SANTA FE, NM – Destinations across New Mexico have been recognized by leading national travel and lifestyle media publications as the best places to visit in 2026, reinforcing the Land of Enchantment’s growing momentum as a premier global travel destination. 

Marquee media outlets including Frommer’s, Condé Nast Traveler, U.S. News & World Report, and Brit + Co have spotlighted New Mexico’s cities, towns, and iconic experiences, including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, and historic Route 66, highlighting the state’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and meaningful visitor experiences. 

These multiple accolades come at an exhilarating moment for New Mexico, as the state prepares for a milestone year in 2026, marked by the Route 66 Centennial anniversary, major cultural celebrations, new hotel openings, and enhanced visitor experiences statewide. Furthermore, in 2025, New Mexico received rising national and global attention as a top travel destination by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, which named Santa Fe the #1 city in the U.S. and ranked Taos #11, and CNN’s America’s Best Small Towns To Visit list, highlighting Las Cruces at #7 due to its unique blend of cultural experiences, jaw-dropping scenery and outdoor activities.

  • Frommer’s - Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2026 (Albuquerque): Frommer’s highlighted Albuquerque’s 43rd and final Gathering of Nations Powwow in April 2026, the largest powwow in North America, bringing together thousands of Native American and Indigenous dancers, artists, and drum groups. The publication also noted Albuquerque’s rich cultural offerings, including public art projects, historic neon restoration, and the revitalized Route 66 corridor.
  • Condé Nast Traveler - The Best Places to Go in 2026 (Route 66): Historic Route 66 was recognized as one of the best places to visit in 2026, with New Mexico as a central destination for roadtrippers. The round-up spotlighted revitalized vintage motels and Indigenous-led cultural institutions in the state, including the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. 
  • AFAR - Where to Go in 2026: Places That Are on the Rise and Off the Beaten Path (Albuquerque): Albuquerque was recognized in this AFAR list for its growing cultural scene, public art installations, and ongoing revitalization along the Route 66 corridor. The city’s creative momentum and commitment to preserving local heritage were highlighted as reasons to visit in 2026.
  • Brit + Co - 50 Incredible Travel Destinations to Visit in 2026 (Santa Fe): Santa Fe earned a spot on Brit + Co’s list, praised for its enduring reputation for art, culture, cuisine, and distinctive character. 
  • Travel + Leisure - The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026 (Santa Fe): Following its “World’s Best” designation in 2026, Santa Fe was recognized as one of the top places to visit for big-city thrills in this annual list. From anniversaries like the Route 66 centennial and the 10th birthday of the Santa Fe Margarita Trail to new openings like Heritage Market (a new artisan food hall), Hotel Flora, The Washington Inn, and four new suites at The Inn of the Five Graces, 2026 is sure to be a banner year.
  • U.S. News & World Report - Best Small Towns to Visit for 2026 (Taos): Taos ranked #10 on this annual list, noted for its Taos Pueblo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), historic district, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Taos Ski Valley.

“These recognitions are a testament to the incredible experiences that await visitors across New Mexico,” said Lancing Adams, Acting Tourism Secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department. “From our vibrant cities and historic towns to iconic Route 66 and our rich cultural heritage, New Mexico offers something truly unique. As we head into 2026 with the Route 66 Centennial and numerous statewide milestones, these accolades reflect the growing global interest in the Land of Enchantment and the momentum building across our tourism industry.”

“These accolades are an honor to the places that make New Mexico so enchanting,” said Nicole Barker, Media Relations Manager for the New Mexico Tourism Department. “Lesser-known towns, like Tucumcari, are shining in the spotlight alongside Albuquerque and Santa Fe, largely due to our collaboration with The Abbi Agency, our agency of record for public relations and influencer marketing. The state’s recent recognition is further validation that New Mexico has earned its spot among leading leisure travel destinations worldwide.”

With new hotel openings, major cultural events, and statewide initiatives underway, New Mexico is poised to welcome travelers from across the country and around the world in 2026.

For more information on New Mexico press and accolades, visit newmexico.org/press-room.