37 Best Stops Between Taos and Grand Canyon National Park
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Taos to Grand Canyon National Park?
The direct drive from Taos to Grand Canyon National Park is 539 mi (867 km), and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 39 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Taos to Grand Canyon National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sedona, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Williams, Jerome, and Cottonwood, as well as top places to visit like Santuario de Chimayo and Canyon Rd, or the ever-popular Pecos National Historical Park.
Top cities between Taos and Grand Canyon National Park
The top cities between Taos and Grand Canyon National Park are Sedona, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Williams, Jerome, and Cottonwood. Sedona is the most popular city on the route. It's 8 hours from Taos and 3 hours from Grand Canyon National Park.
Situated in the foothills of Sangre de Cristo, Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is renowned for its creative arts scene and Pueblo-style architecture. Originally established as a Spanish colony in 1610, the city's heart lies at its traditional Plaza which is surrounded by a historic district with crooked streets that wind past adobe landmarks such as the Palace of Governors. The latter now serves as the New Mexico History Museum.
72% as popular as Sedona
2 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
The biggest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque, is located in the arid desert. Its contemporary downtown area contrasts with Old Town Albuquerque, which dates back to its establishment as a Spanish colony in 1706. Old Town comprises of numerous historic adobe structures including San Felipe de Neri Church and five museums featuring Native American handicrafts for sale. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center nearby traces the history of tribal communities in the region.
57% as popular as Sedona
1 minute off the main route, 29% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
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Jerome is a town in central Arizona. The Mine Museum explores Jerome's history as a booming copper-mining town. Jerome State Historic Park is home to Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by a mining magnate. Nearby, Audrey Headframe Park has a glass viewing platform over a 1918 mine shaft. Art galleries and small wineries dot the downtown area. To the east, Tuzigoot National Monument preserves an ancient hilltop pueblo.
4% as popular as Sedona
1 hour off the main route, 73% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Cottonwood, located in Yavapai County, Arizona, is a city with a population of 11,265 as per the 2010 census. This municipality boasts stunning natural beauty and is situated near the picturesque Verde River. The city offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing for visitors and residents to enjoy. In addition to its natural attractions, Cottonwood has several museums that showcase the history of the area.
5% as popular as Sedona
1 hour off the main route, 74% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Sedona is a desert town in Arizona, situated close to Flagstaff and is surrounded by stunning red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. It has a mild climate and an active arts community. The Uptown Sedona area has plenty of New Age shops, spas, and galleries. Several trailheads on the outskirts of the town lead to Red Rock State Park where one can indulge in bird-watching, hiking or picnicking activities.
Most popular city on this route
48 minutes off the main route, 75% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
I'll never travel to Grand Canyon National Park without this trip planner again
Flagstaff, located in Arizona, is a city surrounded by desert, mountains and pine forests. This area serves as a gateway to the San Francisco Peaks where the tallest peak in Arizona, Humphreys Peak can be found along with the popular ski resort of Arizona Snowbowl. Within close proximity lies Wupatki National Monument which features Native American pueblo sites and Walnut Canyon National Monument showcasing cliff dwellings from ancient times.
28% as popular as Sedona
0 minutes off the main route, 79% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Williams, situated in the north of Arizona, is renowned for being the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park through the Grand Canyon Railway. The city offers a nostalgic feel with its Americana-style shops and restaurants that date back to the early 1900s on Historic Route 66. It boasts several attractions such as Pete's Route 66 Gas Station Museum and the Route 66 Zipline, both displaying significant highway memorabilia.
26% as popular as Sedona
1 minute off the main route, 84% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Best stops along Taos to Grand Canyon National Park drive
The top stops along the way from Taos to Grand Canyon National Park (with short detours) are Sandia Peak Tramway, Old Town, and Inn & Spa at Loretto. Other popular stops include Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, Bandelier National Monument, and Canyon Rd.
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Pecos National Historical Park
Park
Nature & Parks
Former location of an Indian village, Spanish mission, Civil War battlefield & Greer Garson's ranch.
Arriving into the town where the park was at, there was two options. The historical park and the state park. I wasn't sure which one to go to, so we chose to go with the higher rated location. Arriving at the historical park, it looked small and not much other then the gift shop. It has a little museum in it with some great Native American artifacts. We decided to try the trail and found that the Pueblo was not only real but accessible. It was an incredible site and experience something that's been up for such a long time. Beautiful environment and so very thankful we decided to go this amazing place.
Luis Cuellar — Google review
We visited during the wildfires, so only the Ancestral Sites Trail was open. But that turned out to be perfect! It was warm out, so the quick 1.5 mile round trip trail was perfect. We loved reading all of the information and seeing the historical sites. Very cool! I highly recommend it! And if you’re bringing a stroller or wheelchair, this is a great path for you as well!
Stacy Anderson — Google review
Enjoyed our visit to Pecos National Historical Place. The visitors center provided an excellent introduction through a series of thoughtful exhibits. Appreciated that many exhibits had items to touch and feel that would engage children in the content. There is also a short orientation film. From the visitors center there is a self guided trail of about 1 1/4 miles through the ancestral sites It's done in packed gravel. There's a slight elevation gain of 80 feet. For those who find that too much you can drive up to a second parking lot by the church and explore that area.
Mary Morrison — Google review
The only word that really comes to mind is wow. A history lesson on top of live ruins and absolutely gorgeous landscape all around. 1.25 mi hike, which was very easy. Our entire party had on hiking boots but they really are not required (although they do come in handy if you don't want to stain your regular walking shoes with red clay). The weather was perfect on the day we visited. There is no charge to enter, although I highly recommend the $2.00 booklet which takes you through the 15 or so stations giving the history of the area. The remains of the Pueblo style Pecos church were quite gorgeous. You can spend about an hour and a half here pretty easily taking it all in. This was sort of an afterthought, discovered when we were driving from Carlsbad to Santa Fe. Honestly, I think we would have missed out on either the second or third coolest thing that we did the entire trip had we not discovered this place. This is not a gigantic National Park so it will not consume half of the day or more. But you will be thankful that you decided to stop and take in the beauty. My 9-year-old was able to get a junior ranger patch here. All of the park rangers are very friendly, and this is definitely a hidden gem of a National Park.
Mark Flesher — Google review
What a wonderful place to commune with nature while honoring the history & culture of the area's indigenous People! Such a well preserved park, along with it's ruins, native foliage & wildlife...
The views along the trails were absolutely breath-taking. Highly recommend this park for history buffs, nature lovers, future conservationists & the those who gravitate to spiritual or shamanistic places to connect with the Past while appreciating one's Present.
Noted: Though the Park continues to upkeep the grounds & it's ruins, I'd like to see the local gov't office provide their grounds keepers a suitable place to stow away the materials necessary to maintain it-- out of plain sight-- so the trails & the views it holds remain the focus of one's experience. ^=^
Don't forget to stop by the visitor center & gift shop for your memorabilia! They offer tours & historical movie shows to learn more about this little gem just outside of the Pecos National Park.
b vendetta — Google review
Absolutely stunning. Hit the visitor's center and buy the $2 self-guided booklet. Walk the VERY easy 1.2m path and read each of the keyed locations as you do. Soak in the history and beauty of the pueblo... it's a must visit.
Brine — Google review
The whole area is such a historic place and a crossroad for such different civilizations throughout history. It is totally worth the time to visit it. Just have in mind that the whole trail is up in a hill and it can change between windy, sunny, chilly, rainy, all at the same day during the same hiking! Don't miss the chance to go down the kivas...
Φίλιππος Φιλίππου — Google review
What a great park! Very nice visitors center with shop, museum, and theater! The loop is short and has many different structures to see and explore. I learned a lot as well using the trail guide they have available for use. We even saw coyotes while on the trail. Highly recommend if you are in the area!
Veronica Kirker — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to this historical park. The park rangers are so informative. The $2 walking guide available at the information center is a must have. It helps explain each marker along the way and helps you envision what life was like here long ago.
Kimberly Kalajian — Google review
Amazing! Check it out if you have a chance. Before you get started, buy the $2 trail guide in the visitor's center - worth it! The rangers and volunteers were especially friendly and helpful.
Lisa — Google review
A fascinating and beautiful place to be sure. It's like taking a step back into time. You can walk the grounds & reflect on the culture and daily life that played out here hundreds of years ago and take in the remenents of the amazing large scale structures that were once here. Definitely worth the stop if you are in the Santa Fe area!
Opticalbliss — Google review
Great National Park close to Sante Fe. Recently reopened with excellent, updated exhibits to reflect a more complete and accurate accounting of the hundreds of years of occupation by the native Pueblo peoples. I was able to walk through the ruins with my dog and enjoyed exploring the underground Kiva. Very knowledgeable park rangers and an excellent gift chop. Highly recommended.
Ed Tubridy — Google review
Had a Great day enjoyed seeing all the sights and buildings and if you have a chance go with Ranger Lambert he is very informative and just a joy to listen to. Definitely a must see
Nick Tappan — Google review
Solemn and beautiful. Excellent small museum as well. Well worth the trip. To walk near the ruins where others lived centuries before and to contemplate the fates of the people and families who lived there and passed through is a deep experience not to be missed.
Mark Zabel — Google review
This is a very cool park. If you can join a ranger walk I’d highly recommend it. The movie and museum were both very well done. The trails are easy but somewhat challenging with a stroller or wheelchair due to the rock and inclined. There is RV parking for about 4 rigs although I’m not sure if you would be able to access the further picnic area. The staff is very friendly
Katie Hall — Google review
Located in a beautiful setting. The site has a Catholic church partial ruins. There are also ruins of indigenous people. The visitor center has some beautiful displays and very knowledgeable rangers to explain the history of the area.
ML Ketcham — Google review
Easy to get to off interstate 25.
Nice museum where you'll learn a lot about the region and the people that have inhabited it over the years.
Friendly Rangers. Clean bathrooms. Fantastic gift shop. Shaded picnic areas.
Joel Blea — Google review
Don't blink. It is very much roadside. It is also very much pretty sheltered space up next to rock formations.
Russell Hopkins — Google review
A place of spectacular beauty. It's worth visiting for the trails, the museum and historical sites.
The Santuario de Chimayo is a Catholic pilgrimage site, constructed in 1816 with colonial-style adobe architecture. It is renowned as the "Lourdes of America" due to the miraculous healing properties of the tierra bendita or holy dirt found within. The faithful visit this chapel to obtain some of this sacred dirt from a small pit inside and apply it to their afflictions or consume it mixed with water.
The Santuario de Chimayo is always a nice place to visit, especially in the spring. Even if you aren't religious there are many reasons to appreciate the Santuario. In a room adjacent to the chapel is a round hole in the floor where supposedly, the blessed sand never runs out. Outside of the church courtyard are beautiful grounds that bloom in spring. The area near the creek is also an excellent place to view a plethora of fowl. This area of New Mexico has a rich Native American and Spanish heritage, it would be a crime not to visit sites such as this. I hear the red chile powder here is the best too.
Dario Chavez — Google review
I went to the Santuario De Chimayo with my son daughter in law granddaughter and my husband. My son and daughter in law went to buy us some red chili de Chimayo and some rosaries. Then the Father blessed them for us also. It was so beautiful, that I didn't want to leave. The church is amazing and so is the land. I highly recommend this place to visit when in northern New Mexico.
Yvonne Brandenburg — Google review
We enjoyed a peaceful afternoon visit to the Santario de Chimayo. We found some absolutely great merchandise at the gift shop. They have clean and convenient public restrooms. It was a beautiful day to visit this historic holy place. They have plenty of parking and several places to purchase keepsakes, snacks, and refreshments.
Paul Garcia — Google review
Pious place. Historical significance. Great beautiful location among the mountains. The holy dirt is supposed to cure you of many ills. The church is beautiful in its simplicity. You can buy candles at the store. Try to go during Easter and the crowd is very good though it makes finding parking difficult.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
The church or chapel is certainly peaceful and meditative. There is some energy there. But be warned, all your new-found spiritual joy evaporates when you visit the tourist trap shops. The staff are bandits of old. Spend 30 minutes and try not to buy the many trinkets available that will, afterall, probably sell for a few pennies at your local Thrift Charity store when you die.
David Gilbank — Google review
This is a very interesting, religious, spiritual area. There was a sudden thunderstorm when we were there, followed by a beautiful rainbow. Then we realized it was a double rainbow. The buildings are all very unique.
Deb Courts-Brown — Google review
An important religious shrine in New Mexico, and a pilgrimage destination. It has expanded since we were here last, with photo walls where people leave pictures of lived ones for whom they are seeking prayers, indoor and outdoor chapels, the main sanctuary with a crucifix from the Spanish Empire supposedly found on the site, and the well where it was found still supplying "holy dirt" for this doing its blessing (though I suspect that the home, which is shallow, is filed regularly with dirt blessed by a priest. It is a lovely spot, with a river flowing past.
Michael Hess — Google review
Very special place. Gift shop card machine was down (happens a lot) so it was cash only. Most people seem to want the dirt from the chapel. Can leave prayer wishes before entering. Museum is okay, lots of different shrines. No entrance fee required but there are donation boxes everywhere. Do what you feel.
Sheryl Maxwell — Google review
Every year my son and I visit the Santuario to pray for our loved ones and everyone in the world. I still remember the first time I brought my mom to see the beautiful little church. She loved it and we've been coming to visit ever since. That was about 8yrs ago. I will try to keep coming back to visit and keep my loved ones and everyone in this world in my prayers.
Olga M Padilla — Google review
I love the history!! The gentleman at the museum was awesome. Anyone who has such a personal connection to the story and has a passion for what they do, makes the experience that more amazing. My only regret is that I don't know his name.
Chef Alberto — Google review
What a beautiful and spiritual place to visit. If you haven't ever been there, I recommend you go and visit this holy place with so much history.
Staci Alvarado — Google review
What a beautiful, peaceful place. It's amazing how faith works. The church was built in 1812. We were able to get some holy dirt from the hole that never goes down. They say it can preform healing.
David D. — Google review
Very quaint and beautiful. El Pocito was challenging to find but just ask for help and they’ll point you in the right direction. They sell both containers for the soil and bottles for holy water.
Melissa Martinez — Google review
Though i'm not Catholic, I still appreciate the beauty of this property. It felt peaceful, and it was beautiful in every way. We enjoyed the walk around the grounds and that you are able to take some of the healing dirt with you. I tried buying a few things from the gift shop, but unfortunately, the credit card machine was down, and we didn't have enough cash with us.
Toula F — Google review
It is a place with so much peace and a lot of history that all those people who adhere to the Catholic religion would really enjoy this place.
Ben Garcia — Google review
What a wonderful place! We did not expect this, with its extensive grounds, overlooking a small creek. So many places to think, and meditate, very much like what I would imagine a European pilgrimage site would feel like. For the most part, it’s very wheelchair accessible, even the gift shop, with only the church having steps down into it. But the majority of the place and the allure of it surrounds the church.
Allen Wickham — Google review
A truly special and spiritual place where faith and tradition intersect making it a must visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the cultural and religious tapestry of the American Southwest. The El Pocito with a small well of holy dirt was special. Make sure to bring a bag for your dirt. Candles can be purchased in the gift shop and then placed in the Church or surrounding shrines. Photography is not permitted inside the Church. Sunday Mass was at noon and held outside on the lower side of the property. Well attended service. Definitely well worth a visit.
Canyon Road is a picturesque street in Santa Fe, New Mexico that is home to over 100 art galleries, studios, and restaurants. The area is especially rich in Native American arts and crafts, with many galleries exhibiting stunning pieces of artwork. The street has a distinctly more residential feel, making it easy to walk around without having to fight traffic. Two fine dining restaurants are located on the street as well as one popular chocolate house.
Canyon Road is an enjoyable walk to visit many art galleries and studios.
Scott Eggert — Google review
Art lovers favorite place! Absolutely enjoyed visiting the galleries on Canyon road! Very interesting place and people working in there, easy to talk to and helpful information.
mariana — Google review
Must see if in town. An entire road dedicated to art. Walked around with my pup just enjoying all the sculptures.
Heather — Google review
The best street to walk in the USA. Christmas eve walk lacked the Christmas spirit in general or IMO. It still is a community event and recommended. A few photos.
David Torres — Google review
This was a fun place to walk and relax. Lots of art galleries and even if you’re not into art, plenty of cool photo opportunities.
Joel Collishaw — Google review
So many galleries. Pedestrian friendly street as well
Peter Reymer — Google review
The area is loaded with art galleries many with exceptional art including paintings, sculpture etc. Interesting area.
Rodney — Google review
must see for santa fe tour. what you want to see or enjoy, here's everything. highly recommended
Mahedi Hasan — Google review
Incredible art galleries one after another....sculpture everywhere.....so much creativity!
Allison Batchelor — Google review
Canyon Rd in Santa Fe is a must see. So many galleries to visit. Street art, neighborhood’s overall atmosphere is a work of art in-itself. Lots of walking, lots of beautiful areas to take a rest. Easy to spend a whole afternoon exploring. Parking lot available near Tea Room. Had lunch at Tea Room on the patio and it was very good and relaxing.
D Salazar — Google review
Great galleries and outdoor gardens with sculptures, beautiful fine art paintings and fun creative stuff. Highly recommend checking it out!
ALLISON GROVES — Google review
Lots of high end galleries and shopping along a long narrow street.
Jim Arnold — Google review
Nice place to take a long stroll and admire outdoor art, as well as multiple galleries to visit with various kinds of artwork for sale.
Gregory Smith — Google review
Cool art district full of art galleries and shops! Definitely worth a visit!
Heather Mires — Google review
Nice artsy area. Didn't have enough time but enjoyed what we saw.
This imposing cathedral, built between 1869 and 1886, is a beautiful example of the Romanesque Revival style. It features lovely stained glass windows and towering Corinthian columns, and its interior is quite austere. The Chapel of Lady of the Rosary is all that remains of an earlier adobe church at this site.
Exquisite! Perfectly lovely inside. Quiet, clean, and expertly cared for. Amazing and beautiful. Church is from 1715 but looks new. Free admission, donations can be made. Please look at all the nooks and crannies. The stain glass is fantastic. Look up to see the massive pipe organ.
Melody East — Google review
I'm not a religious person but I do appreciate beautiful architecture.
This church was magnificent and had a very charming appeal. I enjoyed walking around and observing all the intricate details of the church as it is still a functioning church. It is very well maintained.
Entrance was free and they had people there who talked about the history and could answer your questions if any.
j h — Google review
Beautiful architecture symbolized landmark of old SantaFe downtown. I strongly recommend to learn about the history of here. This is must-visit place during your SantaFe traveling.
B. Brian Kim — Google review
St. Francis is a gorgeous Cathedral. For those visiting Santa Fe it is a must visit. The downside is it is bustling with tourists. Thankfully Missy don’t stay long, but the stream of people is continuous. The only semi-quiet place I could find, sit and pray, meditate was the chapel area to the right of the altar where the confessionals are.
While there, I recommend walking there grounds, Prayer Garden, and the adjacent park.
Satoru ?San? Asato — Google review
2nd visit to this lovely church.
Inside and outside are beautiful. Well kept, peaceful grounds.
The church bells sound glorious and the Labrynth out front is a wonderful metaphor for life's journey.
Lyd Willson — Google review
Beautiful and historical building. The grounds are beautiful as well. It’s worth a visit whether or not you’re religious. If you’re a reader, I highly recommend reading Death Comes For the Archbishop by Willa Cather before visiting - the novel is based on the life of Archbishop Jean Baptiste Lamy who was instrumental in building the cathedral.
Pam Shropshire — Google review
Very beautiful place. You get a true feel for the historical and religious significance of the basilica by walking around and reading the placards. Will visit again if I am ever in the area.
Luis Hernandez — Google review
No admission fee, just a donation box. If you are in Santa Fe square you should at least go inside an look. Jaw dropping stained glass that was all imported from Europe. These pictures don't do it justice. Very peaceful even with a large amount of visitors.
Ian S — Google review
The cathedral has magnificent stained glass windows. Plus a few paintings worth viewing. The docents are super helpful and you really have to take your time to enjoy the space. For me, the fountain was the unique centerpiece with the subtle running water. Definitely worth the time to visit and walk around.
Jimmy Lin — Google review
Beautiful cathedral that is definitely worth a visit. I like that there is a separate area for private prayer to get away from all the tourists and have a serene moment.
The architecture of the church is beautiful as well as all of the paintings and statues (iconography).
Jaimie Just — Google review
The Basilica is beautiful. We attended mass on Saturday, and I loved it. The choir sang beautifully, and the music played with the bells was enchanting. I literally cried through the whole mass. ❤️
Mary Lara — Google review
Well architected and decorated with taste. Most of the paintings have a story so ask a docent. One of statues has real hair donated by a parishioner—a little creepy but hey.
John Crankshaw — Google review
Beautiful Romanesque church at the heart of Santa Fe. It was closed when we arrived so we watched the sunset from its front steps. Nice gardens as well.
Tony Lin — Google review
As you step inside this glorious house of worship, your gaze will be drawn heavenward by soaring ceilings adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from scripture while soft light illuminates golden accents throughout inspiring reverence.
The Inn & Spa at Loretto is a luxurious property with pueblo-inspired architecture and a spa, pool, and chic restaurant. The property is perfect for those looking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life. With its beautiful architecture and convenient location, the Inn & Spa at Loretto is a must-stay for anyone visiting Santa Fe.
We had an absolutely amazing stay at the Loretto Inn & Spa. The staff was professional, attentive, sweet and super helpful. We met for a last minute girls trip from all over the country and did minimal planning. The staff went above and beyond to help us plan and enjoy our stay. The hotel was beautiful, clean, a short walk to a bunch of great restaurants and has an amazing breakfast. We can’t wait to come back with the whole family.
Lindsey Buffamante — Google review
We stayed in the Pueblo Double room at the Inn and Spa at Loretto and it was comfortable with plenty of room for the two of us. It had all of the amenities that we desire. The service from the valets, front office, restaurants and shops was excellent. The location is ideal as the Loretto Chapel adjoins the property. It's a short walk to the Plaza, La Fonda and many shops and restaurants. There is a lounge area with a full bar, fireplace and had entertainment two of the nights we stayed there.
Mara Thomas — Google review
We spent nearly two weeks in June and had a very enjoyable experience. The staff were friendly and keen to provide a good service. Special thanks to Josh and his Front Desk Team for ensuring that we stayed in our preferred room as soon as it was available. Pamela, as on a previous visit, was especially helpful.
Peter Hall — Google review
BEWARE - this hotel is writing, posting, and responding to reviews on this and other platforms.
I ended up checking out a night early and changing my flight back to dc to get away. The room left a lot to be desired. It was dim, not soothing dim - dark dim. They’re also dated. I understand maintaining a vibe, but there’s a way to do it and keep it fresh.
