Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument Tours

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monuments featuring building ruins and heritage elements
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monuments which includes tranquil scenes and building ruins
Photo by scott candelaria
Photo by Kate Cadwell
Photo by Kate Cadwell


Explore the remains of 17th-century mission churches and ancestral Puebloan villages in a former trading hub for Native American communities.

Just an hour from Albuquerque and on the outskirts of Mountainair, the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is a fascinating historic attraction comprised of the ruins of Spanish-colonial mission churches and ancient pueblos. Visit the monument to discover the relationships between Native Americans and Spanish conquistadors.

This protected heritage site was originally populated by local Tompiro and Tiwa Indians, and was a major trade center. In the early 17th century, Spanish explorers arrived accompanied by Franciscan missionaries who began to spread Christianity to the indigenous people. However, by the late 1670s the entire Salinas District had been abandoned.

The ruins, buildings and structures they left behind are spread across the three cultural sites of Abó, Quarai and Gran Quivira.

Learn about the background of the national monument by going to the central visitor center in Mountainair. Watch a short film about the history of the area, tour the museum and purchase souvenirs from the gift shop.

The closest ruins to the center of Mountainair are at Quarai in the foothills of the Manzano Mountains, just 8 miles (13 kilometers) away. Stroll along the short trail to view the ruins, which include a square kiva, a subterranean Puebloan religious structure within the Spanish mission.

Continue through the national monument to reach Abó, located approximately 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) from the visitor center. Walk through the ruins of the 17th-century Mission of San Gregorio de Abó to see the remains of the Resettlement Structures. These date back to the 19th century when settlers moved into the area. Book a ranger-guided tour of Abó's petroglyphs to learn more about the structures.

Make your way to Quarai, the most extensive of the three sites. Look at the ruins of the Inglesia de San Isidro and study the collection of artifacts in the museum.

To reach the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monuments, drive south from Albuquerque for about one hour. This takes you to the visitor center in Mountainair. The park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day and admission is free. There is free parking at each of the three cultural sites.

Plan a trip to see Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

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Things to do near Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

At Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, visitors can enjoy hiking and camping amidst stunning landscapes. Explore the best hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty and historical significance. For a unique twist, try your hand at jigsaw puzzles themed around the monument. Additionally, horseback riding offers a great way to experience the region’s scenery. Be sure to check for any upcoming attractions that enhance your visit to this remarkable destination.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Tajique Torreon hiking trail, located 16 miles from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. Enjoy the stunning outdoor scenery and immerse yourself in the adventure vibes as you traverse this picturesque trail, perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.

Find the best attractions near Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument offers a rich blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the historic mission sites and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and parks. This eco-friendly destination caters to families and nature enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal spot for an unforgettable vacation. Don't miss the chance to discover the unique history of the Salinas Pueblo Missions and the natural wonders of the national monument.

  • Quarai Mission Ruins: Explore the fascinating remnants of the Quarai Mission, located 6 miles from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. This site offers a deep cultural experience, showcasing the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Spanish colonial period.
  • Monte Alto Plaza: Enjoy a family-friendly day at Monte Alto Plaza, situated right next to Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. This eco-friendly park features lush greenery and open spaces, perfect for picnics, outdoor games, and relaxation.
  • Mountainair Public Library: Visit the Mountainair Public Library, only 0.1 mile away, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. This welcoming space offers a variety of resources and community events for all ages.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

To save money on your trip to Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, take advantage of its free entry. Consider visiting in February, June, or December for lower accommodation prices, and book your hotel at least three months in advance for better deals. Fridays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, combine bookings for flights and hotels, and join their One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Always check customer reviews and ratings to ensure you get the best value for your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument are February, June and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, September and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.