Best Things to Do in Abiquiu

Abiquiú is a small village in northern New Mexico best known for its colorful desert landscapes, ties to artist Georgia O’Keeffe, and easy access to beautiful scenery. Sitting along the Chama River, it’s an excellent base for exploring Ghost Ranch, Plaza Blanca, Abiquiú Lake, and the surrounding red rock country.

Don’t Miss

Plaza Blanca

A very short drive from Abiquiú, Plaza Blanca is a maze of towering white sandstone formations on the Dar al Islam property. The area inspired several of Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings and is one of the most distinctive landscapes in northern New Mexico.

Ghost Ranch

Just north of town, Ghost Ranch is famous for the colorful cliffs and mesas that inspired many of Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings. Visitors can hike to scenic overlooks, explore museums, or take in the colorful cliffs and mesas.

Art & History

Georgia O’Keeffe lived and painted in the Abiquiú area for decades, and many of the landscapes surrounding the village appear throughout her work. Visitors can tour her historic home and studio (for 65$…), while nearby Ghost Ranch offers additional exhibits about her life and artistic legacy.

The village itself dates back to the Spanish colonial period and remains a historic farming community along the Chama River.

Food & Drink

Abiquiú has a handful of cafés and local restaurants, but dining options are limited. Many visitors stop at Bode’s General Store for breakfast, lunch, or snacks while exploring the area.

Outdoors

The Abiquiú area is ideal for hiking, photography, paddling, and scenic drives.

Popular activities include:

• Boating and kayaking at Abiquiú Lake
• Hiking at Ghost Ranch
• Exploring the rock formations of Plaza Blanca
• Driving the scenic stretch of US 84 toward Chama

Where to Stay

If you’re spending the night, check out the Abiquiú Inn. It’s cozy, charming, and centrally located, with a sculpture garden out back and the O’Keeffe Welcome Center just next door. Many people also choose to stay nearby in Santa Fe which has a wider range of accommodations and dining options.

How Long Should You Stay?

Most visitors can see the highlights in a full day.

Spend the morning seeing the Abiquiú area, including:

• the Abiquiú Inn
• the O’Keeffe Welcome Center
• Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church
• Plaza Blanca
• Purple Adobe Lavender Farm (in season)

Then head north to Ghost Ranch for a few hours of hiking and sightseeing. Finish with a stop at Echo Amphitheater and Abiquiú Lake.

Abiquiú is the perfect base for exploring the dramatic landscapes, art, and history of northern New Mexico.