As for he rest of the hotel…. The spa has no nail tech, so the spa is essentially somewhere to get a massage. The pool and hot tub were being rebuilt, and in addition to them not saying that up front - they charge a 30/night amenity fee for amenities you can’t use.
The manager didn’t respond to my email, and the front desk will put you on hold and never pick up. Don’t stay here y’all.. there are other places to stay in Santa Fe - stay there
Philip Wilson — Google review
Loved our room (basic but comfy). The service was good and above par. We had a lot of interaction with the valet guys because we brought our bikes along. They were helpful and informative. Splurged on a $300 massage. While the massage was good...no spa facilities were offered (sauna, pool, shower?) We really enjoyed the happy hours offered by the hotel and the ability to meet other travelers. We stayed four nights and recommend it to anyone traveling in the area.
Gaby Buscher — Google review
First of all, we loved our stay at the hotel. Great lobby and bar, and our room was perfect. Clean, cozy, sunny, and four-poster bed.
But here's the cool part. I was speaking yesterday with Tracy, one of the concierge pro's. I mentioned that I was hoping to ski while we were in town. Tracy told me all about this excellent local ski area called Ski Santa Fe. Really good terrain.
Anyway, this morning, I went up there, and guess who I ran into in the lift line... Tracy!
He gave me a personal tour of the resort. We skied the whole time until I had to get back to town. This was the best ski day I've had for years.
Best of all, Tracy is an awesome skier. I could hardly keep up. Thank you, Tracy!!
Brad Fisher — Google review
I have mixed feelings about this hotel. Excellent location, and the hotel is nice; but is best suited for older clients. We had so much hit & miss here, that it makes a good or bad review hard. We visited in the winter and the hot tub was broken, so they told us we could walk across the street to another hotel. The restaurant, Luminaria, is good, but nothing to overly brag about. Things close really early or open late, so be prepared to visit other hotels for drinks and food. We had a really good time next door at La Fonda. In-hotel amenities are there - but not really accessible at the same time. This hotel prides itself on being historic, but for us, it's a bit too stuffy. You're definitely paying for location here.
Julie Bedsole — Google review
My dad and I stayed here in April and we had so much fun! My dads room was newly updated and looked amazing! Special thanks to Pamela at the front desk for making us feel so welcomed. And Able in valet services as well. Would highly recommend staying here!!
Denise Ramos — Google review
I cannot say enough positive things about Loretta Inn & Spa. Just a few shout outs to the Best Wedding Ever for my daughter! Irene the event coordinator was fast, kind, and always professional! Chef Miguel cooked exquisite food and Banquet manager Juan had the Best service staff! Thank you for a memorable evening !
Melisa Valenzuela — Google review
This location is amazing! From the moment we arrived the team here were excellent. From the valet team to Edward B. at the front desk. Edward made our stay here the best it could be. He made great food and shopping recommendations as well as site seeing spots. Thank you Loretto team for such and womderful time, especially Edward B. for his attention to the details.
Michael Newbold — Google review
Much of my review is a result of the room we were given. I paid for a terrace room, which I envisioned as being a room with a balcony overlooking the city/town. Instead I was given a ground floor room right off of the main lobby "living room", about 30 feet from the piano player. Our terrace was a 2' x 10' enclosed patio adjoined the parking lot. The room had some spiders / bugs in the corners (which isn't housekeeping's fault) but wasn't what you want to see in a luxury hotel. Location was decent, staff was pleasant. Will likely not stay there again.
Jodi Eppler — Google review
Location is excellent, within a block of downtown. Hotel decor looks somewhat worn considering the resort fee and room prices. Hotel pool is still being renovated after a year, pool and gym are available at a sister property. The check-in process is not streamlined, ask for complementary coffee credit as it will be forgotten. Hotel restaurant options are well presented, although service is slow. Happy hour is very popular. Valet service is friendly and well-informed on local activities.
Janene Townshend — Google review
The Spa services are amazing! We just LOVED it and felt like we were on cloud nine. I have had a lot of body work done in the past but this surpassed all of it! I would highly recommend Linda Sampson for massage. Not to be missed!!
Linda Moore — Google review
Great stay and amazing staff, but I wish I could say the same about the security of the area. When walking outside the main entrance of the Loretto at night, you may feel a bit unsafe since there's occasional homeless and sketchy people walking near the premise. I think it's important to have security patrolling the area at night, specifically on Old Santa Fe Trail, to make make guests feel more comfortable.
Ea. N. — Google review
Booked 3 rooms ( family trip) and for most of our stay - 2 of those rooms had toilets that wouldn’t flush!!!!! so GROSS!!!!! Had to have “Engineering” come by 4 times!! This seriously impacted our Tours. The food in the main Restaurant was terrible for Dinner, practically inedible…. NOT much better for Breakfast…. Other than that…and being in need of a serious updating… it is centrally located, which makes bopping around the Downtown area of Santa Fe- a breeze. On the upside- Arturo at the Bar was wonderful!
JUST SAYIN' — Google review
We loved the Inn and Spa at Loretto! In particular, we loved the shops inside the hotel, the cute little coffee shop, Josh at the front desk, who was super helpful, with restaurant recommendations, and ideas on things to see and do, the bartender and ambiance in the Living room Bar, the large, comfortable room, and the location - so close to the Plaza! It feel like a quiet, high end hotel very close to all of the fun in Santa Fe! The only bummer is that the pool area is under construction, so not usable now, but it looks like it will be a beautiful space when it opens!
Jim and Polly Koontz — Google review
We had the greatest experience on our girls trip. The staff was all so extremely kind and generous, especially Hal. As soon as we checked in Hal greeted us and told us everything about the town, where to go dine and the places to see. He went out of his way to get us reservations, at an already booked restaurant, and spoiled us the entire trip. It felt like we were visiting family. Each night we would spend time in the lounge area by the fireplace and listen to the live music. The location is perfect to walk anywhere Georgia O'Keefe museum, MONA, Farmer's Market, restaurants, churches and shopping!
Nicole Walker — Google review
Our stay at the Inn and Spa at Loretto was fabulous. From the moment we arrived our experience was first rate. From the Valet parking attendants to the front desk to housekeeping, everyone was super helpful and friendly. A special thank you to Pamela who made my wife's Birthday special. The Inn is well taken care of and it shows in the cleanliness of the Lobby, Rooms, Grounds and Restaurants. It’s evident that the ownership and staff take great pride in their Inn and strive to give great service. The room was perfect and exceeded our expectations in every way. The location is great and is within easy walking distance to everything. We will definitely be staying there again when we return to Santa Fe!
John Phillips — Google review
I visited for a work conference. The hotel is clearly billing itself as an upscale experience, but the service doesn’t reflect that.
The valet didn't know what event was being held that day and was dismissive. The front desk staff member seemed bored. The catered breakfast was decent.
The location is great and the hotel is a nice building with services and shops scattered throughout.
I'd likely find another hotel when visiting for pleasure because of the staff, especially the valet.
Konrad Juengling — Google review
Location is fantastic and most things are walkable. Valet guys were great, knowledgeable and fast. You're forced into valet if you drive. The Hotel is beautiful and lots of photo op areas in the front.
The room was VERY dusty, like I was able to see the dust stuck to the tv that has been there so long it would be hard to remove. The bed was very comfortable but the down pillows held onto a lot of allergens and made for a rough week. The patio was cool but the doors didn't lock or shut properly so when the wind blew it would leak into the room. The toilet handle nearly feel off and my partner had to screw it back together so we could flush. Did I feel the room was worth what I paid for it, no. Did we mostly enjoy our stay, yes.
Zelexis Wellings — Google review
Very nice old hotel in the heart of Santa Fe next door to the Loretto Chapel. The rooms are spacious, but baths are a bit dated. The beds are extremely comfortable, however. The little kiva fireplace is quaint, and service was exquisite. The meeting facilities were top-notch and a great place for a retreat. The hotel rooms have balconies with chairs and a table.
Melissa Alexander — Google review
This hotel was one of the best we’ve stayed at AND ITS HAUNTED!
When we first arrived we were greeted by the valet who were awesome and at the front desk was Naomi who my partner and I both thought was one of the best hotel staff people we’ve ever met. Naomi was professional, naturally friendly and knowledgeable. She was quick and just had an over all good vibe.
The first few minutes in our room we kept hearing knocks at the door. But when we checked no one was there. I immediately realized that this old hotel must be haunted. So I went ahead and spoke out loud to the spirit and let them know that we come in peace and wouldn’t be staying long and that they are welcome in the room with us. The knocks stopped. No more haunting.
Santa Fe is gorgeous. I hope everyone gets the chance to visit and stay at the Inn and Spa at Loretto
Joey Pelletier — Google review
The front desk and valet attendants were great. Super helpful! Rooms were fine other than the couple of spider friends we found, which freaked our daughter out. A good stay, and repeat spot for us.
Brad Kennedy — Google review
Location perfect, price reasonable, service friendly and accommodating, with comfy beds and hot showers! Read a few reviews that stated rooms were outdated. I have to disagree, maybe they are renovating some rooms, not sure. However, we got 2 adjoining rooms - one king and one double - both were decorated tastefully in modern southwest decor. Bar in lobby was also nice with fireplace and large space to sit and relax. Also dog friendly. Highly recommend!
Loki B — Google review
I have not stayed here before… BUT when I was in Santa Fe I saw the exterior of the hotel and it was awesome! It really did look like a Pueblo house. And it’s in a great location! Good job Inn and Spa at Loretto!
Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of historic Santa Fe, New Mexico and features a bandstand, ethnic markets, and community festivals. The plaza has special atmosphere that is reminiscent of many Spanish Colonial cities throughout Latin America. Activities that have taken place here for centuries include important events, commercial fairs, and celebrations.
Santa Fe Plaza is the cultural heart of The City Different, Santa Fe. Around the square you'll find all types of art galleries, shopping and places to eat (I highly recommend The Plaza Cafe for a meal. It's fantastic.). There are also all types of street performers busking throughout the plaza each and every day. You will find Native Americans selling all types of items from art to jewelry to souvenirs right there on the sidewalk. I recently visited between Christmas and the New Year and the holiday lights in the trees were extra fun and festive at night. Also, all the best museums, restaurants, and galleries are in walking distance from the Plaza. If you visit Santa Fe, you definitely have to visit the Santa Fe Plaza. You will not be disappointed.
Todd W — Google review
Neat little town area. The parking was not too difficult or expensive but very crowded on a Sunday. The downtown is walkable and lots of people have dogs.
There are tons of great stores but bring your savings because they are $$$. I got a tiny seed pot for $30.
The square itself was impeccably maintained and had a great atmosphere. On my random day visiting, there were native dancers, lots of locals, a guy with parrots and a small pro-Ukraine rally.
All the buildings are gorgeous and it was very nice to visit for 4 hours or so. Highly recommended to stop in town and park at the hourly parking lot.
Jen Burwell — Google review
This is a fun stop if you’re in Santa Fe! There’s a lot of local artists, shops and restaurants. I parked on the street which only cost $2 for 2 hours. There is also a nice courtyard in the center to sit down if you need a break from the walking.
Jenna Berry — Google review
This is my first time visiting Santa Fe and the downtown plaza, and I had a relaxing time eating, shopping, and enjoying the sunshine. I came in January during a staffing shortage so half the restaurants were closed but I still found some good spots. I felt safe in the daytime, but at night there are plenty of homeless people sleeping in all the dark nooks and alleys. I wouldn't walk alone after dark if possible. I also never saw a single police officer or police car in my 3 days there. I would've felt safer with a larger police presence.
Brianna L — Google review
Always a beautiful experience. It’s been a couple years since we’ve been to the square for an event or gathering but this year we decided to visit Santa Fe for New Years Eve! There was a fireworks show, and although it had started snowing about an hour before midnight, the countdown did not disappoint! The city has the streets blocked off and a stage set up on the far corner, a woman sang the National Anthem and it was such a wonderful evening. The next morning they had workers clearing the square from all the snow so pedestrians could safely walk and mingle.
Blair Pollister — Google review
I have been here many times and each time feel great here. I don't care if it is busy or dead, cold or hot it always has an atmosphere that makes everything seem to melt away.
This time was a little cold, but it was still cozy. What makes this great is the shops around. It makes the actual plaza feel more spacious. Plenty of benches to just people watch if you don't want to spend money.
This is a great place and is even better with Christmas decorations
Jason — Google review
Great place to visit, Santa Fe Plaza is a beautiful part of the city. Architecture is beautiful and lots of art and souvenir shops are in the area. Price for souvenirs is slightly cheaper in Old Town Albuquerque. Not too far from Santa Fe Railyard but decent distance from non touristy part of Santa Fe. Parking on side streets is strictly enforced by the city with parking inspectors even working on Saturday evenings.. cost to park is hourly (max 2 allowed) and inexpensive..
Max — Google review
Beautiful center of our city of faith. Many events take place here, tourist adventure about and locals businesses hold culture and hospitality at highest priority. The plaza is marvelous!
Lila Casey — Google review
We were at the plaza just before Halloween and there was a public event with the concert in the park. The shops are very nice and cute. The fall colors of the trees are just so interesting so much history around us.
MUHAMMAD Ayub — Google review
Santa Fe Plaza is quite small. It would be fairly easy to access everything on foot if you stay at one of the hotels downtown. Lovely food, shops, jewelry. Beware of the cosmetic sales people, they are very persuasive/pushy and are in the street trying to lure you in. They were kind but high pressure AND all sales ARE FINAL, but they dont tell you that).
It's a wonderful city to visit. I would recommend La Boca resturant for an afternoon of wine and a wonderful food experience.
The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is dedicated to the artistic legacy of Georgia O'Keeffe. It has over 3,000 works including 140 OKeeffe oil paintings and nearly 700 drawings dating from 1901 to 1984.
Fantastic experience at the museum. She has such an incredible life, fearless, and reinvented herself multiple times.
The nature paintings are fabulous.
The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
The museum was nice. I especially appreciate the glasses for color blinded people and tactile descriptions - I just wish there were more of them. I recommend to buy the tickets in advance.
eva gartnerova — Google review
Overall good museum, but also slightly disappointing. Was hoping to find more info/historical artifacts about her personal life. Did enjoy the video interview back in the 1980s, when she was in her 90s. Paintings were beautiful and nice gift shop.
Mark Dickerson — Google review
10 stars. Awesome museum set up so well. Love the videos and listening to her speak. An awesome long lived life. A very simple lady who fell in love with New Mexico. So many colors and great gift shop
Nancy Steadmon — Google review
I visited on 3/11/22 and all I have to say is, "WOW, PERFECTION!"
The variety of masterpieces present us with an all-inclusive experience of the vast and amazing life that Georgia O'Keeffe lived and continues to share.
To people who say that the entrance fee is too much, I say, you didn't slow down and truly take-in the magnificence before you. As Georgia O'Keeffe said, "..take time to look."
Mateo D. — Google review
Stunning museum from one of art's true masters, Georgia O'Keeffe. Incredible exhibition. Varied history including her paints, brushes and visual history. The art is much more appreciated in person rather than a book. Her technique is superb in every visual way. One looks at deserts, flowers and the sky in such a a different manner. It's an incredible inspiration for anyone. The treasure of New Mexico.
MannyG33309 — Google review
This museum is on the smaller side but worth the visit. There was no wait in line, and the price was ~$22 for entry. The gift shop is well stocked, and the bathrooms were clean. We spent a little over an hour and a half inside. We also saw a cute dog on the way out.
MJ Ridenour — Google review
Wow! I've been wanting to visit the Georgia O'Keefe museum ever since my first trip to Santa Fe. I really enjoyed learning about the talents of the artist and to be able to view the Southwest through her perspective and all of her incredible art. I was uplifted and inspired.
The museum was extremely busy and crowded. I appreciate that the entries are staggered in order to limit the number of guests there at a time. The only I was disappointed by was the other patrons that were there the day I visited because there didn't seem to be much respect for the artist or the other patrons visiting. I would really love to spend a lot more time exploring when it's less crowded.
Ashly Ulrich — Google review
This museum displayed known and unknown pieces of art, spanning her many years as an artist. Liked being able to take pictures of certain artwork. Good for all ages, would visit again!
Jennifer Eames — Google review
Dream come true! Beautiful museum and you will need to get advanced time tickets. Bring earbuds for a little tour through full of information. It's a wonderful experience. Also parking is expensive but stay for lunch or dinner, stroll through town to feel you got your money's worth!
Carolina Glenn — Google review
We had a good time. The museum was small. They change out paintings four times a year. I am partial to flower paintings. When we visited there were not many flower paintings. There is a gift shop to visit. You do have to make reservations. We found a parking lot that was close.
Kathy O'Keeffe — Google review
What an amazing museum! This museum has a comprehensive collection of Georgia O'Keefe's works from the early years to the years before her death. You definitely need to get tickets ahead. We came shortly after open, and the only tickets left were for 3:30 PM. We ended up shopping and hanging out in the area (there is a lot to see around there) until our time. With each piece, there is a detailed description providing historical context to the art. You can also get a guided auto tour if that's more your speed. I came in to this museum without a thorough understanding of her as an artist, and I came out with a new appreciation for her work! A must-visit if you come to Santa Fe!
Nico Pauly — Google review
A tad smaller thanI expected. No senior discount. Tickets are $22.
We arrived w/ about an hour before closing, and didn't miss anything. We like combing the gift shops, snd actually bought some cards.
Nice venue, though many works have low glare glass, still harder to take photos.
Marc Milrod — Google review
A beautiful tribute to the works of a cutting edge woman named Georgia O’Keeffe! An artist, sculpturer and visionary, who was years ahead of her time!
She lived an extraordinary life, painting, nature and spent her late years in the most beautiful area to paint, New Mexico!
Plan about two hours to walk through the museum so you can observe each piece of the Extraordinary collection!
Ed Pizza — Google review
The Museum was an awesome experience. I did not pre purchase so I had to wait for the next time slot to enter but was allowed to purchase. The audio guide I would highly recommend. The woman explaining how to operate the device was very helpful. I thoroughly enjoyed how the art was displayed with younger works towards the beginning to see how she progressed through the years. Any fan of artwork would appreciate these works that are displayed and the admission price was fair for the exhibit and experience.
james tripp — Google review
Beautiful works. I had a small idea of who she was before visiting. After, I realize how influential of an artist she was. The collection at this museum is extensive and gorgeous. They even have some of her tools and paints etc. It was a great visit. If you’re into guided audio tours, they provide headphones and have an online audio guide for a slow paced, narrated walkthrough.
poltergejst — Google review
Well curated museum with changing exhibits!
Friendly staff throughout!
Security was great and very knowledgeable!
Kathy was doing spot tours, I highly recommend stopping to chat for more information, she was fantastic!
They offer closed captioning, audio guides, courtesy wheelchairs and color correcting glasses!
They have restrooms, water fountains and a coatroom for personal items!
No pets are allowed except for service animals.
I visited on the first Friday of the month and they were offering free entry from 5pm-7pm!
Stop by the gift shop on your way out they have a great selection!
Jacqueline Spizzirro — Google review
Beautiful gallery with gorgeous artwork displays. If a New Mexico resident, take your ID and go on the first Friday of the month as is free for residents that day. You must find paid parking off site. No parking lot at museum.
Heather Moran — Google review
Yes, there are quite a few pieces here, yet just a couple of what I considered "classic" O'Keefe pieces depicting skulls and flowers. Would've rather gone to her home museum near Abiquiu, I think.
Brian Baker — Google review
The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, stands as a testament to the life and works of one of America's most celebrated artists. Visiting this museum is not merely an excursion into art; it's a journey through O'Keeffe's evolution as an artist and a glimpse into the landscapes and inspirations that shaped her iconic style.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a carefully curated collection that spans O'Keeffe's entire career. From her early abstract experiments to her later, more famous works featuring enlarged flowers and New Mexican landscapes, the museum provides a comprehensive look at her artistic progression. The layout of the museum allows for a chronological exploration, offering insight into the influences and experiences that influenced O'Keeffe's artistic vision.
One of the most striking aspects of the museum is its ability to showcase O'Keeffe's mastery of color and form. Her use of vibrant hues and bold compositions captivates viewers, drawing them into the intricate details of her paintings. The museum's lighting and display techniques further enhance the viewing experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the subtle nuances of O'Keeffe's brushstrokes and textures.
In addition to her paintings, the museum also houses a collection of O'Keeffe's personal items, including clothing, tools, and photographs. These artifacts offer a more intimate perspective on the artist, allowing visitors to connect with her on a more personal level and gain insight into her daily life and creative process.
The museum's educational programs and exhibitions add another layer of depth to the experience. From guided tours to interactive workshops, visitors have the opportunity to delve deeper into O'Keeffe's art and legacy. Special exhibitions often feature works by other artists who were influenced by O'Keeffe or explore themes related to her life and work, providing a broader context for understanding her impact on the art world.
El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a living Spanish village that offers visitors an immersive experience of how people lived in history. The village includes a hacienda, schoolhouse, and village store staffed by costumed workers. Visitors can also see a working water mill and enjoy reasonable prices for the time spent there. It is suggested to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection and plan for a picnic. The museum offers free guided tours with knowledgeable guides who allow interaction with most exhibits.
A beautiful, well-kept piece of history. Went on many memorable school field trips here as a kid, and it still holds that wonder. Just visited for Harvest Festival, which was a fun time; great weather, decent vendors, and some quirky people-watching to be had.
Laura Misgen — Google review
An amazing step back into time. The historical volunteers were outstanding. Your kids can see how people live in history. They even have a working water mill, that they use from time to time. Prices are reasonable for the time you will spend there.
Tips: wear good walking/hiking shoes, wear hat, sunglasses, suntan lotion, bring water, even plan a picnic
Raymond Burgess — Google review
Always come here during the Viva Mexico festival. Lovely museum and there's always someone hanging around the section or building there to explain the history of the building and how life was like back then. Definitely bring some good walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat or umbrella for shade, and a water bottle. They do have water refill stations by I've only seen one near the school house and the bathrooms near the entrance.
Marisol Mor?n - Garcia — Google review
Incredible isn't the word. Breath taking. You must visit their annual spirits festival to see performances. Eat tasty treats. Learn new Mexico history!
Neema Kamaria — Google review
We visited quite late in the season so unfortunately it was a self guided tour. There is a map with numbered stops on it to tell you the names of the different locations. Very tranquil and pretty at this time of the year, but will have to return for when the guides are present to hear about the workings of the ranch.
Gerard Sullivan — Google review
We attended during the Spirits of Halloween event. This place is a great living history museum with a lot to see. Going in October, it was beautiful with the leaves changing colours. It is a large place with a lot of walking. I wish the event could have started a few hours earlier so we would ve had enough time to see everything. It was a fun time.
Heather Moran — Google review
There is a free guided tour. We enjoyed the tour very much. The entire place is well preserved, and they allow you to interact with most of the exhibits. The guide is very nice and knowledgeable.
