If You Like

If You Like

Arts & Crafts

If your idea of fun is museum-going and gallery-hopping, you'll love Taos. The creative spirit is strong here, and it's contagious. Even if you begin by just browsing, you might find that you can't go home without a certain painting or pot that captures the unique enchantment of the place. When browsing for art, you often have the opportunity to meet the artists themselves, an eclectic and almost universally free-thinking collection of individuals, some of whom might wear cowboy boots and speak with drawl. You can even join in the flow of creative energy by participating in art workshops yourself. It's easy to visit a lot of galleries in a short time; many are side by side on a few streets around the Plaza. Southwestern landscapes and Native American themes are frequent subjects. Look for outstanding weaving, jewelry, tinwork, and other crafts, too.

New Mexican Cuisine

Taos is a great place for New Mexican fare, prepared with locally grown chiles and homemade tortillas, but the town also draws raves for outstanding contemporary restaurants with award-winning wine lists. The many New Agers who live in and frequent the area mean that fresh organic and vegetarian dishes abound here. Pan-Asian and Middle Eastern flavors are also influences in the increasingly sophisticated cuisines finding their way to this small town with a big attitude.

Outdoor Activities & Sports

The glorious landscape around Taos draws serious athletes as well as those who just want to wander under the huge skies and gaze at the mountains. Cycling is popular, with rallies and races held in late summer. The vast Carson National Forest is an excellent spot for most any outdoor pursuit. The rivers and lakes are excellent for trout fishing; you can arrange for outings with local expert guides. The waters also invite rafters, especially when spring runoff fills the rivers with white water. There are innumerable trails for hiking for all levels of fitness, up into alpine reaches and down into rocky gorges. If you're really after a thrill or something different, try a hot-air balloon ride into the Rio Grande Gorge or llama trekking in the wilderness. And of course winter brings skiers from all over to the world-class slopes of Taos Ski Valley and other nearby resorts.