Land of Enchantment: Top Five Spots To Elope In New Mexico

New Mexico Wedding & Elopement Destinations

New Mexico is often referred to as the Land of Enchantment. When I first heard this phrase, I thought it was just a fun quip that you see on a license plate. Over the years of exploring, I’ve realized if anything it’s an understatement to how magical New Mexico is. There are rugged mountains, vast high desert plains, and a rich and diverse heritage that deserves to be honored & celebrated. Here are my top five spots to consider having your elopement of little wedding at in New Mexico.

Pecos National Historic Park

Pecos National Historic Park is perched in the cedar-laden mountains above Santa Fe. It offers expansive views of meadows, mountains, and dense forest. The park’s main highlight is two fold: the preservation and celebration of an Ancestral Puebloan complex as well as an 18th century Spanish mission. Of all of the places I have been in the Southwest, this one most tangibly shows the worlds of Indigenous people and Spanish colonialism in one space. I’d highly recommend this article that details more about the lives of the Pecos people, who were displaced by Spanish colonization.

If you are looking to hold an elopement or small wedding here, you can do so in the remains of the Spanish mission. The park does require a special use permit that costs a small fee, which you can apply for here.

SAnta Fe

Santa Fe is a perfect elopement destination for anyone who is looking for both art & culture without an overly bustling city. My two favorite spots to host a wedding or to stay at are El Rey Court & La Posada. Each is in a distinct area of town, with El Rey being more on the outskirts and La Posada laying in the heart of the downtown area. El Rey often features live music, which can be a fun way to celebrate after your elopement as these two did! El Rey’s rooms are all individually & beautifully decorated to give a modern Southwest spin on a roadside motel. La Posada leans more towards an adobe-style luxury feel.

Ghost RAnch

Georgia O’Keefe’s influence on art, feminism and Southwest culture is hard to overstate. Ghost Ranch was her home and many of her paintings were inspired by the landscape in the area. The ranch has beautiful views of red cliffs, with endless trails to explore up close. The silhouette of Georgia’s mountain in the distance is a personal favorite. I love Ghost Ranch for little weddings & elopements because it encompasses everything you need, namely lodging & activities.

TAos

There is not a more quintessential Southwest town than Taos. It’s beauty lies in the rugged landscape that is typical of high desert plains in the SW. It’s endless sunflower fields in August make it an extra magical place to elope in New Mexico. One of my favorite venues in Taos Goji Berry Farm, a quaint spot with rustic cabins and a pavilion for a reception. It feels like you’re in the country (you are!) but in the most cozy and homey way. If this isn’t your vibe, Taos offers many additional places to host an elopement or little wedding.

Abiquiu

I have driven hundreds of miles out of my way for a stop at Abiquiu Inn, the black bean soup is just unbeatable. While Abiquiu is a tiny town, the Inn has luxury accommodations (adobe, of course) and a delicious cafe. The grounds are full of old cottonwood trees, and there is something just extra special about that kind of oasis in arid country. The surrounding area is full of beautiful vistas from Plaza Blanca to walking riverside on the Rio Chama. Abiquiu makes for a wonderful destination for anyone who prioritizes solitude, big views and a rich history.

Interested in having your little wedding or elopement in New Mexico?

I’d love to talk with you!