Lena Gu — Google review
wonderful 18th century reenactment area with lots to do. we ended up spending several hours wondering the around. there's old churches and graveyards to visit, wine making, an old school blacksmith, peeps in colonial uniforms, a genuine 4 generations of one family making chili pepper crafts, loom and spinning lessons and much much more...
food trucks provide varied fare and local artisans and farmers sell goods and produce.
Jules C (popmonkey) — Google review
We were very surprised at how much we enjoyed our visit here! We took a guided tour and Jerry was a wealth of knowledge. We really got a sense of the life and times on the ranch. Each area has a knowledgeable volunteer in period clothing explaining the building. We expected to walk through in about an hour, but enjoyed talking to the staff so much we were there almost 4 hours.
Cindy Althouse — Google review
We were here attending a beer and food festival. The knowledgeable volunteer staff of the museum ranch were all working to demonstrate life in the 1800s, working weavers, blacksmiths, tanners, bakers. There are beautiful hiking paths as part of the property and nice nooks to escape the festival. Very family friendly. Also if you buy a year membership you get free access to festivals.
Kim Margaret Wheeler — Google review
Beautiful place to see history and get grounded. I recommend it if one needs a break from the daily grind! We had a fabulous time and plan to visit often!
CYNTHIA HICKS PADILLA — Google review
We went for the Living museum days, where volunteers dressed up and demonstrated the many activities on the farm. It was amazing!! They did such a good job teaching the kids, and having hands-on activities. The tin stars were a favorite - make sure you get there early and back to that shop - it is a bottleneck of students. There is a lot of walking, some hills. I had a stroller, and was able to get most places. Just for your information, doesn't take away from the experience at all - The path to the chapel up on the hill (between schoolhouse and mill) is NOT stroller friendly. It is obvious from the mill side bc there are only stairs, but not from the school side. Plus the church was not as viewable as the one in the main activity areas, so if you want to see the graveyard, go....otherwise just walk on the flat/tree path!
jennifer nix — Google review
A very unexpected find for us. We thought it was much smaller and would be a quick trip, but we ended up staying for over 3 hours and it ended up being one of our favorite stops. The volunteers throughout were so nice and acted as tour guides that brought the whole place to life for adult, teens and kids alike. I was amazed at how much they all knew about all aspects of life and history over the years. Very interesting and educational for all ages.
Nadia P — Google review
School event, so price is unknown? But this place hosts many different events: Ren Festival, harvest festival and beer and wine garden according to the hostess. Very nice drive to this location, off the beaten path, very narrow roads, drive diligently! Dirt parking lot and entire property, so dress accordingly. Have a good time!
Lawrence Talahongva — Google review
We went for the harvest festival this year, and although there was a bunch of people, we still had a good time. My kid was able to step on cherries with her bare feet to make wine. We got to walk all over the place and ask a bunch of valid questions with detailed answers.
Lelia Herrera — Google review
wow! this place is increíble! it’s an amazing / beautiful ranch full of different stations with generous volunteers explaining and showing the traditional way of life that existed historically. the admission is ridiculously low. the rancho is a true gem and it’s so generous of the folks who own/run it to provide this live resource to the community.
Nina G — Google review
Such a magical place whether you’re going on a school field trip or visiting for the Renaissance fair such a cool place. This past weekend I visited the Renaissance fair for the first time it was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen or been to everybody dressed up the vendors, all the activities. It was so much fun I can’t wait to plan next year.
We are beginners but Harold did a great job going over horseback riding safety. Brad is great Wrangler/guide and we all came home safe. My 14 year old daughter had a blast and it was her first time. Highly recommend this company.
Dan V — Google review
Spectacular experience. Best thing I've done in New Mexico! Harold is the easiest and best guide. Was extremely clear and simple about how to ride and enjoy. The trail was surprisingly hilly and Rocky which made for fantastic views but also not your run-of-the mill trail ride. Ups and downs on the trail made it really interesting. 5 in our group and Harold kept an easy eye on all while letting us do the ride andamage the horses. All beautiful horses.
carol lebold — Google review
Awesome experience!! Joe (our guide) was very knowledgeable and friendly!! My horse and my wife's horse (Duke + Lily) were great to us inexperienced riders. Felt safe and comfortable the whole time. Give it a try the next time you're in SF!!
Michael Trojahn — Google review
No-frills, humble horseback ride. Definitely not a tourist trap. The instructors are serious about safety. You ride up the mountain to absolutely beautiful views, then back down. Wear jeans, boots, hat/sunblock. Also, it's dusty. It's the desert. If you're not familiar with riding, it may be a little scary. I loved every second!
Kristen Powell Williams — Google review
best thing i did on my last visit to santa fe. (actually i’m still on this visit and might go again.)
they take good care of their horses. they group people out by riding level so beginners need not be scared that they’ll do too much and ppl who want to go faster can have their fun. our guide brad was charming adorbs. and yes the scenery is really as beauty as ppl say.
thanks guys for a great experience.
B C — Google review
thank you so much for this beautiful trail ride on very well trained and motivated horses, one of the best trail rides we ever did!
the ride is only in small groups up to 5 people which makes the experience even better and more personal. you can tell the horses are being treated very well and they love what they do. If we get the chance, we will definitely come again!
Michelle Mollet — Google review
We read some of the reviews before we came however I say no matter what always give an individual a chance and go off of your own opinion.
Harold was amazing, very personable, gave us a great tour, his lessons while on that tour have surpassed many lessons that I received when horseback riding at other places. I learned so much from him. The sunset ride that we went on and the trail was absolutely breathtaking and he offered to take our picture at the top for us. Thanks for going above and beyond Harold you definitely have our business when we come back to Santa Fe and we let the in know about you as well for great recommendations.
Lea Flores Guide — Google review
My daughters have enjoyed riding here more than once and always came home smiling. Recently we took some photos with their beautiful horses and gorgeous scenery (with permission of course). The owner was so generous and kind. I really appreciated his generosity.
Jeri Timlin — Google review
We went for an afternoon ride. There were four of us, including one child and one senior. We had an absolutely amazing time! The ride includes breathtaking views. The horses are beautiful. This was a wonderful experience. You are even greeted by Sasha, the cutest little terrier!
Steven PG — Google review
My 14-year-old son and I, both novices, had a fabulous experience. Harold is a terrific guide, and the route is really beautiful. Thrilling and safe at the same time. I'd recommend to anyone and would come back in a heartbeat. Thank you!
Michael Wilson — Google review
Most excellent experience. Wife and kids rode a couple years ago, wife and I did it again this spring. Brad is a great guide, Shadow and Cisco are great horses. Definitely on our to-do list when we get back to NM.
Mike Latimer — Google review
Edit for 2021: We tried to do a trail ride again during the week of thanksgiving 2021, and made reservations for a specific day. As it turns out the old man on the phone had written down the wrong date, and when we called to double check we were met with hostility. “I don’t need you people to tell me what to do” direct quote. And then he cancelled our reservation altogether and did not refund us.
Amazing experience. Lovely guides and beautiful trails. I recommend going in the morning when it is cooler during the summer. Loads of fun for all experience levels
chloe howrey — Google review
This was so fun and such a pleasure to experience. The horses were gorgeous, friendly, and well cared for. Harold is an absolute legend/was a great tour guide and made riding even more enjoyable. I would suggest this experience for anyone who wants to ride and check out the scenery!
Miranda Stein — Google review
I took my 10 year old daughter for an 1hr and 15 minute ride and couldn't have experienced anything better. We were both inexperienced riders and our guide was very informative and made us feel comfortable. It was absolutely beautiful and we had an amazing time. Definitely an unforgettable experience.
The Bradbury Science Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the development of the atomic bomb and its political implications, as well as current research in medical and computer sciences. The museum features 35 interactive exhibits that cover topics ranging from natural defense to nuclear weapons. Two short films provide an overview of the Manhattan Project's history and the Lab's role in maintaining the nuclear stockpile. The museum offers hands-on areas for both children and adults to explore, providing insights into various scientific studies.
Excellent museum. There are only a few places in the world to see history of the Manhattan Project or similar. Regardless of what you think about this aspect of world history, this place exhibits things that will help you refine your thoughts. Some of the exhibits explained things my Manhattan Project professors told me about, 40 years ago.
Harry Miley — Google review
Super cool museum. Informative, interesting, interactive, and sobering!
Nicely wheelchair accessible too.
I appreciated that there was a changing table in the bathroom for larger kids/adults. That's really rare, in fact, this is my first time seeing it. It wasn't needed for us, but I'm sure it really makes a difference for some families.
Bean Noneya — Google review
We learned so much about the historical events surrounding the war and how and why the U.S. eventually utilized nuclear weapons. It was FREE and very informative.
STRYKEN the Band — Google review
Great museum - packed with information! Two films (one on the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, one on Oppenheimer), several hands-on exhibits (one on radioactivity and some that relate to current Los Alamos National Lab research), tons to well-laid-out and informative signs to read, and many models on display. Spent about 3 hours there and didn't read everything. Highly recommend for those interested in the history of the area and the Manhattan Project.
Rachel Wallen — Google review
This was one of the best museums I have ever visited. Free admission, they just ask for your zip code. Sunday was a good day to visit since there weren’t a lot of people. I’d suggest to start with a 15 minute movie in auditorium to get to know overall history after which you will recognize items from the movie. Very friendly staff.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
Very interesting and informative! I learned a lot about Los Alamos. there are 2 films to watch. Kids as well as adults will enjoy this museum. There are many hands on areas and the science behind the different studys.
Kip (Kip) — Google review
Was here to visit the national park visitors center, but was suggested to come here as well. Tons of hands on activities for the kids, interactive exhibits, updated science and everything was in great shape and new. Best of all, price was FREE. Don't miss this, my kids spent at least an hour on all the activities.
Daniel J — Google review
There's a lot of information crammed into this place! It doesn't just cover the Manhattan project, but so many other STEM topics as well. The two films are well done and have great information. There are interactive exhibits and activities for kids. Best of all, it's FREE. Thanks for a great visit!
L Moore — Google review
Really enjoyed visiting here. So much stuff packed into such a small space. I understand this place is funded by Los Alamos Labs and I totally understand why they do it. When my 19 year old daughter left she said, "Oh, my gosh what a cool place! I want to go work for Los Alamos Labs when I finish college!" If that's not a ringing endorsement of what they're doing there then I don't know what is!
Kenneth Adams — Google review
GREAT OUT OF THE WAY MUSEUM!! I came here after visiting the Los Alamos Museum of History, and to my surprise took the Oppenheimer theme to a higher level! Their information is demonstrated with better displays, video programs, and visual displays. There is MUCH MORE than just Los Alamos and Manhattan Project science information here. But if you want to take in the entire science museum, you need to plan for at least 3+ hours. But be aware that they close early-- 5 pm. If you are like me-- driving in from afar, manage your time to get here no later than 2 pm. I got here at 4 pm, so I only had one hour to take in what I could in 1 hour. But this place is definitely worth the visit! :-)
Manuel “Manny” — Google review
Cool museum for history buffs. Certainly a historic location. Lots to read and learn about. And it's free!
Alex L — Google review
Fantastic informative center about the history of the Manhattan project.
More detailed information. Info on personal and artifacts from the time.
Amazing place to check out, even if only in town for a day
Al Caldealer — Google review
History nerds gather here and soak it up. Amazing experience and FREEEEEE. Want to know the history of the atom bomb? It’s all here including replicas of Little Man and Fat Boy.
Shannon Cox — Google review
Very interesting and well organized museum covering the history of the World War II Manhattan Project. It also highlights the Laboratory's research projects related to defense and technology. Covering a very important part of American history and the importance of Los Alamos in those crucial days in harnessing nuclear energy. It’s free, so that’s even better. It was also kinda interesting to see where I currently work on display.
Glenn Robertson — Google review
A very informative museum with free admission, clean bathrooms, and a water station - thank you! The two onsite movies were very detailed and provided a lot of context. There was a lot of history about the Los Alamos atomic weapons development and some interactive opportunities for children, too. 1-2 hours recommended.
If by chance you are a Georgia O'Keefe fan, this is a must see location. Very well maintained and you can tour virtually the entire place. Not very busy because of whete it is. If you are driving by, stop. Definitely a piece of American history.
Will Stein — Google review
This visit was sublime. On my bucket list, the house and gardens exemplify the mental giant that she was. Everything is purposeful and you walk away with a glimpse into her soul. The tours are well done with great respect for preserving her house and grounds. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and thoughtful. Wonderful experience that I highly recommend!
Meredith Cherven-Holland — Google review
O'Keefe museum is exceptional. Having visited a few times fine art content may vary, this time was exceptional.
KilnGod — Google review
We paid $85 for a 90 minute tour that could have been done in an hour. We learned a lot about O'Keeffe's life and yet, important areas were left out. Her relationship with Juan Hamilton, decades her junior for instance, and to whom she made her primary beneficiary, would have been interesting. Questions about her private life were met with, "read the book". Overall, we enjoyed the tour but would have liked more information.
Barbara Thompson — Google review
I'm sure the house is wonderful, but this listing definitely gets a 1-star review because it lists incorrect hours and also provides a link to a site that lists the hours for the Georgia O'Keefe Museum in Santa Fe.
This means that I confirmed the hours on the Google Maps listing and the website linked from it (the top of the page shows holiday hours for this week!), drove 3 hours, and learned that tours are actually only offered during some seasons and that the house is behind a locked gate the rest of the year.
This was pretty disappointing and hopefully this review will help others avoid the same issue. On the upside, I'd give the drive out there 5-stars - like much of New Mexico, it is absolutely gorgeous.
Seth Capron — Google review
An interesting visit of the property.
Small groups, book in advance.
Vincent Labreche — Google review
So special. So worth it. Really great guide and still stunned they let public tour the inside of her gorgeous home.
catherine cole — Google review
Groups are limited to six or fewer, which really enhances the experience. You have to book your tickets well in advance, but it's worth it.
Pierce Krouse — Google review
Interesting tour if you're a fan. I've never been to a famous artist's home before, so I didn't know what to expect. There's a lot of weird rules, but overall it was a good tour.
Lindsey Moore — Google review
Great studio and it shows what she was like as a human being.
Sieger Hartgers — Google review
Possibly the best thing I have ever experienced! The views from this wonderful place are breathtaking. You can see how she got inspiration for her wonderful paintings. The tour guide was excellent, knowledgeable, friendly and very helpful. Highly recommended.
Bandelier National Monument is home to ancient human settlements dating back to approximately 11,000 years ago. The park boasts a rocky canyon and mesa terrain, with notable ruins such as Big Kiva and the Tyuonyi ruins that were originally built in the 14th century. Visitors can explore later caves carved out of soft volcanic rock along the cliff face and even climb short ladders into the alcoves. The Main Loop Trail, spanning about 1.
This was a great experience. Pretty nature hike through the woods while also being able to see authentic Native American cave dwellings that you can go inside. Bring sneakers, lots of water, and snacks. Plan to be there a couple hours to enjoy the trails, cave dwellings and scenery. We walked the main loop then headed to the Alcove. It took us 2.5 hours round trip. Overall it was a great experience and I recommend.
MA 13 — Google review
This is an awesome little gem in New Mexico. If you’re interested in historical places, you’ll love this beautiful place. There are ancestral Puebloan dwellings well preserved in the faces of the cliffs. They’ve setup a few of them for access to explore, which is a really cool experience. There are some really great hikes, and the best are the ones that take you through the entire dwelling areas and then to the Alcove House (which to get to the Alcove you’ll have to climb up 3 tall wooden ladders, and a few short ones). I highly recommend doing the Alcove House, but be warned, if you’re not good with heights, then you may want to view from the ground. Another great hike was the Falls Trail, which takes you to a beautiful waterfall. PLEASE BE RESPECTFUL OF THE AREA!! One of the dwellings was closed off from exploration thanks to vandalism, which is just so disgusting. Please don’t ruin the experience for others! If you’re ever in the area, check it out! Very beautiful and peaceful hikes, and a very unique place.
Ashley Fountain — Google review
Majestic and awe inspiring. We camped at the Juniper site, hiked the Frey trail to the ruins... It was around 5:30pm and we had the whole monument to ourselves besides a couple other folks.
Davis Xiong — Google review
I loved this place. I got my fill of adventure. I saw amazing pueblos, snakes, bears and I climbed up to some incredible views. If you plan to visit, I would recommend bringing extra water or Gatorade and a few hours to enjoy yourself. I would set aside at the very least 4 to 5 hours. The trail is short, but there are other trails on the loop to explore and I don't recommend missing them.
Lisa Wiggin — Google review
Such an underrated place! Amazing historical site and absolutely beautiful scenery! To think that people 1000 years ago live in these caves is simply unbelievable! And the creeks carved out these canyons! Amazing what time could do
Bryce R — Google review
An amazing place. We took a chance on stopping by on our way home from Colorado. Turned out to be a wise choice. Both Visitor Centers were interesting and the volunteers extremely helpful. The short bus ride was nice, got to pay attention to the scenery not the driving. The canyon views are beautiful. The village and cliff dwellings are viewed by a short hike and the additional hike to The Alcove House is worth it. The plant and wildlife are abundant. I hope they give this national treasure National Park status soon, consider it is one of the older monuments. BTW...the Park Cafe have excellent bison and elk burgers, excellent fare for after the hike.
Brent Frerck — Google review
One of the most unique places in the country. Def a must see. We went first week of April and it was great. Not a ton of people. Hike is fairly easy. There is a trail that is off the main loop that looked difficult. You climb 2-3 sets of ladders to get to top. On main trail, there’s Multiple ladders you can climb to see inside the houses. You will have to wait if you wanna climb as people take pictures. Plan at least a half day to enjoy. Maybe more in summer. Remember leave no trace. One was blocked off due to damage done by visitors. Overall amazing experience to walk back in time and see how people lived.
Joel Collishaw — Google review
Really cool monument. One of the cooler things I saw while going around New Mexico.
Pros:
Old structures, artifacts, great information, and you can GET IN the old structures. Climb ladders, walk on trails, etc. to get up to these old places. One of them was like 150 feet up a cliff face!
Cons:
Not super easy to get around. I had a hard time finding my way to some of the more obscure places, partially because I had no service there. The main loop trail is easy enough to follow, but there are a lot of branching trails and places where I could have missed something cool. It was also very hot and the water fountains were not working.
All that being said, the pros outweigh the cons, super cool
Adam N-A — Google review
So captivating to take a glimpse into how the Pueblo natives lived. Definitely gives you perspective how intelligent they are, and their way of life and how functional their way of lives were. You have to look hard but you can see a lot of petroglyphs up high. I wish I could of rent one of these caves for the night. I will say from the parking lot I feel like I'm watched from something on top of the right Ridge.
Vanessa Maldonado — Google review
I’ve always want to see cave dwellings and finally got to check it out. Pretty quick drive from Albuquerque. We got on a bus at the visitor center in town and they take you up to the park. We had a National park card so got in for free. Short walk and you can see the dwellings. Really cool place. You can climb a few ladders and go inside. Just a really interesting place and I would recommend to anyone interested in history
Wes Southerly — Google review
Although the ranger at the welcome centre wasn’t too welcoming everything else about this place is outstanding. Download the guide with a qr code for detailed explanation as you you follow the trails. The trail itself is often shaded by trees, the cliff houses accessible but I fear in tourist season this may be crowded!
Stop at the cafe, great food!
Catherine Shawarby — Google review
Great historical site of the Pueblo Indians. Before you start, I recommend spending the $2 (cash) and getting the trail guide booklet sold in the gift shop or visitors center. It has great info - especially if you are not taking a tour by a ranger. When you're done, stop in the cafe for a bite. It was really good! Better than I expected. Overall, it was a very memorable experience!
Lisa — Google review
Site tour of Frijoles Canyon is incredibly interesting and very accessible (paved, with section of steps). The narrated audio is worth it to add to the self-guided map. Would love to hike in the backcountry here someday, but the loop trail at the visitors center is very worthwhile.
Jon N. — Google review
One of the coolest and most engaging national monuments I've been to! The Pueblo Loop Trail is a must-do for any first-time visitor. Spent around 3 hours here.
Went in early Oct, visitors from 9am-3pm were required to take a free shuttle from the White Rock Visitor Center to the Bandelier Visitor Center due to limited parking. It was a ~25min ride. We were greeted by a park ranger who gave us a group briefing of the park. The Visitor Center was a complex of multiple buildings, including a museum, theater room, restaurant, and gift shop. The gift shop had a large selection of high-quality goods and even had Pueblo pottery from native craftspeople.
The Pueblo Loop Trail is the most popular. You're able to walk alongside the cliff dwellings and even climb wooden ladders 🪜 into a few of them! There are some steep, winding steps and (optional) ladders without railings in those portions of the trail that people with limited mobility may find difficult. Still, the ladder climbing makes for a very novel experience.
The final portion of the trail is to the Alcove house, which is an alcove 140 ft up in the cliff face. The ascent/descent involves four long wooden ladders and steep stone steps. It takes some time/waiting since there is only a single ladder for people going up and coming down. The view from the top is nice, but the journey itself was probably the main experience.
It was incredible to walk through all this imagining how multiple generations of people used to live in and at the base of these cliffs.
Leave no trace!
Tony Lin — Google review
Very cool place to visit. Did the main loop trail which allows you to go in some of the dwellings. Alcove house is closed due to snow and ice currently. Would like to go back.
Ashley Thomas — Google review
Very nice monument. The hikes are easy and not too long so my 11 year-old son really enjoyed it. Very interesting pueblo people houses carved into the rock.
We went to this monument when the balloon festival occurred, so it was not crowded at all (since everyone was at Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta).
Explore the vast Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument and discover its unique geological beauty. Immerse yourself in nature as you trek through slot canyons and witness cone-shaped rock formations that will take your breath away. This heavily trafficked park offers serenity, palpable energy, and stunning vistas regardless of whether you make it to the top or not.
Best place I visited. I had to hike through trails and up a mountain to get to see the tent rocks from above but it was great.
Matthew — Google review
Go in the early spring before it gets too warm. Bring a cooler, and have lunch after. This is a great hike that is fun for all ages. The higher you get you will need to help smaller kids along.
Carla Frazier — Google review
Stunning views at the top of the mountain plus a cool hike up to the top with a slot canyon. I would recommend going in the morning on a weekday because there are next to no people until 10 o'clock and it is significantly cooler in the morning. Bring a bottle of water and good shoes. Amazing hike for only $5.
Logan Harmison — Google review
I love exploring the outdoors and grew up traveling to the national parks and state parks in Utah and surrounding states. This is a great hike. We saw many older people doing the hike and were so impressed! I thought it was a hike around a rim of a canyon from the pictures we've seen, but you go through the slots in the canyon, walk along the base, then go up the mountain. They have some steps, but some places can be a bit strenuous and you'll have to climb over rocks. Bring plenty of water when you go. It took us about 3 hours with kids, but they all did great! It was 106 degrees out when we went, but the breeze and shady spots made it bearable. I believe there rangers hike up to the top before 4pm and start hiking down at 4 and make everyone hike back with them even if they haven't made it to the top, for safety reasons. Great hike, get out and explore!
