25 Things We Love About New Mexico Right Now

25 Things We Love About New Mexico Right Now

With just over 2.1 million residents, New Mexico is the fifth-largest of the fifty states, but it is 46th in population density and 36th in population. People move to New Mexico because of the numerous recreational opportunities, stunning landscapes, distinctive culture, and mild temperatures throughout the year.

The laid-back pace, stimulating culture, delicious food, and historic architecture city of New Mexico’s capital are just a few reasons it is so adored. The food, the buildings, the weather, and the interesting manner in which most things are carried out here are all unique to this region. Nonetheless, we accept it, adapt to it, and make it our own. We know when we feel something about Santa Fe that can’t be bottled. It could be a way to the sun shines on an earthy, old house from a startlingly blue sky. It could be the sudden spilling of the bounty of lilacs from the beginning of summer through a shaky coyote fence. Perhaps it’s the stars’ sparkling clarity. You will hear from others: When you drive down Cerrillos Road in the latter part of the summer, you smell the first aroma of roasted chiles. In late autumn, the scent of pions is burned in fireplaces and wood stoves to keep the cold at bay. It’s a flavor that’s hard to miss—some smoke and heat, all good—in almost everything we eat. It is also a place where little girls wear cowboy boots and tie-dye tutus, where grandmothers play the marimba and dye their hair electric blue, and where the faithful are greeted by church bells that ring out across the timeless old neighborhoods. And despite Santa Fe’s eccentricities, progressivism, and cultural traditions, you can feel at ease knowing that you can pretty much do whatever you want here.

Outdoor activities New Mexico

Here Are The Top 25 Things In New Mexico

1. About New Mexico Majesty

Clear blue skies, open sloping territory, an extraordinary structural style, and especially clean air all remind us every day that we are so fortunate to be here. Summers are especially beautiful because cottonwood trees that have been around for centuries provide much-needed shade for strolls through low-lying neighborhoods. Wide-ranging vistas, jaw-droppingly-hued sunsets, and a tranquility that is unmatched in urban centers.

2. Outdoor activities

New Mexico’s climate and landscape make it a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. There are numerous chances to take up – strolling, climbing, cycling, boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, skiing, climbing, golf, and pony riding.

3. Landscapes

There is a reason why New Mexico is known as the “Land of Enchantment.” The stunning and unexpectedly diverse natural surroundings and landscapes are breathtaking. Most people are surprised to learn that the landscape of New Mexico includes deserts, mesas, and mountains. When they think of New Mexico, they often think of a huge desert. You can walk through forests and hike rugged terrain in the mountainous regions of New Mexico, or you can travel to the canyons and White Sands National Park in the desert. There are a total of 11 monuments, three UNESCO world heritage sites, four national parks, and five national forests in this state.

4. Climate

New Mexico has four seasons and a mild climate throughout the year. Since there are more than 300 days of sunshine each year, residents also enjoy the rain. The lack of precipitation is largely to blame for the dry climate character. Winters bring colder temperatures, but most places don’t get much snow.

Clean Air

New Mexico can boast of its clean air with pride. The air is clean even in the big cities. Santa Fe and Albuquerque have both appeared on lists of the US’s cleanest cities.

Low Population

One of the least populated states in the United States, New Mexico has a population of approximately 2 million. To put things in perspective, the population of Houston, Texas, is greater than that of the entire state of New Mexico!

5. Cuisine

The cuisine of New Mexico is distinctive and delectable. Chile is often the standout ingredient in dishes. If you’re not sure which chile to order, you can always say “Christmas” and try both. Red chile typically has a milder flavor. Some of the locals’ favorite dishes include carne asada, sopaipillas, green chile cheeseburgers, huevos rancheros, and green chile stew.

6. Styles of Architecture

In New Mexico, the pueblo and adobe styles of architecture are the most recognizable. The thick walls of traditional adobe homes keep the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, it contributes to the creation of a peaceful indoor environment. Adobe is a building material that is frequently formed into bricks out of a mixture of Earth and straw. Adobe was first used to construct homes by American Indians in the 14th century. Adobe was used to build pueblo-style homes by Spanish settlers. This included vigas, flat roofs with projecting beams, stepped levels, round walls, corner fireplaces, vigas, and a series of rooms fronted by covered porches called “Portales” that enclosed an exterior patio, similar to the Pueblo rooms that were designed around a central plaza. Traditional, contemporary, pueblo revival and many other pueblo styles have all been reflected in this design today. You’ll also see Northern New Mexico’s pitched metal roofs and the territorial architectural style with columns and copings. The exterior layer of many homes is earth-colored stucco, either partially or completely.

