known for its historic Pueblo, thriving art scene, mountain views, and winter skiing.
When is the best time to visit Taos?
Fall (September–October) is ideal for foliage and cooler hiking weather, while winter is perfect for skiing. Summer is great for festivals and scenic drives.
Is Taos worth visiting?
Absolutely. Taos offers a rare mix of culture, nature, and creative energy—all in a compact, easy-to-explore town.
Can you visit Taos Pueblo year-round?
Yes, but it occasionally closes for ceremonies or tribal events. Always check their official website before visiting.