Kristin Bogopane — Google review
I love this place! It can be pretty hot in the summer, so go early in the morning. The slot canyon is breathtaking and the rock formations are really neat. You can hike to the top and back down in about 2.5 hours depending on your fitness level. There are times you have to climb up and over things, so keep that in mind if you have a disability or injury. This place is great for kids.
Angela Holt — Google review
Fantastic views of slot canyons and "tent rock" hoodoos. Pretty easy and scenic hike to the overlook then continue on the cave loop, a total of 3.2 miles and 839 ft of elevation. I would have liked a longer hike but the views and scenery make a visit here well worth it. Get here early though, or you'll have to wait to get in. Opens at 8am.
James Torrence — Google review
Amazing scenery on a pretty easy hike. There is a little crawling and sliding on your rear end in sections but the trail is short and the views are spectacular. The only downside is that the park has a very small capacity and once it's full you have to wait for a car to leave before you are allowed to park.
Brad Davis — Google review
Hiking the canyon trail was a great outdoor outing. It shouldn’t take more than 2 hours up and down if you take you time to admire the scenery and take pictures. The trail is very easy for the most part, and the last climb towards the summit is a little steeper but is accessible to anyone who doesn’t have any mobility issues.
I suggest to take a left towards the cave trail on your back for a short but worthwhile detour.
Marie-Ève Gagné — Google review
Amazing Place. Reminds me of a Zion National Park Narrows trail meets the Upper Antelopes in AZ. Highly recommended if your in the area and want to experience an amazing trail. In certain areas the Canyon Trail Can get a little challenging because your climbing over rocks etc but it’s definitely do able and I saw active 50 year old plus people doing it. There are also certain sections of the Cave loop trail that are very enjoyable for older individuals. I highly recommend the Canyon Trail really cool views.
Bullitt 78 — Google review
This is such a beautiful place. Heavily trafficked, so you are passing people all the time. Regardless the serenity, beauty, and palpable energy are well worth the short trek. Slightly steep toward the end however that section of the trail is closed when very icy. Still, I reiterate that this hike is well worth it whether you make it to the top or not. It is gorgeous!
William Miglino — Google review
I grew up in NM and had never had the privilege of visiting this place until now. I am still in awe of the sheer beauty! Our kiddos were also in awe of their surroundings. I highly recommend this hike! A bit steep and narrow in places, but definitely worth it!
Museum with Ross Ward's elaborate handmade dioramas of Old West scenes & antique toys.
Tremendous treasure grove of authentic circus memorabilia and truly inspiring outsider art. Warm and gracious hostesses. Lots of old timey penny arcade machines and magnificent dioramas and wild west facades. A fun kid oriented gift shop w games and toys and puppets. If yr in the area. Dont miss this one.
seana miracle — Google review
I lived in Albuquerque for like 6 years and I moved away so on my trip back there this year we came across this amazing place. So much to look at think about and do. I would so take my family back there when I come next to visit it was truly amazing. Amazing staff and we got to meet the man's wife who still lives on the property she is a kinda and amazing woman herself. She has kept up the place and is such a sweet soul.
KSK H — Google review
An unusual museum, but interesting stop below the Mountains Sandias. Closed for the winter Nov 1st-April 1st...not sure if that means every winter however, best to check. I had gone there in the warmer season. Nice store inside and nice folks. ...A charming place. Pictures give you an idea of how it is put together. But stop in to see it and get a feeling of the place yourself...in the warmer seasons if you're near the area or passing through.
Close to Cedar Crest.
Zapcode Knock — Google review
This is one of the most interesting places I have been to in years. The love is seen in the hours of work/hobby time put into this place. It is a gem worth the drive up to. Price is cheap for the enjoyment you get out of this place. The have built displays are amazing. You kids will be amazed. Old or young this is a must go adventure
Raymond Burgess — Google review
The 5 star rating is well-deserved. Come in and deep dive into a great collection and exhibition of toys and various other funny and interesting things. We had a great time and enjoyed our visit.
Walter Rothe — Google review
Awesome facility with so much history. Claire the owner is extremely friendly and available to answer some of the questions you will have about the exhibits. There are so many fascinating pieces & so much history!
I was concerned I might not be able to get through in my power chair, that was not the case - I was able to navigate over 95% of it.
One downside? Plan on spending more time than you originally anticipated, everywhere you look there is just more to see 😁
Richard Marshall — Google review
Unusual location, on the way to Sandia Ski Resort. Unfortunately, it is closed for the winter season. Would definitely be interested to visit after seeing how it looks from side of the road.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
It is definitely "unique". The drive was scenic. But walking thruout the museum one has to appreciate the amount of time, dedication and love that went into this place. A lifetime of art to look at from wood carvings, art walls, a boat and quarter machine. Bring quarters! The gift shop was also amazing, not for it's charm and souvenirs but pricing for gift shop items was more than fair. I honestly appreciate that they don't price gouge!
M. Hay — Google review
A really cool experience! Very talented man who spent his life collecting and making these little scenes- and whole place!! Certainly for kids of all ages, this is something to see!
LAURA RUSHING — Google review
Great place to go and see. Bring a few dollars worth of quarters to use the antique machines/games. Stop by Ribs. 12220 NM-14, Cedar Crest, NM 87008
on the way back to Albuquerque...great BBQ
Eugene Paulsen — Google review
If you happen to be on the Turquoise Trail, this is a great place to stop and see the creations of folk artist Ross Ward. It was only $8 to get into the museum. However, if you don’t have the money or time--there is a lot of free things to see on the outside of the museum.
JoAnn SkyWatcher — Google review
Place is nice and the staff. Little pricey in the gift shop but it’s pretty interesting over all. New comers get a free dollar in quarters. Also I would use the restroom before visiting at the shell gas station. There’s only one porta potty there.
SJ — Google review
One of the most unique roadside attractions still around. The drive up towards Sandia Crest is spectacular and this place should not be missed! It can be uneven and slightly tilted in places which makes it challenging for those with walking difficulties. The artistry and creativity of one man’s vision are just joyful!
Leslie Rangel — Google review
What an amazing place. It seems this place was one man’s dream and creation and all he spent his spare time building. Apparently he also managed to find time to have a family, but seeing all of this makes you wonder how. Just amazing.
Gerry Davison — Google review
40 years of collections displayed as a time capsule, workshops and studio also restored. Give yourself an hour or more to take it all in. Great gift shop .
ken crimmins — Google review
My son enjoyed the museum. He hadn't been since he was around 5 and he's 11 now.
Daniela Lujan — Google review
Tinker town is always such a fun experience with family and friends. I have been taking my kids since they were infants and they have new experiences every time they go. Thank you Tinker Town !
Ghost Ranch is a popular tourist attraction located in Abiquiu, New Mexico. It was the site of Georgia O'Keeffe's other house and is known for its breathtaking scenery that served as an inspiration for her work. The ranch offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area on horseback or through landscape tours guided by art experts. In addition to horseback riding, there are also anthropology and paleontology museums, three trails to hike and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Lovely! We just came here to do the kitchen mesa trail and it was beautiful. The drive here is also very scenic.
Jessica Wojtasek — Google review
Georgia O'Keefe painted here one can see her inspiration at all points of the compass. We were day visitors and had a wonderful time and found great photo ops. Highly recommended.
Thad Zajdowicz — Google review
I love Ghost Ranch, haven't stayed for a few years and it is so special. I usually stay on the mesa and the rooms are lovely. The food is very satisfying, especially as all you have to do is show up, no prep or clean up. There are lots of trails and beautiful light.
Margaret Shumaker — Google review
I had an amazing 4 nights at Ghost Ranch in mid March. The scenery and hiking was incredible. Exploring the and facilities on site, getting to know the history of the place from Native Americans, to cattle rustlers, to Georgia OKeefe, the paleontology museum with Graham (shout out!), all fantastic experiences. The welcome centre staff were great - Beth and Eileen, couldn’t have been more helpful. The dining hall was great - getting to know fellow guests over delicious meals, comparing notes on hikes and experiences…I really didn’t want to leave, and will definitely be back with family and friends.
Paul Jones — Google review
The trail ride at Ghost Ranch is in my opinion the best way to see this beautiful scenery.
The wranglers are very knowledgeable and friendly and the horses are well trained.
The trail guide Dustin was very nice and offered interesting information about the history of Ghost Ranch. If you visit Ghost Ranch you must take a trail ride! Its a great way to spend some time!
Thanks Ghost Ranch and Wranglers for offering this opportunity to enjoy the horses and explore the Ranch.
Will definitely be back to ride again!
Adele Yazzie — Google review
Most beautiful place on earth! Photo opportunities abound, there are tours going daily, but you can see what you are looking for everywhere! History of the ranch is plentiful, and photo opportunities are abundant. There are public restrooms and places to sit by the ranch house. Great views! You can stay as long as you like. Don’t shop the trading post, they are really unfriendly.
Candy Hucklebee — Google review
Amazing day trip from Santa Fe. It's quite the drive but when you get there your breath will be taken away.
I just couldn't get enough of the views. Great place for photographers, artists, nature lovers, and hikers. Admirers of Georgia O'Keeffe will be rewarded with a feast for the eyes and senses as well as an understanding of inspiration for her artwork.
Virginia Huffman — Google review
Another wonderful horseback riding experience at Ghost Ranch! The wrangler for my trail ride was Colton and he did a great job of making everyone feel welcome on the ride as well as sharing the history of the ranch. The horseback ride is the absolute best way to see the ranch and experience this magnificent landscape. The horses are all well mannered and the wranglers are always professional and friendly!
Ghost Ranch will always be a favorite destination! If you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip Ghost Ranch is a must see and the trail rides are an excellent choice to view the scenery.
K E — Google review
Visited mainly for the location, the O'Keeffe connection, and the paleontology museum. Going here coupled with the O'Keeffe museum in town was a good combo, getting to be in the location that inspired so much of her art, and learning how Ghost Ranch history is even more than just that connection. The paleontology museum was cool! Small but really neat, and a must stop if you have a dinosaur lover in your group. Honestly even just seeing the location is breathtaking enough. Definitely stop by if you have time.
Colleen G — Google review
My friends and I stayed 1 night in the dormitory at ghost ranch and it was the best value I think I’ve ever gotten at a hotel. The ranch definitely isn’t luxury but the rooms and shared bathroom were nice and clean. And in exchange you get to stay in one of the prettiest places in America where you can walk a few minutes to a dozen hikes with hardly anyone else on the trail (in February).
The staff was so kind and obviously cared about us having a great time. Food was included in our stay and the buffet tasted great and included options that accommodated both gluten free and vegetarian guests. The highlight was obviously the hiking and exploring the whole campus, and it’s hard to find anywhere like ghost ranch (especially at that price).
Margaret Seikel — Google review
So much fun. The ranch hands at ghost ranch were awesome to listen to and talk to. Great voice that the whole group can hear. The tour was fun even for a guy that is a little stiff and has never ridden a horse before. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a horse back or art history experience.
greg montgomery — Google review
Great place with some interesting history & fun activities. There are a multitude of hiking trails with varying difficulty. Chimney Rock is the most popular & its pretty short too. There’s a few places mentioning Georgia O’Keefe & her time spent there. You can even stay in one of her cabins. The ranch has been featured in many movies & tv shows, documentaries, music videos & even advertisements for Ariat & clothing & products. There’s neat history with the fossils found there as well. The library was the old Johnson&Johnson house so the architecture is pretty cool. There’s also educational programs & retreats during the summer, but not while I was visiting.
David Burman — Google review
My husband and I live in New Mexico and yesterday we took a little day trip to the Ghost Ranch. The scenery is incredibly beautiful and really well worth the trip but the state of Ghost Ranch is unfortunately in bad disrepair. The amount of revenue that must come through Ghost Ranch must be really substantial so one has to wonder where all this money is going. There is visible clutter and detritus everywhere and all the cabins are in terrible shape, it’s hard to believe that anyone would feel comfortable staying there. So many incredible things could be done with this space.. plant some cacti gardens or flowers near the cabins, clear up the scrap metal, move away the garbage truck parked near the trails, it’s almost as if there is no aesthetic vision or care put into any square footage on the grounds.I am sure Georgia O Keefe would be most saddened to see the state of Ghost Ranch as it has fallen into complete disrepair. Come to see the beautiful and incredible scenery, learn about the history and then maybe go home to your clean house and save $150
Phoebbe@aol.com mcgrane — Google review
The scenery is absolutely gorgeous and the staff is very knowledgeable about the history, wildlife, vegetation and geological formations. Service provided by the Welcome Center, dining hall, and staff are outstanding. As a photographer I'm most grateful for the advice provided by Jeanelle at the entrance gate. She was very helpful in providing suggestions for specific locations where I would find terrific scenic views.
David Hood — Google review
Amazing views. Worth the trip.
Road in was quite rough watch for pot holes (I was in a car), rooms were meager, but clean, bed was fine. If I go again, I’d take a coffee maker to use in the room.
The bad: Cafeteria dinner was sad, borderline horrible. Very limited selection, meat dumpling was room temp, I was concerned I might get sick. We had to sift though several plates to find ones that appeared clean.
The good: Breakfast on the other hand was great, hot and plenty of choices. Dishes appeared clean.
Staff was great all around.
John Allen — Google review
The landscape and energy of Georgia O’Keeffe here is incredible, but, BE WARNED… make your trip a day visit with a landscape tour! Sketch the Morning with Susan was beautiful, and she was kind and knowledgeable - but Ghost Ranch’s accommodations and facilities are wretched. There was a lot of poop spattered on the bathroom wall and junk (like old broken furniture, broken screens/windows and general garbage) scattered all around the property. I can’t imagine anyone feeling comfortable staying here.
We appreciate minimalism and limited amenities but the website is deceptive in their description of the accommodations. It seems the facilities have not been updated or maintained in decades. The place isn’t rustic, it’s GROSS. My family and I now joke about abandoned-looking places we would RATHER stay at than Ghost Ranch.
The Presbyterian Church, who owns the property but stopped funding it a few years ago, should be ashamed. Georgia O’Keeffe would be heartbroken to see what became of Ghost Ranch.
HIGHLY recommend going a few miles down the road to the beautiful Georgia O’Keeffe Museum next to the Abiquiu Inn and taking her Abiquiu house tour.
Cynthia Oldham — Google review
I grew up coming here for two weeks every summer and while it has changed a little bit it is still my favorite place in the world. Amazing classes where you can learn how to paint, weld, write or adventure around the area to see some incredible views and hikes. Can’t recommend this place enough!
Rachel Hoffman — Google review
The best part of visiting Ghost Ranch was the drive from and back to Santa Fe!
With all the hype I heard about the ranch I was disappointed! It needs a lot of updating. The displays, videos and directional signage is stale and outdated.
Granted the views of the amazing mountain ranges surrounding the property are phenomenal but that was about it.
Ed Pizza — Google review
Beautiful scenery and unmatched solitude. We visited on a day trip from Santa Fe and loved our visit. Access to the ranch is $10 per person but provides access to several miles of well maintained hiking trails and the Ghost Ranch property which includes museums, a library, and several outdoor areas to picnic/rest.
B G — Google review
I got stuck going to Monastery of Christ in the desert. Luckily a couple brought me to Ghost Ranch. They immediately offered me food and a room at a discounted rate because I couldn't get towed out by anyone in the area. The next morning maintenance drove me to the road and towed me out.
The sheer hospitality oozing out of every crevice of the ranch is amazing both from the staff and the few people I had the pleasure of speaking to at dinner are incredibly friendly. Speaking of dinner, it's served buffet style in a dining hall and the food was amazing! There was also this mango enhanced water that was incredible.
The room was cozy and had a beautiful painting by O'Keefe and there's a ton of facilities and beautiful sights. From my conversations with the front desk they also have concerts - sort of like a mini Woodstock, I think the next in September. Definitely something I will make every attempt to visit!
Edward Morante — Google review
Tour guide on landscape tour was wonderful. Accommodations were okay,, and meals were decent, given cafeteria style set up. Fun patrons led to interesting conversations at meals.
Cindy Clement — Google review
I loved staying in Ghost Ranch while visiting the O'Keefe home in Abiquiu. You can do WONDERFUL hikes in the ranch. I also enjoyed the library (open 24 h!) and the friendly community atmosphere. Restaurant included with the acomodation. Great, calm place for a retreat in low-season months (I was in April).
Oriol Sierra — Google review
My husband and I recently stayed at Ghost Ranch for a couple's retreat with Ellen and Mike Johas Teener. This was the best workshop I have ever taken in my life and will help me become a more loving human. Ghost Ranch was stunning. The rooms, service, and food were wonderful and spectacular. What a blessing - forever thank you.
Sarita Streng — Google review
Being from canones n.m and ghost ranch being my front yard it's the most beautiful area on earth that must be why it's been used for so many films. I was recently in Chandler Arizona and seen a restaurant named ghost ranch the thing that really made it catch my eye is because they have 100% stolen your emblem and name logo... Major copyright that they are doing there:(
Brandon Serrano — Google review
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280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA
Valles Caldera National Preserve is a vast, scenic area featuring a 13-mile wide meadow that's home to plenty of wildlife and streams ideal for fly fishing. The park can be accessed via highway 4 from either Santa Fe or Albuquerque, each offering stunning views along the way. It's highly recommended to visit during the day when picturesque hiking trails are available, though visiting around sunset or sunrise offers breathtaking scenes - especially in autumn.
Highly recommend visiting during the day where the hiking views are scenic. That said, visit around sunset (or even sunrise) and you’ll be greeted with stunning scenes. Especially in the autumn.
Christopher Howard — Google review
Highly recommend.
Tip One:
If you are planning to hike, just know the estimated times it takes to complete each trail (according to maps as well as the visitor's center staff) are massively exaggerated. I walked slowly and stopped dozens of times to take pictures, and yet a trail that would supposedly take me 59 minutes (oddly specific) took me less than thirty. You will be able to see a lot more than let on by those estimates.
Tip Two:
The caldera is full of prairie dogs, which are adorable and can be heard calling to each other all over park, BUT they sometimes dig their burrows directly on the dirt path, so watch your step.
Tip Three:
Speaking of watching your step, many of the trails have a plethora of animal feces on them. This is obviously gross, but also fascinating, as it demonstrates all the different animals that call the caldera home.
Tip Four:
One of the animals you may cross paths with are coyotes. Coyotes are generally more afraid of us than we are of them, but if you see one with a baby, then they may be more aggressive. A good way to keep a safe distance from them is to hold your arm all the way out, close one eye, and attempt to block the animal from your view with your thumb. If your thumb completely obscures the coyote, then you're safe, but if you can still see any part of the coyote sticking out from your thumb, then you should back off a bit. Honestly, this is a good rule of thumb (heh) for when you encounter ANY potentially dangerous animal in the wild.
Error 404 — Google review
SCENIC and HISTORIC VALLE GRANDE!
About one million years ago, this magnificent valley was formed by collapse, after a series of tremendous volcanic eruptions ejected a Volume of material more than 500 times greater than the May 1980 eruptions of Mt. St Helens, This event climaxed more than 13 million years of volcanism in the Jemez Mountains. Minor volumes of magma, leaking to the surface as recently as 50,000 years ago, formed the dome-like hills between you and the skyline to the north, which is the opposite wall of the enormous Valles Caldera. The heat from young volcanism makes this area attractive for geothermal energy.
Paul Lee — Google review
There's a tranquil beauty here you don't find many places. It's isolated and the only noises you hear are nature and the occasional other visitor.
Roisin Blanks — Google review
It's free and has plenty of trail options. If You're in the area and looking for a hike this is a great place to do it. I would recommend Hidden Valley Trail. It has an old ranch to walk around and a lush, tight valley to walk down.
Kyle Kempf — Google review
Lovely place to visit winter and spring and summer and fall.. all season around. I visited during April and still had some patches of snow. Trail might be little muddy buy views are fantastic. Wild animal are pretty easy to spot if you know where to look for. Careful driving during winter and spring.. snow and falling rocks. .
SM K — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Lots of scenery along the way on highway 4 whether you're coming from the Santa Fe area or Albuquerque...we traveled to Valles Caldera from both directions on two different days.
Corrie Erbert — Google review
Off rt 4, up road 105. Private property so be respectful. Locked FS gate, turn around and park so others can turn around.
FS is was still evaluating site for reclamation and future use when we visited. Stopped and shared discoveries, history with each other.
mike skiinghousedad — Google review
Valles Caldera is a beautiful place! You must go there to experience God's beautiful creations. There are so many wild animals. I took a long hike to the top of South Peak and saw a beautiful royal bull elk. I was able to take a picture of it. It's a once in a lifetime picture for me. It's so cool and a good memory that will stay with me forever.
Art J — Google review
Beautiful place! If your a Longmire fan it's a must see for his cabin. Beautiful countryside with hiking, biking and hunting opportunities.
Max Wood — Google review
Breathtaking views! Amazing creation. So many prairie dogs along the route. Initially we thought they were gophers. Unfortunately there are no signs in the park, we had to ask for a special permit to get inside, no places to pull over. I still give the 5 stars for the beauty of nature. Land of enchantment it is.
Cera Sela — Google review
The unique beauty of this place is well worth a visit. Arriving here after driving NM4 on the Jemez Mountains Scenic drive (through all the fire ravaged forests) was a breath of fresh greenery to behold. Sadly, we saw no elk. Perhaps wrong time of day? Wrong time of year? Staff we spoke to outside of visitors center were very knowledgeable and friendly.
Jazz Rock Fusion & Synthesizer Music — Google review
Recommend buying tickets in advance for backcountry drive, visit. There is lot more to be explored in the backcountry which we couldn’t visit as the passes were run out. They give only 30 passes per day to minimize visitors. We however visited the pond and saw several prairie dogs near the visitor center
Anupama Venkatesan — Google review
The area is so beautiful with cool Temps and beautiful mountain air. Plenty of pine and hardwood trees with hidden meadows and springs. Got to watch the elk come out at sunset and saw a majestic bull elk with the largest set of antlers I have ever seen. Gorgeous drive!!
The Sandia Peak Tramway is a 3,163-metre aerial tram that takes tourists to the top of the Sandia Mountains for an amazing view. This tourist attraction is a great way for those looking for an adventure and something different to do in Albuquerque.
