Central New Mexico

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(1 area review)

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

While visiting Northeast Heights, you might make a stop by sights like Putt-Putt Golf and Games and ABQ Uptown.

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

Old Town Albuquerque

Unique features of Old Town Albuquerque include the historic sites and restaurants. Make a stop by Old Town Plaza or American International Rattlesnake Museum while you're exploring the area.

Old Town Albuquerque
San Esteban Del Rey Mission in Acoma Pueblo

Historic Eastside

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

Downtown Albuquerque is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to KiMo Theater and Sunshine Theater while you're in town.

Downtown Albuquerque
Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque

Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque

3 out of 5
3300 Prospect Ave Ne Albuquerque NM
The price is P5,048 per night from Mar 8 to Mar 9
P5,048
P5,837 total
Mar 8 - Mar 9
includes taxes & 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! (1,078 reviews)
The staff was lovely, helpful and very accommodating.

Reviewed on Feb 13, 2026

Sonesta ES Suites Albuquerque
The Querque Hotel

The Querque Hotel

3 out of 5
1760 Menaul Rd NE Albuquerque NM
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! (5,001 reviews)
Room was clean, staff was friendly, location was convenient. There are hotels in ABQ that I prefer if I want to have a fancy weekend away, but when I am just looking for a room for a night or 2, The Querque hotel has become my go-to place in ABQ.

Reviewed on Feb 16, 2026

The Querque Hotel
Isleta Resort and Casino

Isleta Resort and Casino

4 out of 5
11000 Broadway Blvd SE Albuquerque NM
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P6,215 per night from Feb 19 to Feb 20
P6,215
P6,973 total
Feb 19 - Feb 20
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in Albuquerque. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,768 reviews)
I chose add my first night's day on my NM/Albuquerque based on how gorgeous their pool area is, and...it is! There were a few maintenance issues at the hotel, But staff was very receptive to feedback and pleasant throughout the duration in every area.I interacted with them front desk , multiple food ...

Reviewed on Feb 12, 2026

Isleta Resort and Casino
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.
Cielo Grande

Cielo Grande

3 out of 5
442 Greg Ave Santa Fe NM
Stay at this vacation home in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and patios. Popular attractions Santa Fe Plaza and Harrell House of Natural Oddities and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (20 reviews)
The house was super clean the beds were comfy and the decorations were beautiful.

Reviewed on Jan 1, 2026

Cielo Grande
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging

Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging

3 out of 5
321 Kearney Ave Santa Fe NM
Stay at this aparthotel in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,215 reviews)
My family and I have stayed here many times. Always has parking available. Rooms are spotless, spacious, and property is quiet. Staff is extremely responsive to any needs. Kitchens are stocked with all that you could need for equipment. Property is well-maintained. Onsite laundry facilities for extended ...

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2026

Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging
Palace Modern Residences at the Railyard

Palace Modern Residences at the Railyard

2 out of 5
314 Read St Santa Fe NM
Stay at this vacation home in Santa Fe. Enjoy free WiFi and free parking. Popular attractions Santa Fe Plaza and Art Vault are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
Such a well designed, clean place to stay in a perfect, central location. Will definitely stay here again next time we’re in Santa Fe. Highly recommended!

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2025

Palace Modern Residences at the Railyard
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.

Popular places to visit

Things to do