Madrid is a small village nestled in New Mexico's Santa Fe County. Once a mining community that later became a ghost town, Madrid now thrives with a vibrant and creative atmosphere. Featuring a series of art galleries along the famous Turquoise Trail, Madrid offers a unique and offbeat experiences to travelers. Apart from colorful galleries and lively events, the town is home to exciting attractions like the Mine Shaft Tavern, Maggie's Diner, and the Ghost Town Trading Post. Complete with quirky souvenir shops and quaint lodging options, Madrid makes for one of the most touristy escapades in New Mexico.
Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful oasis near Chimayo. Fed by the ice-cold waters of the Rio Frijoles and the Rio del Medio, the shimmering lake and its pristine surroundings offer a variety of outdoor opportunities and mesmerizing experiences. The shoreline on its eastern side is cloaked in robes of juniper and pinon pines, cottonwood, and mahogany, making for beautiful hiking destinations, while the western side features an imposing granite wall. The scintillating waters and its shores are perfect for activities like fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking.
Offering vast expanses of savannah grasslands and stunning sandstone formation landscape, Galisteo Basin Preserve is a protected region encompassing over 10,000 acres (4047 hectares). The nature preserve is home to scenic trails boasting remarkable terrain ranging from ridged mountain tops to valley floors with rich wildlife habitats. Open for the public-the trails expand up to 28 miles (45 kilometers) of inspiring sceneries and look-outs, offering breath-taking visuals. The popular trails are frequented by mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians.
Located in Bandelier National Monument, Tyuonyi Overlook is a scenic overlook that offers stunning panoramic views of the Frijoles Canyon and the ancient Pueblo ruins of Tyuonyi. From here, you can see the extensive network of Pueblo ruins that dot the canyon floor, including the Tyuonyi community, the Long House, and the Alcove House. You can also enjoy views of the surrounding mesas and mountains, as well as the lush vegetation and wildlife that thrive in the canyon.