Taos, New Mexico

1,000-year-old pueblo meets artist colony beneath Sangre de Cristo peaks. Adobe architecture and high desert light that inspired Georgia O'Keeffe.

Taos, New Mexico

Quick Facts

Population
6,000 residents
Founded
1615
Recommended Duration
3-4 days
Best Time to Visit
September to October for fall colors, or January to March for skiing
Climate
High desert
Elevation: 6,969 ft
Four distinct seasons; high elevation means cooler temps; 300+ days of sunshine; snowy winters
Nearest Big City
Albuquerque, NM (135 miles, 2.5 hours)
Nearest Airport
Santa Fe Regional (1.5 hours), Albuquerque Sunport (2.5 hours)
Getting There
1.5 hours from Santa Fe, NM • 2.5 hours from Albuquerque, NM • 5 hours from Denver, CO

What Makes Taos Special

  • Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site continuously inhabited for 1,000+ years
  • Over 80 art galleries showcasing traditional and contemporary work
  • Taos Ski Valley with challenging terrain and 300+ inches of annual snowfall
  • Historic Taos Plaza surrounded by adobe buildings and shops
  • Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offering stunning 650-foot-high views
  • Former home to D.H. Lawrence and Georgia O'Keeffe
  • Unique high desert light that attracts artists and photographers

Things to Do

Taos Pueblo

History

UNESCO World Heritage Site and living Native American community over 1,000 years old.

120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

Landmark

Stunning steel bridge 650 feet above the Rio Grande with breathtaking views.

US-64, Taos, NM 87571

Taos Art Museum

Art

Showcasing works by the Taos Society of Artists in a historic home.

227 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571

Taos Plaza

Shopping

Historic plaza surrounded by galleries, shops, and restaurants in adobe buildings.

Taos Plaza, Taos, NM 87571

Where to Stay in Taos

The Taos Inn

Historic Inn$200-$400/night

Charming historic inn in the heart of Taos, featuring elegantly appointed rooms with period furnishings and modern amenities. Known for exceptional hospitality and locally-sourced breakfast.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Request a room with views of downtown for the best experience

Taos Bed & Breakfast

B&B$150-$300/night

Cozy bed and breakfast offering personalized service and comfortable rooms. Homemade breakfast featuring local ingredients. Perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments included

Local Chain Hotel

Hotel$120-$220/night

Reliable national chain hotel with comfortable rooms, free WiFi, pool, and fitness center. Convenient location near major attractions and restaurants.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Good option for families and those seeking predictable amenities

Vacation Rentals

Vacation Homes$150-$400/night

Variety of vacation rentals available through Airbnb and VRBO, from cozy cottages to spacious homes. Great for extended stays and families wanting kitchen facilities.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Book early for peak season availability

Where to Eat in Taos

Taos Bistro

Fine DiningContemporary American$$$

Upscale dining featuring seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients. Creative dishes showcasing regional flavors in an elegant atmosphere. Reservations recommended.

Main Street Cafe

Casual DiningAmerican$$

Popular local spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for generous portions, friendly service, and comfort food favorites. Great for families.

The Local Pub

PubPub Fare$$

Welcoming neighborhood pub with craft beers, burgers, and classic pub food. Live music on weekends. Casual atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Downtown Coffee House

CafeCoffee & Pastries$

Cozy coffee shop serving expertly brewed coffee, fresh pastries, and light lunch options. Popular morning gathering spot for locals and visitors.

Taos Diner

DinerAmerican Diner$

Classic diner offering hearty breakfasts, homestyle cooking, and generous portions. Friendly service and nostalgic atmosphere. Cash-friendly.

Pizza Place

Casual DiningItalian/Pizza$

Local favorite for pizza, pasta, and Italian classics. Family-friendly with quick service. Great for takeout after a day of exploring.

Sample Itineraries

Perfect Day in Taos

Experience the best of Taos with this carefully planned itinerary covering local attractions, dining, and activities.

8:00 AM
Morning Coffee & Breakfast
Start your day at a local cafe with fresh coffee and breakfast. Take time to chat with locals and get insider tips for the day ahead.
9:30 AM
Explore Downtown
Walk the main street, visit local shops, galleries, and historic buildings. Take photos of the charming architecture and streetscapes.
11:30 AM
Visit Main Attraction
Spend time at one of Taos's signature attractions. Take a guided tour if available to learn about local history and culture.
1:00 PM
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. Try local specialties and seasonal dishes.
2:30 PM
Afternoon Activity
Explore nature trails, visit a museum, or enjoy outdoor recreation depending on the season and your interests.
5:00 PM
Sunset Viewing
Find a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset. Bring your camera for golden hour photography.
7:00 PM
Dinner
Savor dinner at one of Taos's acclaimed restaurants. Make reservations in advance for popular spots.
9:00 PM
Evening Stroll
Take a leisurely walk through town to see historic buildings lit up at night. Visit a local pub or wine bar for a nightcap.