So let me start off I’m not fan of heights. We bought tickets the day before which they recommend. Check in was easy with friendly staff at the front desk. The bathrooms were clean and tidy. We waited about 15 minutes to board. Once boarded the tram the tour guide / cabin operator was very informative and safety was a top priority. The the ride up is breath taking you go from Desert to Canadian geography. The tour guide was very informing on the ride up with different information on geography and history. Once up top there was snow on the ground and very cold “bring a jacket” The restaurant was closed at the time. The air is very thin so keep your breath. You can walk around and see some of the nature in the area but be careful with ice and animals. During the decent I got a little nervous cause of my height fear. But it was a smooth ride the beginning on the decent was a little stomach kicking but you get used to it. And the ride down was way better than coming up in my opinion. I recommend the people were great and very professional.
Hunter Garcia — Google review
I would say this was definitely worth the money. My one complaint (and it’s a big one) is that the tram is too packed with people to enjoy the view unless you’re directly by the window. Wait for a group to go, then get to the front of the line to fully enjoy this experience.
It’s an incredible view even if you don’t get in the restaurant. If you DO want a reservation, make sure to make one a few weeks in advance.
There’s hiking trails at the top, and the last ride of the day back down is at 9. I would pick one path or another: go up for pictures and go to the restaurant, or go to the trails.
We went the picture route this time but next year we will probably choose to do some hiking instead. Beautiful spot definitely worth seeing.
Madie Leon Riley — Google review
First and foremost, the views from the tramway are absolutely breathtaking. As you ascend the mountain, you're treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Albuquerque and the rugged Sandia Mountains. The tramway offers a unique perspective, allowing you to see the beauty of the area from a completely different vantage point. Whether you're visiting during the day or catching a sunset ride, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring.
The tram cars themselves are spacious and comfortable. They are designed to hold a large number of passengers, but even when the tram is full, there is still plenty of room to move around and enjoy the ride. The large windows provide excellent visibility, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to take in the magnificent views. The tram operators are friendly and professional, providing interesting commentary about the area and making the journey even more enjoyable.
Upon reaching the top, there are several activities and amenities to explore. The Sandia Peak Observation Deck offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot. The Kawanis Cabin Trail is easy enough and is worth the spectacular views.
Additionally, the weather at the top of the mountain can be cooler than in the city, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or extra layers, especially during the colder months.
Daryl Marcelo — Google review
Was a really cool experience! The Tram going up was at capacity and didn't get a be right next to a window but still could have a pretty good view. There weren't a ton of people at the top. The hiking trails were beautiful and pretty easy to walk for most people I would say. The Tram operator was great and I wish I could remember her unique name. The views were out of this world! For a family of 4 it cost about $120 and I think it was worth it for the experience.
Jennifer McNeill — Google review
So my father and I was happy that we made the journey to the top. Being at 6,000 feet then make a trip up the tram to 10,000 feet. You have to go to the top to find out the actual total height. Got to leave a little desire. 😌 this is a hard experience for someone not used to the height but as you see the pics of the scenery were breath taken and so beautiful that I would tell anyone to go take in all that beauty. I took the pic of the bee to show that by just taking the pics of the skyline and terrain you can miss out on the flowers and beauty of nature in front of you.
Robert Trout — Google review
Despite my own extreme fear of heights, this is an experience you don't want to miss. The views of Albuquerque are extraordinary, the ride up is a little scary, but coming down was much easier. The gondola was large, and the trip up was full to capacity. Being crowded made it more difficult to see the views, but there is enough glad to make it work for everyone. Once at the top, you saw both sides of the mountain. And, if you like to hike, the ski trails are open to hikers in the summer. Even the gift shop was not only well-stocked, but very well priced. Parking is plentiful and free. You'll be glad you went.
Dennis Shuman — Google review
The Sandia Tramway up to the top of the mountain is a just beautiful and stunning view of the mountains and Albuquerque as a whole metropolitan area. If you're a tourist, this is a great thing to do for at least 2 or 3 hours. There's also a great gift shop too for the tourists. There are some great hiking trails and overall amazing picture opportunities.
Jack Voltz — Google review
Sandia Peak Tramway, located near Albuquerque, New Mexico, holds the title of the longest tramway in the USA. The journey from the base station to the mountain's top, at 10,378 feet, takes about 15 minutes each way. The trams are sturdy and adhere to strict safety protocols. The breathtaking mountain views can be enjoyed throughout the ride. At the mountain top, there's a restaurant called Ten 3, offering stunning scenic views. I visited around 4 PM and witnessed a spectacular sunset, painting the sky in fiery orange hues. Every moment was truly enjoyable. Additionally, skiing is available during the winter season.
PATHIPATI VENKATESH — Google review
This is the longest trams in the USA. Get your tickets online and be prepared to stand in line a while. Trust me, it's worth every penny. At the top of the mountain you'll find a nice restaurant TEN3. Great views from wither the bar area or the main dining room.
Lemmie Klein — Google review
Very cool experience 😎 Definitely recommend! We purchased tram tickets last minute as we were passing through town. We arrived and once in line to board, the wait was about 45 minutes. The views were beautiful even from the line! The ride took about 15 minutes and was stunning! You pass over a few canyons and valleys, so the views are constantly changing. Once at the top, the temperature was a brisk 35 degrees (25 degrees colder than on the ground)! We weren't able to eat at the restaurant, but they did allow us to buy cocktails and enjoy outside. So many photo ops, and we'll kept grounds.
Katie Zumbahlen — Google review
The tram is always always worth it. I’ve been multiple times and whether you’re a local or you’re visiting it’s always breathtaking. There are windows to go up and down (noon to 4, or 5-8) the ride is about 14 min and usually you have a good view no matter where you’re standing. If you’re visiting near sunset, make sure to head back to the line once it’s over otherwise you might miss the tram and have to wait another 30+ min. Bring a jacket too, it’s always surprisingly chilly and windy up there, but so beautiful!
Cecilia Williams — Google review
We loved the Tram. We were driving through in our RV and decided to stop and take it to the top of Sandia Peak. Enough parking for our RV although on a weekend it may be different. They don't have designated RV or bus parking. The ride up is awesome and the operator gave a nice commentary. The view from on top is great. It's 20° cooler so bring a light jacket. There is a nice restaurant on top with awesome views. We loved it.
Scott Freburg — Google review
Very cool experience! 10,300 ft overlooking Albuquerque and surrounding areas. We purchased tickets a head of time. They sell out fast! Had to wait 45-60 minutes past our time as it was the same weekend as the International Balloon Fiesta so there were many more people than normal, which was fine. The sun was shining and a small band playing which kept everyone entertained. The main facility and gift shop at the base is pretty cool. Beautiful views from the tram ride up to the top of the peak with 47ish of your closest strangers! The employees were very knowledgeable and shared many facts on the way up and down the peak. Once atop the peak, you are able to hike around the area at your leisure. There is a restaurant called ten3. Reservations are highly recommended for the main restaurant, be prepared to wait for bar seating and service, drinks and food are a bit pricey for some ($18 for specialty drinks, sandwiches $12-18, but at that moment, well, does it matter?) Be sure to hydrate before going up and bring water with you while there. The elevation change affects many so be prepared. And it’s windy and cold at the top so dress accordingly!!! Enjoy!!!
Anessa Kertesz Mueller — Google review
We enjoyed the ride up the mountain,it was beautiful. We went up towards the afternoon, so the air was a bit chilly,so I would recommend taking a light sweater if you plan on staying at the top of the peak for a while,everyone who works there is very friendly so if you have questions they will help you out or answer them. Also, if you want to get next to the window, get there early so you can be towards the front of the line,other than that if you don't mind standing in the middle of the car you're fine 😉 I also enjoyed how clean everything was,they do a very good job 😀 everyone should go here at least once and ride the tram
Liberty Walker — Google review
Kids love this experience. It is little Windy at the top and bring your jacket for sure. Per person was $27 but it was worth it. You can hike to the mountains and have fun with your family. It has a magnificent sunset. Do not forget to be careful to not miss the last tramway to go back. There are so many parking space. You need to close your stroller in the tramway and bring your water.
Hatice Kacer — Google review
Worth if you haven’t done any tramway experience before. Bit expensive. Good if you like hike as there are trails up there. Would not recommend if you just want scenic view and check mark this attraction in todo list. Wheeler peak is great place if you like scenic view. Sandia peak is good place if you need tramway experience, hiking, skiing or some scenic view.
Avani Jain — Google review
By far this was the coolest thing to do in Albuquerque! IT’s fairly priced and the views were just stunning! They only have 2 cable cars which come about every 15 minutes. The ride is about 15 minutes from point to point and was really smooth. There are no seats in the cable car, but there are plenty of poles to grab. There are also several short and long hiking trails at the top which we definitely took advantage of. I would highly recommend!
Dan Reamer — Google review
Not crowded, which was fantastic. The ride up and back were pretty uneventful. The views were gorgeous and with the price of the team ride.
Our "guide" on the way up was fantastic. Interacted with everyone answering questions, etc. The one going down need to find a new job. She basically told everyone that she didn't answer questions and struggled to keep her eyes open. I, literally, watched her with her eyes drifting closed more than once.
Cindy Robertson — Google review
Pictures from the top of the tram. Bought tickets in advance online. When I got there, I was told there was some weather that may cause them to stop running the tram temporarily. The staff kept me informed and there ended up being no weather delay. At the top, you can explore the area and come back down when you’re ready. There is a restaurant at the top, I believe reservations are recommended and there is a dress code after 7 pm.
It is a fun stop. There’s a gift shop too.
Gabrielle Davis-Jones — Google review
Spectacular views! Did a trail hike ( lol- less than 1/2 mile) was worth the Amazing views. Great weather hi 20’s and such small flurries I thought for a sec that it was pollen… Deducted 1 Star bc the Host & Hostess seated at table with minimal view despite repeated requests.. they claimed for larger group tho later they seated others just like ours (2)… the waiter Mike & others made up quite a bit for hospitality and attentiveness.. The Host & Hostess need more training in hospitality…
Thoroughly enjoyed Tram ride, weather & view… Sandia & Ten3 is a great place for pics or romantic date (ignore the Host/Hostess pair)
Gregory Lee — Google review
Went up to catch the sunset and it did not disappoint. Great view of Albuquerque and surrounding area. Temperature was about 25 degrees cooler than the city. Ride takes about 15 minutes one way. Would do this again on future trips to Albuquerque
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David Kunicki — Google review
4 stars only because the wait seemed extremely long. With small children, I wish there had been a better system where upon a arrival you are given a ticket with your place in line with a much smaller time window 15 or 20 minutes. By the time we had waited in the outside line and then the inside line, our youngest was getting cranky.
With that said this was a truly unique experience. We visited the Tramway the Monday before Thanksgiving. There was a lot of waiting. That was hard for our 2.5 year old. But the experience was worth the wait.
Being November, it was below freezing at the top of the mountain, and we got to experience some fresh snowfall.
There is a snack machine and restrooms at the top as well as the fine dining restaurant.
We took in the panoramic views and the snow and then headed back down.
The ride was about 15 minutes up, and the same was true for the way down. The tram operator gives you information about the mountain on the way up, and then the way down was a bit quieter just taking in the scenery.
This is definitely a unique experience you won't get to experience often.
It was fun for our 2.5 year old all the way up to my 71 year old mom!
Laurel Waller — Google review
Fun, and it gives you something to do in Albuquerque. The tram line is quite long and you climb a lot, so if you're coming from somewhere that is at sea level, just be advised that you may feel a little odd. You have to get the tickets online in advance, but once you get there the wait is not long. The tram runs every 15-ish minutes. The only thing we noticed is that, well... how to say this? I don't know if it's the change in altitude or what but in both directions, people were farting in the tram, and it's not fun you're trapped with ~20 people in a box with two tiny windows. I felt bad for the tram operators who probably have to smell stinky farts all day long. Other than that, the tram, a fun experience.
Valeria Larreategui — Google review
This was my second time riding the tram.
The views and sunsets are exceptional I recommend riding around sunset, so you can witness scenery and sunset on the way up and the city lights on the way down.
Bring a coat, dress warm, it was freezing and windy at the top.
And we did have a little wind on our ride, which was a bit scary but great to see the employees in communication immediately upon the wind gusts, with the tram receiving a call at what seemed like the exact moment of the wind to check on us.
The staff was friendly, professional and shared fun facts on the rides.
Worth it, clearly I've rode it twice and would probably do it again just to see/ share all that beauty again. The colors in the sky were so absolutely incredible.
AdvoK8great — Google review
This was a up and down (forgive my pun) experience. On the one hand, the tram going up was incredible. Very exhilarating 14 minutes. The views at the top? A+. Can’t be beat anywhere.
The cons: I got stuck up there for about 5 hours with a group of another 100 or so people because the power went out at the base station and the tram was not running. We had one last tram down and unfortunately due to a critical medical emergency we let the person having the medical situation use it to get down. The rest of us had to wait all night for shuttle buses to make it up the mountain and pick us up. Luckily for me I was a solo traveler and the first bus had one open seat for me to make it down. Yes, some families were stuck up there even longer as they waited for more buses, though all the buses were kind of arriving at the same time so it wasn’t too much for all of them. Eventually made it home around 1am after a long ordeal and an expensive Uber ride yhat ended up being a really long wait because drivers kept cancelling thinking that the tram had closed hours ago so no one should be ip there.
Anyway, I plan on going back sometime this year (this all happened two years ago) and going for it again, hoping for better results.
The tramway is out of the way, so Uber/Lyft will be pricey (get a rental car) and the restaurant at the top has very limited seating so don’t expect to be able to eat especially around common meal times or in worst case scenario, you get stuck up there with 3 tram loads of people because the power goes out.
Because of the power outage, I never did get to stop by the gift shop, so thats on the top of my agenda this next time around. And this time I will go there first instead of “going there on my way out”
Bronson Allen — Google review
Wow the views! And the service was great. Make sure to buy your tickets on the website they don’t sell them there. Bring a coat or sweatshirt it is cold at the top!
Thomas Cronshaw — Google review
I have always had a fear of heights (except when flying) but this was an experience I did not want to miss. I wanted to conquer my fears and live in the moment to appreciate the beauty from over 10k elevation to speak about for years to come. From the ground, the elevation did not seem so terrifying but once in and the ascend started, I soon began to feel a bit nervous but the magnificent views soon made me forget my freight as I was in awe.
The view from the top was superb and frigid! We went in late November so snow was present. We wanted to walk down the steps on the other side but the steps were covered in snow and a bit slippery but managed to get some pictures and videos. The descending ride seemed quicker and we were luck to watch hang gliders in the distance - it was magnificent! Perfect trip to take in the warmer months with friends and family.
Izod Man — Google review
Tram was great. Hike to the cabin was snowy and we post holed a bit but worth it. Restaurant was closed which was a bummer but that was on us. But tickets in advance but you can do it on your phone when u get there too.
Heidi Misch — Google review
This is such an amazing experience! You will be so glad you saw it! Dress warm. It's cold up on top! And get those tickets in advance!
Excavated remains & ancient art in a Pueblo village visited by Coronado on his fabled quest.
Amazing historical gem in the middle of town. Please take time to visit our wonderfully preserved history. It's important to know where we come from to better know where we may go. This was a very pleasant tour and I learned quite a bit.
A Frame Adventures — Google review
I would visit just for the views!
There is a small museum and a special exhibit showing murals that were removed from the ruins for conservation.
The actual ruins are barely noticeable, follow the path and read the description of what each area used to look like.
A very small gift shop that does not compare to any of the offerings in Albuquerque or Santa Fe.
I would say this is the perfect place for historians and archeologists interested in knowing about the excavations and remains.
Alejandra Aboud Keenan — Google review
This is a gem if you are looking for an outdoor learning activity! We went on the first Sunday of the month which is free admission but even if we had to pay, this would have been worth it!! Great narrative about the past along with a guided walking tour! Nice area as well to have lunch (bring own).
Christoph Rieck — Google review
We love visiting the historic sights hete in New Mexico! The visitors center was closed. There is usually a charge, but today it was free. There is a guided tour if you ask. We chose to walk on our own.
Kip (Kip) — Google review
A beautiful state park, right next to the river, which is very wheelchair accessible. This was the only site that we toured that had painted murals, amazing for having been excavated, and transported to where they currently reside in the museum. Just know that no photography is allowed of the murals, given their sacred nature.
Allen Wickham — Google review
I visited on a sunny mild day in January and almost had the place to myself. The 14 minute video was very interesting and a great way to begin the visit. My little dog and I wandered along the trail system enjoying the views and visualizing life back in the Pueblo days.
Donna LaGraffe — Google review
Lots of different projects going on. The visitor center is nice size. Lots of info and things to see and buy. Outside restroom. Also a separate gift shop where I bought a few unique things.
I always love going in the gift shops to see the "Local Artists" jewelry. They had some very unique boot earrings.
Had to buy both colors for my wife.
She loves boots.
Kirk Daus — Google review
We were treated by a knowledgeable guide. Who was very personable and gave us the time to explore the Kiva. The location is so beautiful having a great open Vista of the Sandia Mountains. The cost of entry was reasonable. Video of the history was also available.
Lowell Aird — Google review
This site is very enjoyable to visit. They have a nice little museum and an area where they have preserved ancient murals. You can also watch a video and walk the grounds. There are a lot of ruins and a replica home.
Heather Moran — Google review
It's pretty neat, but understand that it is a replica of what was found on the grounds, not the actual ruins. Other then the views, there really isn't all that much to see.
Vanessa B — Google review
Huaua Pueblo Historic Site would be a better and more accurate name for this site. It's unknown what Coronado's involvement with this site is, but if he was here it was a battle and raid for food and forage in his 1540 expedition. The visitor center here has wonderful murals from a partially underground kiva, and on a tour you can go into the reconstructed kiva and see replica murals on the walls of it. The importance of the adjacent Rio Grande, and the Pueblo people's farming and lives here are presented and discussed on the tour
Roy Grinnell — Google review
Went here on a whim and were very happy we did!! Quite the little treasure of history and past events! Nice museum distinctly covering Native American and then Spanish influence in the region. Fantastic collection of actual, preserved, several-hundred-year-old kiva murals. Awesome 100-year-old, restored kiva that has hand-painted murals created with similar techniques and materials as the originals. What really made this visit special though was our tour guide! She was very knowledgeable, respectful, interactive, and engaging - especially with my teenagers!! We all left very impressed with our impromptu visit!
Brian Baker — Google review
It's a small site, can be done within 1 hour. $ entrance fees which is reasonable, fairly accessible walks.. suitable for all ages. Good views of Rio Grande with mountains in the background. Also well preserved sites..
Max — Google review
Stopped to check it out and asked if they had a veteran discount. Both me and my buddy and I got a personal tour by Leroy. Amazing place and our guide Leroy was a great spirit guide! We got his number and will be calling him soon. Him and his wife make amazing jewelry and indigenous items. Great people there! Definitely stop here.
Day spa offering several outdoor pools of hot springs mineral water, plus cabanas & a gift shop.
The visit was really nice. The pools were a comfortable temperature, not too hot. The folks operating the place are delightful!
Some amenities were sparse, like the changing room. The outdoor showers were missing fixtures. Perhaps, because it is during the colder months…?
Will visit again (and again)!
Josh Wozniak — Google review
Nice little hot springs nestled about 45 minutes north of Albuquerque,new Mexico. They have 4 pools , roughly at different temperatures. We were in the biggest pond. It seemed quite hot, then cooled down. Luckily they only allowed a limited number of people. So we were able to find another pond that was hotter. Then the hot water started pouring in.Now it was a real nice hot spring soak. I didn't smell any sulfur. Plenty of changing rooms. Nice layout. But make reservations before going there. They do have cottages for overnight stays. Overall nice relaxing experience.
abdul azam — Google review
We knew this place when it was Giggling Springs and would visit once or twice a year. They've since been purchased by others, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere has diminished. The pools are still beautiful! The water is still awesome! But in our visit last week we felt rushed by the staff and not terribly welcome. There used to be a sweet, quirky and delightful little shop inside the small welcome cabin, but now guests aren't even allowed inside. The cold plunge used to be the river, but now there are signs everywhere forbidding it. The previous owners always seemed happy to be there, loved their guests and were great company. I miss the sweet friendliness that used to exist here and feel sad that yet another small business has been consumed by something large and a little cold.
Juanita Brigid McCarron — Google review
After hours of searching for a natural hot spring we gave up and decided to give this place a chance. We are so glad we did. We expected to be sore the next day after hiking for long; thanks to the hot, relaxing mineral water we weren’t. I recommend you take breaks and bring your own water. We didn’t take breaks and literally spent an hour in water over 100 degrees. Worth it!
Jetzamani Peña — Google review
Beautiful, smaller mineral hot springs focused on relaxation. $25 for a one hour slot. Several small pools, all seem to be the same temperature roughly with hot waterfalls coming in. Lots of lovely cabanas and options around for relaxing. Visitors can't access the river but it's close by for ambiance and bird life. Beautiful mineral bottom to the pool.
1.5 hrs would reduce feeling any stress from the time restriction. Coed changing room was a little small and I felt a need to rush using them so others could come in.
Jennie Daniels — Google review
Quiet, relaxing place with a small pools near the river. Beautiful views of the canyon walls. Enclosed outdoor showers and ample seating for relaxing if you get too hot. Had a Thai iced tea which really hit the spot.
Eric Truslow — Google review
This place is amazing. We went first thing in the morning. Seemed like we had the place to ourselves. $25 per person per hour. Mary checked us in. She was super friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. The smoothies are fantastic. Showers and changing rooms are available. Small cabanas throughout the property for you to have privacy. Limited to 30 people on the property. Also available for rent are towels and bathing suits. Amazing experience. Thank you!
Daniel Williams — Google review
I went to the hot springs for an hour and it was incredible! It is so relaxing and the owners maintain a quiet and calm atmosphere. The landscaping is lovely and the view of the mountains is to die for. I arrived with achy muscles from a week spent moving into a new place. After an hour of soaking, all my muscle aches disappeared! This is now one of my favorite places!
Karen Holt — Google review
(We stayed at the Laughing Lizard, not at the Springs resort, so this is only a review of the Springs themselves.)
A lovely series of hot springs pools await you at Jemez Springs. The grounds are nice, and there are little cabanas to change in, where you can also leave your belongings. (Not locking) They rent robes and towels, but I suggest bringing your own. They serve smoothies and beverages, but I brought my own. It's a relaxing place to sit in the pools, listening to the river bubbling by behind you. There are also little sitting areas where you can have a chiminea fire and lounge with your group. The peace and quiet rule seems well honored by the guests. However, though it clearly states the grounds are a "no phone zone," I saw several people taking pictures with their phones while in the pools. This is very rude behavior and a violation of people's privacy. Please don't be this person.
Leigh Ann Livingston — Google review
A very beautiful, relaxing and unique experience bathing in hot springs among the mountains. They also sell tea and smoothies, we got mint tea and a coconut pineapple smoothie. It was wonderful being able to relax for 2 hours (2 hours per guest comes with a room) or you can do hourly. Room was great too. My only gripe is the bed in the turquoise room was way too soft. Felt like mattress was old. Not much support for the back after a relaxing soak.
