Taos, New Mexico Vacation Rentals
Explore 264 rental homes and villas in Taos, New Mexico for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Best Affordable Homes, Great for Groups and Homes with Parking. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $61 per night with homes containing as many as 7 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Taos Overview
Discover the enchanting town of Taos, New Mexico, where the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains meet the high desert, creating a landscape that is as breathtaking as it is unique. Taos is not just a destination; it's an experience that blends the allure of natural wonders with a deep cultural tapestry and an artistic vibrancy that has to be seen to be believed.
The heart of Taos beats with the rhythm of its most famous attractions. The Taos Pueblo, a living Native American community and UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a monument to a thousand years of history. Its adobe structures rise against the clear New Mexico sky, offering a glimpse into the enduring spirit of the Tiwa-speaking people.
Art lovers will find themselves captivated by the town's rich artistic heritage, which has drawn creatives like Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams to its tranquil yet dramatic setting. Galleries abound, filled with the works of local and celebrated artists, while the Harwood Museum of Art and the Millicent Rogers Museum provide deeper dives into the region's artistic legacy.
For the adventurous, the Rio Grande Gorge and Wheeler Peak offer exhilarating opportunities for hiking, rafting, and skiing, with landscapes that will leave you in awe. The rugged beauty of these natural attractions is a call to the wild at heart.
Enhance your stay in Taos by renting a private home, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility and privacy of your own space. Many of these homes come with the added luxury of swimming pools, offering a refreshing oasis in the desert sun. Pet-friendly options ensure that your furry companions can join in on the adventure, making for a perfect family retreat.
While Taos may not boast beaches or waterfronts, its high desert charm and mountain vistas offer a different kind of serenity. Imagine lounging by your private pool, the sun setting behind the mountains, painting the sky with colors that rival the town's artistic masterpieces.
In Taos, every moment is infused with the potential for discovery, relaxation, and rejuvenation. From its storied past to its vibrant present, Taos invites you to be part of its ongoing story, one that is best experienced through the warmth and comfort of a home away from home. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills, cultural enrichment, or simply a peaceful escape, Taos is a destination that promises an unforgettable journey.
Cultural Attractions in Taos
Taos, New Mexico is a vibrant destination that caters to lovers of arts, history, and local traditions. The town boasts a lively art scene with many galleries and studios displaying the works of local artists. Noteworthy institutions such as the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House and the Harwood Museum of Art house remarkable collections of regional art.
History buffs will find Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in America, an essential visit. It offers an unparalleled glimpse into Native American culture and history. The Taos Historic Museums - including the Hacienda de los Martinez and the Blumenschein Home & Museum - also offer intriguing insights into the region's past.
Live music can be savored at various venues throughout town. Regular performances spanning diverse musical genres are hosted by Taos Mesa Brewing, while other venues like KTAOS Solar Center hold live music events year-round.
Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs during any of Taos' annual festivals such as the San Geronimo Feast Day at Taos Pueblo or Fiestas de Taos in downtown Taos. These festivals celebrate local culture with traditional music, dance, food, and crafts.
Although it's feasible to explore this quaint town on foot due to its compact size, having a car would be advantageous for visiting attractions outside of the town center or for excursions to nearby natural attractions like Rio Grande del Norte National Monument or Carson National Forest. In conclusion, whether you're interested in art galleries or historic sites, live music performances or cultural festivals - you'll find it all in Taos.
Family friendly activities in Taos
Visitors to Taos, New Mexico can expect a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to captivate children. The town's rich Native American heritage is prominently showcased at the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, children have the opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of the Pueblo people and explore their multi-story adobe structures.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument is a must-visit. This expansive landscape provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and even white-water rafting for older kids. The Wild Rivers Recreation Area within the monument features several trails suitable for children with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande Gorge.
The Taos Ski Valley is another family-friendly destination. In winter months, children can take ski or snowboard lessons from seasoned instructors. During summer months, chairlift rides offer stunning mountain views and access to various hiking trails.
The Harwood Museum of Art offers interactive art programs tailored specifically for children. These programs expose kids to different forms of art in an engaging and enjoyable manner.
