Artsy, Outdoorsy Couples Will Love a New Mexico Honeymoon

Considering a New Mexico honeymoon? Well, we don't blame you. It is known as the Land of Enchantment, and its gorgeous nature and vibrant cities more than live up to that name. Whether you want to spend your days skiing or wandering around art galleries, this southwestern state is a wonderful US honeymoon spot.

For a romantic getaway you won't forget, head there during October to watch hot-air balloons fill up the sky during the legendary International Balloon Fiesta. New Mexico is also home to the Four Corners Monument, which is the only place in the country where four states perfectly intersect at one corner. Grab your camera, because this state will have some gorgeous places to snap photos.

When it comes to planning your honeymoon in New Mexico, let us be your guide. From the best hotels to things to do, use our expert tips to plan your New Mexico honeymoon itinerary.

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New Mexico Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in New Mexico
• New Mexico Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best New Mexico Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
• New Mexico Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a New Mexico Honeymoon

Photo: Nick Fox | Shutterstock

Best Time to Honeymoon in New Mexico

Depending on whether you're hoping to soak up the sun or head to the slopes, you may want to visit New Mexico at different times of year. That being said, one of the best times to visit is during the fall, when the temperature will be comfortable and the state welcomes its festival season. If you're planning on skiing, book a ticket for the winter months. If you're not bothered by the heat, you can snag some good deals during the summer and spring months since it's off-season.

Best weather: May to June, September to November.
Festival highlights: The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October dazzles with hundreds of hot air balloons filling the skies. The Santa Fe Indian Market in August is a great opportunity to experience Native American culture and art. Additionally, the Taos Pueblo Pow Wow, a summer event, showcases traditional Native American dances and crafts.

New Mexico Honeymoon Planning Tips

For those living on the West Coast, New Mexico is just a hop, skip and jump away from home. Even if you're stationed in the northern or eastern parts of the US, flight times will rarely exceed five hours. Nonstop flights from New York to Albuquerque are about four hours long, while flights from Seattle are a little less than three hours.

New Mexico is brimming with art and architecture, and it has some of the most interesting historical sites in the country. With its bright, sunny and dry weather, you won't have to worry about your trip getting rained out.

Santa Fe is the highest capital city in the US, sitting at 7,000 feet above sea level. Albuquerque isn't too far behind at 5,000 feet. Keep this in mind when you take on any outdoor activities, because the altitude might make you feel tired or sick. The area is also very dry and hot, so staying hydrated is important. Before buying plane tickets for the summer months, know that you can expect high temperatures and dry heat waves.

Entry requirements: You won't need your passport, but bring your IDs.
Language: English and Spanish.
Location: New Mexico is located in the southwestern region of the United States, bordered by Colorado to the north, Oklahoma and Texas to the east, Arizona to the west, and the country of Mexico to the south.
Currency: USD.
Flight time to Destination: Flights to Albuquerque from New York City are usually around 5 hours direct.
Getting around: Renting a car is highly recommended for getting around New Mexico. The state's attractions are spread out, and having a car offers the freedom to explore scenic drives, remote natural sites and small towns at your own pace.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for New Mexico honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best New Mexico Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

From picturesque honeymoon ranches to swanky hotels with spa treatments, New Mexico has a plethora of accommodations for honeymooners to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites.

Photo: Sean Pavone | Shutterstock

Inn on the Alameda

Located in the heart of Santa Fe, the Inn on the Alameda is perfect for couples who would like to be right downtown. Use this cozy accommodation as your home base as you explore everything the area has to offer—including museums, fine dining and distinctive boutiques. They also offer pet-specific rooms if you don't want to spend time away from your beloved fur baby.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe

This Four Seasons outpost based in the Sangre de Cristo foothills is the perfect romantic getaway for newlyweds. You can hike, relax by the pool, eat delicious regional cuisine and luxuriate in the private spa's hot tub. Grab a second-story casita with a private balcony for the perfect view of the starry night sky, or relax in a suite with a panoramic mountain view and cozy fireplace patio.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort

The globally acclaimed Ojo resort in Santa Fe is the perfect place for those who want a physical and spiritual recharge. Spend your days relaxing at the award-winning spa and thermal pools. Or, sign up for one of the hotel's complimentary activities, like guided high-desert hiking or hatchet throwing. Animal lovers can pay a visit to the Puppy Patch, where they can cuddle up with adoptable rescue pups.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for New Mexico accommodations that may provide you more privacy, a unique setting or lower prices, consider staying at an Airbnb or VRBO property, too.

New Mexico Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

New Mexico is home to bright, colorful cities and beautiful nature. Whether you're interested in spending time in a metropolis or embarking on an adventurous honeymoon and exploring the mountains, you can create the perfect experience in New Mexico.

Photo: Owaki/Kulla | Getty

Santa Fe

This artistic city is a must-see if you're heading to New Mexico. With its Spanish-influenced architecture, gothic cathedrals and extensive selection of art galleries, Santa Fe is perfect for anyone even mildly interested in art.

Take a walk down Canyon Road to peruse more than 80 art galleries, spend a quiet afternoon in the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum or explore the historic Santa Fe Plaza. Later, grab tickets for the Santa Fe Opera House or wander through the Railyard Arts District. Take some time to visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market if you're all about food, and don't forget to visit the unique interactive art installation Meow Wolf after. If you visit during the winter, Santa Fe is also home to wonderful skiing.

Albuquerque

Head to the center of this historic city to explore Old Town, the area where Albuquerque was founded in 1706. The beauty of this city comes from its mixture of Spanish and Native American influences, so you can find spicy, chili pepper-adorned dishes intermingled with traditional Native American artwork.

This lively metropolitan area has a lot to offer, including wonderful museums and interesting cultural centers. Take the Sandia Peak Tramway to get a once-in-a-lifetime view of the mountains. If you head over during the first week of October, be sure to see the legendary International Balloon Fiesta. If you're not there to see the hot-air balloons fill the skyline, don't worry. You can hop on a hot-air balloon tour year-round.

Taos

If you'd rather spend your time enjoying nature and taking a walk through history, head to the city of Taos, where you'll get your fill of both. Spend the day marveling at the historic Taos Pueblo World Heritage Site, or take a walking tour through the historic district.

If you're a fan of hiking or biking, explore the many hiking trails in Carson National Forest or the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. And don't forget to head over to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, where you can snag a pic of yourself crossing the iconic river. See the gorgeous architecture of the San Francisco de Assisi Church, or spend some time exploring the many historic houses and museums. Taos is also home to world-class skiing at Taos Ski Valley.

Pro tip: Activities like horseback rides, going to hot springs or tours to national parks are perfect additions to your gift registry. Add your favorite New Mexico honeymoon experiences so your loved ones can contribute to your post-wedding adventure.

What to Pack for a New Mexico Honeymoon

Photo: Richard Susanto | Shutterstock

New Mexico has a hot and dry climate, so you can most likely leave your umbrella at home. Be sure your packing checklist includes plenty of sunscreen and a hat, as well as a refillable water bottle to prevent dehydration.

If you're planning on skiing, pack your honeymoon luggage accordingly. Although most of the state is very warm, it can get chilly in the mountains and during the winter months.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.