Andy Milz — Google review
We visit often for the locals discount on Wednesdays, but when the winter weather moved in today, we knew we had to come by and take a snow day soak. What a treat! Lots of other patrons seemed to have the same idea. Aaron kept the operation rolling smoothly, professionally, and courteously with the springs at full capacity. Thank you for the wonderful experience, time after time!
lauren ray — Google review
Always a nice place to visit, can be relaxing if you hit the right time with not too many people.
Downside is the one hour or two hour time limit. Makes you really feel rushed. But still a great experience overall especially after a day of ice fishing.
Dylan S — Google review
I nearly always bring out of state guests to the Jemez Hot Springs. It's a beautiful drive there from Albuquerque and I've always loved sharing it with friends. This time, however, I was disappointed with how run-down and "tired" it was. The gardens were overgrown, no colorful flowers in the pots, no hummingbird feeders kept filled, broken chaise lounges, faded pillows. There was no tarp over the big pool (I read in another post they plan to put the tarp back up when it's less windy) so my shoulders got too much sun. The water was wonderful as usual, but I do hope there is more care taken soon to keep it worth the drive.
kara skeberdis — Google review
Booking the room in advance is essential for a visit, and it's important to note that the hot springs are not natural. Unfortunately, the staff's behavior was rather rude, which impacted the overall experience. Despite these aspects, planning ahead can still lead to a memorable stay at this establishment.
Durge Kunal — Google review
Lovely, slightly funky hot springs, by the Jemez River (honestly, more of a brook). Easy access into any of the 5 pools, they are all a bit different in temp and size, no Sulphur smell at all, but my skin felt great after. Bring water, and they do make sure that if you pay for an hour, you get that hour {25 per hour.
Nice drive in from the 550, going through the Pueblo then in the national forest.
Cristina Whitely — Google review
Ideal setting in quick access location! The host here was especially helpful with our plans, given we had a pet that couldn't come in with us! We appreciated her help with that situation! 🙏 we only stayed for an hour but it was lovely and was a break from amhiking to hot springs, which is what we usually do! Nice on site, outdoor showers and different settings for tub heat to choose from! We will be back!
Lauryn Spohn — Google review
One of my favorite hot springs I had the pleasure of visiting in New Mexico. The tubs are large, warm, welcoming and of course, relaxing. The decorations and vibe reminds me of a nostalgic, distant memory from childhood. There's just something special about this place.
Michaela Gallagher — Google review
Just far enough for a day trip from Albuquerque, but not so far that's you get tired of traveling! Surrounded by beautiful landscape, Jemez Hot Springs is a perfect place to relax. It was honestly therapeutically better than a massage!
RA Johnson — Google review
What an absolute delight spending an hour at these beautiful hot springs. Such a rare treasure to be in an environment that blends so well with nature around us. The ambiance, the facilities, the decor, the luxurious ease of going from one awesome pool to another were all such a treat. Our mango smoothie at the end was delicious and a perfect finale for a wonderful relaxing interlude. Thank you Brian for welcoming us so warmly. I will never forget our visit to Jemez Hot Springs and cannot recommend it enough.
Suzanne Daigle — Google review
Stopped by for an hour on my way to see more of the woods and hike. Was a week day in September, so it was chill and easy and not crowded. Great views. Hot natural springs. Very relaxing. Worth the $25/hr.
Brent Cayson — Google review
Nice hot pools! There are a few different pools with various temperatures so you can choose what you like. Good views and a healing environment. Clean bathrooms, showers, and changing area. Overall a great experience!
Taylor Gerber — Google review
Love this place. Great spot to ride the motorcycle to for a soak.
However, I would really appreciate it if the staff was more effective at enforcing the no phones rule. The last couple times here I had to ask people to stop their excessive photo shoot and to stop watching a soccer game with sound playing out loud.
Not a huge deal, but I’d rather not have to confront other guests every time I come here
Steven R — Google review
I took my wife to our first hot springs experience for the holidays. After waiting in a long line we were greeted by a very rude woman who told us to wait and stand in the uncovered parking lot. It was very hot and I have health issues and we so waited for a little while. My wife explained that waiting in a hot parking lot is going to be a problem. She said, "REALLY"? Then we left. If you want a better experience there are many other options. DON'T GO TO THIS ONE. I got the feeling that all they were concerned about was money and profit and not customer service.
***UPDATE***. In response to the owner: Yes, we were there - 4th of July weekend. Your response to my review just solidifies why we would never go back.
The Albuquerque BioPark is a large and diverse attraction located in the heart of Old Town. The zoo houses more than 250 species of animal life, including polar bears, monkeys and koalas. Outdoors, the park includes a playground, picnic areas and beaches. The aquarium is especially popular with kids and features sharks as well as other marine creatures.
The zoo was awesome!! We had so much fun for Mother's day!! We saw so many beautiful animals. Take a blanket and food. So you can enjoy a nice lunch on the grass. Thank you!!
Katrina Athena Martinez — Google review
We've been coming here for years and it's a nice outing each time, The park has seen some upgrades with some currently in progress, which is nice to see.
The animals appear healthy and well taken care of. There's a brand new elephant viewing area and even an indoor penguin exhibit.
If I had any complaints, it would be the main cafe in the middle of the park. It's not as clean as it could be and the cost is quite high for simple meal items. There is a shaded grass area though, so just pack your own food to save some money.
Speaking of saving money, get on the bio park website and grab the yearly pass. Then you can visit as often as you want for a year. The pass also covers the Botanical gardens and aquarium to boot.
The zoo itself does get a bit tight during busy times. We made the mistake of coming during spring break and it's way too many people. You feel like you're getting herded along since there are people waiting to get the best spot to look at animals, and with all the strollers around... Yeah, if you can manage it, go when the kiddos are in school.
All in all, it's still a nice outing. Definitely worth visiting.
Cam Citizen — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is absolutely one of my all-time favorite zoo experiences. From start to finish it is wonderful. There is plenty of parking at the front so you don't have to worry about battling anyone for a good spot. There is a huge variety of animals and educational opportunities. The penguin exhibit is breathtaking, such an awesome addition. So many animals on display and such awesome exhibits. Definitely a 10 out of 10 experience.
I've been to quite a few zoos and always have taken my service dog with me. I will say I was a little shocked when I was not asked the two questions at the front. Especially considering that there are geese, swans and peacocks loose around the zoo. Since no one is checking the legitimacy of service dogs I would just be slightly concerned for the safety of other animals. Luckily we didn't see any random dogs in the zoo, but it's something the city should do better training on for the zoo location.
Aside for some minor safety concerns in regards to ADA. There's truly is a wonderful Zoo to visit.
Alysha Marie — Google review
This was a pretty nice zoo. The New Mexico desert aesthetic is really nice and they kept that up throughout the zoo.
It's a little on the small side, and it gets Really Hot, but they designed it to offer an okay amount of shade cover over walk ways and it has free covered parking which is GREAT! I'd definitely recommend taking a sun umbrella and/or going first thing in the morning during warm months.
I don't I would pay to come to JUST the zoo, but they make it easy to bundle with the botanical gardens and the aquarium which makes for a nice 5 hours or so of entertainment (more if you get lunch in between or stop for dippin dots etc).
Side note- the main parking lot, or at least what Google maps THINKS is the parking lot, is under construction so you're on your own to wiggle around and find the entrance.
Mandy Sanders — Google review
What an incredible zoo! My husband and I enjoyed every minute of our visit (there about 2 hours). We saw animals we’d never seen before. All the animals looked happy and well taken care of. The penguin exhibit was amazing, so was the new Asia exhibit. Some areas were still under construction but easy to navigate the closures. We got in line when the zoo opened (while it was still cool out). It took about 7 minutes to buy our combo tickets (zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens). You can skip the line if you buy tickets online. I do recommend arriving early because the zoo was quiet when it opened and the animals were fresh. It was definitely busy by the time we left. The zoo also offers a shuttle between the aquarium so you only have to park once.
emily p — Google review
The zoo itself was very nice. We found it to be clean and well maintained. The lady inside the office, right inside the entrance that sold us our membership ,was amazing and very informative. Our son had a blast getting to run around and seeing all the animals. The food was surprisingly good….our 6 year old said it was the best pizza he has ever had. Unfortunately there are many improvements that need to happen to earn anything more than 3 stars. The staff were all too busy on cell phones to help anyone. While trying to let my son ride the carousel, we were told to go to the cone shop to buy tickets…. There was no one there and a line of angry parents had formed with the employee just hanging out in the cafe with her friends… we went into the cafe and asked if we could buy tickets and we were bounced around between them saying I can’t but she can until my wife lost her cool and all of a sudden we were able to purchase tickets in there after all….
A LOT of the exhibits were either closed , under construction, or the animals were just missing??? Speaking of construction, there is A-LOT of very loud construction going on very close to some of the attractions. Having a son with sensory issues, the noise really got to him.
The facility is too nice for a trip to end on a bad note due to lazy and undertrained staff. I really hope these issues can be addressed sooner than later.
Josh S — Google review
Went for a company event, so the zoo was super packed. The animals were mostly sleeping, but well kept. The glass on some exhibits (polar bear, penguins) was so dirty you had a hard time seeing in some places, it could use a cleaning. There was some construction areas and areas were no animals were in the exhibit. The layout is nice and easy to go around without missing spots. The center of the zoo where the cafes are, is nice for a sit down, but could use more seating in the grass. Lots of people sitting on the grass but there are ducks and geese that poop there. The line for the cafe was ridiculously long at around 1pm. If you’re in Albuquerque and have kids, it’s worth a visit.
Catherine Castillo — Google review
We just took our family and it was so fun! Although we went on a very hot day, it was not crowded at all. I do recommend going when it is not so hot so that the animals will be more active. They, for good reason, were very hard to see sometimes because they were in the shade. We are non-residents of New Mexico, so it was a little more expensive for an adult. We decided to buy the package so that we could see the aquarium too! It was $22 per adult for us. But residents cost less. Lunch at the Shark Reef Cafe was very good! We all loved it!
Danielle Stegall — Google review
Our recent visit was better than expected. We had little wait time to enter and the ticket lady even gave us a discount on my sons birthday. Cottonwood Cafe was great, too. $15 for a delicious pizza that fed 4 people. Walking the park was easy to navigate. Carousel tickets should have a separate booth. One employee operating the ride was falling asleep, and some of the seats on the Carousel did not work. Overall, it was a great experience and will be going again.
Araseli Aguayo — Google review
What a great zoo! The layout and design is well thought out and pretty. Shade, seating and bathrooms located throughout park. Lots of construction going on and some exhibits closed due to this. Still was able to see a lot. Low crowds, came on a Monday. Not much for a gift shop just a couple of things sitting outside toward the front.
Jesska86 — Google review
This is a wonderful place to spend a few hours with your friends or family. This zoo has standard draws: elephants, monkeys, zebras, and flamingos. So your average child will be very happy visiting.
I really enjoyed the African aviary--the creaky wooden bridge to walk in on was a little bit of adventure, too! The amphibian exhibit has a lot of activity, much in small tanks. It's definitely worth checking out.
The hippo habitat was a crowd pleaser. We arrived during play time. This is absolutely the best time! The hippos were playing with a ball, splashing around their habitat.
There is an expansion project in progress right now: Australia experience. I look forward to seeing how that turns out. A large section of the park is committed to this.
If you are visiting Albuquerque, consider spending some time here.
Heather C. — Google review
We're members of our local zoo which has reciprocal benefits with ABQ BioPark Zoo. Unfortunately, the ticket person didn't understand that the name of the zoo was not the same as the name of the city it's in. He told us that our zoo was not listed but fortunately some ABQ members behind us graciously brought us in as their guests today.
ABQ BioPark is small so it's really only accessible by foot or wheelchair/scooter. There is no train or bus tour. There's no need for them and the paths are too small anyway. I didn't see many areas for visitors to rest. I would have liked to see more benches throughout the park. There are also no mirrors in the bathrooms I used, which I found a bit odd. I specifically went into the restroom to look at a scrape on my face from hitting a branch by accident. It was a shame I couldn't properly address my minor injury because of that. Most of the concession stands were also not open. I saw maybe one education session listed for the day.
Besides those little hiccups, we enjoyed meeting all of the zoo inhabitants. We came at opening so most of the animals were active. The polar bears and tiger didn't make an appearance while we were visiting but we got to interact with all of the others. The chimps were especially energetic and tried to play with us on the other side of the enclosure. Unfortunately, the lions have been moved to a new zoo. As far as specimens go, I do feel like this zoo does lack in variety but it's very apparent that they care about all of their charges. All of the enclosures were clean, water and food bowls were full, the reptiles seemed to be adequately moist, etc. I felt like I was able to safely get close to all of the animals. I believe in ABQ BioPark Zoo and their mission. They are just capable of being better. There is quite a bit of construction so maybe my complaints are unjustified.
Melinda Bianchi — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is by far the nicest zoo I've been to...from the layout, the staff, and the amazing animals. Can't wait to see the other area that they are working currently, all finished...the Asia are is amazing. I went on Christmas Eve, so not a wait or line and for the weather it surprised me on how many animals were out....I'm definitely going back in the summer. I would purchase tickets in advance if only you know its going to be busy. I highly recommend you checking it our at least once.
Foodie 4life — Google review
This was a very good family experience! Seeing it first thing in the morning was great timing, as the animals were sunning and feeding. Looking forward to when more areas open up.
Lou Connelly — Google review
This zoo is absolutely worth the time or effort to see it. The exhibits are really good except the tiny amphibian area which is ridiculously tiny and hard to navigate. There are animals that even have their babies with them which was a huge hit with the children. The new Asia exhibit is open and neat. We just really enjoyed ourselves. We rented the two kid strollers at the front and they were so lightweight and easy to push. Made the trip around so easy. It was just a great time.
Yvonne Steinbach — Google review
Went to the ABQ zoo for my bday on March 21st, and we had so much fun! 🥰 This was our first time visiting the ABQ zoo, and I will definitely be back again! It's quite a trip from Tucumcari NM, but it was worth it! 😊 Absolutely loved seeing all the beautiful animals! The hippos were my favorite, the second time we came back to see them the beautiful female hippo went for a swim and came right over to me and popped outta the water to look right at me like she was saying "Hi Happy Birthday" and it made me feel so special and honored since there were tons of other ppl around, I'm still smiling about it! 😍 I didn't have my camera ready for that, but I'll remember it forever! ☺️ Will return soon cause I already miss the hippos! I also want to come do a rino tour and get to meet them how awesome that would be! 🤩 Thank you, ABQ zoo, for a really fun birthday! 🫶
The Albuquerque BioPark is a large and diverse attraction located in the heart of Old Town. The zoo houses more than 250 species of animal life, including polar bears, monkeys and koalas. Outdoors, the park includes a playground, picnic areas and beaches. The aquarium is especially popular with kids and features sharks as well as other marine creatures.
The zoo was awesome!! We had so much fun for Mother's day!! We saw so many beautiful animals. Take a blanket and food. So you can enjoy a nice lunch on the grass. Thank you!!
Katrina Athena Martinez — Google review
We've been coming here for years and it's a nice outing each time, The park has seen some upgrades with some currently in progress, which is nice to see.
The animals appear healthy and well taken care of. There's a brand new elephant viewing area and even an indoor penguin exhibit.
If I had any complaints, it would be the main cafe in the middle of the park. It's not as clean as it could be and the cost is quite high for simple meal items. There is a shaded grass area though, so just pack your own food to save some money.
Speaking of saving money, get on the bio park website and grab the yearly pass. Then you can visit as often as you want for a year. The pass also covers the Botanical gardens and aquarium to boot.
The zoo itself does get a bit tight during busy times. We made the mistake of coming during spring break and it's way too many people. You feel like you're getting herded along since there are people waiting to get the best spot to look at animals, and with all the strollers around... Yeah, if you can manage it, go when the kiddos are in school.
All in all, it's still a nice outing. Definitely worth visiting.
Cam Citizen — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is absolutely one of my all-time favorite zoo experiences. From start to finish it is wonderful. There is plenty of parking at the front so you don't have to worry about battling anyone for a good spot. There is a huge variety of animals and educational opportunities. The penguin exhibit is breathtaking, such an awesome addition. So many animals on display and such awesome exhibits. Definitely a 10 out of 10 experience.
I've been to quite a few zoos and always have taken my service dog with me. I will say I was a little shocked when I was not asked the two questions at the front. Especially considering that there are geese, swans and peacocks loose around the zoo. Since no one is checking the legitimacy of service dogs I would just be slightly concerned for the safety of other animals. Luckily we didn't see any random dogs in the zoo, but it's something the city should do better training on for the zoo location.
Aside for some minor safety concerns in regards to ADA. There's truly is a wonderful Zoo to visit.
Alysha Marie — Google review
This was a pretty nice zoo. The New Mexico desert aesthetic is really nice and they kept that up throughout the zoo.
It's a little on the small side, and it gets Really Hot, but they designed it to offer an okay amount of shade cover over walk ways and it has free covered parking which is GREAT! I'd definitely recommend taking a sun umbrella and/or going first thing in the morning during warm months.
I don't I would pay to come to JUST the zoo, but they make it easy to bundle with the botanical gardens and the aquarium which makes for a nice 5 hours or so of entertainment (more if you get lunch in between or stop for dippin dots etc).
Side note- the main parking lot, or at least what Google maps THINKS is the parking lot, is under construction so you're on your own to wiggle around and find the entrance.
Mandy Sanders — Google review
What an incredible zoo! My husband and I enjoyed every minute of our visit (there about 2 hours). We saw animals we’d never seen before. All the animals looked happy and well taken care of. The penguin exhibit was amazing, so was the new Asia exhibit. Some areas were still under construction but easy to navigate the closures. We got in line when the zoo opened (while it was still cool out). It took about 7 minutes to buy our combo tickets (zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens). You can skip the line if you buy tickets online. I do recommend arriving early because the zoo was quiet when it opened and the animals were fresh. It was definitely busy by the time we left. The zoo also offers a shuttle between the aquarium so you only have to park once.
emily p — Google review
The zoo itself was very nice. We found it to be clean and well maintained. The lady inside the office, right inside the entrance that sold us our membership ,was amazing and very informative. Our son had a blast getting to run around and seeing all the animals. The food was surprisingly good….our 6 year old said it was the best pizza he has ever had. Unfortunately there are many improvements that need to happen to earn anything more than 3 stars. The staff were all too busy on cell phones to help anyone. While trying to let my son ride the carousel, we were told to go to the cone shop to buy tickets…. There was no one there and a line of angry parents had formed with the employee just hanging out in the cafe with her friends… we went into the cafe and asked if we could buy tickets and we were bounced around between them saying I can’t but she can until my wife lost her cool and all of a sudden we were able to purchase tickets in there after all….
A LOT of the exhibits were either closed , under construction, or the animals were just missing??? Speaking of construction, there is A-LOT of very loud construction going on very close to some of the attractions. Having a son with sensory issues, the noise really got to him.
The facility is too nice for a trip to end on a bad note due to lazy and undertrained staff. I really hope these issues can be addressed sooner than later.
Josh S — Google review
Went for a company event, so the zoo was super packed. The animals were mostly sleeping, but well kept. The glass on some exhibits (polar bear, penguins) was so dirty you had a hard time seeing in some places, it could use a cleaning. There was some construction areas and areas were no animals were in the exhibit. The layout is nice and easy to go around without missing spots. The center of the zoo where the cafes are, is nice for a sit down, but could use more seating in the grass. Lots of people sitting on the grass but there are ducks and geese that poop there. The line for the cafe was ridiculously long at around 1pm. If you’re in Albuquerque and have kids, it’s worth a visit.
Catherine Castillo — Google review
We just took our family and it was so fun! Although we went on a very hot day, it was not crowded at all. I do recommend going when it is not so hot so that the animals will be more active. They, for good reason, were very hard to see sometimes because they were in the shade. We are non-residents of New Mexico, so it was a little more expensive for an adult. We decided to buy the package so that we could see the aquarium too! It was $22 per adult for us. But residents cost less. Lunch at the Shark Reef Cafe was very good! We all loved it!
Danielle Stegall — Google review
Our recent visit was better than expected. We had little wait time to enter and the ticket lady even gave us a discount on my sons birthday. Cottonwood Cafe was great, too. $15 for a delicious pizza that fed 4 people. Walking the park was easy to navigate. Carousel tickets should have a separate booth. One employee operating the ride was falling asleep, and some of the seats on the Carousel did not work. Overall, it was a great experience and will be going again.
Araseli Aguayo — Google review
What a great zoo! The layout and design is well thought out and pretty. Shade, seating and bathrooms located throughout park. Lots of construction going on and some exhibits closed due to this. Still was able to see a lot. Low crowds, came on a Monday. Not much for a gift shop just a couple of things sitting outside toward the front.
Jesska86 — Google review
This is a wonderful place to spend a few hours with your friends or family. This zoo has standard draws: elephants, monkeys, zebras, and flamingos. So your average child will be very happy visiting.
I really enjoyed the African aviary--the creaky wooden bridge to walk in on was a little bit of adventure, too! The amphibian exhibit has a lot of activity, much in small tanks. It's definitely worth checking out.
The hippo habitat was a crowd pleaser. We arrived during play time. This is absolutely the best time! The hippos were playing with a ball, splashing around their habitat.
There is an expansion project in progress right now: Australia experience. I look forward to seeing how that turns out. A large section of the park is committed to this.
If you are visiting Albuquerque, consider spending some time here.
Heather C. — Google review
We're members of our local zoo which has reciprocal benefits with ABQ BioPark Zoo. Unfortunately, the ticket person didn't understand that the name of the zoo was not the same as the name of the city it's in. He told us that our zoo was not listed but fortunately some ABQ members behind us graciously brought us in as their guests today.
ABQ BioPark is small so it's really only accessible by foot or wheelchair/scooter. There is no train or bus tour. There's no need for them and the paths are too small anyway. I didn't see many areas for visitors to rest. I would have liked to see more benches throughout the park. There are also no mirrors in the bathrooms I used, which I found a bit odd. I specifically went into the restroom to look at a scrape on my face from hitting a branch by accident. It was a shame I couldn't properly address my minor injury because of that. Most of the concession stands were also not open. I saw maybe one education session listed for the day.
Besides those little hiccups, we enjoyed meeting all of the zoo inhabitants. We came at opening so most of the animals were active. The polar bears and tiger didn't make an appearance while we were visiting but we got to interact with all of the others. The chimps were especially energetic and tried to play with us on the other side of the enclosure. Unfortunately, the lions have been moved to a new zoo. As far as specimens go, I do feel like this zoo does lack in variety but it's very apparent that they care about all of their charges. All of the enclosures were clean, water and food bowls were full, the reptiles seemed to be adequately moist, etc. I felt like I was able to safely get close to all of the animals. I believe in ABQ BioPark Zoo and their mission. They are just capable of being better. There is quite a bit of construction so maybe my complaints are unjustified.