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Earthship Biotecture community where sustainable and off-grid living is demonstrated. These distinctive homes are constructed from recycled materials and produce their own food, water, and energy.
Lastly, make sure to sample local cuisine - numerous restaurants in Taos feature kid-friendly menus with New Mexican favorites such as enchiladas and tacos.
As for transportation - Taos is relatively compact making it quite walkable but renting a car would be advantageous for visiting sites outside of town like the Ski Valley or National Monument. To reach Taos initially most visitors fly into Albuquerque International Sunport then drive to Taos which takes approximately 2 hours.
Outdoor activities in Taos
Taos, New Mexico is a haven for those who appreciate the great outdoors and natural beauty. The Rio Grande Gorge is a remarkable geological formation that offers activities such as hiking, white-water rafting, and wildlife observation. The bridge spanning the gorge ranks as the second highest on the U.S. Highway System and offers awe-inspiring views of the river 800 feet beneath.
Another must-visit in Taos is the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. This 83-mile loop guides you through some of New Mexico's most picturesque landscapes, encompassing mountains, forests, and valleys. There are numerous spots to halt for hiking, fishing, camping or simply to soak in the view.
Winter sports enthusiasts will find Taos Ski Valley appealing with its challenging slopes and deep powder snow. It caters not only to expert skiers but also has plenty of runs suitable for beginners and intermediates.
Mountain biking is another popular activity in Taos with trails like South Boundary Trail being particularly favored by bikers due to its breathtaking views and exciting descents.
For those who enjoy hiking, Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area is a must-visit spot which includes Wheeler Peak - New Mexico's highest point at over 13,000 feet. Multiple trails lead up to this peak offering stunning views of surrounding mountains and valleys.
Lastly, make sure to explore Carson National Forest which envelops much of Taos. It boasts hundreds of miles of trails ideal for hiking or horseback riding through diverse landscapes ranging from high desert mesas to alpine peaks.
In conclusion, whether you are passionate about high mountain wilderness hiking or wild river gorge rafting; whether you love skiing down powdery slopes or biking through forested trails; Taos has something unique for every outdoor enthusiast.
Weather in Taos
Taos, New Mexico is characterized by a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, largely due to its high elevation of over 7,000 feet. This high desert location enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine annually, offering clear blue skies and dry weather.
The summer season from June to August is warm and pleasant with average high temperatures ranging in the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit. These months also mark the monsoon season, bringing afternoon thunderstorms that can be intense but usually brief. However, these storms also carry the risk of flash flooding.
Autumn in Taos spans from September to November and is marked by mild temperatures and clear skies. This season showcases a beautiful change in foliage color, painting the landscape with vibrant hues.
Winter months from December to February can be quite cold with average high temperatures in the 40s Fahrenheit and lows dropping into the 20s. The proximity to mountains results in common snowfall during this period, making Taos a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Springtime from March to May sees gradually warming temperatures and less precipitation. This transitional season offers a great opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
While summer and autumn offer popular weather conditions for outdoor activities due to comfortable temperatures, winter provides an ideal time for those who prefer cooler weather or enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. Despite its seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation due to its elevation, Taos remains an attractive destination year-round because of its abundant sunshine.
Transportation in Taos
Visitors planning a trip to Taos, New Mexico, can choose from several modes of transportation. The most frequent route is by air through Albuquerque International Sunport, followed by a scenic drive of roughly two and a half hours to reach Taos. There is also an option to fly directly into the smaller airport located in Taos, although it offers limited flights.
Upon arrival in Taos, it's advisable to have access to a car due to the wide distribution of attractions in the area. Car rental services are conveniently available at both airports. For those who prefer not driving, taxi services and shuttles are readily available.
The town of Taos itself is quite walkable with its compact downtown area. Visitors can enjoy strolling around numerous shops, eateries, and historical sites that are closely situated.
However, some key attractions like the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and the Taos Pueblo are situated outside the town center. To visit these places, one would need a vehicle or pre-arranged transportation.
In summary, while downtown Taos is quite walkable, having access to a car or other means of transport is essential for fully experiencing all that this picturesque region has to offer.