Española New MexicoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Española, New Mexico.
1. Puye Cliff Dwellings
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN RUINS
Puye Cliff Dwellings is one of the most fascinating cultural attractions in northern New Mexico, offering an educational glimpse into indigenous Pueblo culture. The site features ancient dwellings carved into cliff walls and atop a mesa with spectacular scenic views. Visitors can explore these historic ruins through guided tours that provide hands-on historical exploration of this important archaeological site.
2. The Low Road From Taos and Santa Fe
SCENIC RIVERSIDE DRIVE
The Low Road From Taos and Santa Fe is a picturesque scenic drive that passes through the Española area. This route follows the Rio Grande river valley, offering beautiful vistas and access to historic villages. While the ride north to Taos is considered more scenic, this southern route provides its own unique charm and cultural landmarks.
3. Los Luceros Historic Site
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE ESTATE
Los Luceros Historic Site showcases great history set in a beautiful riverside location near Española. The property features historic buildings, gardens, and agricultural areas along the Rio Grande. Visitors can learn about the diverse cultural heritage of northern New Mexico while exploring this well-preserved historic estate.
4. Bond House Museum
LOCAL HISTORICAL SHOWCASE
The Bond House Museum is located in the Plaza de Española and contains exhibits managed by the San Gabriel Historical Society. The ground floor features multiple rooms displaying local artifacts, photographs, and stories from Española's founding families. This historic house offers visitors insight into the area's rich cultural history and settlement.
5. New Mexico Wildlife Center
NATIVE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
New Mexico Wildlife Center is an excellent place to visit to see and learn about native wildlife just 20 minutes from Santa Fe. Visitors can observe hawks, owls, bobcats, turtles, and other animals in a dedicated conservation setting. The center provides educational opportunities about local ecosystems and wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
6. Black Mesa Golf Club
DESERT LINKS COURSE
Black Mesa Golf Club is a high-desert links style layout that weaves through sandstone foothills on the Santa Clara Pueblo north of Santa Fe. Designed by Baxter Spann, this distinctive course offers unique terrain and challenging play. Golfers enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape while navigating this scenic course.
7. Espanola Valley Fiber Arts Center
TRADITIONAL WEAVING HUB
Espanola Valley Fiber Arts Center serves as New Mexico's resource for fiber artists, enthusiasts, and visitors interested in traditional and contemporary textile arts. The center offers a hands-on approach to weaving and other fiber techniques with classes, exhibitions, and a shop featuring local artisan works. EVFAC connects visitors with the region's rich textile traditions while supporting local artists and providing creative inspiration.
8. El Parasol
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
El Parasol is a beloved local eatery in Española serving authentic northern New Mexican and Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its hand-rolled tacos, tamales, and chile-smothered specialties that showcase regional flavors. Visitors can experience genuine local cuisine in a casual, no-frills setting that has satisfied locals and travelers for generations.
9. Tesuque Peak Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
Tesuque Peak Trail offers hikers a highly-rated outdoor experience near Española with spectacular mountain views. The trail winds through diverse landscapes and ecosystems in the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Hikers can enjoy the natural beauty while exploring this popular route that showcases the region's stunning wilderness.
10. Santa Claran Hotel & Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
Santa Claran Hotel & Casino provides visitors with gaming entertainment, comfortable accommodations, and dining options in the Española area. The property serves as a convenient base for exploring northern New Mexico's attractions and cultural sites. Guests can enjoy the amenities while experiencing hospitality influenced by the region's Native American heritage.
11. Santuario de Chimayó
SACRED PILGRIMAGE SITE
Santuario de Chimayó is a famous pilgrimage site near Española known for its healing dirt and centuries-old adobe church. The historic sanctuary attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, especially during Holy Week when many make the journey on foot. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, the historic chapel, and learn about the spiritual significance of this important cultural landmark.
12. Abiquiú Lake
RED ROCK RECREATION AREA
Abiquiú Lake offers outdoor recreation opportunities including swimming, kayaking, and hiking through stunning red rock landscapes near Española. The reservoir sits in Georgia O'Keeffe country, surrounded by the dramatic scenery that inspired the famous artist's paintings. Visitors can enjoy water activities, camping, and photography in this picturesque natural setting.
13. Poeh Cultural Center
PUEBLOAN ART MUSEUM
The Poeh Cultural Center serves as an educational hub for Puebloan art, history, and culture near Española. The center features rotating and permanent exhibits showcasing traditional and contemporary Native American artworks and artifacts. Visitors can learn about Tewa-speaking Pueblo traditions while viewing remarkable pottery, paintings, and sculptures by indigenous artists.
14. Nambe Falls
DRAMATIC DESERT WATERFALL
Nambe Falls features a dramatic multi-tiered waterfall within Nambe Pueblo lands near Española. The falls cascade down volcanic rock formations, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors can hike to various viewpoints to appreciate the natural beauty of this unusual desert oasis.
15. Bandelier National Monument
ANCIENT CLIFF DWELLINGS
Bandelier National Monument preserves ancient Ancestral Puebloan dwellings carved into volcanic tuff cliffs just outside of Española. The monument features over 33,000 acres of rugged canyon and mesa landscapes with petroglyphs, cave dwellings, and masonry pueblo structures. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails through this archaeological treasure that showcases human habitation dating back over 11,000 years.