5 Bucket List Worthy Experiences In New Mexico

A trip to New Mexico is sure to be thrilling, with spicy foods, expansive desert landscapes, and many historical and cultural sites to visit. With so much to do, it's tough to settle on an itinerary. This list, presented in no particular order, shares several essential activities and places to visit in the Land of Enchantment.

For #1, we have Rainbow Ryders, a hot air balloon business serving the Southwest. In Albuquerque, guests can book a one-hour sunrise flight over the Rio Grande and nearby vistas. Reservations can also be made for private morning or evening group flights.

For those who wish to host a wedding in the sky, multiple dirigibles can be used to carry the bride, groom, and up to 75 guests. Rainbow Ryders is the official hot air balloon ride operator at events around the country, including the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off, and the Scottsdale SkyFest.

Next up, at #2, we have the village of Jemez Springs. The area is known for its natural mineral hot springs, and the town even has its own bathhouse. It is over 100 years old and is a State Historic Site. The facility includes four massage treatment rooms and eight bathtubs, offering half-hour soaks, wraps, and other services.

The Santa Fe National Forest that borders Jemez Springs has several campgrounds available for a night under the stars. It is close enough to the village where restaurants, art galleries, or mineral soaks can be easily accessed. The region's historical sites include the stone ruins of a 500-year-old Indian village and remnants of the San Jose de Jemez Mission church.

Coming in at #3, we present Taos Ski Valley, a sport resort located in the Southern Rockies of Northern New Mexico. It offers activities for all seasons, including fly fishing, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the summer as well as the usual winter sports during the colder months.

The resort has an 80-room alpine guesthouse, The Blake, adjacent to one of its ski lifts. The hotel has a spa, fitness center, and restaurant, and was awarded LEED Silver certification for its commitment to sustainability.

The #4 entry is the Inn of the Turquoise Bear, a historic bed and breakfast located in Santa Fe. It is within walking distance of the city's main plaza, museums, galleries, shops, dining, and nightlife. The estate was once the home of poet, playwright, and essayist Witter Bynner.

The rooms at the Turquoise Bear include a number of amenities, such as bath robes, complimentary internet, breakfast, and tea service. The Inn has been featured in a number of press outlets, including the Huffington Post, USA Today, and Sunset Magazine.

Rounding out our list at #5 is the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, located in Albuquerque. It serves as a museum and community space where indigenous people can tell their stories. The center hosts cultural Native American dances every weekend year-round and offers other educational activities.

Known for its painted murals and collection of Pueblo pottery , the center's programming includes permanent and rotating exhibits, events with artists and leaders, hands-on children's programs, and film festivals. The Indian Pueblo Store sells handcrafted Native American art, pottery, and jewelry.