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Aztec, New Mexico, is a hidden gem for travellers looking for extensive activities to participate in a quiet yet fascinating destination. There are various things to do in Aztec NM and places to visit including ancient ruins, outdoor trails, and cultural museums. The region offers tourists a unique mix of history, nature, and local charm. It is an ideal destination for tourists who enjoy exploring old structures or hiking scenic landscapes.
Top Things To Do In Aztec Nm
There are several things to do in Aztec NM which are ideal for tourists to have extensive experiences during the trip:
1. Explore The Ancient Puebloan Great House
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Visiting the ancient Puebloan Great House is one of the best things to do in Aztec NM, especially for tourists who are history enthusiasts. It is a massive structure that was built over 900 years ago by ancestral Puebloans and contains hundreds of rooms and original timber roofs. Tourists can walk through these ruins to understand how people lived long ago in the Aztecs. It’s one of the most educational things for tourists to see in Aztec NM and offers a deep look into Native American history.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Aztec Ruins National Monument, 725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410
2. Step Inside A Reconstructed Great Kiva
Photo: BMacZeroBot / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The reconstructed Great Kiva at the Aztec Ruins National Monument is one of the most unique things to see in Aztec NM. The Great Kiva is an underground ceremonial structure that gives tourists a chance to step inside a space once used for meetings and rituals. It has a circular layout and preserved stonework, which give tourists unique insights into ancestral Puebloan life. It is a peaceful, educational, and must-visit spot for tourists who are interested in the historical heritage.
Ideal Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: Aztec Ruins National Monument, 725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410
3. Delve Into Local History At The Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village
Photo: Gary Todd / Wikimedia Commons
Learning about the Aztec’s past at the Museum & Pioneer Village is one of the best things to do in Aztec NM to explore local history. Tourists can explore the museum, which features old photos, tools, and displays from the pioneer era. Outside, tourists can explore a small village with schoolhouses, cabins, and shops. This is one of the most educational things to see while visiting Aztec NM, helping tourists understand the town’s early settlers.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday to Saturday)
Location: 125 N Main Ave, Aztec, NM 87410
4. Discover Unique Rock Formations In Hart Canyon
Photo: Patrick Alexander / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Hart Canyon is among the best things to do in Aztec NM, an ideal destination for nature. The area is filled with eye-catching rock formations shaped by wind and time. Hart Canyon is also where the mysterious “Aztec UFO Landing Site” sign is found, adding a fun twist to the tourist visit. This place is ideal for tourists to enjoy a short hike or photography session. This makes it one of the more offbeat things to see while exploring Aztec NM.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: Open all day
Location: Hart Canyon Rd, Aztec, NM 87410
5. Hike Or Bike The Animas River Trails
Photo: Clyde frogg / Wikimedia Commons
For tourists wondering what to do in Aztec NM outdoors, the Animas River Trails offer a relaxing escape for memorable experiences. These paved and unpaved paths run along the scenic Animas River and are perfect for tourists to enjoy walking, biking, or jogging. The area is peaceful and shaded, and tourists can get opportunities to spot local wildlife. It’s one of the best things to do, mostly for tourists who enjoy quiet time in nature or a bit of light exercise.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: Open all day
Location: Access via Riverside Park, Aztec, NM 87410
6. Discover Ancient Astronomical Alignments (Seasonal)
Photo: King of Hearts / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you’re planning a seasonal trip, one of the best things to do in Aztec NM is attending a solstice or equinox event at Aztec Ruins. During these times, the sunlight aligns perfectly with specific doors and windows, just as the ancient builders planned. Tourists can enjoy witnessing these events, which highlight the advanced knowledge of astronomy that is held by the Puebloans. Attending these events is a unique way to spend the perfect getaway with families or friends.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: Seasonal events at sunrise
Location: Aztec Ruins National Monument, 725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410
More Things To Do In Aztec NM And Around
Here are some more things to do in Aztek NM and around which will add on to the experiences you have during this trip:
1. Learn About Regional Archaeology At Salmon Ruins Museum
Photo: Nancymaness / Wikimedia Commons
For tourists looking for things to see in Aztec NM that go beyond the town, head a few miles west to the Salmon Ruins Museum. This archaeological site and museum displays remains of an ancient Pueblo village with over 150 rooms. Inside, tourists can explore exhibits that show tools, pottery, and details about life in the area over 800 years ago. It is ideal for any tourists who are curious about ancient cultures and what to do while visiting Aztec NM beyond the usual.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: 6131 US-64, Bloomfield, NM 87413
2. Engage In Water Activities At Lake Farmington
Photo: analogicus / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Lake Farmington is a great spot for any tourist wondering what to do in Aztec, NM, on a hot day. Tourists can participate in activities on the lake, which include kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. With clear water and a peaceful setting, Lake Farmington is perfect for families or couples looking to relax. There are picnic areas and restrooms, making it easy to spend the day. This is one of the most convenient and enjoyable things for outdoor lovers to do.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 4 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Location: Lake Farmington, Farmington, NM 87401 (15 min drive from Aztec)
3. Venture Into The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
Photo: Bureau of Land Management / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most unique things to see in Aztec NM is the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, which is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. This remote area has strange rock formations, badlands, and hoodoos that look like they’re from another planet. It is a great destination for hiking, photography, or just soaking in the quiet. Tourists visiting will need good walking shoes and a map, as the area is vast and has no marked trails. It is a special place for tourists who seek a place away from crowds.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 4 hours
Timings: Open all day
Location: Bisti Hwy 371, 40 min south of Aztec, NM
Aztec, New Mexico, is a unique place full of ancient wonders and outdoor beauty. Tourists can enjoy engaging in things to do in Aztec NM, including exploring ruins, hiking through canyons, or learning about Native history. There are plenty of things to see in the region. Plan your trip today with TripXL and have some of these beautiful experiences.
Cover Photo: Dougtone / Wikimedia Commons
