Located in northern New Mexico, Taos is bordered by the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the Rio Grande River, which are jumping-off points for year-round outdoor adventure. The town is also a haven for artists and art lovers with dozens of galleries and a handful of museums. The laid-back, casual vibe of Taos resonates with its locals, many of whom are transplants from other parts of the country. Taos also has a vast community of artists—more per capita than Paris—that includes both artists with their own galleries and amateur crafters who dabble in photography, painting, or jewelry-making. Taos attractions include the historic plaza and its surrounding streets, which are popular places to browse for art and souvenirs. And, a few miles from downtown, visitors can experience Taos' other influences at a thousand-year-old Native American pueblo and a Spanish Colonial period hacienda. Flights to Taos land just a few miles north of city limits at Taos Regional Airport.

Taos is a popular and affordable destination any time of year, with outdoor activities, art galleries, and festivals. The summer is the most popular time due to warmer temperatures and school vacations. Although the town of Taos may not see as many visitors in the winter, Taos Ski Valley experiences a high season from Thanksgiving through Easter, which may vary based on the amount of snowfall. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers perfect for an afternoon hike or horseback ride. Fall attracts visitors with colorful foliage and major events.

high season: May to September, December
low season: January to February
shoulder season: October to November, March to April

Taos' popularity in the winter is largely dependent on the weather, as more people visit when it snows for skiing in the Taos Ski Valley.

Weather Information

Taos experiences four seasons, with a climate typical of high desert destinations and an average high temperature of 64 degrees. Summers bring the warmest weather, with a higher possibility of thunderstorms in July and August. Winters can be cold, with the chance of snow falling as early as late October and lasting into late March. Spring and fall bring clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Crowd Information

Large crowds visit during May through September for warm weather and major festivals, including the Taos Spring Arts Celebration in May, the Solar Music Festival in June, Fiestas de Taos in July, and Music from Angel Fire in August; and the Fall Arts Festival, San Geronimo Feast Days, and the Taos Ski Valley Oktoberfest in September. Other popular events happen in October, including the Wool Festival, the Taos Mountainfilm Festival, the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally, and the Taos Storytelling Festival. Holidays can also attract quite a crowd, especially yuletide celebrations on the Taos Pueblo.

Closure Information

Most art galleries, restaurants, and hotels remain open year-round, but some accommodations in the Taos Ski Valley close during the summer.

When to Save

Taos can be an affordable destination throughout the year, but prices typically rise from May through September and drop from October through April. Taos Ski Valley lowers prices after Easter, but rates may also be affected by diminished snowfall earlier in the season.

When to Book

Visitors with flexible travel plans can take advantage of low last-minute airfares. However, those with a set schedule should book flights at least three weeks in advance to obtain lower prices and ensure availability, especially for travel during the high season. Last-minute lodging is available most of the year, but book at least two months in advance during the high season to reserve a specific room on a specific date.

Information provided by the Taos County Chamber of Commerce