Fun things to do in New Mexico for couples: Top activities
From golden lovebirds to newlyweds, wellness enthusiasts to history buffs, there’s something for every duo on this list of fun things to do in New Mexico for couples. In a land where it’s as easy to find a priceless sunset as a luxurious hot spring, there’s something here for every budget.
New Mexico offers fascinating history, natural beauty, and vibrant art, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking adventure and relaxation.
The spirit of those who have lived here for centuries — from the Indigenous peoples to the Spanish settlers who followed — echoes through the crafts, culture, and scenery, creating the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
From the roots of the vines in New Mexico’s wine country to the top of the hot air balloons in Albuquerque, let’s dive into all of the fun things to do for couples in New Mexico — where art, history, and romance await.
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Romantic getaways in New Mexico
New Mexico offers a variety of romantic getaways, each with its own set of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’d like to savor world-class wines in the heart of New Mexico’s wine country, enjoy a captivating performance at the Santa Fe Opera, or relax at a cozy Bed and Breakfast in the artistic town of Taos, New Mexico is great for creating lasting memories with your partner.
Let’s dive into a few of the most romantic escapes the Land of Enchantment offers.
Tour New Mexico’s wine country
New Mexico’s wine country offers some wonderful spots for wine enthusiasts, adventurous souls who can appreciate the fine art of a good red, and even those who swear they’re just there for the cheese plate. Whoever you are, it’s one of the best things to do in New Mexico for couples.
Visiting New Mexico’s wine country is a great way to get out and explore the countryside, taste the local wine, and enjoy the beautiful weather.
It’s best if you rent a car or hire a driver from Albuquerque and visit tasting locations from there.
Here’s a route with three fantastic wineries for a scenic and enjoyable wine-tasting experience:
- Begin in Albuquerque → Drive about 20 minutes to Casa Rondeña Winery where you’ll find award-winning reds, tasty white wines, and scenic views of the Sandia Mountains
- From Casa Rondeña Winery → Drive about 15 minutes to the Corrales village for rustic charm amongst fine wines and a mountain backdrop
- From Corrales Vineyard & Winery → Drive about 20 minutes to Gruet Winery, known for its sparkling wines and good times
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Catch a show at the Santa Fe Opera
Imagine incredible acoustics and stunning performances against the backdrop of the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
A show at the Santa Fe Opera is sure to leave you with a memorable experience. Tickets range from $40 to $250, depending on the performance and your seating choice. Check out their website in advance for schedules and booking!
Travel tip: Go out for a romantic dinner nearby before the show. The Compound, Geronimo, and Coyote Cafe are all within 10–15 minutes driving distance from the Santa Fe Opera and are loved for their charming atmospheres.
Stay at a charming bed and breakfast in Taos
For a cozy, romantic getaway in northern New Mexico, a bed and breakfast (B&B) in Taos is perfect.
Nestled near Taos Ski Valley, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying quality time together, surrounded by stunning mountain views or hitting the slopes. Relax, unwind, and bundle up with the gift of personalized service in an intimate atmosphere.
For a romantic stay in Taos, try one these B&Bs:
- The Historic Taos Inn: A privately owned inn with cozy rooms
- El Pueblo Lodge: A peaceful B&B with rustic charm
- Palacio De Marquesa: A luxurious, intimate B&B with beautiful views
For more options, you can use services like Airbnb, Vrbo, or BedandBreakfast.com to explore more B&B gems in the area.
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Best outdoor activities for couples in New Mexico
With its breathtaking landscapes and adventurous spirit, New Mexico offers countless ways for couples to enjoy the great outdoors together.
From thrilling rides to peaceful hikes, these five outdoor activities will surely provide an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Albuquerque
Hot air balloon rides are not only quintessentially romantic, but they’re also adventurous! Take in the gorgeous landscape of New Mexico from above, one of the top fun things for couples to do in Albuquerque.
Here are three companies you can catch a hot air balloon ride from:
- World Balloon
- Fly Albuquerque
- Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co.
