Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

This southwestern state isn't called "The Land of Enchantment" just for any reason. Home to ancient native culture, a rollicking Wild West past, UFO kitsch and some of the most dramatic scenery in the United States, it's a great place for sightseeing, hiking, horseback riding or road-tripping along the remains of Route 66.

Major Attractions
Native American culture At Chaco Canyon, tour the elaborate Anasazi ruins, where archaeological finds date back to AD 850. At Bandelier National Monument, you can wander through caves carved into cliff walls by ancestors of today's Pueblo Indians. These traditional scenes come to life at the Taos Pueblo, which has been continuously inhabited for over 100 years. You can also visit one of the many festivals or craft fairs held on Native American pueblos throughout the state.

Art scene Gorgeous Santa Fe is the commercial center for the southwestern arts scene. Stroll around the downtown plaza, where galleries feature everything from paintings to pottery to silver and turquoise jewelry. Albuquerque is decidedly more modern, home to funky shops and a thriving live-music scene, while sleepy Taos stays closest to its Native American roots. You'll need to book ahead to tour the former home and studio of artist Georgia O'Keeffe, located in tiny Abiquiu, about an hour and half north of Santa Fe.

Outdoor pursuits There's no better way to appreciate New Mexico's rugged landscape than by getting out and experiencing it. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Park is home to some of the coolest rock formations in the state, while Carlsbad Caverns is home to 133 underground caves. In the winter months, hit the slopes at one of the state's ski areas, which include Angel Fire Ski Resort and Taos Ski Valley.

For Extra Credit Take a quirky side trip to Roswell, New Mexico, where the mysteries of alien sightings and Area 51 have been turned into family-friendly fun, especially during the annual UFO festival, held every July. Even if you're not into Martians, the scenic 200-mile drive from Santa Fe is worth the gas.