Historical Site
Petroglyph National Monument
Hike among volcanic rocks to see one of North America's largest petroglyph sites, with thousands of images carved by Native Americans and early Spanish settlers centuries ago.
Historic
Adobe architecture, ancient art & enchanting mesas.
Adobe architecture, ancient art & enchanting mesas.
Albuquerque, NM 87120Durango, CO 81301
4 days14 stops
4
Days
14
Stops
active
Region
Albuquerque, NM 87120Durango, CO 81301
Journey through the heart of the American Southwest, where ancient cliff dwellings cling to canyon walls and vibrant cultures converge. This road trip winds through rust-colored mesas and high desert plains, exploring historic adobe plazas, world-class art galleries, and sacred Native American lands.
Trip highlights
The route
- 1Albuquerque, NM 87120Start · 35.1390, -106.7797
- 2Petroglyph National MonumentStop · 35.1361, -106.7144
- 3Indian Pueblo Cultural CenterStop · 35.1099, -106.6589
- 4The ShedStop · 35.6875, -105.9370
- 5Inn and Spa at LorettoStop · 35.6854, -105.9371
- 6Loretto ChapelStop · 35.6856, -105.9375
- 7Canyon Road Art GalleriesStop · 35.6813, -105.9283
- 8Georgia O'Keeffe MuseumStop · 35.6892, -105.9413
- 9Taos PuebloStop · 36.4396, -105.5470
- 10Rio Grande Gorge BridgeStop · 36.4762, -105.7332
- 11San Francisco de Asís Mission ChurchStop · 36.3584, -105.6084
- 12El Monte SagradoStop · 36.4021, -105.5686
- 13Chimayó Trading PostStop · 35.9913, -106.0681
- 14Mesa Verde National ParkStop · 37.3085, -108.4437
- 15Steamworks Brewing CompanyStop · 37.2723, -107.8800
- 16Durango, CO 81301End · 37.2731, -107.8821
Day 2
Culture Arts
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Owned and operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, this center is the premier place to discover the history, culture, and art of the Pueblo people through exhibits and traditional dance performances.
Dining
The Shed
A Santa Fe institution since 1953, famous for its mouth-watering, red chile-infused New Mexican cuisine. The historic adobe setting just off the Plaza provides an authentic local dining experience.
Lodging
Inn and Spa at Loretto
An iconic hotel celebrated for its stunning Pueblo Revival architecture, located steps from the historic Santa Fe Plaza and adjacent to the famed Loretto Chapel.
Day 3
Religious Site
Loretto Chapel
Visit this beautiful former Roman Catholic church, now a museum, famous for its 'miraculous' spiral staircase that stands with no visible means of support.
Culture Arts
Canyon Road Art Galleries
Stroll down a magical, half-mile road packed with over a hundred art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants housed in historic adobe buildings. It's the epicenter of Santa Fe's vibrant art scene.
Culture Arts
Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
Explore the life and work of one of America's most iconic artists. The museum offers a deep dive into O'Keeffe's stunning interpretations of New Mexico's landscapes and flowers.
Day 4
Historical Site
Taos Pueblo
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient, multi-storied adobe pueblo has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. It offers a profound glimpse into the living culture of the Red Willow people.
Scenic Viewpoint
Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Walk across the fifth-highest bridge in the United States, hovering 650 feet above the Rio Grande. The panoramic views into the deep gorge are absolutely breathtaking.
Religious Site
San Francisco de Asís Mission Church
An iconic Spanish Colonial mission known for its massive, sculpted adobe buttresses. This church was a favorite subject for artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.
Lodging
El Monte Sagrado
A luxurious and eclectic resort that blends Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, offering a serene escape with beautiful grounds and world-class amenities.
Day 5
Shopping
Chimayó Trading Post
Located on the High Road to Taos scenic byway, this historic trading post offers authentic, hand-woven Chimayó blankets, rugs, and other high-quality regional crafts.
Historical Site
Mesa Verde National Park
Protecting nearly 5,000 archaeological sites, including 600 remarkably preserved cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. A ranger-guided tour of Cliff Palace is an unforgettable experience.
Dining
Steamworks Brewing Company
Celebrate the end of your journey at this lively Durango brewpub. Known for award-winning craft beers and a diverse menu, it's a favorite gathering spot for locals and travelers alike.
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