NM — AREA

Welcome New Mexico, Land of Enchantment

Seen at right: Ship Rock, near Farmington in the far northwest corner of New Mexico, is a 30-million-year-old volcano core. According to Navajo origin mythology, it was once a giant bird that brought the Navajo people to their land here. They refer to it as the "rock with wings."
Photo by: istockphoto.com

On behalf of New Mexico’s tourism industry, I welcome you to our home, one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.

With its rich mixture of natural resources and diverse landscapes, New Mexico is the perfect vacation escape for families and friends, for adventure, sports, and recreation — snow and water skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, golf, fly-fishing, boating, spelunking, snowmobiling, ballooning, sailing, hang gliding. The list seems endless.

Thirteen national monuments and parks, 34 state parks, five national forests, 19 Native American pueblos, two Apache reservations, and the Navajo Nation join with travel industry partners to offer enough recreational pursuits to please the most ardent outdoor adventurer.

The mystique and allure of New Mexico is nearly inexplicable, but it inspires a power that is quite real. The past exists alongside the present; visitors who prefer the convenience of modern living are just as satisfied as those who seek to bask in history. New Mexico continues to beckon modern-day explorers with its magnificent landscapes, wide-open vistas, and abundance of sunlight.

For centuries, writers and artists have used their talents to portray New Mexico in ways that illustrate why this place is so special. Every region of the state offers diverse sites and activities to satisfy visitors. And many lifelong New Mexicans are awestruck when they discover a new site or activity or cultural resource in their own back yard that they have yet to experience.

Mix in a little shopping, fabulous casino resorts, a variety of festivals, incredible cuisine and a host of cultural activities and you have the makings for an unforgettable escape for a weekend or a lifetime.

We’re glad you’ve come to experience our beautiful Land of Enchantment, and we hope you plan to stay a while. Remember, in New Mexico, you’re family.

Once again, bienvenidos!

Michael Cerletti, Secretary
New Mexico Tourism Department

Follow the links below to learn more about the cities and areas of New Mexico.

Santa Fe, New Mexico »»
Celebrating its 400th anniversary, "The City Different" offers adventure, art and culture, and natural beauty with reverence for its heritage.

Albuquerque, New Mexico »»
Albuquerque shines bright - and for more than its twinklin city lights, breathtaking sunsets, colorful culture, or glow of hot-air balloons.

Taos, New Mexico »»
Even in The Land Of Enchantment, Taos has a magical quality all its own.

Southern New Mexcio »»
The stories and the scenery fascinate visitors who explore the southern half of the Land of Enchantment.

Northern New Mexico »»
At all points north, New Mexico is seeped in history and heritage.

Southern Colorado »»
This Rocky Mountain playground is sure to please: adventure, history, beauty, and relaxation prevail in Southern Colorado.