Taos, one of our neighboring towns, is known for its historic adobe buildings. Visitors can see its rugged beauty, mountains, the wild Rio Grande River, and a unique blend of cultures. If you’re looking for a day trip to Taos and something to do, keep reading; we have you covered!
Taos Plaza and Downtown District
Today, Taos Plaza is the center of the Taos Historic District, where you can find live music and farmers markets as you stroll through shops and galleries. Some things you will find in this shopping district are local handmade jewelry and pottery. Stop in one of the cafes for a coffee as you browse through the different stores.
Restaurants in Taos, NM
All the shopping and outdoor activities you do in Taos will leave you feeling really hungry and ready for a beer. Fortunately, Taos has dozens of restaurants for you to choose from, whether it’s a green chile cheeseburger or a plate of authentic Mexican tacos. You will enjoy the atmosphere of any local restaurant you eat at in Taos, such as Taos Mesa Brewing’s Taproom. This Brewery is a great spot to grab a locally brewed beer and a pizza while you enjoy live entertainment. The Gorge is a bar and grill located in the heart of Taos. This restaurant serves high-quality food and drinks in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere in Taos Square. ACEQ Restaurant is a great option if you’re looking for an elevated dining experience. This restaurant requires reservations, which can be made on their website. Their Duck Confit dish is stellar, and you can finish it off with a slice of key lime pie. Doc Martin’s Restaurant is truly a southwestern restaurant in Taos. All of its dishes are made with local ingredients and served with an award-winning wine list! Doc Martin’s is a must-try for anyone visiting Taos, New Mexico!
Taos Ski Valley
An adventurous 41 miles from Red River, you will find Taos Ski Valley, which began as a small hill with one lift and one run, the current Snakedance trail. It quickly grew into a world-class ski resort with a total of 110 trails and 13 lifts, one of which is a gondola! You can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating during the winter season. Taos Ski Valley is also open during the summer, and you can enjoy a scenic chair lift ride, mountain biking, ferrata climbing, and hiking! While you are visiting Taos Ski Valley, grab a bite to eat at The Bavarian Restaurant, which is located at the base of Taos Ski Valley and serves German and Bavarian cuisine.
Taos Pueblo
Located just 3 miles northeast of Taos Plaza, you will find Taos Pueblo, a National Historic Landmark. These adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. Archaeologists say that ancestors of Taos Natives lived in this valley long before Columbus “discovered” America. You can enjoy the experience of Taos Pueblo and even go on a guided tour.
Activities to do in Taos
Did you plan a trip to Red River with a couple of extra days to explore the surrounding towns and have no idea what to do? Head on over to Taos to experience some adventurous activities. From kayaking to hot springs, there is something for everyone. During the late spring and early summer, you can find premier whitewater rafting down the Rio Grande where the rapids are gentle and wildlife surrounds you. You can book your whitewater rafting trip at Sitzmark Sports, located in Red River!
The state of New Mexico is geothermically active, meaning a group of natural heat transfer processes occurs on Earth’s surface, causing excess heat in the affected areas. Because of this natural phenomenon, the Land of Enchantment has all-natural hot springs. Ojo Caliente is one of the country’s oldest health spas, located 69 miles from Red River or only 41 miles from Taos. Soak your soul in their nine communal hot springs, or book a private tub for a tranquil experience you’ll never forget!
If you haven’t driven over the Gorge Bridge in Taos, you should make time for it during your next trip to Taos. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge sits 650 feet above the river and is the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and 5th highest bridge in the United States.
**Ojo Spa Resort properties are 13 years of age and older type resorts. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. This is included in the soaking, spa, and pool areas.