If you’d prefer to enjoy the fun with both feet on the ground, visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, held annually every October, where you can catch hundreds of hot air balloons filling the sky.
Travel tip: Go for the proposal, vow renewal, or first I love you in the sky on the ride. Make sure your phone works in the USA so you can send pics to friends and family back home!
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Hike the Sandia Mountains
Standing over 10,000 feet tall and full of diverse landscapes and lookout points, the Sandia Mountains offer stunning views and hiking trails for all skill levels.
Just outside of Albuquerque, these mountains provide everything from easy, scenic walks to challenging summit hikes.
During the summer months, it’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon as midday temperatures can reach unforgiving highs near 90°F (32°C) in Albuquerque.
To respect the weather and make it romantic, go during sunset to see why these mountains got their name: Sandía means “watermelon” in Spanish, which is said to resemble the mountain’s reddish-pink hue at sunset.
Best hiking trails in the Sandia Mountains:
- La Luz Trail: A challenging trail that will take you to the top for breathtaking panoramas
- South Piedra Lisa Trail: A moderate and scenic trail through pines and firs that fills with wildflowers in the springtime
- Pino Trail: A mild trail that offers a quieter, wooded experience
Travel tip: Book a couples massage at the Sandia Resort spa for the day after your hike. Enjoy scenic views of the Sandia Mountains from the comfort of a fluffy robe after a great day of hiking.
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Catch the sunset on horseback in Santa Fe
Live your romantic movie moment horseback riding with someone special at sunset in Santa Fe. The vast expanse of the desert and colored skies make the perfect backdrop for a peaceful couples ride.
Check out Vision Quest Western Horseback Rides & Lessons or Bishop’s Lodge Stables for more information and booking.
With the city lights twinkling in the distance as the sun sets, you’ll see why horseback riding is one of the most romantic things to do in New Mexico.
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Go whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande
Whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande is a fun thing to do in New Mexico for couples who are outdoor enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and water lovers.
Flowing from southern Colorado through New Mexico and revered by the Native American tribes as the “life-giving river,” this powerful body of water provides inspiration, recreation, and sustenance to visitors and locals alike.
There are tours available for a variety of skill levels along the Rio Grande. To go with a guide on a safe and organized ride costs about $100 per person for a day trip.
Here are some of the top whitewater rafting tour guide companies on the Rio Grande:
- Los Rios River Runners
- Far Flung Adventures
- New Mexico River Adventures
Travel tip: Pay extra for a video of your ride. Guide companies often offer recordings of your tour, and they make (sometimes hilarious) couples trip mementos!
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Take the trip further south to Chihuahua State, Mexico
Chihuahua, Mexico is a great place to explore the outdoors and tag on an extra cultural experience to your couples trip to New Mexico. It’s a land filled with interesting flora, fauna, and starry skies.
Best outdoor activities in Chihuahua, Mexico:
- Bird watching: Home to a variety of bird species, this an excellent place to spot some new feathered friends
- Desert exploration: Explore the unique desert landscape around the city by hiking or ATV riding
- Camping and hiking: There are many camping spots throughout the area where you can enjoy unforgettable sunsets, stargazing, and the sounds of nature — try the Sierra Madre Mountains, Copper Canyon, and more
Travel tips to consider before:
- Prepare your international travel essentials, as you’ll be crossing a border
- You can arrive by car in just over 7 hours, or by a connecting flight out of Albuquerque for nearly $600 per person
- Be sure you have cell connection as you travel; if your carrier doesn’t cover service in Mexico, consider an easy and secure international plan with the Holafly eSIM
- Always check the latest travel advisories and conditions before booking your trip
Travel tip: Include a Polaroid camera on your Mexico packing list for your extended couples adventure. It’s a cute and fun way to remember your trip.
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Cultural and historical experiences for two
What to pack for a trip for two to the USA as an international traveler? Above and beyond the essentials mentioned in this USA packing list, don’t forget to bring along an interest in cultural and historical experiences.
Here are some fun things to do in New Mexico for couples looking for historic sites and cultural activities.
