Though there are plenty of fun and interesting things to do in Santa Fe, including visiting various art galleries, museums, shops, and cultural sights, there are even more fantastic things to do across the high deserts of northern New Mexico. One of our favorite ways to explore this part of the state is on the Turquoise Trail. The Turquoise Trail in New Mexico is a historic route between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, passing through quaint and historic towns like Madrid and Cerrillos.
The Turquoise Trail in New Mexico is just one of the many scenic byways traversing northern New Mexico. It offers off-the-beaten-path adventures and unique ways of exploring the diverse cultures and influences of the Land of Enchantment, not to mention an excellent opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and other enchanting desert vistas that change with the passing of the sun. Amidst these striking desert landscapes are artists and artisans breathing life into old traditions and seamlessly blending the past into New Mexico’s modern age.
Life on the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico is noticeably slower, inviting you to savor the moment and enjoy quintessential small-town hospitality as you travel. As you travel on this historic Highway 14, you’ll have the chance to explore historic sites, discover local art, and connect with New Mexico’s cultural roots. It’s a wonderful journey of discovery and an easy day trip for those staying with us at our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast.
Santa Fe is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, with its renowned art galleries, vibrant culinary scene, and rich historical heritage waiting to be explored. Our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast provides a cozy, intimate base to delve into the city’s offerings and places you close to the city’s most impressive activities and sights. Whether you’re drawn to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the allure of Canyon Road’s art galleries, or the tranquility of a stroll through its picturesque streets, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast offers the perfect complement to the adventurous spirit of northern New Mexico. Book your room with us today!
What to See on the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico
At its most simplistic, the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico is a highway connecting Santa Fe to Albuquerque. However, in reality, New Mexico State Road 14 is so much more than that! The Turquoise Trail in New Mexico is a National Scenic Byway that meanders along a more rural, scenic route than its heavier trafficked neighbor to the northwest (I-25). As you travel along the historic route of Highway 14, you’ll be treated to panoramic views dotted with rugged mountains, juniper-speckled hills, and the vast, open skies that New Mexico is famous for.
The Turquoise Trail in New Mexico links several former mining towns in this part of the state, notable towns like Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos. These towns were once famous for mining the namesake turquoise rocks that came from here. Today, they’re all becoming havens for art, crafts, theater, music, museums, and restaurants. The 50+-mile route traverses the top of the Sandia Crest, offering visitors breathtaking views into the valleys below. As you make your way from one end of the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico to the other, here are a few things worth stopping for:
- Don’t miss the charming mining town of Madrid. Once a historic coal mining town, Madrid has transformed into a vibrant artist community. The town’s colorful main street is lined with galleries, shops, and eateries, all set against the backdrop of its rustic, Old West architecture. Madrid also famously comes alive during Christmas with its enchanting decorations, drawing visitors from near and far.
- Another must-visit is the town of Cerrillos, a living testament to the area’s mining history. It offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved structures and local mining museum, where you’ll find Turquoise samples, photos, dioramas, and other notable historical items. In area shops, you can also find rough, polished, and finished jewelry.
- Ride to the top of the Sandia Peak Tramway, the longest aerial tramway in the world. The surrounding Sandia Park and the Sandia Mountains offer exceptional bicycling, hiking, horseback riding, climbing, skiing, and bird-watching opportunities. In addition to riding the tramway to the top, you can also enjoy the drive along the Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway as it winds its way through the beautiful Cibola National Forest.
- For a unique attraction along the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico, head to the Tinkertown Museum.
- Visit the historic mining boom town of Golden, where you’ll find the San Francisco Catholic Church. It’s the most photographed building in this fascinating ghost town.
- At the southern end of the Turquoise Trail is the town of Tijeras, home to one of the Cibola National Forest’s Visitor Centers. The forest spans three states and almost 2 million acres, making it an area rife with opportunities for adventure and exploration. This is also where you’ll find the Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site.
The area isn’t free from modern forces of change, including growth into the area, but even so, there’s still an element of the Old West all along the Turquoise Trail, which is, at least in part, what makes it a memorable day trip worth taking. The route is also a favorite among motorcyclists and cyclists for its gentle curves and scenic beauty, and hikers will find numerous trails for deeper exploration.
Return to our Relaxing Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast
As you meander along the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico, we have no doubt you’ll come away with a new understanding of The Land of Enchantment and the unique cultural influences that have shaped it for generations. Even so, it’s just one of the many facets of our unique culture worth exploring while you’re here – something we hope you give yourself plenty of time to enjoy. When you’re done for the day and ready to unwind in the heart of Santa Fe, you’ll find the perfect home away from home at our top-rated Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast.
Our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe offers high-end accommodations within walking distance of the Santa Fe Capitol building and the historic Santa Fe Plaza, plus many of the town’s most popular restaurants, shops, museums, and more. With such easy access to the city’s top attractions, you’ll be surprised how quiet and tucked away you’ll feel in our private guest rooms and casitas. Unlike other, larger hotels in the heart of town, we are a quiet oasis on the outskirts of the busy center – perfect for rest and relaxation.
At our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast, you’ll find eight well-appointed guest rooms and casitas tucked behind the walls of a beautiful adobe compound. Our rooms are decorated with traditional southwestern decor and local art, and all feature private gardens and patios to enjoy, in addition to a host of fantastic amenities. You’ll awaken to the mouthwatering aromas of our homemade breakfast, served fresh daily in our dining room.
Our bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe is tucked behind the walls of a beautiful adobe compound. We offer eight well-appointed guest rooms and casitas, each decorated with traditional southwestern decor and local art. All are tucked among gardens and private patios. Plenty of amenities are included with each stay at our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe. It’s the best way to get fueled up for another day of adventure ahead. Exceptional hospitality and a unique experience await – so book your room at our #1-rated Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe today!