7. Sunrises and Sunsets

The sunrises and sunsets in New Mexico are stunning displays of color. The absence of pollution, clean air, and refractive particulates in the air create the ideal conditions for the nighttime spread of a vibrant mix of red, orange, and purple hues across the sky.

8. Big Starry Nights

Another wonderful aspect of New Mexico is the stunning night sky. Because of how distinct and bright the stars and constellations are, this is the ideal location to look at them. They are sometimes called “big starry nights.” Why is this happening? Yes, there is pollution at night and clean air.

9. Wine

Wine is popular in this beautiful state. It is said that priests snuck plants out of Spain and started developing them here around 1629. More than forty wineries and vineyards produce more than tens of thousands of gallons of wine annually in New Mexico. The Southern, Central, and Northern Wine Trails are three distinct regions in New Mexico where visitors can sample wine from a small number of wineries. The beauty of New Mexico is sure to captivate you, whether you visit the northern wineries in Santa Fe and Taos or the southern wineries in Las Cruces and the Tularosa Basin.

10. Craft Breweries

New Mexico has a lot of craft beer breweries. There are 111 taprooms and 88 breweries. The oldest and most well-known brewery is Santa Fe Brewing Company, which was established in 1988. Marble Brewery, which opened in 2008 and has three locations in Albuquerque, is a favorite among many. In addition to producing excellent beer, the labels at La Cumbre Brewing Company, which is also located in Albuquerque, are inventive and artistic.

11. New Mexico’s charming towns

When you travel to the state, you can take pleasure in visiting the numerous welcoming and charming towns scattered throughout the state. Madrid, a town of just 200 people, is picturesque and home to numerous art galleries. It is a part of the Turquoise Trail, and the close-knit community organizes entertaining events annually. Are you looking for something unusual? Pie Town is an excellent choice. Because there are only 186 people, most of them know each other. Every year, they have a pie festival, and the cafes there serve up delicious homemade slices.

12. A Long Calendar of Celebrations, Festivals, and Events

In New Mexico, there is always some kind of annual celebration going on. These celebrations range from art shows and film festivals to wine festivals, alien festivals, international balloon fiestas, the Hatch Chile Festival, the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow, the International Folk Art Festival, and even a crane festival!

13. International Balloon Festival

People come from all over the world to attend the annual balloon festival. Each October, more than 500 sight-seeing balloons and a huge number of individuals assemble for the Albuquerque Worldwide Inflatable Party, which started in 1972 and has developed consistently since. One explanation that expands pilots’ love to fly close to Albuquerque is a direct result of “the Case” — a bunch of unsurprising breeze designs that come to fruition in the Fall over the Rio Grande. Balloons can travel north at low altitudes and south at higher altitudes thanks to the Box. The celebration is a wonderful sight!

14. Santa Fe

The state capital of New Mexico is Santa Fe. Santa Fe became a capital in 1610, ten years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. It was founded in 1607. As a result, it is both the nation’s oldest capital and the earliest European settlement west of the Mississippi. Because of its distinctive combination of natural beauty, multifaceted culture, recreation, and lifestyle, Santa Fe is one of the most popular destinations in the southwestern United States. It is regarded as the location of the first American cowboys and the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. One of the largest art markets in the United States, Santa Fe is home to more than 250 art galleries. Throughout the year, there are numerous exhibits, gallery events, and studio tours. The world-famous Santa Fe Opera is yet another important highlight. In addition to being regarded as one of the country’s best opera companies, the Opera House itself is equally impressive. Its stunning open-air adobe design frames the mountain and vibrant New Mexico sunset views on opposite sides. One thing you might not be aware of is the Santa Fe Margarita Trail, which features 45 distinct margaritas made by local establishments just for the trail.

15. Albuquerque

Albuquerque Due to the wide range of activities that are unique to this city, Albuquerque is one of the most exciting cities in the Southwest. Albuquerque is well-known for its numerous museums, cultural institutions, places to relax, and artistic treasures. During some random week, you’ll have the option to look over social celebrations and workmanship shows and create fairs, theater exhibitions, games, and shows, and that’s just the beginning. New Mexican eateries serving enchiladas and sopaipilla pastries, as well as tiny artisan shops selling jewelry, rugs, and pottery, can be found in Albuquerque’s historic Old town, which has narrow streets and century-old adobe houses. The San Felipe de Neri Church, built in the 18th century, stands guard over the charming Old Town Plaza. The skeletons of dinosaurs can be found at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, while Southwestern art can be found at the Albuquerque Museum. Albuquerque Global Air terminal (Sunport) offers constant support to 24 significant urban communities.

