What to see and do in Taos

Activities in and around Taos include outdoor adventure

• white water rafting and tubing
• skiing
• treking
• Rio Grande Gorge
• hot air ballooning
• kayacking and canoeing

 see: http://taos.org/outdoors

Kit Carson book cover

Taos is a historic gem in North America.

• Governor Bent House -- the first governor of New Mexico was shot in the head by an arrow in a bloody uprising at this house.
  

• Kit Carson House and Museum - American hero of the wild west
  

• Martinez Hacienda -- 1802 pioneer house, an architectural icon, and home of Padre Martinez, influential leader and educator of the territory.

• Taos Pueblo -- Native American dwelling built in 700AD
  

• Taos Plaza - a trading center on the Sante Fe Trail from 1796
  

• The Church of San Francisco de Asis, at Ranchos de Taos, is considered by many to be the most beautiful edifice in the State of New Mexico and definitely the most depicted in paintngs.

• Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
  
  
• Earthship Biotecture Visitors Center -- a must-see if you are interested in sustainable housing.

See this website: http://taos.org

Taos Art Museum and Fechin House http://www.taosartmuseum.org/

Taos is significant because renowned artists, authors, and intellects organized elite communities in Taos.

• Taos Art Museum and Fechin House
  
• Blumenshein House
• Harwood Museum of Art
  
• Millicent Rogers Museum
• LeDoux Street -- narrow, one-way, picturesque street with lots of art galleries.

See this website: http://taosmuseums.org

Red River Valley

Echanted Circle Scenic Byway

The 84-mile (135 km) Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway makes a loop through Taos following four main highways:

• U.S. Route 64 between Eagle Nest and Taos
  
  
• NM 522 between Taos and Questa
  
  
• NM 38 between Questa, the Red River Valley and Eagle Nest
  
  
• NM 434 between Eagle Nest and Angel Fire
  
  

See website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enchanted_Circle_Scenic_Byway

The Hgh Road to Taos

Distance: 105 miles/170 KM
Driving Time: 2-1/2 hours from Santa Fe to Taos (no stops)

Trip Time: As there are so many interesting places to stop along the way, this trip can take from 4 to 7 hours. Please allow some extra time to enjoy this unique scenic byway and its tiny villages along the way.

Route: From Taos Plaza, Hwy. 68 south to Ranchos de Taos; Hwy. 518 east; Hwy. 75 west to Peñasco; Hwy. 76 south to Trampas, Truchas, Cordova and Chimayó; Hwy. 68 south to Santa Fe; Hwy. 68 north to Española and Taos.

see this website: http://taos.org/trip-ideas/day-trips?/item/14/The-High-Road-Between-Santa-Fe-and-Taos 

Wild Rivers Area of the Rio Grand Gorge

• Camping/Picnicking•
• Swimming
•  Boating 
• Fishing 
• Trails
• Biking 
• Scenic Driving – The 13-mile, paved Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway provides visitors with access to the many scenic views and recreational opportunities in the Recreation Area.

see this website: http://www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/recreation/taos/wild_rivers_rec_area.html

There are so many great places to eat.  Here are our favorites:

• Guadalajara Grill -- no ambiance . . . just good Mexican food
  
• The Love Apple -- good for a special occasions. Inside an old church
  
• Taos Pizza Out Back -- Love this place!!
  
• Lambert's -- upscale dining
• Michael's Kitchen -- A popular stopping place.  So-so food but go at least once to say you did.
• La Cuevo Cafe-- tiny; specializes in New Mexican food.

 see:  http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g47224-d2317384-Reviews-La_Cueva_Cafe-Taos_Taos_County_New_Mexico.html#REVIEWS

• Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa -- 36 miles SW from Taos via rooute 285.  Ojo's sacred waters have been healing mind, body and spirit naturally for centuries.