Need Advice Santa Fe & Taos
 

Our plans are to arrive in Alburquerque, NM on a Tuesday evening (flying in late from midwest), then spending time in Santa Fe and Taos on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday morning, we are driving to Amarillo, TX for a graduation. We return home on Sunday evening.

What should/can we see in New Mexico for such a short trip? We enjoy hiking and outdoors activities; can anyone comment on the white water rafting in Taos?

Thanks!

I don't know much about Taos, but in Santa Fe I'd at least stroll the Plaza (downtown historic area). You can see a lot in one general area there. If you like outdoors and hiking, check out Bandalier National Park on the way to Taos. There are some cave dwellings and nice hiking opportunities.

Don't know anything about white water rafting, but Bandelier is a great idea. While in Taos, you may also want to check out the pueblo. It is very interesting and educational. Taos also has a small downtown area with shops/restaurants.

In Santa Fe, definitely walk around the Plaza area. There are some historic buildings/sites to see. You may also want to purchase from the artisans who set up at the market there. There is also a Georgia O'Keefe museum in town that has a number of her works.

Bandelier National Monument is a wonderful place to visit. There are small tourist trails as well as longer hikes available. I would recommend getting there early to enjoy a little more quiet than when people start piling in.

We went white water rafting in Taos (rio grande river) and toured the pueblo (inhabited for over 1000 years.)
In Albuquerque, you can take the Sandia Peak Tramway for stunning views, tour the Indian Culture Museum (with yummy restaurant on the premises). Old Town Albuquerque is nice, but Santa Fe's is better, imo. Georgia O'Keefe's museum is not to be missed.
If you have time in amarillo, check out Palo Dura Canyon State Park.