16. Destination for Retirees

New Mexico is a popular retirement destination due to its low population, low traffic, low cost of living, and abundant space. The cost-of-living index is lower in Mexico than anywhere else in the country. Grocery costs, lower healthcare costs, and lower gas and transportation costs are the primary contributors. New Mexico’s median home price is 5 percent lower than the national average, making it one of the least expensive states.

17. Ethnic Diversity

New Mexico’s distinct cultures and traditions are well-known for their long history. There are numerous Latino and Hispanic residents, as well as significant communities of African-American, Asian, and Middle Eastern people, in addition to Native American tribes and residents. White (Hispanic) 49.3 percent, White (Non-Hispanic) 36.8 percent, American Indian and Alaska Native 11 percent, Other (Hispanic) 6.74 percent, and Black or African American 2.6 percent make up the five largest ethnic groups. 94.4 percent of New Mexicans are citizens of the United States.

18. The Warmth of A Kiva Fireplace Is The Best Thing Ever

The architectural talent that the people of New Mexico have at their disposal rivals that of any metro professional in Chicago or New York City. A kiva fireplace exudes calm, minimalism, and simplicity. A person can only hear and feel the silence with this style.

19. The White Sands National Monument is 16 miles of incredible beauty that only the heavens could match

You probably wouldn’t see anything more alien and unearthly. It is in New Mexico, and residents adore the scenic 16-mile drive, especially at night when the moon is full. Due to this national monument, you begin to wonder if residents experience the lowest levels of stress in the nation.

20. San Miguel Mission Church Is a Living History

Many of the people who live there are deeply religious and do spiritual things like meditating and sitting in silence better than anyone else. The thick, old adobe walls, as well, of conceivably the most seasoned church in the whole country, the San Miguel Mission Church, do make it very simple to zero in exclusively on your spirit. The church’s age since the year 1610.

21. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains ought to be a wonder of the world

Have you ever seen red mountains? Blazing red, not just reddish. These mountains will leave anyone in awe, even New Mexicans who see them every day. It’s because the sun reflects the warm colors of New Mexico.

22. Frito Pies Are Simply Amazing

Even though residents value versatility in their food, they also value convenience, and Frito pie is a quick option for savory Mexican fare. The well-known Frito pie, which is like a walking taco, perfectly exemplifies that for many locals, especially when Anthony Bourdain himself tried one at Santa Fe’s Five & Dime Festival store and thought he had tasted something unique in the culinary world.

23. Choosing Their Favorite Margarita

In New Mexico, you can’t live without like margaritas. There are contenders for the top spot even in this state, and many seem to adore all versions, including La Choza in Santa Fe. Prepare for a kick of old-fashioned Mexico by salting the rim and licking your lips.

24. Adventure Awaits on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

You’ll discover the journey itself is just as important as the destination as you travel through New Mexico’s landscapes; The journey is the focus. New Mexicans like to get the most out of their travels, so they frequently take advantage of this scenic railroad experience to see autumn in all its glory.

25. The Shiprock Takes Your Breath Away, Every time

Only here can you experience something resembling at the same time a mountain and a massive boulder. And it will undoubtedly take your breath away. Residents go to Shiprock, also known as Tsé Bit’a’I in Navajo, which means “winged rock” or “rock with wings,” just for that breathtaking experience. This place is a little reminder of how beautiful the Earth can be. It never goes wrong.

FAQ:

1. Why is New Mexico so unique?

New Mexico is blessed with magnificent national monuments, bubbling hot springs, breathtaking snow-capped mountains, and stunning desert landscapes. The state is a one-of-a-kind and vibrant destination to visit due to its mixture of European American, Native American, and Mexican heritage.

2. What makes New Mexico so beautiful?

The glistening white sands of New Mexico are one of the world’s great natural wonders. Magnificent wave-like dunes of gypsum sand cover 275 square miles of desert, creating one of nature’s greatest wonders.

3. What distinguishes New Mexico?

The caverns near Carlsbad, which are among the most spectacular natural rock formations in the world, and the extensive gypsum dunes at White Sands National Monument in south-central New Mexico, which were created by wind and water erosion, are two of the most distinctive physical features of New Mexico.

Conclusion:

“New Mexico’s distinct cultures and traditions date back a long time. There are Native American tribes and people who live there, as well as a diverse Latino and Hispanic population and significant communities of African Americans, Asians, and Middle Easterners. White (Hispanic) 49.3 percent, White (Non-Hispanic) 36.8 percent, American Indian and Alaska Native 11 percent, Other (Hispanic) 6.74 percent, and Black or African American 2.6 percent make up the five largest ethnic groups. 94.4 percent of New Mexicans are citizens of the United States.