Top Places to See When Driving from Anthony, TX, Texas to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Driving from Anthony, TX, Texas to Santa Fe, New Mexico is a journey that takes you through vast deserts, lush forests, towering peaks, and quaint towns. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or soaking up the local culture, there's no shortage of incredible sights to see and experiences to be had along the way. In this post, we've compiled a list of the top places to visit as you travel through this beautiful part of the country.
1. White Sands National Park
Located just outside of Alamogordo, New Mexico, the White Sands National Park is like no other place on earth. Here, you'll find miles of gleaming white sand dunes that are so bright they shine in the sun. The sand is made up of gypsum crystals, so it's cool and soft to the touch, and you can even sled down the dunes!
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is just right. There are several hiking trails throughout the park, including the popular Alkali Flat Trail, a five-mile round trip hike over the white dunes.
2. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Not far from White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-visit destination for any road trip through the Southwest. The park is home to some of the largest caves in the world, with over 100 caves to explore.
Take a guided tour through the massive underground rooms and halls, or hike one of the several trails in the park that offer stunning views of the desert and guano-covered hills. The park also offers bat viewing from late May to early October when thousands of bats fly out of the caverns at sunset.
3. Ghost Ranch
Nestled in the hills of Abiquiu, New Mexico, Ghost Ranch is a truly unique destination. This former dude ranch turned retreat center was made famous by Georgia O'Keeffe, who spent many summers here painting the stunning landscapes.
Today, the ranch offers a variety of classes, workshops, and retreats, as well as guided hikes through the stunning red rocks and canyons of the area. The ranch also has a museum displaying artifacts from the local Native American culture, as well as a gift shop where you can purchase handmade crafts.
4. Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America, and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This adobe village is home to around 150 people, and many of the buildings date back over 1,000 years.
Take a tour of the village with a Native American guide, learn about the history and culture of the Pueblo people, and see the traditional round ceremonial kivas. The village also offers arts and crafts markets where you can purchase handmade pottery, weaving, and jewelry.
5. Santa Fe Plaza
Located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Plaza is the perfect place to soak up the local culture. This historic square is surrounded by art galleries, museums, and restaurants, and it's home to several annual events and festivals throughout the year.
Stop by the Palace of the Governors to see the exhibits on New Mexico's history, or visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum to see some of her iconic paintings. There are also several outdoor concerts and performances held in the plaza during the summer months.
Conclusion
From the stunning sand dunes of White Sands National Park to the ancient Taos Pueblo and the bustling Santa Fe Plaza, there's no shortage of incredible sights to see and experiences to be had on a road trip from Anthony, TX, Texas to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Whether you're interested in nature, art, culture, or history, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of the country. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!