Melinda Bianchi — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is by far the nicest zoo I've been to...from the layout, the staff, and the amazing animals. Can't wait to see the other area that they are working currently, all finished...the Asia are is amazing. I went on Christmas Eve, so not a wait or line and for the weather it surprised me on how many animals were out....I'm definitely going back in the summer. I would purchase tickets in advance if only you know its going to be busy. I highly recommend you checking it our at least once.
Foodie 4life — Google review
This was a very good family experience! Seeing it first thing in the morning was great timing, as the animals were sunning and feeding. Looking forward to when more areas open up.
Lou Connelly — Google review
This zoo is absolutely worth the time or effort to see it. The exhibits are really good except the tiny amphibian area which is ridiculously tiny and hard to navigate. There are animals that even have their babies with them which was a huge hit with the children. The new Asia exhibit is open and neat. We just really enjoyed ourselves. We rented the two kid strollers at the front and they were so lightweight and easy to push. Made the trip around so easy. It was just a great time.
Yvonne Steinbach — Google review
Went to the ABQ zoo for my bday on March 21st, and we had so much fun! 🥰 This was our first time visiting the ABQ zoo, and I will definitely be back again! It's quite a trip from Tucumcari NM, but it was worth it! 😊 Absolutely loved seeing all the beautiful animals! The hippos were my favorite, the second time we came back to see them the beautiful female hippo went for a swim and came right over to me and popped outta the water to look right at me like she was saying "Hi Happy Birthday" and it made me feel so special and honored since there were tons of other ppl around, I'm still smiling about it! 😍 I didn't have my camera ready for that, but I'll remember it forever! ☺️ Will return soon cause I already miss the hippos! I also want to come do a rino tour and get to meet them how awesome that would be! 🤩 Thank you, ABQ zoo, for a really fun birthday! 🫶
Old Town is a historic district characterized by its narrow streets and old adobe houses. The area is known for its New Mexican cuisine, including popular dishes like enchiladas and sopaipilla pastries. Visitors can also browse numerous artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, rugs, and pottery. At the center of Old Town Plaza stands the 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Church.
The Petroglyph National Monument is a hiking and biking destination located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It contains thousands of prehistoric Native American drawings on stone walls.
Incredible! So amazing to see all the petroglyphs in the lava rocks! Felt like time melting, being able to see these ancestral drawings. . It was heartbreaking tho to witness destruction from people carving their names and dirty drawings. Please honor these Sacred places if you go!
BrainFreeze LA — Google review
It was cool view and it was really hot, but that’s New Mexico especially in the summer. National park service worker was really helpful with guiding my boyfriend and I to the monuments. Only went to one that was closest to the visitor center. It was an easy hike up but at the top it’s a bit steep. It was cool to see them and get a glimpse of history. I would recommend this monument!
Brian Copes — Google review
This area is not located where the visitors' entrance is. It's a cave that requires a few miles in hike north of the 3 sisters volcanos. Not frequently visited, which is why I like it. The roof of the cave was all green from moisture. It smelled a little like sulfur. Nice spot to watch the city lights, drink some wine, if you are not scared to hike back in the dark.
Bonnie Chanet — Google review
Visitors center was just a booth. The worker at the gift shop was making sure to follow CDC guidelines to keep a small enough number of people inside. Toilet vaults were less than ideal. Wonderful experience overall though!
Hanna Hollek — Google review
When you arrive at the visitors center, you are given a map and a video is showing to give you background on the locations.
There are three locations; all a few miles drive from the visitors center. We chose the first canyon due to time constraints. It was the most strenuous of the three according to the brochures. And a $1 parking fee.
We climbed our way to the top on rugged paths. Not for flip flops for sure. Gravel paths with steep inclines, steps, and some places you have to step over large rocks. But worth the view at the top and the amazing petroglyphs along the way!
We spent about 2 hours and only saw a fraction of the vast canyon.
Definitely recommend!
LeeAnna McDaniel — Google review
Worth a visit if you’re in the area. They have a few short trails where you can spot several petroglyphs. We hit it up early on a late July summer day and it was pleasant. Spotted a rattlesnake which was a bonus and super exciting. Several millipedes under the rocks and trails.
Vrajesh K — Google review
Very cool place! Short hiking trails and lots of peyroglyphs to see. We went to two different locations. It was free and the trails were pretty easy.
Paul Goodman — Google review
We hiked the Petroglyph National park trail. Trail is sand and an easy hike. We enjoyed the hike. We were ointed because the Petroglyphs we're roped off so we were not allowed to get us close to them. We did take pictures and water able to zoom in on them but it would of been nice to get up close to them. The weather was great. It was sunny and not hot. The trail is great for an easy hike for kids and dogs on a leash. I doubt you could take stroller because it is sandy.
LaWanda Batchelor — Google review
Very nice trail to go for a hike/walk. However, there are no trees thus no shade (besides a couple of shade structures), so plan accordingly. Initial leg of the trail is pretty smooth gravel trail (probably wheelchair accessible), but later parts (including going up the volcano) has some rough spots, nothing terrible, but watch your footing.
abesh mubaraki — Google review
Very interesting but you really need to take the time to understand why this is important to know about. Make sure you either don't take your dog or at least have some shoes for them.
Alex DeMartino — Google review
An interesting place. While you can definitely find a sense of peace and place in this park, several hiring trails are adjacent to housing complexes! It makes for interesting juxtaposition of an ancient indigenous site and contemporary living.
Fileve Tlaloc — Google review
This is definitely a must see. Plan on spending at least 2 hours here. They have several areas with easy to difficult trails so wear comfortable shoes. There are thousands of petroglyphs carved into basalt rocks on these trails and wonderful views from the top. We visited late March and it was already fairly warm so I highly recommend sunblock, comfortable closed toe shoes and a bottle of water.
Suz NoneYa — Google review
We hiked Rinconada Canyon. It was 2.5 miles rounds trip. For those who want a shorter trip, hike in and when you get to the bench turnaround and exit the same way you came in. Some of the pictographs where hard to find but that is part of the fun!
K. Williams — Google review
Great place to explore. Really cool petroglyphs to check out. Come explore something that's really awesome!!!
Barbara Hines — Google review
It’s a free very relevant historic landmark. You will receive messages from our ancestors. Amazing indeed. There are also very helpful guides and they’ll give you maps and directions for free. If you are in the area, it’s a must. In a few hours you can get an amazing idea of how things were hundreds of years ago. We also saw roadrunners, lizards and rattle snakes.
Johnny — Google review
We did the Boca Negra Canyon. Just because it's the shorter hike, doesn't mean it's easy, so keep that in mind. Really cool to see the petroglyphs but so heartbreaking to see the vandalism surrounding it.
Vanessa B — Google review
On our way to the airport. We were looking for an interesting place to visit before we leave Albuquerque and this was a perfect place for this. Very interesting. Easy to reach, we visited and walked around in about an hour.
W. B. — Google review
We went to the hike near Golf Course rd and Paradise. Dog friendly. Short loop hike hood for kids too. Sandy trail. Many petroglyphs to spot.
Was a good experience. Was not too crowded, people were friendly, and everything was nice and clean. Did not stay too long just gambled a little bit. I actually won and came home with $60 more than I went with. So that's definitely a plus. I will have to expand my review when I'm able to spend more time there. But for me it is a recommendation. A little far out of the way but definitely worth the drive
Leo Taormino — Google review
If you want a clean, comfortable room and bed, this place is for you. If you want to have fun, gamble all night , smoke and drink while you party at the casino, you will have to move on. There is no longer any smoking in the casino (except in designated areas)and no drinking on the casino floor either. You can only drink in the bars. You must wear a mask at all times as well and the casino closes at 2am. The room prices have increased $50.00 per night since I last stayed there prior to the pandemic as well. I understand the increase....everything is going up. I'm used to walking in here and hearing all of the slots going like Vegas, but I walked in and it was like a morgue. Almost no sounds at all, just a speaker in the middle of the casino playing music that sounded like I turned my PC computer speaker all the way up. Very disappointing and I will not be back unless they can return to the fun place it used to be. It was Saturday night and the casino was probably 1/3 capacity. Sad. It's a quick cheap flight to Vegas and you will experience a much more normal exciting time.
Chris White — Google review
This has become a regular stopover on our commute between Texas and California. Easy access... big parking lot and very clean. As a place to rest for a bit and unwind it's great. They have extremely well cleaned restrooms. But the main attraction is the food. Great hamburgers.... well worth the stop.
Randol Rusconi — Google review
This place is pretty awesome. I don’t gamble much but I have met some winners today and I’m here because I have to do a 34 hour reset for trucking. I am a smoker and although this is a non-smoking place is very clean everything is well-maintained with the exception of the smoking area outback but it’s in the windiest spot so I usually just go out front. Everyone that I have met here that works here that comes in here is all smiles. It’s crowded and I can’t wait to see the car rise at 7 PM for the band at thunder Road.. I have been told all about it, so I’m biding my time just to see this.
Teresa Joslin — Google review
We stopped here because our previous experience with the RV park was amazing. However, it seems like they decided to dwell on outdated covid concepts so long they have killed their own business. certain amenities are just not open, the atmosphere is slow and somber. Our food was high priced and low quality with drinks served by the bottle even though they have fountain drinks on the gambling floor. The room had at least one piece of trash in it from about 10 months before our visit and the elevators were quirky enough to give us pause when boarding. The fitness center was simply closed with no real explanation of why. The whole thing wasn't bad, it just wasn't great for the price. Our room, with a veteran discount was only about 130 bucks, but we spent almost as much eating one mediocre meal in the restaurant. I will say the exception to the food was breakfast. They give guests a 3 dollar discount, the food was good, and the portions were generous.
paulsmithinform — Google review
Didn't get a room.
I stop here once in a while while passing through New Mexico. I've always had a good time. I usually kick it in the Irish pub, then move on to the shorts bar. The bartenders are always nice, respectful, and prompt. I always leave a fat tip. I like this place!
Alan Brent — Google review
I didn't stay at the hotel, so I am unable to rate rooms.
Overall a very nice small casino with many restaurants. Unfortunately the buffet has been closed since COVID. I would like to see it re-open. I love buffets.
The burger was fantastic and the best homestyle skinny fries. They actually tasted like potatoes. Super yummy.
L Leslie T — Google review
Great casino. We stayed in the RV park and it was perfect. In the casino we were pleased to see everyone was wearing a mask. There were plastic dividers between slot machines so we felt very safe. Good food too. What more could anyone ask for. We'll stay longer next time.
Barbara Reichenbach — Google review
My stay here made for a great getaway. From check-in to the casino, to the staff in the restaurants, everyone was extremely courteous, professional and very friendly. No one gave me any hassle about my service dog, and the room was spotless and comfortable. Dinner was at the Laguna Burger restaurant and the service matched the food; excellent. Breakfast was at the Stadium and Carlos, my waiter, saw that all was good. I will definitely return.
Rick — Google review
This is a nice midway stop on our way to Laughlin. Casino is clean and has fun slots. We went to the 7 p.m bingo it was fun but was a really long session. The hotel room was very clean, and comfy beds were comfortable. We definitely will make this our midway stop again!
Johnell Halt — Google review
Great place to stop! They offer truck drivers a free steak dinner, once, this is my 3rd time eating here and it’s been fantastic each time.!!! Sometime I might get a room, if I have a reset here. Everything here is absolutely fantastic.!!! I’ve had steak twice and shrimp tacos tonight, a lot of food, well worth the price.!!!
Jodi Smith — Google review
Great place to eat but a bit pricey at times. A great rib eye 14oz with 2 sides is my favorite but will set you back $34. Luckily I get $20 off as a coupon but still overpriced. Pizza in sports bar is the right way to go at $22.00 for a large and lots of toppings, and cannot top the green chili stew. Onion rings is another favorite as I always get and priced right at $7.99 as they are plentiful and meaty.
steven herrera — Google review
I have gambled at route 66 for several years. It used to be fun! At one point I was one of the highest tiers they had. It has run down drastically over the past few years. The travel center is poorly run and no maintenance at all, pumps are slow meaning 25 minutes to fill my tanks on a pick-up 50 gallons. You can not use your card at the pumps anymore. You have to go inside. The casino seems very old and machines are in need of up grade and maintenance. They are not interested in keeping people coming back so beware they don't play much! For myself I will use the few points I have left for fuel and win loss statement for this year and never return. Not worth the effort to drive out there.
Keith Tichenor — Google review
We did not stay in the hotel as my husband is a truck driver and there is ample parking due to the fueling station next door. Atmosphere is great. Drinks weren't served when we were there. Bathrooms are good. We ate at The Laguna Burger and it was great. Slots were awesome. Hubby won twice and I won once. . . Nice pots!
Tracy — Google review
Wife and I used the casinos adjacent RV resort and boy were we happy that we did! All components of the park are high quality as is the professionalism of the staff. All RV facilities are immaculately cleaned and well equipped. PICKLEBALL courts have great playing surface. Rec room has fireplace, Foosball, bar shuffleboard, etc! We're not frequent casino goers but did pop in and was impressed with a whole bunch of gaming options. I highly recommend this facility for an RV stay with casino option.
Joe Knows — Google review
First time here. Very glittery place. Very clean and it looks like there are people cleaning all the time too. We lost about $200 in about 30 minutes but it did seem like a fun place overall. Lots of different food options and it was certainly bigger that I expected. I'd be interested to try staying at the hotel sometime just to have a short getaway. If you read this please click "like"... it helps my feelings. Thanks 😊
Kristi Rhinehart — Google review
Can't drink or smoke on the floor. But still tons of fun. And they do have a designated smoking section outside in the back, tented and heated with comfortable patio furniture. Truck drivers can get a free steak dinner. Which was very good. 14 oz ribeye at Thunder Road restraint, cooked perfectly and seasoned well. Definitely will be stopping here again.
Kay Pixie — Google review
This review is for the pub and the blonde lady bartender that works in the day on Fridays. I do understand she was the only worker @ the time but there was a handful of patrons and she was too busy talking and having her back rubbed by a male patron instead of waiting on her customers. I then specifically asked her if it was happy hour and she said yes so we ordered the draft special. After asking for an itemized receipt she charged full price and then tried to tell me it wasn’t happy hour when we ordered when in fact it was. She needs to be trained on customer service, not only servicing the men. Not the same service as in the past!
D D — Google review
Good news!! This hotel is service animals friendly. Rms were amazing. No microwave however to heat up left overs. Ps the bar makes delicious pizzas. I did not gamble. I was behaving myself for once. Bar staff were amazing. This will always be my stop when traveling.
Summer V — Google review
The casino is in a great location, right off of the highway. The casino area was clean, big and staff was friendly. Food is just okay. Good enough to eat if your hungry but not good enough to brag about. The rooms appeared clean but with the age of the room I was in (looked like 80’s), it needed to be updated. The bathroom especially needed attention. The price was right though.
Teresa Spreng — Google review
Great place to enjoy the weekend! The service was outstanding and our room was exceptionally clean and away from the others! Our Executive Hotel Host Kimberly, made sure we arrived to the location safely and answered any questions we had prior to checking in. Having previously stayed here, we were pleasantly surprised with the different promotions the casino offered as well as the variety of food options available. It couldn’t have been any better. Great service, great hotel, great food, and great amenities… and to top it off I walked away with some money in my pocket. I’d definitely recommend the resort to anyone visiting the Albuquerque and Santa Fe area!
Ernesto Corralejo — Google review
We were driving 18-wheelers from Mesa, AZ to Denver, CO. We weren't sure how far we would make it but knew this was a good half-way point especially since they have truck parking. We called the hotel, explained our situation and was told we didn't need reservations, that they had plenty of rooms. We arrived, their two fuel islands were not working so we just parked. Went to the front desk to check-in and was informed they only had one room left - we need four. Not happy at all. Had to leave our trucks there and find another hotel. Wore to the wise, apparently they always say they have plenty of rooms when they don't so make reservations. On a positive note we did eat in their steakhouse restaurant and the food and service was very good.
Neil — Google review
Decent for a middle of nowhere stay and play. Was sad they got rid of the Travel gift shop. Room was clean. Had towels brought to our room and they left the door open. We were gone until the evening, luckily nothing was taken. Heard a huge dog barking on our floor at night and in the morning. Stayed there a couple times when I travel and it seems like the excitement that I used to feel when going there is dying out. They had a nice Steakhouse and how can you go wrong with a Laguna Burger!
Randi S — Google review
The staff was great. Brought $200 worth of change and cashed it in at no charge. Tables dealers were also helpful to those in need and efficient and courteous. Free soft drinks and coffee. After so late all the places to eat on the inside quit serving food most of the late night hours. They should have at least some lil spot to grab a snack. I understand not having the bigger restaurant open but nothing. A lil hungry and that sure could have made my empty pockets not feel too bad cause at least my belly would be full.
jason jarvis — Google review
Wow, what an incredible experience! We recently stayed at the Route 66 RV Resort and it exceeded our expectations in every way.
The resort is immaculately maintained, with beautiful landscaping and spotless facilities. The staff is friendly and welcoming, going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The RV sites are spacious and well-equipped, with full hookups and plenty of amenities. We loved the resort's nostalgic theme, paying homage to the classic Route 66 era. The pool and hot tub were perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.
Yerika Perez — Google review
We've stayed at both the hotel and the RV park and have thoroughly enjoyed both of them! The hotel staff is super friendly from check in to check out. It seems that most of them enjoy their job and are happy to have you there. The rooms in the hotel are very clean and well appointed with perhaps some of the most comfortable beds in Albuquerque! The RV park is very nice with nice large spaces and is extremely well maintained. We've stayed a few times and there is always someone out cleaning, raking and tending to the sites. Highly recommend both of them! The casino itself is a bit odd, no drinking on the floor of the casino and very little staff to help out when needed. It was also very tight for us!
Cindy Pealstrom — Google review
It does not have a view, the casino staff are very unfriendly, not accommodating in beverages. Floor manager, very nice, only one with a smile! Plus everyone complains no one wins, so save your money and go to Sandia now that's a view! Snack bar is horrid eat before u go! You'll be in and out there! Machines so tight the eagle screams!
Denisha Romero — Google review
Clean, comfortable room, easy check in, moderately priced but made that back in the Casino! Excellent burgers at the Cantina where Marta provided friendly, professional, quick table service. Also enjoyed a night-cap at Stadium 66. Friendly and efficient staff there, as well.
J Johnson — Google review
Very clean and right off the interstate. Rates beat the local hotels by $100 a night. Service was slow in the bar but the food was good. Drink prices were extremely high. Casino is non smoking.
Charlotte Giddens — Google review
I used to really like staying here..... "used to" are the key words. It's become a big disappointment for the price you pay for a room. The buffet & Sidewalk cafe are closed. The snack bar has extremely limited items. No fries & no burgers so you have to wait for the Laguna Burger place to open. I tried ordering a tuna salad & was told it would be about 2 hours for them to cut tomatoes. I told them I'll take it without tomatoes & the staff told me to come back in 2 hours. I asked for popcorn because the Bingo snack bar wasn't open & again I was told it's not ready. I offered to wait but the staff got loud & told me to come back in 2 hours. I went back 2 hours later & before I could open my mouth to place my order, they snapped & said the tomatoes still had not been cut. WTH! They don't even have yogurt at the snack bar. They no longer have a gift shop where you could go to buy necessities. You have to WALK to the gas station because the shuttle isn't running any more. There is no bell staff so be prepared to load & unload your luggage yourself. I got there early, with my luggage in tow, and the front desk wouldn't store my bag any where so I took it back to my vehicle. The chair in the room at the desk was dirty. Good thing I still carry gloves & disinfectant wipes with me.
Basically, you pay resort fees but it's far from being a resort. I have pictures of the chair but my tablet won't let me attach pictures.
Laura Bennett — Google review
This is a very good Casino to visit. The facilities are nice and clean. It has a variety of food. They offer great customer service. They also offer courtesy drinks to the customers.
They also offer Truck Parking... so this is a Truck Driver Friendly Casino. Excellent
I would definitely recommend Route 66 Casino Hotel.
Alberto González Alvarado — Google review
Getting My Kicks and Winning Big at Route 66 Hotel and Casino
I recently had a fabulous experience at Route 66 Hotel and Casino, and it truly lived up to the iconic reputation of the historic highway. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a memorable time.
The casino vibe was electric, and I'm thrilled to say that luck was on my side. I not only got my kicks but also walked away with more than $800 in winnings. The variety of games and the overall setup of the casino created an exciting atmosphere that added to the thrill of the gaming experience.
The staff at Route 66 were friendly and accommodating, contributing to the overall positive ambiance of the venue. Whether I was trying my luck at the slots or enjoying other amenities, the service was top-notch.
What sets Route 66 Hotel and Casino apart is not just the gaming but the overall entertainment experience. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the place exuded a sense of excitement that kept me engaged throughout my visit.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a great time, fantastic gaming opportunities, and a chance to win big, Route 66 Hotel and Casino is the place to be. My experience was nothing short of fabulous, and I can't wait to return for another round of kicks and, hopefully, more winnings. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an unforgettable casino adventure!
Christopher Hardy — Google review
Well they didn’t honor the truck drivers dinner that I’ve heard so many people talk about. The steak I ordered was cooked the way I asked and sides were fine. Just nothing to write home about and lack of service from wait staff made for a regrettable decision to stop. No poker tables? I don’t understand how they can stay popular, oh well I guess that’s why the parking lot is mostly empty on a weekend at 5pm
Joshua Stutts — Google review
The slots pay great, the parking lot is safe for travelers, with security driving around. Some furniture is a little messed up in the rooms but clean sheets and bathroom and shower were very clean.
Amir Abdulla — Google review
We live in TX and my mom lives in California. Every once or twice a year we’ll drive to her place to stay a while, then we’ll drive her to TX to stay with us a while. Every trip she wants us to stay at the Route 66 Casino Hotel, so we do! It’s a great place to spend a night or three.
Jose Dizon — Google review
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14500 Central Ave SW, Rio Puerco, Albuquerque, NM 87121, USA
Regional history & geological specimens, plus a walk-through, hands-on tour of a replica mine shaft.
I am a mining engineer by training and worked for mining industry all my life. I can say this place is well done and some one put their heart into it. It is very informative and well suited for either one with mining experience and the one without any mining exposure. If you pass by the town, you definitely want to visit this place and will never regret. They only charge a very small fee and offers discount for seniors and children.
老Laoxi — Google review
This place was so cool. It is built on top of a uranium mine that you can go down inside with exhibits to see. It does cost 6$ for adults, but definitely worth it. They do have a free part of the museum you don't need to pay for. They also have activities for kids to do.
