Taos, NM Summary

photo by gusto

A collection of several unique communities, Taos is an art haven, an outdoor-lover’s paradise, a historical colony and a world-class ski resort all at once. With the Southern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico providing the framework for an exceptional and unique village, it’s no wonder that celebrities like Julia Roberts call Taos home. Like many places in New Mexico, the culture that defines Taos is a result of several ethnic traditions. Established in the 1700s, the Taos cultural quilt is made up of Anglo, Spanish and American Indian threads. This unique combination creates an ambiance you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. Historic Taos Plaza with its unique shops, restaurants and art galleries is one of the best places to experience this ambiance.

Outdoor lovers have no shortage of activity options from which to choose. During the summer you can take a hike, hop on a horse and take a ride, or grab a fishing pole and try to catch lunch, then spend the night camping. The famed Rio Grande provides the ideal environment for swimming, kayaking and white water rafting. In the wintertime, Taos is transformed from summer haven to winter wonderland. The area’s mountains are covered in a thick layer of snow ideal for ski lovers. Taos Ski Valley Resort is the most popular place for skiing in the area. A full-service ski resort, Taos Ski Valley features several ski-friendly lodging options, instruction, retail stores and restaurants.