Location: Taos
Top Things to do in Taos
What to do and see in Taos, New Mexico (NM): The Best Points of Interest & Landmarks
A rolling mesa at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos has a magical quality. Its rugged beauty, majestic mountains, wild Rio Grande river and unique blend of cultures - Spanish, Native American and Anglo - have historically drawn artists and photographers, evidenced by the plentiful galleries, museums and festivals. To experience the Native American culture here, explore Taos Pueblo, where the Tiwa Native Americans have practiced their traditions for centuries. Finally, the Anglo influence is prevalent in the business district, with its shops, art galleries and some of the finest restaurants in New Mexico. Skiing is also a major draw, but the challenging slopes are geared to the more advanced crowd. There's no rat race here; a fair share of non-mainstreamers have made this laid-back, low-key mecca their home. You, too, may not want to leave its tranquility and natural beauty.
Restaurants in Taos
1. The Couse-Sharp Historic Site
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By willOtheWisp11
Roberta gave us an in-depth tour, with bonus time in the childhood playroom and machine shop. It pays to visit this site more than once, because there are so many layers to the stories embedded here. Like ancient Amber, new clues to the past can be revealed with the scrutiny of the present.
2. David Anthony Fine Art
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
David Anthony Fine Art, (DAFA), was founded by long-time Taos furniture maker David Mapes in 2011. The mission of DAFA is to exhibit the work of accomplished fine artists and exceptional craftspeople in a setting that is welcoming and accessible to all.
3. Taos Pueblo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,039 reviews
Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. The multi-storied adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. We welcome you to visit our village when you travel to northern New Mexico.Taos Pueblo Hours: Monday - Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm and Sunday 8:30am-4:00pm.Guided Tours available daily starting at 9:00 am.Pueblo Shops open daily.Taos Pueblo is expected to be open for the winter season. Any closures would be due to unexpected events within the community and will be posted on our official website.
Reviewed By MildaLeo - London, United Kingdom
We were lucky to visit Taos Pueblo during their feast day. While we didn't had enough time to see dances, we still managed to see natives in ceremonial clothes, joined a guided tour (free, with donation) lead by an inspiring young local woman, and visited local stores. Wekll worth the visit - as Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. You can see the multi-storied adobe buildings which have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years, have no running water or electricity. You will have to leave your cameras and phones in the car (or just not to take them out from your bag). But what you get is true authenticity and chance to interact with locals. We had a nice chat with a local jeweller while he was making me a silver bracelet there on the spot and measured to my wrist size.
4. Jack the Burro
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
“Jack the Burro” was sculpted by Frank Seckler of Taos, New Mexico after being commissioned by El Dorado Plaza in Taos, New Mexico in 2011. The sculpture, which provides an excellent photo opportunity, is dedicated to the lowly beasts of burden who honorably served the people of Taos and Northern New Mexico for many centuries. It's not uncommon to hear Taosenos say: "If you don't know Taos, you don't know Jack!"
5. R.C. Gorman Navajo Gallery
6. Taos Drums
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By BaliloverNewYork - Cortland, United States
It seems like a forgotten warehouse in the middle of nowhere, & then you enter a charmed space. We were lucky to be able to see some of the drum makers stretching the hide for the drums & were blown away with the vast array of rugs, drums, carvings, etc. It was easy for our group of 5 to each find something authentic to buy & to remember our visit to NM. The staff is friendly & knowledgeable. Taos Drum might appear off the beaten path but it's a definite museum of native & historical merchandise worthy of a visit.
7. Taos County Courthouse Murals
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By dlbarnes2011 - Mansfield, United States
The courthouse is located on the Plaza and is a most unique building. This is a wonderful place to absorb more New Mexico and Taos history. The painting and murals are wonderful. We missed this gem our first several visits to Taos but look forward to visiting again the next time we are there. Don't pass this up.
8. Taos Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 970 reviews
The Taos Plaza is the historic center of the town of Taos. Once a Spanish fortified walled plaza, it is now a beautiful collection of wonderful businesses.
Reviewed By ambercalhoun - Taos, United States
Great shopping and eating! Including the gorge bar and grill and manzanita market for food!! And the chocolate factory or chokola for sweets and ice cream and tons of shops with local New Mexican jewelry, clothing and Souvenirs. During the holidays they light up the plaza which makes for beautiful evening walks and if your here around Christmas you can see the lighting of the tree and maybe even meet Santa! At Halloween ghouls, ghosts and witches fill the plaza for the annual trunk or treat event the town hosts for the kids! And during the summer season every week there’s great music for Taos Plaza Live! There always something going on.
9. The KTAOS Solar Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 48 reviews
The KTAOS Solar Center is as unique as it gets and is a must if you are visiting Taos or live here: home to two radio stations: KTAOS Solar Radio 101.9FM and Luna 103.7FM, along with a world-class concert venue and family-friendly full restaurant and bar. An expansive 2 acre backyard that boasts the best views in Taos, as well as national and local musicians. Happy hour everyday 4pm-6pm
10. Ranchos de Taos Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By SteamboatBob53 - Santa Fe, United States
First of all, this is NOT the plaza in downtown Taos. This is where the beautiful church that Ansel Adams, O'Keefe, and thousands of others have painted or photographed. Absolutely stunning and historic plaza. I like to come early in the morning and later in the evening as the light changes. There are a couple of shops and restaurants in this little plaza. You are also welcome to attend the church services, which is really a wonderful experience regardless of your religious beliefs. Lots of history and beauty in such a small area.
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