Chiles are a big deal in New Mexico—and locals will tell you there’s no better place for chile farming in the world (which doesn’t hurt the state’s killer selection of Mexican food hotspots!), which is why the Hatch Chile Express, a chile pepper farm, is a must-visit when cruising through this Southwestern state. These chiles, which come in a variety of flavors and colors, have an entire festival dedicated to their spicy, sweet taste.

When you think of New Mexico, you probably don’t think of large expanses of glittering blue water, but you’ll find just that at Elephant Butte Reservoir—the largest lake in the state surrounding the distinctive rock formation. The reservoir also serves as New Mexico’s largest state park offering fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, pontoon boating, sailing—even houseboats for those wanting an extended stay.

While this San Antonio might not have a riverwalk like its Eastern neighbor in Texas, these fragile wetlands do offer stunning, large expanses of water to marvel at, breathtaking mountain views, and enough birds to turn even the most uninterested wildlife spectator into a full-blown bird watcher—we’re talking eagles, blackbirds, cranes, and geese, to name a few. Plus, you might get lucky and see a mule deer or elk during your trip.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a geology buff—this museum rocks. From one-of-a-kind crystals to rare minerals, we can guarantee you’ll be blown away by at least one piece of the dazzling gem collection housed within this must-see museum. While New Mexico doesn’t have the same mining background as many of its neighboring Southwest states, it is known for its large variety of gemstones and crystals, and this free museum is one of the best ways to experience them.

If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring way to view the mountains surrounding New Mexico’s most populated city, there’s no better option than cruising along the Sandia Peak Tramway. The nearly three-mile-long ride is the largest aerial tramway in North America overlooking the scenic Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande Valley from more than 10,000 feet up. For the full experience, check out one of the more than 100 hiking trails accessible to you once you reach the top of Sandia Peak.

Upon arriving at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, you'll be greeted by a giant metal dinosaur—which, if you ask us, is reason enough to stop at this iconic museum. Through the museum you will experience the history of New Mexico, from the beginnings of life on Earth, to dinosaurs, to today, as well as the award-winning Hall of Stars which was built largely by volunteers to recreate and explain the science of the night sky to eager museumgoers.

New Mexico’s capital city is known for its forward-thinking arts scene—with the city being home to more than 250 galleries and several art museums—including the legendary Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. However, one experience that’s sure to leave an impression was imagined by the fast-growing Meow Wolf art collective. The Santa Fe-based creative group opened its interactive and immersive permanent exhibit, House of Eternal Return in 2016, and has been a destination for art enthusiasts ever since.