Karen Reviewz — Google review
Goodness! A must stop and see. Well done museum of local mining and history. I was not sure, but as soon as we did the mine tour, I was so glad we did. Informative and worth a visit.
Jan Hurwit — Google review
It was very quiet the afternoon we visited (Nov) but an incredible display. Well worth a few hours to appreciate uranium mining and the people who made it successful.
mike skiinghousedad — Google review
Did you know that from Grant to Gallup, that a tract of land was mined for many years for uranium? Did you also know that for many years New Mexico was the leader in uranium extraction in the nation? Come to this wonderful museum that has archives and movies from Acoma, Laguna, and other key areas which produced this radioactive product. Not only does the museum walk you through the unique New Mexican history but also has recreated a mining operation underground with authentic equipment used during the period with interactive voice overs which provide the required oral history.
Omar Mohammed — Google review
Cute little museum, they have a small little shop with a few nick nacks for purchase. This place is very cheap, I went with 1 other adult and 2 kids and paid 11 bucks to see it. They do hands a military and veteran discount. You can look around and then they have an elevator that takes you down to their "mine" it's very cool. I've been to actual mines and so did my girlfriend who actually used to work in one and she said it brought back memories of working down there. I think they need to turn down some of their information buttons down there because we jumped at some of them lol
Morgan McLaughlin — Google review
Super cool! Very underrated museum, in my opinion. If you're staying in ABQ, it's definitely worth the 1 hour drive to see.
It's quite a small building, I didn't think there would be much inside, but I was very wrong. It's 2 stories, with the top one having plenty of different minerals, mining tools and the history about them, a movie theatre, and even a section for ancient Native American artifacts such as arrowheads, pottery, and buttons. The bottom floor is what really makes this museum different- you take the elevator down and it opens up to a replica mineshaft, they even have a gate you have to open when you exit the elevator! They did a very good job creating this mine replica- not only does it look and feel like a real one, but you can even smell the oils from the mining equipment. Very well done. Their gift shop selection is a little small I would like to add, but that's not a huge deal in my opinion. Overall, this is a great place for adults and children alike.
Gabe Silva — Google review
Everyone should definitely experience this in their lifetime. It's so cool and you learn the real history from the men who worked there. Definitely pay the few dollars to do the underground mining experience. Super cool!!
Emily ONeall — Google review
What a find! I was blown away by the exhibits at this museum. Besides the pottery, artifacts and great videos, the real star is the replica of a uranium mine. You actually take an elevator down. It opens and you're in the mine. With audio clips from actual miners and all the equipment, it very much made you feel like you were there. Adults and kids will love it. I'm gonna tell everyone it's worth the stop. Woman behind the counter convinced us to check it out, and we're so glad she did.
Geological landscape created by ancient volcanic activity, popular for hiking & permit-only caving.
Only drove through on the highway, but it was very beautiful. I had to stop a couple times for photos. Lovely rock formations rise above you, sprouting from the sage plains.
Foodtruck Time — Google review
Mar 31. 2024
I was exploring google maps for places to explore near ABQ area on weekend while on business trip and this place showed up, reviews convinced me to visit this place. 90 minute drive was 100% worth it.
This place consists of multiple places that you can visit which includes:
El Malpais Ranger Station (open only on Fri-Sun)
Sandstone Bluffs
La Ventana Natrual Arch
Lava Falls Trailhead
Every place is a hidden jam. I’d recommend one full day to visit all those places to grasp it all fully.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
Visiting the bluffs was much better this time around! Last time it was so windy that the sand and dirt painfully whipped our skin, but it was a still and clear day. Love being able to free climb the rocks without any clear trail. Only wish I had more time to read a book amongst the rocks
Morghan Townsend — Google review
Skylight was still there as of 11/23/2023. Was able to go in and check it out. Would definitely recommend using proper shoes for this! Over all very neat to see!
Amber Stewart — Google review
Joe Steen campground is a beautiful little nine site campground. Each site has a covered picnic table, grill and fire pit. Several very clean pit toilets and garbage cans too. It’s also free so that’s great. Dry camp / boondock.
Noelle McGarvey — Google review
We stopped at the Visitor Center on Tuesday the 24th. The center was nice, had plenty of details regarding the ring of volcanoes and the lava glow. A Thank you to the Ranger who shared details about the park with us. She was on loan from a nearby park, but was knowledgeable enough to enhance our visit.
Temecula6 — Google review
Stopped by for a day hike and was super impressed by the visitor center...clean and bright. The short film was well worth watching and made me excited to return during the summer months. It was cold and snowy while we were there which made the lava trail hike a bit more challenging to find good footing under the snow but overall it was a great little scramble and the snow added a certain beauty to the experience. We were the only ones on the trails and at the visitor center. Will head back to try the Sand stone bluffs trail and Rl Calderon. Also looks like a good bat program during the summer evenings. New Mexico is blessed with so many beautiful, uncrowded National monuments with good hiking.
C Winter — Google review
One of the most magical places if you can slow down to take it in. You can definitely hear the voices of the past here. I have passed through twice now and am very eager to stay in the grounds. There is a BLM campground with a few dedicated spots. Seems to fill early. There are hikes as well as a few unmaintained roads to explore.
I W — Google review
We stopped here by chance after grabbing some lunch and gas. It made for a great 2 hour stop. We climbed all around the sandstone bluffs and then hit the La Ventana Arch. I would have liked to have more time to spend there. Highly recommended to visit.
Robert Heath — Google review
4/1/2018: I drove through and stopped at the Visitor Center which had a wonderful film to watch which showed all the places I couldn't get to. I did stop at El Cauldron to take pics of the lava and the landscapes were magnificent.
Terri Moore — Google review
WOW! So many awesome things to see here. Be sure to pull off at all the stops and explore. The views are amazing. They also all have bathrooms which is nice.
Jeffrey Denson — Google review
Amazing! I’m from NW NM and never knew this kind of beauty existed in the state! Now when people comment on how beautiful NM is, I will heartily agree. This little known National Monument is worth retiring off the interstate to visit. We all loved climbing on the rocks at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook - what a view! Further up the road is La Ventana Natural Arch. I was expecting something small, but was amazed at the size of the arch! Forget Utah National Parks - NM has amazing rock formations too!
Very surprising attraction a short half day trip away from Albuquerque. One pays at the lodge by the parking lot, and proceeds to hike to the volcano/ice cave.
The hike itself is easy and the trail is maintained. The volcano is unique from what I've seen in other places of the world. What really sets this place apart is the ice cave.
The temperature when we went was around 80f outside, but walking into the caves was quite incredible. It's not a marketing gimmick and quite interesting to see.
The museum portion indoors is a bit underwhelming, but that's not the main draw. The price is 12 dollars with a discount for certain people; quite reasonable.
Shuai Jiang — Google review
A beautiful and unique place to visit. We walked from Bandera Volcano down to the Ice Cave. The trail takes you along amazing lava rock formations and among tall Ponderosa pines. Dogs are welcome on the trail (must be on leash). The descent to the cave is quite steep, ca. 80 steps or so. The trading post is well stocked with snacks, cold drinks, and gifts. You can also learn a lot about the history of the site in the adjacent museum.
Maja Hawkes — Google review
Absolutely recommend adding as a stop where you can stretch your legs while also learning some interesting facts, see a volcano, volcanic flow, and ice cave. The gift shop and museum is a good place to stop in as well.
Christina Majors — Google review
This is a very neat phenomenon and a cool thing to do. We stopped and spent about an hour hiking up to the volcano crater, then down the lava flow and into the cave. They give you a little pamphlet with various points of interest along the route. The hike isn't too strenuous, though I would definitely recommend good shoes. It's loose rock and dirt all the way up. There's also a neat little museum with things they found in the dwellings by the volcanic vents inside the gift shop. The staff is very nice and the toilets are quite clean for chemical toilets.
It loses one star because the price labels in the gift shop and the actual price I paid didn't quite match up. What should have been $18.50 with tax became $24 somehow. Not worth fighting about but a little disappointing.
Strangers' Gardens — Google review
One of the best stops we made on route 66! Very memorable. We reluctantly did the full loop walk of about 2 miles (one 76 yr old couple, one 50 yr old couple). It wasn't that bad! There are sitting benches along the way and beautiful scenery. Only a slight hill on the way up to the crater. A cool gift shop and museum too.
John Rodgers — Google review
My sister-in-law and I took a side trip to visit on our way to California in March of 2019. It was well worth the detour. There was still a litte snow on the ground which this Floridian enjoyed. The cave was definitely a sight to behold.
Alice Bailey — Google review
Walk to see Bandera has a couple tough inclines but Wal is very nice. Benches on the way up to rest. Ice cave is awesome but stairs are steep and can be a challenge to go down. Overall was a place I would recommend. Nature at its best!
Kim Torrez — Google review
Very cool place to visit. A lot of walking, but it was worth it. Wonderful gift shop, full of artifacts and antiques and lots of nice souvenirs. Very friendly and helpful staff.
Jody Dawn Stephens — Google review
This is a must-see experience! Well worth the trip! We had a wonderful time walking up to the volcano and to the ice cave! Very nice gift shop and many artifacts in the museum as well as gifts and souvenirs. We were also able to meet the owner Debbie and was very knowledgeable about the family history and about the volcano and ice cave, and growing up there. Fantastic experience!
Denise Ferguson — Google review
Very interesting place. Take the pamphlet and hike the trail to the volcano caldera first, then to the ice cave. The stops are numbered in that order. And you can cool off at the cave after the 1-1/2 mile hike. Many neat things to see along the way.
AzGeoDad Phoenix — Google review
Amazing little out of the way stop to see!
We were on a roadtrip and saw a small sign talking about ice caves, so we followed and found a cute little campground. You have to pay to see the ice caves but it's not too expensive. It's a little hike down to the ice cave but it's an experience you should have. It was like 95 degrees at the top and once down in the cave about 35 degrees. It was refreshing and truly interesting. Go stop and see this place as it will be a memory you won't forget.
Jessica McAlexander — Google review
Very friendly staff! Cute building, providing snacks with a full kitchen, gifts for all ages, history of the ice cave and volcano, and some artifacts found in the area. The hike up the volcano is pet friendly. I wouldn't recommend taking your pet on the ice cave hike, just because there are a good amount of stairs to the bottom.
They allow overnight parking, and they also have cabins to rent out.
Jessica Martinez — Google review
very cool experience. came here on the way back to Phoenix from Albuquerque. I've never seen anything like it. I've seen stalactites before but the ice cave is so much more unique. i am not a fan of hiking but after a short hike, going to the ice cave to cool down was something I've never done before. 30 degrees is cold, so I'm glad i brought a light sweatshirt. the woman at the front is very nice. i loved hearing about her family and the museum items that her uncle found in 1946. i got a couple rings as souvenirs and i have been getting so many compliments in the past week.
Erica S — Google review
This place is so cool! Literally 😂 The ice cave is an easy hike, but the stairs back up can be a little tiresome. So SO worth it! The volcano is pretty neat! It’s an easy hike, however some of the gravel is loose and can make it a bit tiresome as well. Some of the best views you’ll ever see!
The only reason I gave it 4 stars is there is a new connection between the Volcano and the Ice Cave. If you do the volcano first, take the shortcut. It’s mostly downhill and while loose, not too bad. Do not, I repeat, do NOT take the shortcut if you do the ice cave first. The loose gravel makes the uphill hike a very unpleasant experience. Especially if your thighs are already on fire from the 72 steep steps back out of the cave.
The gift shop guys are super nice and very informative! Definitely take a peek at the museum inside!
El Morro National Monument is a historic park with sandstone bluffs towering over 200 feet high. The area contains over 2,000 signatures etched into the rock dating back to ancient Pueblo times. This pristine and well-maintained park features Inscription Trail, which provides informative markers about the many travelers who visited throughout history, including Indians, explorers, soldiers, and pioneers. It's recommended to visit in the morning when the light shines spectacularly on the sheer cliffs.
One of the most pristine, historical and well maintained parks we have ever been to. Inscription trail was amazing..the numbered markers provided excellent information about the many travelers that visited over the centuries...Definitely go in the morning, the light on the sheer cliffs is spectacular. Park rangers were VERY helpful and knowledgeable about the park and the surrounding area.
Chuck Tracy — Google review
Paid a visit to El Morro National Monument during the winter season, primarily as a overnight stop along my cross country road trip route. There are no entrance or use fees here, including the free campground. The eight site campground features well spaced, mostly private sites and his & hers vault toilets. The views of the surrounding valley and bluffs are rather lovely. Would definitely recommend for anyone in the area or transiting I-40 as a scenic byway that's worth a visit. There was snow during my visit, but the road into the facility and campground loop were plowed; the trail network near the visitors center was partially closed for safety due to ice.
Ben Brannon — Google review
Great National Monument, sometimes it seems that the smaller ones are better. No crowds great views and some awesome history. It was so cool to see all of the carvings from Native Americans to Knights in the Spanish army to Civil War captains. Great place to visit. So super cool!
Rob M. — Google review
A beautiful scenic location with amazing rock formation. Driving up here (from the east) passing the continental divide at 7800 feet is itself an experience.
Rashid Farook — Google review
The monument is beautiful and well worth the detour. The staff, however, treated my group with prejudice. They were very kind and welcoming to the white guest. We did not let that ruin our experience and remained respectful.
Aku3a — Google review
Spectacular! Can't miss this. Took one of the most extraordinary hikes ever... Stunningly beautiful. The trail winds around Inscription rock where you see petroglyphs, and inscriptions from the Conquistadors, and other soldiers, scientists etc. then winds around to top the top of Inscription rock where there are ruins of an ancient Pueblo, but what comes after, is the best surprise...
Aargh42 G — Google review
El Morro National Monument is a great place to view historical messages and petroglyphs. Take the half mile Inscription Trail to see the pool of water that collects near the base of the sandstone Bluff, which drew Puebloans, Spanish, and Americans to this location. The Juniper trees make the area smell amazing. Kids will enjoy earning Junior Ranger badges, and the trail is paved and doable for most people.
Krystle Gleason — Google review
One of the best experiences!! I was so happy to be able to visit a place where my dogs could go on the hike with me. It was a beautiful hike with lots of information. The park rangers were super nice. I especially was thankful for the information given to me about the camels. It is great information I will pass on. I recommend hiking the whole circle it is worth the views at the top. Please anyone taking pups, clean up after them so this park can stay dog friendly. Dog friendly parks are rare.
Mopsy McCasland — Google review
This monument combines staggering natural beauty with historical significance. Three waves of visitors--Pueblo, Spanish and American--have etched writings and drawings into this massive sandstone bluff over the course of many centuries. This has been a real highlight of our trip to New Mexico.
Michael Yost — Google review
On a cold, snowy Monday afternoon we had the entire park to ourselves. Due to snow not all hiking trails were open. That didn't diminish this trip at all. The area is just beautiful, and the history here is incredible. Carved into the sandstone bluff are petroglyphs, names, and dates, dating back to the 1500's. Onate carved his name into this rock over 10 years before anyone had landed at Plymouth Rock. This is really a must see for anyone who loves the history of the Southwest. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park and there are stargazing events held here in the warmer months. As of the date of this review the park is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Mark Gruen — Google review
This place is why New Mexico is call the land of enchantment. Wow! The petroglyphs were fantastic. The signatures of the Spanish from the with dates from the 1700’s, the American military signatures from the 1800’s, amazing stone work art with the signatures too. The ancient pond was great. The hike to the top of the cliffs to see the ruins of native peoples was way cool. This park is so well kept. The rangers are very well informed and happy to share any and all information with you. This was treat an indeed. Get there early because they close the hike up to the top of the mountain at 2 or 3pm. Clean bathrooms too. And don’t ignore the thick forest that surrounds the park. So peaceful.
Warning! This park will be hard for folks who have difficulty walking. Plus, there is no wheelchair access to the top of the cliff to see the the Native American site ruins. However, a wheelchair can easily do the 1/4 mile loop to see the engravings, petroglyphs, and the water hole. If you are disabled, don’t attempt to hike to the top. It’s a challenge. I didn’t make it. I had to send my son with the camera. Very steep climb with stairs.
Amazing place.
Melody East — Google review
Beautiful light hike for a couple hours! Inscription’s are incredible!
Jason Malone — Google review
This was an unexpected gem. We toured the monument on a bright, cool, blustery New Mexico Spring day. Stopped into the Center (the trails are accessed through the back) to view a short video and pick up a trail guide (you can borrow one or buy for $2). The trail is designed to be hiked counter clockwise starting with the inscriptions and continuing to the top of the Mesa. The Mesa is scaled through a series of switchbacks with a 400 foot vertical ascent. Nothing too strenuous. The trail is well marked with some stretches across barren rock where you are exposed to the winds. The descent is mostly by stairs hewn into the rock. I suffer from Vertigo but had no trouble navigating some of the more exposed areas. I did see dogs on the trail. The hike takes over 2 hours with much of the time spent taking photos and reading inscriptions. There were about a dozen people on the trail when we were there but I suspect it gets crowded when the schools let out.
Jeff Breault — Google review
El Morro National Monument is definitely worth a visit. It was supposed to be a quick stop but it turned out to be one of the better hikes that we took while we were on vacation. Definitely would suggest that everyone should stop and spend a half a day or more.
Circular hikes lead to flat-topped hills with rock layers in shades of blue, gray & purple.
Nice easy walk down below. I expected it to be more blue, but it wasn't even its in the name.. You get to see some petrified wood around the area too upclose.
Rob Biemans — Google review
It's a short but occasionally strenuous trek through the gouged-out beauty of the Blue Mesa. Which actually isn't all that blue. The dominant hues are white, gray, red and brown, with a little blue mixed in here and there. The sides of the mesa seem to be melting away, creating canyons and enormous piles of stoney soil. The tableau you see looks like a snapshot of scoops of ice cream melting.
Allen Parsons — Google review
Amazing nature. Ever see this before 😍😍
Khanhlinh Le Begin — Google review
Blue Mesa has become my favourite place we've visitied in a road trip in the US, amazing and magical place. Breathtaking colors, couldn't get enough of it!
Crystal Forest is a captivating stop in the Petrified Forest National Park, known for its stunning amethyst and quartz crystals that were once nestled within petrified logs. The .75-mile loop trail offers an enchanting stroll past these ancient logs, which are now protected due to concerns about crystal removal. Visitors are left spellbound by the sheer beauty of this radiant gem, with its mesmerizing colors and close-up encounters with the petrified trees.
If you are planning your road trip, schedule a stop at this educational & inspiring site! Your kids will love it!
Great for both percents & children!
Great for trigger interest of children to learn more about our Mather nature 💯
This adventure, which make your children wonder, which is awesome 💯
Sergey Vinogradov — Google review
Probably the busiest of the stops along the road, but still pretty calm even in July. Probably the number one thing to see, in terms of shortness of walk, and density of logs. Lots of parking at 10am. This had the most signage, and was probably the most walkable, with lots of close-ups with logs. When we left, a ranger was setting up a display/activity.
Benjamin Koester — Google review
Walk this trail if you want a hands on experience within the Petrified forest NPS. No shade, paved walkway, dogs on leash allowed, no bathroom.
Amanda Wood — Google review
Wonderful family hike/stroll through some spectacular views of Petrified Wood/Trees with some crystals imbedded in them. Catch the sun right and it is a wonderful site to see.
Lawrence Pasierb — Google review
The petrified trees here are so cool. Really dig the walk around Crystal Forest. Got to see so many petrified trees. Really loved the colors. If you're entering from interstate 40, stop at the gift shop first otherwise you might double back as the road doesn't loop back around. Got myself a cool petrified wood at the gift shop.
Man Nguyen — Google review
A nice 1.3 km or 0.8 mi loop with many petrified trees of various sizes and colors. Although an easy walk, I wouldn't recommend it for disabled people. A decent size parking lot. No restrooms. Definitely worth a stop and a 30 min walk if you drive through the Petrified Forest National Park.
Pavel F — Google review
One of the coolest natural sites I've ever seen. The petrified logs look like freshly fallen redwood trees. They've even chipped into tanbark, all made out of stone. The desert landscape around the site isn't quite as beautiful as the painted desert, but it's still pretty.
Jason Tomczak — Google review
Beautiful “Petrified Forest National Park”
One of the many trails and dogs are welcome to be with you.
Be sure to ask a Ranger about “Bark Ranger” for your dog.
Patricia Sievers — Google review
Great spot to see large pieces of the petrified trees up close. The crystals are extremely impressive
Nick Pastore — Google review
The Petrified Forest National Park is a breathtaking wonderland, and among its many awe-inspiring features, Crystal Forest stands out as a radiant gem that left us utterly mesmerized. Our recent visit to this natural wonder was an unforgettable experience that will stay with us forever.
From the moment we set foot in Crystal Forest, we were spellbound by the sheer beauty that surrounded us. The ancient trees, turned to glistening crystal over millions of years, formed a surreal landscape that felt like something out of a fairytale. The interplay of sunlight with the quartz crystals created a dazzling display of colors, casting rainbows and sparkling reflections that delighted our senses.
The trail through Crystal Forest was well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, informative signs provided fascinating insights into the geological history of the area, deepening our appreciation for the natural processes that shaped this extraordinary phenomenon.
We were particularly impressed by the park's commitment to preserving and protecting this unique site. Despite its popularity, Crystal Forest felt remarkably unspoiled and pristine. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile ecosystem and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles, allowing generations to come to enjoy its splendor.
What truly made our visit to Crystal Forest exceptional was the feeling of being in harmony with nature. The serene atmosphere and the sense of tranquility enveloped us, giving us a much-needed break from our hectic urban lives. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, allowing us to reconnect with the essence of nature and find peace within ourselves.
The park rangers and staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about their work. They were more than willing to answer questions, share interesting stories, and provide helpful tips to ensure an enriching experience. Their dedication to the preservation of this remarkable site was evident and inspiring.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, Crystal Forest presents endless opportunities to capture stunning shots and connect with the Earth's ancient history. Whether you're an amateur shutterbug or a seasoned professional, the sights and scenes in Crystal Forest will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
In conclusion, Crystal Forest in the Petrified Forest National Park is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone seeking an extraordinary encounter with nature's enchanting wonders. From the breathtaking landscapes to the educational insights, this surreal sanctuary has it all. Our visit to Crystal Forest was a soul-enriching journey that left us with memories to treasure for a lifetime. We cannot wait to return and immerse ourselves once again in the magical embrace of this geological marvel.
Mike Bonds — Google review
It was a 0.8mi walk, but I loved being able to see and touch all of the petrified logs.
S Monty — Google review
Only two or three of the stops were really worth it in the park. I think it was stop #9, which was my personal favorite
Brian Bradford — Google review
Stunningly beautiful. The history brings the fast-paced life of the "real" world to a halt. Strolling through each site, at various stops within the park, you can discover a rainbow of the beauty of God's creation. The petrified wood offers a colorful rainbow marbling display. Simply breathtaking.
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