A Nice Drive
Acoma Pueblo (Sky city)
One of the most honest representations of a New Mexico pueblo. An impressive new museum kicks off your trip up the mesa. Pick up a $20 “day pass” (includes a camera permit–it’s bad etiquette to take pictures of villagers without permission, and absolutely forbidden to shoot video). For a sense of the real (and bloody) history of New Mexico, Acoma is a must.
Dixon's Apple Farm
Dixon’s Apple Farm is a perfect change of pace and scenery. The apples ripen in late September, and a 10-pound bag will last you most of the winter. Apple snobs will debate the burgundies versus the champagne. A jug of the cider brings the taste of autumn home.
Graffiti in the Arroyos
Manny offers, “A special place where artists can take their time to throw up a good piece of work, free from the prying eyes of the public–or the police.”
Jemez Hot Springs (Spence Springs)
You’ll know you reached Jemez Pueblo when you see the most beautiful red rocks in New Mexico. Stop for an Indian Taco and look around. No photos of the pueblo, gringo! A soak in the hot springs will clue you in to why we call New Mexico the “Land of Entrapment.” Prepare for naked people or get naked yourself. On the way back stop in Jemez Springs & try dinner at the Laughing Lizard.
Madrid
If you head east from ABQ either on old Route 66 or I-40, and hang a left (north) onto State Route 14 for a little more than half an hour, you’ll come across Madrid, NM, a gem of a town in our mountainous hills.
McCall's Pumpkin Patch and Haunted Farm
Owned and oped by a married couple and their two kids, McCall’s grows various things on their farm throughout the year, but when October comes, it’s the pumpkins you’re going to care about. Oh, and the haunted farm and haunted corn maze, too.
Tinker Town
Hand-carved wooden miniatures in an assortment of exciting scenes, winding through a seemingly endless labyrinth. Endlessly kid-friendly, and a great (cheap!) stop on your way up or down Sandia Crest. Don’t miss the boat. Literally.