Getting Around Taos

Taos is a compact, walkable town where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other. The downtown area is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture and discover hidden gems. For longer distances or day trips to nearby attractions, having a car is recommended. Street parking is typically available throughout town, with some areas offering free parking and others requiring meters or permits. Check posted signs carefully. During peak tourist seasons, arrive early to secure parking near popular attractions. Many accommodations offer on-site parking for guests. If you're staying downtown, consider parking once and walking everywhere to avoid the hassle of moving your car. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability depending on the time of day. Local taxi services are available but should be called in advance. Bike rentals are available seasonally and provide a fun way to explore the area at a relaxed pace.

When to Visit Taos: Seasonal Guide

Spring (March-May)

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers to the area. It's a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.

  • Mild weather perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
  • Spring flowers and fresh greenery
  • Lower accommodation rates before peak season
Events:
  • Local farmers markets begin
  • Spring festivals and events

Summer (June-August)

Peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. All attractions and restaurants operate on full schedules.

  • Warm, sunny days ideal for outdoor recreation
  • All seasonal businesses and attractions open
  • Festivals, concerts, and community events
Events:
  • Summer concert series
  • Fourth of July celebrations
  • Art fairs and markets

Fall (September-November)

Autumn is spectacular with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Popular season with moderate crowds.

  • Beautiful fall foliage and crisp weather
  • Harvest festivals and seasonal activities
  • Excellent hiking conditions
Events:
  • Harvest festivals
  • Fall foliage tours
  • Halloween events

Winter (December-February)

Winter brings cold temperatures and potential snow. Quieter season with holiday charm and winter activities.

  • Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
  • Holiday decorations and festivities
  • Winter sports and activities nearby
Events:
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Winter festivals
  • New Year's events

Best Photography Spots

Historic Downtown

The main street and historic district offer excellent architectural photography opportunities. Best captured in early morning or late afternoon light.

📸 Best time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)

Town Center

The heart of Taos features charming streetscapes and local character. Look for interesting storefronts and street scenes.

📸 Best time: Morning for fewer crowds

Scenic Overlook

Find elevated vantage points for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. Stunning during fall foliage season.

📸 Best time: Sunset for dramatic lighting

Local Landmarks

Iconic buildings, monuments, or natural features that define Taos. Research specific landmarks before your visit.

📸 Best time: Blue hour for illuminated buildings

Day Trips from Taos

Nearby State Park

15-25 miles30-45 minutes

Explore pristine natural areas with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historic Town

20-30 miles30-50 minutes

Visit a neighboring historic town with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Many areas have complementary attractions worth exploring.

Albuquerque, NM

135 miles2.5 hours

Take a day trip to the nearest major city for museums, shopping, dining, and urban attractions. Provides a nice contrast to small-town charm.

Practical Tips for Visiting Taos

  • Book accommodations well in advance during peak season, especially for weekends and holidays
  • Most restaurants accept credit cards, but some local establishments may be cash-only
  • Dress in layers as weather can change throughout the day, especially in spring and fall
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring downtown and visiting attractions
  • Check attraction hours before visiting, as some locations have seasonal schedules
  • Bring a reusable water bottle - many establishments offer water refill stations
  • Download offline maps in case of spotty cell service in rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Taos?

September to October for fall colors, or January to March for skiing

How many days should I spend in Taos?

3-4 days

Is Taos walkable?

Yes, Taos is very walkable with most downtown attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. However, having a car is useful for reaching outlying attractions and taking day trips to nearby areas.

Are there family-friendly activities in Taos?

Absolutely! Taos offers various family-friendly activities including parks, museums, outdoor recreation, and special events throughout the year. Many restaurants and attractions cater specifically to families.

What should I pack for a trip to Taos?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, and a camera. Depending on the season, bring weather-appropriate clothing. The climate is high desert with four distinct seasons; high elevation means cooler temps; 300+ days of sunshine; snowy winters.

Where is the nearest airport to Taos?

Santa Fe Regional (1.5 hours), Albuquerque Sunport (2.5 hours)

Are pets allowed in Taos?

Many outdoor areas and some accommodations in Taos are pet-friendly. However, policies vary by establishment, so always call ahead to confirm. Most restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved dogs.

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