Santa Fe & Taos, NM

Tale of Two Cities

These days, Santa Fe and Taos may be better known for expensive art, fern bars, and million-dollar homes than Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo heritages. But don't let that scare you away from a family vacation in these first-class cities.

History and culture are still very much alive in scenic northern New Mexico. Settled by Native Americans more than 1,000 years ago, and claimed by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, Santa Fe and Taos practically ooze tradition.

Many buildings are made the old-fashioned way -- with adobe (even McDonald's sports the ubiquitous mud-like facade). And several times a year, ancient culture and ceremony go on display in a big way: the Native American deer dance and bonfire at Taos Pueblo around Christmas, and the Indian Market every August in Santa Fe.

Whenever you visit, rest assured no one will be bored. Besides museums, there's skiing, hiking, horseback riding, and visits to Indian reservations for the kids; shopping-until-you-drop for the adults: and don't forget the red and gold, sun-painted scenery that really lives up to the state's license plate slogan, "Land of Enchantment."