Explore Things to Do in Taos New Mexico

Modern Restaurants, Shopping, Art Galleries and More

Stay at Hotel Don Fernando de Taos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and enjoy effortless access to a wide range of attractions and things to do in Taos, New Mexico. From our hotel, it’s just two miles to the restaurants, shopping, and galleries of Taos Plaza and two and a half miles to Taos Pueblo.  

Tucked between snowcapped mountains, sage-covered flatlands and the 800-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge, Taos is a truly magical landscape. It is a place where centuries-old, mud-brick adobe architecture exists side-by-side with modern restaurants, museums and art galleries. This eclectic spirit features an equally diverse blend of locals, including bohemians and hippies, eco-adventurers and traditional Hispanic families.  

When it comes to discovering the best things to do in Taos, there’s truly something for everyone. There’s skiing, hiking, white-water rafting and hot air balloon rides. You can explore ancient Pueblo structures and Indian reservations. Shop for souvenirs, art and clothing in a diverse array of locally-owned galleries and boutiques.   

The staff at Hotel Don Fernando de Taos will be happy to help you plan your Taos adventure by recommending fun things to do and assisting with anything you need to make it happen.  

Enchanted Circle

Enchanted Circle is an 84-mile drive that is the most popular tour in the area, where you drive past quartz and feldspar that date back two billion years. Also on the tour are the D.H. Lawrence Memorial, Red River Hatchery, Artesanos de Questa, and Red River with its Old West feel and skiing and snowboarding. The gold mining town of Elizabethtown is on the way as well as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Angel Fire four-season resort. Studios and galleries can be found along the winding Taos Canyon road featuring live viewing of painting, pottery and woodworking.

Low angle shot of a road near Hotel Don Fernando de Taos
A couple looking at accessories in a shop at Hotel Don Fernando

Shopping & Souvenirs

Located less than two miles from the hotel, Taos Plaza is the historic center of town. A variety of local shops are situated in and around the plaza and make for a great stop to pick up a souvenir.

  • John Dunn Shops
  • Taos Trading
  • I Love Taos Co.

Arts & Culture

As the home to many artists as well as one of the Eight Northern Pueblos, Taos is a hub of art and culture in New Mexico. Exploring both the native roots and thriving art scene can provide a window into the local culture. We highly recommend stopping for a tour at the historic Taos Pueblo, or visiting one of the many galleries located around Taos.

  • Taos Pueblo
  • Charles Collins Gallery
  • RC Gorman Navajo Gallery
  • Taos Artist Collective
  • Taos Art Musuem at Fechin House
  • San Francisco de Asis Church
  • Millicent Rogers Museum
  • Martinez Hacienda
Couple watching paintings in a gallery near Hotel Don Fernando
Hot air balloon above high mountains near Hotel Don Fernando

Outdoor Summer Adventure

Enjoy perfect weather for outdoor activities in Taos during the summer. The gorge and mountains make it the ideal central location for a plethora of warm weather fun. Plus, explore the wonders of off-grid, sustainable housing at the Earthship Biotecture Visitor Center.

  • Pueblo Balloons
  • Los Rios River Runners
  • Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
  • Hiking Trails
  • Black Rocks Hot Springs
  • Manby Hot Springs
  • Ponce de Leon Hot Springs
  • Mountain Biking
  • Earthship Visitor Center
  • Taos Country Club golf course

Outdoor Winter Adventure

Located near some of the best ski valleys in the country, Taos offers a central location for the winter sport enthusiast. Spend your days traversing the snow-covered mountains, and return to relax in our year-round heated swimming pool.

Ski season is generally mid-November to early April, depending on weather conditions. Ski storage is available in every guest room, for your convenience.

Skier skiing in mountains near Hotel Don Fernando de Taos