Visit the Santa Fe Plaza
The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for couples looking to explore New Mexico’s rich culture and history.
Start your day by visiting the New Mexico Museum of Art and the nearby Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, where you can immerse yourselves in inspiring collections that celebrate local and iconic art.
You can then stroll about the area and find plenty of art galleries to browse together.
After you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the Plaza’s treasures, sit down for a romantic meal at one of its charming restaurants.
Whether you opt for authentic New Mexican flavors, Spanish tapas, or fine dining, Santa Fe Plaza’s got you covered — there are many great options within walking distance.
Explore Taos Pueblo
About an hour by car outside of Taos is Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit this living Native American community and relic to natural architecture where multi-story adobe buildings —built over 1,000 years ago — stand in their original locations.
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Soak in the healing waters of Ojo Caliente
Escape to Ojo Caliente, a serene destination where couples can relax in natural hot springs, which are renowned for their healing properties.
The warm, mineral-rich waters were not only a source of relaxation to Native American tribes like the Tewa, Tano, and Jemez Pueblo people but were also seen as sacred, often used in healing rituals and ceremonies.
Interact with the rich natural resources of the land and partake in a healing ceremony at one of the healing spas nearby. Ideal for wellness enthusiasts.
Both Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and their sister Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort offer packages for guests to enjoy their communal pools without an overnight stay.
A day-soaking package for two is $175, including access to the thermal pools from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, along with the use of a locker and towel. Check the resorts’ official websites or contact them directly for current information and more packages.
Free activities for couples visiting New Mexico
New Mexico’s otherworldly landscapes allow couples to explore breathtaking scenery without spending a dime. After all, nature’s beauty is the ultimate luxury — free and waiting to be enjoyed together.
Visit White Sands National Park
No list of the best things to do in New Mexico for couples is complete without a visit to White Sands National Park.
With its gypsum dune field, breathtaking sunsets, and limitless outdoor adventures, it’s no wonder it’s one of the best destinations for weekend trips in the US.
The park is open year-round every day from 7:00 AM to sunset, excluding holidays. Go for some great hiking, a romantic picnic, or stunning photography.
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Trek the Tent Rocks
Calling all adventurous couples. Treat yourself and your significant other to incredible views of a desert landscape that will last a lifetime by trekking the Ten Rocks.
Located in the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, this hike takes you through narrow slot canyons and past unique cone-shaped rock formations that resemble — you guessed it — tents.
The trail is a moderate 1.5 miles. Don’t forget your phone or camera — this spot offers plenty of photo opportunities!
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Wander the streets of Old Town Albuquerque
Old Town Albuquerque is the historic heart of the city, post “New World” settlement. It offers a taste of southwestern architecture, culture, and history.
Founded in 1706, Old Town Albuquerque is home to cobblestone streets, quaint adobe buildings, and an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll filled with vibrant art, local crafts, and delicious food.
Things to do in Old Town Albuquerque by day:
- Stop by the visitor center when you get there for information on local attractions; get maps, brochures and assistance, and visit the gift shop filled with local arts and crafts
- Visit the Albuquerque Museum and New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science for a glimpse into the area’s past
- Join a guided tour like a walking tour, trolley tour, or even a ghost tour!
After exploring the sights of Old Town by day, you can transition into the lively atmosphere of Albuquerque’s nightlife, where couples can enjoy various fun and romantic activities.
Fun things to do in Albuquerque for couples at night:
- Take a scenic walk along the Rio Grande
- Catch live music at a local venue like Juno Brewery
- Check out a performance at the Albuquerque Little Theatre
Enjoy your couples trip to New Mexico
From horseback riding in Santa Fe to whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, there are many fun things to do in New Mexico for couples ready for romance, adventure, and culture. We wish you the best on your trip!
If you’re visiting New Mexico from out of the country, stay connected with the Holafly eSIM for the USA. It’s a safe, easy, and practical way to get cell coverage abroad while avoiding expensive roaming fees.
If it’s a trip just a state or two away from you, we encourage you to consider the eSIM for your next international trip. Happy trails!