What are some experiences you imagine when thinking about New Mexico? Perhaps the mouthwatering smell of chiles roasting in late summer, dramatic thunderstorms passing over landscapes, and that relief of narrowly avoiding stepping on goat’s heads barefoot?

Life in New Mexico has plenty of unique experiences and we think even quite a few perks. If you need help thinking of some privileges New Mexicans experience every day here, we have a few suggestions.

  1. That food! Smelling, tasting, or even just looking at a plate of your favorite New Mexican meal brings an untold amount of joy to our hearts and minds.

Trevor Huxham/Flickr

  1. Speaking of food and smells, let’s think back to that first paragraph: chiles. In July and August, there’s nothing like catching a heavenly whiff of chiles roasting over fires.

Larry Lamsa/Flickr

  1. New Mexicans experience the best form of Christmas every day: requesting your [insert favorite food here] Christmas-style.

Samat K Jain/Flickr

  1. Not surprising to anyone here, but New Mexico has some of the sunniest skies in the country. The annual number of sunny days is only second to Arizona.

John Fowler/Flickr

  1. New Mexico is well-known for being an art-focused state. Art schools, art galleries, and artist communities thrive here.

Larry Lamsa/Flickr

  1. The Land of Enchantment could probably also be called the Land of Antiquity. It is home to some of the oldest buildings in the country, including the oldest house, the oldest church, and one of the oldest habitually-inhabited communities.

Jpellgen/Flickr

  1. And that also means New Mexico has the largest number of UNESCO sites in the country: Taos Pueblo, Chaco Canyon, and Carlsbad Caverns. Not too shabby!

Kevin Thomas/Flickr

  1. We can’t forget the unforgettable landscapes you’ll spot here. Places like White Sands National Monument, the Bisti Badlands, and the Blue Hole all showcase some of the best views New Mexico has to offer.

John Fowler/Flickr

  1. We can’t forget one of New Mexico’s most enchanting subterranean spot: Carlsbad Caverns.

John Fowler/Flickr

  1. Plus, New Mexicans can enjoy some of the most picturesque hot springs in the country! Where else would you be able to enjoy a view like this?

John Fowler/Flickr

  1. And, let’s not forget you don’t need to travel far to see the largest hot air balloon festival in the world.

A4gpa/Flickr

Life certainly is good in New Mexico! What are some privileges you think New Mexicans definitely have compared to other states? We would love to hear your suggestions.

Trevor Huxham/Flickr

Larry Lamsa/Flickr

Samat K Jain/Flickr

John Fowler/Flickr

Jpellgen/Flickr

Kevin Thomas/Flickr

A4gpa/Flickr

In fact, we think life in New Mexico is so good, it can easily ruin your experience in any other state or country! Read more in 12 Ways Living In New Mexico Ruins You For Life.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: New Mexico, USA