Best Things to Do in Taos

Fewer than 10,000 people live in Taos, yet the town has a reputation far beyond its size.

Ancient Pueblo culture, Spanish history, dramatic mountain scenery, artists, skiers, and spiritual seekers all converge here, giving Taos a character that feels both charming and chaotic (in a good way). Set between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge, Taos is easy to love whether you come for history, art, outdoor adventure, or simply to wander through one of New Mexico’s most famous small towns.

Don’t Miss

Rio Grande Gorge

West of town, the Rio Grande cuts through a dramatic volcanic canyon. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers spectacular views, while nearby trails provide opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring the canyon rim.

Taos Plaza

Taos Plaza is the center of town and an easy place to spend an afternoon, with galleries, shops, restaurants, and coffeehouses packed into a walkable area. More businesses line nearby US 64, extending the district beyond the plaza. It is smaller than downtown Santa Fe but has a similarly historic, artsy atmosphere.

Museums & Culture

Taos has drawn artists for more than a century and remains one of New Mexico’s best-known “art colonies”. That’s part of the reason why such a small town has ten museums and numerous galleries. Some of the best include:

• Couse Sharpe Historic Site (reservation required)
• Millicent Rogers Museum
• Hacienda de los Martinez

Food & Drink

Taos also has a strong food scene, with a mix of classic New Mexican cuisine, casual cafes, and fine dining. Some of my favorite spots include:

• Orlando’s for classic New Mexican food (get there early, it fills up fast)
• Taos Cow for burritos, coffee, and ice cream
• Mesa Brewing for pizza and local beer (both locations are great, but the mesa location has a better atmosphere)

Events

There is not a single event that defines Taos like the Balloon Fiesta, but there are a few interesting ones worth checking out.

• Las Fiestas de Taos - A July celebration of Taos’ Hispanic heritage with music and dancing around Taos Plaza.
• San Geronimo Feast Day - Held September 30 at Taos Pueblo, with traditional dances, footraces, and ceremonies.
• Taos Mountain Balloon Rally - A small late-October event featuring hot air balloons in Taos.

Where to Stay?

Taos has a wide range of accommodations, from budget motels to luxury resorts:

• Taos Inn - A historic inn in the heart of town with a cozy atmosphere and live music every night.
• El Monte Sagrado - A resort with a spa, beautiful landscaping, and a focus on wellness.
• The Blake - A European-style ski lodge with lift access ($$$).

For those looking for a more unique experience, consider booking and staying in an earthship!

How Long Should You Stay?

For most visitors, 1–2 days is ideal.

That’s enough time to visit Taos Pueblo, explore downtown, drive to the gorge, enjoy a few museums, and spend some time outdoors. Keep in mind, Taos isn’t as polished as places like Aspen or Sedona, but that’s part of its appeal. If you enjoy art, history, culture, and mountain scenery, it’s one of the most rewarding destinations in New Mexico.

Watch the Full Taos Guide