A romantic getaway set in New Mexico — aptly nicknamed the Land of Enchantment — lends a delightful change of pace where you can let your stress vanish with the wind. This beautiful Southwestern state has a rich cultural history and wonderfully diverse landscape. You can enjoy the semi-arid desert climate, high alpine vistas, and passion-pink sunsets that fill your cozy New Mexico vacation rental with sensuous warmth. Check out the most romantic spots in New Mexico for a weekend getaway.
1. Taos
Escape to this charming mountain town in the scenic Sangre de Cristo mountains. Authentic adobe buildings, accented with iconic bright blue shutters and doors, reflect the artistic nature of Taos. Artists Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams found a haven here following the establishment of the Taos Art Colony in 1915. Aspiring artists continue to hone their talents here, and you can find some amazing treasures at the ongoing arts and crafts fairs. If you love winter sports, there are four ski resorts, including Angel Fire, near Taos, making this town an ideal hub for a number of activities. Locals recommend The Love Apple for an interesting dining experience. Housed in a former Catholic chapel from the 1800s, this restaurant serves up bourbon-soaked Medjool dates and lamb-sausage Bolognese.
2. Chimayo
Nestled in the foothills of the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountain range is Chimayo, originally founded in the 17th century by Spanish settlers. This beautifully peaceful place is famous for its traditional weaving, and you can find gorgeous handmade pieces in the galleries around town. Stop by the Chimayo Trading and Mercantile, and commemorate your special weekend with a gift of authentic and reasonably priced pewter jewelry, pottery, carvings, or woven baskets. For outstanding Mexican fare amid luxuriously rustic surroundings, take a 28-minute ride south to Santa Fe and share a meal at the Anasazi Restaurant.
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3. Truth or Consequences
This small resort town sits on the banks of the Rio Grande River and is affectionately referred to by locals as ‘T or C.’ The downtown historic bathhouses and spas were renowned health centers in the 1920s, ’30s, and ’40s, and hot springs still dot the area. Plan a romantic couple’s massage and soothing soak at one of the area spas, such as the La Paloma. You can find plenty of hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, and boating opportunities at the Elephant Butte Lake State Park. When it’s time to unwind and look deeply into each other’s eyes, share a succulent meal at the Pacific Grill.
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4. Silver City
This historic locale nudges the border of Arizona and was dubbed one of the country’s top 10 coolest small towns. Miners flocked to the area in the 1870s to take advantage of the rich silver deposits. Follow a one-mile loop trail to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument for a first-hand look at the ancient Mogollon cliff dwellings that were home to Native Americans in the 1200s. Best known as the first town to arrest Billy the Kid, Silver City is a haven for foodies, and you can spend special time together over a scrumptious meal at the Los Arcos Steak and Lobster House or some luscious Asian fusion at Latitude 33.
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5. Alamogordo
Nestled in the Tularosa Basin and bordered by the Sacramento mountains, this romantic oasis has clear skies, great weather, and miles of pure white sand. A New Mexico-born astronaut, Harrison H. Schmitt, collected a moon rock on his moon mission in 1972, and you can see that exciting exhibit at the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Spend time together on the fairways of the Desert Lakes golf course, or take a leisurely walk on the trails at nearby Oliver Lee State Park. Settle in for a relaxing and romantic dinner at Bangkok Toyko, where Thai food is the house specialty.
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6. Cloudcroft
This tiny northern New Mexico mountain town is in the Lincoln National Forest. In the warmer months, you can join locals for some down-home fun at the Bad Ass Mountain Music Festival or the July Jamboree of Arts and Crafts Show. Winter finds snow lovers tubing, snowboarding, and skiing at an altitude of 9,100 feet at Ski Cloudcroft. There are 25 trails for all skill levels, and instead of ascending using the standard chair lift, try the handle or rope tow that makes going up as much fun as coming down. Enjoy some cozy together time over a delicious meal of escargot or stuffed chili peppers at Rebecca’s at the Lodge.
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7. Ruidoso
The charming town of Ruidoso is an hour north of Cloudcroft and huddles in the piney southern New Mexico mountains on its namesake river. Outdoor enthusiasts access the central portion of the White Mountain Wilderness area via the Argentina and Big Bonita Trailhead, where the numerous looping trails are well-maintained and easy to follow. History buffs delight in exploring the preserved nomadic Native American culture at the Mescalero Apache Reservation. When it’s time for dinner, try the salmon with green-chili mashed potatoes at the Grill Caliente.
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8. Las Vegas
This lovely northwestern New Mexico town was founded in 1835, and more than 900 buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In its Wild West days, Las Vegas was a Santa Fe Trail town, and outlaws like Billy the Kid and Wyatt Earp graced the saloons with their not-always-welcome presence. Today, the town features local artists in beautiful galleries, and you can do some antique shopping on Main Street. The San Miguel County Fair and Meadow City Music Fest are popular summer activities. Have a quiet dinner and cocktails for two at the Landmark Grill or Kocina De Raphael.
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