Things To Do Near Pecos National Historical Park
Pecos National Historical Park is dedicated to preserving the history of the Pueblo peoples of New Mexico. Visitors can learn much from touring and reading about the pueblos inside the park, and there are also other areas to explore. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to the park.
Hiking Trails
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Ancestral Sites Trail
The Ancestral Sites Trail is a loop trail located behind the visitor center for Pecos National Historical Park. This trail passes by Pecos Pueblo and the mission church. Hikers will enjoy the views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Glorieta Mesa. You can purchase a trail guide from the visitor center.
Location
Visitor Center, Pecos National Historical Park
Length
1.25 mile
Intensity
Easy
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South Pasture Loop Trail
South Pasture Loop Trail is located at Fishing Beat 3, which covers the southernmost stretch of the Pecos River inside the park. The trail traverses through pastures to stands of cottonwoods along the Pecos River and then back again to Fishing Beat 3. Hikers will enjoy the views of the Pecos River, Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Glorieta Mesa. The trail is only open on the weekend, and the last entry time is at 1:00 p.m. The trail closes at 3:00 p.m. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Location
Fishing Beat 3, Pecos National Historical Park
Length
3.8 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Canyon Road
Located east of the Santa Fe Plaza, Canyon Road is home to more than 100 art galleries. The collections include hand-woven Navajo rugs, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, sculptures, paintings, and other artworks. Many of the collections are housed in historic adobe buildings, which are charming to view as you stroll down the street. Besides the art galleries, there are also many different types of eateries.
Location
Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM (historic district)
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Palace of the Governors
This adobe structure was originally constructed in 1690 and was the original capital of New Mexico. Palace of the Governors was the site of the only successful Native American uprising in 1680, and it has been in continuous public use longer than any other building in the U.S. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, it displays 400 years of New Mexico history as part of the New Mexico History Museum network. The displays range from Native American history, the Spanish Colonial era, and the Mexican period. Visitors can view a stagecoach that dates back to the time of the Santa Fe Trail, an altarpiece made in 1830 for a parish in Taos, and other artifacts. Outside, Native American craftsmen display and sell handmade crafts, souvenirs, and jewelry. The Palace of the Governors underwent renovations in 2019.
Location
105 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Museums
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Museum of Indian Arts and Culture/Laboratory of Anthropology
The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture/Laboratory of Anthropology serves to present Native American art, local history, and the culture of the southwest. It is one of four museums in New Mexico that are part of the Museum of New Mexico system. It is managed by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs in close collaboration with Native communities to ensure accuracy and respect. Besides housing permanent and temporary exhibits, the museum promotes research, interpretation, and the preservation of native cultures.
Location
710 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505
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Santa Fe Children's Museum
For decades, the Santa Fe Children's Museum has been offering fun and educational interactive experiences to children. The museum's stated mission is to promote joy and discovery while "cultivating habits of inquiry in the arts, sciences, and humanities." Some of the activities include a bubble table with various types of bubble wands. The giant Whisper Dishes in the garden allow visitors to speak into them and be heard from the other dishes.
Location
1050 Old Pecos Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Pantry Restaurant
The Pantry Restaurant is a diner that serves up tasty American cuisine with plentiful portions. Some of their popular dishes include loaded nachos, French toast, the patty melt, brisket tacos, the carne adovada, and more. They serve breakfast all day and are open from breakfast until dinner.
Location
1820 Cerrillos Rd Santa Fe, NM 87505
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Liu Liu Liu
Liu Liu Liu is managed by two partners who respectively hail from New Mexico and Taiwan. The restaurant is designed in an open concept with the kitchen in full view of the patrons. Their signature dishes include liver mousse, chicken, lamb bucatini, beef soup, and shrimp and squid with farro. One of their most popular entrees is the fried popcorn chicken, a Taiwanese specialty. They are open for dinner only.
Location
1722 St Michael's Dr, Suite F, Santa Fe, NM 87505
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Jackalope
Founded in 1976, Jackalope features an eclectic mix of home furnishings and outdoor decorative objects, sourced from Mexico, the U.S., and other countries. They also have jewelry, clothing, plants, and other items.
Location
2820 Cerrillos Rd Santa Fe, NM 87507
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El Nicho
Founded more than 30 years ago, El Nicho is known for offering unique, locally crafted carvings and other crafts. The store has a close relationship with the Ortega family of woodcarvers, and they also feature many other local artists and craftsmen.
Location
227 Don Gaspar Ave Santa Fe, NM 87501