Central New Mexico, NM

Travel Guide

Halfway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe on New Mexico’s Highway 25, hang a left (if you’re heading north) and be prepared for some unusual and magnificent rock formations courtesy of mother nature, the Bureau of Land Management, and the American Indian Pueblo de Cochiti.  

The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rock National Monument owes its remarkable geology to layers of volcanic rock and ash deposited by pyroclastic flow 6 to 7 million years ago from a volcanic explosion within the Jemez Volcanic Field; and to the gentle hand of time as wind and water smoothed the pumice, ash and tuff deposits.  

Bring your hiking boots along with your camera and see the tent rocks up close and personal for a $5 fee (per vehicle) via two separate trails that offer superb views of this natural wonder.   Hike to the top of the Canyon Trail for magnificent views of central New Mexico only possible from almost 7,000 feet above sea level.  

See more pictures and commentary of our hike via my travel blog at http://www.aplacecalledroam.com/home/hiking-the-stunning-kasha-katuwe-tent-rocks-national-monument .
Halfway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe on New Mexico’s Highway 25, hang a left (if you’re heading north) and be prepared for some unusual and magnificent rock formations courtesy of mother nature, the Bureau of Land Management, and the American Indian Pueblo de Cochiti.  

The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rock National Monument owes its remarkable geology to layers of volcanic rock and ash deposited by pyroclastic flow 6 to 7 million years ago from a volcanic explosion within the Jemez Volcanic Field; and to the gentle hand of time as wind and water smoothed the pumice, ash and tuff deposits.  

Bring your hiking boots along with your camera and see the tent rocks up close and personal for a $5 fee (per vehicle) via two separate trails that offer superb views of this natural wonder.   Hike to the top of the Canyon Trail for magnificent views of central New Mexico only possible from almost 7,000 feet above sea level.  

See more pictures and commentary of our hike via my travel blog at http://www.aplacecalledroam.com/home/hiking-the-stunning-kasha-katuwe-tent-rocks-national-monument .
The mass ascension ceremonies at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta!
Definitely worth the drive to get out here!
Very interesting rock formations!

Where to stay in Central New Mexico

New Mexico Museum of Art which includes a statue or sculpture and art

Downtown Santa Fe

4.5/5(1,990 area reviews)

Visitors to Downtown Santa Fe rave about its fascinating museums, popular shops, and acclaimed art galleries. You might also want to make some time to see Santuario De Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe or Lensic Performing Arts Center while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Downtown Santa Fe
Dramatic, beautiful sunset casts purple and orange colors and hues on clouds and mountains over a neighborhood in Tesuque, near Santa Fe, New Mexico

Tesuque

Tesuque is noteworthy for its spas, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Shidoni Foundry and Glenn Green Galleries & Sculpture Garden.

Tesuque
Quick stop for refreshments at la cumbre brewing on girard off candelaria.

Northeast Heights

3.5/5(1,327 area reviews)

While visiting Northeast Heights, you might make a stop by sights like ABQ Uptown and Coronado Center.

Northeast Heights
San Felipe de Neri Parish Church in the old town of Albuquerque

Old Town Albuquerque

Explore historic adobe buildings, dine at numerous restaurants, and shop at various stores in this popular tourist destination. Don't miss the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, and the nearby New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Old Town Albuquerque
San Esteban Del Rey Mission in Acoma Pueblo

Historic Eastside

4.5/5(54 area reviews)

While visiting Historic Eastside, you might make a stop by sights like Canyon Road and ViVO Contemporary.

Historic Eastside
Downtown city skyline of Albuquerque at night, New Mexico, United States of America.

Downtown Albuquerque

3.5/5(704 area reviews)

Central business district with highrise buildings, Downtown Albuquerque offers shopping, dining, and nightlife along Central and Gold Avenues. Explore landmarks like KiMo Theater and enjoy convenient public transit options.

Downtown Albuquerque
La Fonda on the Plaza

La Fonda on the Plaza

4 out of 5
100 E San Francisco St Santa Fe NM
$249 nightly
The price is $287 total per night from Mar 8 to Mar 9
$287 total
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this historic hotel in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,094 reviews)
The room was lovely, very clean had everything we needed. Every staff member we interacted with was welcoming, helpful, and under standing. We will definitely be back!

Reviewed on Feb 1, 2026

La Fonda on the Plaza
Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque

Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque

3 out of 5
3300 Prospect Ave Ne Albuquerque NM
$87 nightly
The price is $101 total per night from Mar 1 to Mar 2
$101 total
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Albuquerque. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,061 reviews)
Room was nice, staff was very helpful.

Reviewed on Jan 29, 2026

Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque
The Querque Hotel

The Querque Hotel

3 out of 5
1760 Menaul Rd NE Albuquerque NM
$71 nightly
The price is $82 total per night from Feb 9 to Feb 10
$82 total
Feb 9 - Feb 10
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Albuquerque. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (4,971 reviews)
The staff was very polite whenever I need anything.They took care of all. I suggest this place because of the quality of the people that work here.

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2026

The Querque Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Visitors Love the Location,
 I Love the View!

Visitors Love the Location, I Love the View!

Santa Fe NM
Book a stay at this ski condo in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and ski-in/ski-out access. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (387 reviews)
Exceeded my expectations!

Reviewed on Jan 18, 2026

Visitors Love the Location, I Love the View!
Southwestern style home! We are your home away from home & close to everything.

Southwestern style home! We are your home away from home & close to everything.

Santa Fe NM
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Santa Fe. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Santa ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (24 reviews)
The place was the cleanest I'd ever seen, and was like staying in a model home. It was close to everything we would ever want to see or do. The owner even had the house warmed up for us when we arrived. Would totally recommend.

Reviewed on Jan 22, 2026

Southwestern style home! We are your home away from home & close to everything.
Historic Downtown Adobe Apartment near everything you want

Historic Downtown Adobe Apartment near everything you want

Santa Fe NM
Stay at this apartment in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Santa Fe Plaza and Santa Fe River Park are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (155 reviews)
This was the perfect spot for my son and I to stay while in Santa Fe. Great location, comfortable bed, stocked kitchen, and fenced backyard for our dog.

Reviewed on Jan 5, 2026

Historic Downtown Adobe Apartment near everything you want
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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