Farmington Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Farmington with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-see attractions, best hikes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Farmington

Tucked away in northwestern New Mexico, Farmington is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored. This region is filled with ancient history and diverse cultures that have left their mark on the landscape. Farmington is surrounded by stunning red cliffs, sprawling vistas, and is located just a short drive from popular national parks like Mesa Verde and the Grand Canyon. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning a trip to Farmington.

List of Places to Visit in Farmington

There are plenty of exciting things to do and see in Farmington, whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s history, embarking on outdoor adventures, or shopping for souvenirs.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning more about the culture and history of this region, you’ll want to visit some of Farmington’s museums and historical landmarks.

  1. Aztec Ruins National Monument - This site contains the remains of ancient Puebloan structures and features an impressive Great Kiva.
  2. Chaco Culture National Historical Park - Located an hour from Farmington, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient Puebloan structures and is perfect for a day trip.
  3. Navajo Nation Museum - Learn more about the rich and vibrant culture of the Navajo people at this museum.

Natural Attractions of Farmington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Farmington is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  1. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness - This otherworldly landscape is filled with unique rock formations and is perfect for hiking and photography.
  2. Chaco Canyon - As well as being a historically significant site, Chaco Canyon features stunning natural beauty and hiking trails.
  3. San Juan River - This scenic river offers fantastic opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Farmington

Farmington is a fantastic base for hiking and biking enthusiasts. These are just a few of the most popular hiking and biking routes to explore:

  1. Glade Run Recreation Area - This area features seven miles of trails that are perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
  2. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness - This wilderness area features a vast network of trails that wind through some of the most surreal landscapes you’ll ever see.
  3. Animas River Trail - This trail stretches for seven miles along the Animas River and is a popular spot for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Farmington: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for the best activities and tours in Farmington, check out these popular options:

  1. Four Corners Adventures - Offers guided tours of the stunning landscapes surrounding Farmington, from Mesa Verde to Canyon de Chelly.
  2. Pinon Hills Golf Course - This 27-hole golf course is scenic and challenging.
  3. Indian Hills Inn - This historic hotel offers guided tours of local pueblos and ancient ruins.

Week-Long Itinerary for Farmington

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visiting Farmington:

Day Activity
1 Visit Aztec Ruins National Monument and the Salmon Ruins Museum
2 Drive to Mesa Verde National Park for a day trip
3 Explore Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
4 Take a guided tour with Four Corners Adventures
5 Visit Chaco Canyon and stretch your legs on one of the park’s many hiking trails
6 Play a round of golf at Pinon Hills Golf Course
7 Relax and enjoy the local restaurants and shops in downtown Farmington

Food and Drink Scene of Farmington

One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and delicious foods. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Navajo tacos - Frybread topped with chile, beans, and meat for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
  2. Green chile stew - A hearty and warming stew that’s perfect for chilly nights.
  3. Piñon coffee - A locally sourced coffee that features the nutty flavor of piñon nuts.

Local Beverages

  1. Kiltumper Mexican Lager - Brewed locally, this light and refreshing lager pairs well with just about anything.
  2. St. Clair Winery - Located in nearby Albuquerque, this winery offers a range of tasty sips.

Where to Stay in Farmington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of great places to stay in Farmington, whether you’re looking for a hotel room or a cozy guesthouse.

  1. Courtyard Farmington - A modern and spacious hotel just minutes away from downtown.
  2. Kokopelli Inn - This cozy bed and breakfast offers a relaxed and comfortable stay.
  3. Brentwood Inn & Garden - A charming and historic bed and breakfast that’s located in the heart of Farmington.

What to Buy in Farmington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your trip to Farmington:

  1. Native American jewelry - From squash blossom necklaces to intricate beaded bracelets, there’s no shortage of beautiful jewelry to choose from.
  2. Candles - Made with locally sourced beeswax and scented with piñon, these candles are a popular local product.
  3. Pottery - Whether you’re interested in traditional Puebloan pottery or contemporary designs, you’ll find plenty of options in Farmington.

Local Culture and Customs of Farmington

Farmington is home to many cultures, from the Navajo to the Zuni. Here are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting:

  1. When visiting pueblos or sacred sites, make sure to ask permission before taking photos.
  2. Respect the land and pack out all trash.
  3. Always be mindful of cultural sensitivities and customs.

Best Time to Visit Farmington

The best time to visit Farmington is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be snowy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Farmington

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Farmington:

Do:

  1. Do explore the local shops and galleries for unique souvenirs and gifts.
  2. Do respect the land and follow Leave No Trace principles.
  3. Do visit a local Native American reservation or pueblo for an immersive cultural experience.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t ignore posted signs or go off-trail in sensitive areas.
  2. Don’t take anything from a sacred site or leave anything behind.
  3. Don’t wear inappropriate clothing when visiting a religious or cultural site.

Safety and Health

Here are a few safety and health tips to keep in mind when visiting Farmington:

Safety in Farmington

  1. Be aware of wildlife in the area, including snakes, bears, and mountain lions.
  2. Always carry plenty of water and sunscreen when hiking in the desert.
  3. Use caution when driving on winding mountain roads and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.

Health in Farmington

  1. Altitude sickness can be a concern for some visitors, especially if you’re arriving from a low-lying area.
  2. Bring any necessary medication, including allergy medicine or asthma inhalers, with you.

Getting to Farmington: Transportation Options and Logistics

If you’re planning a trip to Farmington, here are some travel tips and transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Farmington

Farmington is served by the Four Corners Regional Airport (FMN), which offers connections to major hubs like Denver and Phoenix.

Bus Stations Near Farmington

Greyhound buses serve Farmington from several locations in New Mexico and Arizona.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, you’ll find that Farmington is easily accessible from major highways like US 64 and US 550.

How to Get Around in Farmington

If you’re planning to explore the area outside of downtown Farmington, renting a car is recommended. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Farmington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the Southwest, these nearby destinations and excursions are worth a visit:

  1. Durango, CO - This charming mountain town is located just an hour’s drive from Farmington and is famous for its steam-powered train ride.
  2. Moab, UT - Moab is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, biking, and off-roading opportunities.
  3. Santa Fe, NM - Santa Fe is a mecca for art lovers, with a vibrant art scene and numerous museums and galleries.

Conclusion

Farmington is a unique and beautiful destination that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and culture. We hope this travel guide has given you some inspiration for planning your next adventure in New Mexico.

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