Fall 2024 Travel Ideas: Exploring the Enchanting Land of New Mexico

Are you looking for the perfect travel destination for Fall 2024? Look no further than the enchanting state of New Mexico! With its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant festivals, New Mexico offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a food lover, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, this southwestern gem has something for everyone.

Convenient Travel Options

Getting to New Mexico is a breeze, thanks to the ABQ Sunport. With numerous flights arriving daily, it’s easy to find a convenient time to visit. Once you land, renting a car is a great way to explore the state at your own pace. The well-maintained highways, such as I-25  and  I-40, make road trips through neighboring states like Colorado, Arizona, and Texas a delight.

Discover the Magic of Early Fall

When it comes to visiting New Mexico, September and October can’t be beat. The chile roasting season is in full swing, filling the air with a tantalizing aroma that will awaken your taste buds. Immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in the state’s famous cuisine. From green chile cheeseburgers to mouthwatering enchiladas, New Mexico offers a culinary experience like no other.

Festivals and Events

Santa Fe

During the early Fall season, New Mexico comes alive with a variety of exciting events and festivals. In Santa Fe, you can witness the awe-inspiring Zozobra, a unique celebration that involves burning a giant puppet to symbolize the release of worries and troubles. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

Albuquerque

Albuquerque, our largest city, hosts two major events during this time. The State Fair showcases the best of New Mexico’s agriculture, entertainment, and culture. From thrilling rides to live music performances, there’s something for everyone in the family. And of course, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is a must-see. Watch as hundreds of colorful hot air balloons fill the sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The Special Shapes Glowdeo is particularly fun to see, as you can get up close and see the world illuminated by fire through the lens of colorful balloons. It’s quite fun spotting different shapes and wondering how they were able to make it.

The State Fair is also a great time to visit Albuquerque. Both this and the Balloon Fiesta happen right in the middle of chile season, so visiting a chile roaster while you are in Albuquerque is also a great idea for something to do! In the holiday season, the River of Lights is also a great spot to visit!

Hatch

If you’re a fan of spicy food, a visit to Hatch during the Hatch Chile Festival is a must. This small town is known as the “Chile Capital of the World,” and during the festival, you can sample a wide variety of chile-infused dishes, watch cooking demonstrations, and even participate in a chile-eating contest. It’s a fiery experience you won’t forget! Be sure to go down there on Labor Day weekend if you want to catch it and see what makes Hatch chile special!

Las Cruces

Las Cruces, New Mexico, bursts with cultural and community events throughout the year that celebrate its rich heritage and vibrant community. The Southern New Mexico Wine Festival brings together local wineries for tastings and celebrations of regional wines, including chile infused beverages. Finally, if you are in town for New Year’s, the Chile Drop is not something to be missed. It is held in downtown Las Cruces, and is something akin to the ball dropping in Times Square, but it is a chile dropping instead. It’s a great event with performances, food stands, and much more!

Pleasant Weather and Stunning Landscapes

One of the many reasons to visit New Mexico in the fall is the pleasant weather. With mild temperatures and clear skies, you’ll be able to explore the state comfortably. A light windbreaker is all you need for the cool mornings in October. Whether you’re hiking through the picturesque Sandia Mountains or exploring the ancient ruins of Chaco Canyon, the stunning landscapes of New Mexico will leave you in awe. If you decide to take the Tramway up to Sandia Peak, don’t forget that it is much colder and windy at the top. Even if it is comfortable at the bottom, it will be more chilly than you expect on the summit.

Don’t forget to visit the charming city of Santa Fe, known for its adobe architecture, art galleries, and vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll through the historic Plaza, browse the unique shops, and savor the flavors of traditional New Mexican cuisine. The blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences creates a cultural tapestry that is truly captivating.

Welcome to New Mexico

New Mexico is a hidden gem that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list for Fall 2024. From the vibrant festivals and delicious cuisine to the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this enchanting state offers a unique and unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the Land of Enchantment! While you are here, be sure to visit us during the chile season which runs the months of August, September, and October. We guarantee you will enjoy the heat of our roasted chile! We also have a bunch of chile ristras