New Mexico is home to 19 pueblos and three indian reservations.
New Mexico Indian Reservations
Reservation: Jicarilla Apache Reservation
Pronounciation: hee-cah-REE-ah
Tribes: Jicarilla Apache
Acres: 286,400
Established by: Executive orders, Mar. 25, 1874, July 18.1876, Sept. 21,1880, May 15, 1884, and Feb. 11, 1687. 1 29,313.35 acres were allotted to 843 Indians, and 280.44 acres reserved for mission, school, and agency purposes. The residue, 268,400 acres, unallotted. Lands now in process of allotment.
The Jicarilla Reservation is located 5 miles from the Colorado border. It comprises more than 742,000 acres, with headquarters in Dulce, 28 miles west of Chama on US-64. The reservation encompasses beautiful mountain ranges, sagebrush flats and deep mesa canyons. The Jicarilla Apache Reservation is highly accessible and group lodging is available. The reservation has an arts and crafts museum featuring basket-making demonstrations and a cultural center. Annual celebrations include the Little Beaver Rodeo and Pow Wow that takes place the third week in July and a two-day traditional ceremony that features dances and relay races in September. Hunting for mule deer, elk, turkey and waterfowl is available. Several lakes offer trout fishing and campgrounds are available around the lakes.
Hours: 8am-5pm.
Admission: Free.
Photography: Not allowed, permission needed.
Other: A hunting permit is required from the Jicarilla Game and Fire Department.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Mescalero Apache Tribe of the Mescalero Reservation
Pronounciation: mess-kah-LEH-row
Tribes: Mescaleros, Mimbreños, Lipan Apache
Acres: 474,240
Established by: Executive orders, May 29, 1873, Feb. 2, 1874, Oct. 20, 1875, May 19, 1882, and Mar. 24, 1883.
The Mescalero Apaches live on a 460,000-acre reservation in southeastern New Mexico, between Ruidoso and Tularosa, with tribal offices at Mescalero on US-70. The Mescalero have been leaders in recreational and sporting enterprises, utilizing their scenic mountains, valleys and streams well. The Inn of the Mountain Gods, located by Lake Mescalero, has luxurious accommodations, fine dining, a beautiful golf course and excellent shops, as well as fishing, horseback riding and other recreation. Big game hunts for bear and elk in the fall, along with turkey hunts in the spring, are popular events. Several campsites are available. Mescalero-owned Ski Apache is only 40 minutes away in Lincoln National Forest. An annual four-day ceremonial is held in early July and includes a rodeo and various events. Tribal-operated gaming is available at Casino Apache.
Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.
Photography: Not allowed.
Groups: Allowed.
Reservaton: Tohajiilee Indian Reservation (Formerly known as Canoncito Reservation)
Pronunciation: Too HAW chill ee
Tribe: Navajo (Nav-AH-hoe)
Acres: 121.588 square miles (314.911 km²)
Established by:
The Tohajiilee Indian Reservation is a non-contiguous section of the Navajo Nation lying in parts of western Bernalillo, eastern Cibola, and southwestern Sandoval counties in New Mexico, USA, west of the city of Albuquerque. As of the 2000 census, it had a resident population of 1,649 persons. The land area is only about one-half of one percent of the entire Navajo Nation total. The name comes from the Navajo phrase tó hajiileehé, meaning “where people draw up water by means of a cord or rope one quantity after another.”
New Mexico Pueblos
Reservation: Pueblo of Acoma
Pronounciation: AH-koh-mah
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 95,792
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Located fifty miles west of Albuquerque, Acoma Pueblo is impressively situated atop a 365-foot sandstone mesa. Although most present-day Acomas have residences in nearby villages, several families still occupy the old homes on the mesa (known as “Sky City”).
The delicately decorated pottery of Acoma is among the most prized of Indian crafts. Many fine pieces are for sale in the Visitors Center at the base of the mesa, which also houses a museum, a restaurant and the information center where tours of the pueblo are arranged.
Visitors may attend several festivals during the year at the pueblo. Guided hikes are available. Tribal operated gaming is available at Sky City Casino. The pueblo also operates the Sky City Hotel and Conference Center.
Hours: Summer 8am-7pm; Winter 8am-4pm (last tour leaves an hour before closing).
Admission: $9 adults, $6 ages 5-17; under 5 free; $8 seniors.
Photography: Photography is allowed for a fee; camera permits are $10. Videotaping is prohibited.
Groups: Group fees are available for groups of 15 and over. Advance notice is required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Cochiti
Pronunciation: KOH-chee-tee
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 24,256
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Cochiti Pueblo is midway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The Storyteller, a seated adult with a number of children sitting around her, is one of the most popular pieces of Cochiti Pueblo pottery.
Many Cochiti artists also work in watercolors, ink and oil paint. Cochiti is well-known for its handcrafted, double-headed drums (drums play a significant role in pueblo ceremonials).
Cochiti Lake offers fishing, sailing, swimming and other water sports. Cochiti Lake Golf Course is ranked among the top 25 courses in the United States.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.
Admission: Free.
Photography: No photography or sketching allowed.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Isleta
Pronounciation: iss-LEH-tah
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 110,080
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Isleta Pueblo produces red-clay pottery decorated with red and black designs on a white background. The public is invited to several dances during the summer, a September fair and Christmas festivals. Camping and fishing at Sunrise Lake on the reservation is a popular vacation location. Tribal-operated gaming is available at Isleta Casino and Resort.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm.
Admission: Free.
Photography: Photography limited to church only.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Jemez
Pronounciation: HAY-mez
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,510
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Jemez Pueblo’s village of Walatowa is 55 miles northwest of Albuquerque (approximately one hour’s drive) and has been occupied since the 16th century. Many Pueblo buildings date back to the period following the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Jemez is the only remaining pueblo to -speak the Towa dialect, an unwritten language. Jemez Pueblo has a closed village policy and visitors are welcome into the village only on feast days. The Walatowa Visitor Center provides visitor information about feast days, group tours and has a gift shop featuring Jemez pottery. Interpretive exhibits introduce visitors to the history, culture and experience of the Jemez people. The Jemez people are known for their pottery, storytellers, figurines, sculpture, basketry, embroidery, woven cloths, moccasins and jewelry.
Hours: 8am-5pm daily.
Admission: Free. (Donations appreciated.)
Photography: Permitted only at the Jemez Red Rocks.
Groups: Group presentations available for groups of 15 or more. Advance notice required.
Reservation: Kewa Pueblo (Formerly Pueblo of Santo Domingo)
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 74,743
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Reservation: Pueblo of Laguna
Pronounciation: lah-GOO-nah
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 125,225
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Laguna Pueblo is actually comprised of six major villages, with tribal offices in Old Laguna. The pueblo has existed at this site, about 45 miles west of Albuquerque off I-40, since as early as 1450. Traditional pottery-making was revived in the 1970s and today’s Laguna painters and jewelers work with innovative designs and techniques, distinguishing their work from many other craftspeople. Laguna’s many festivals draw large crowds–including other tribes–to enjoy sporting events and to trade in arts and crafts, produce and other goods. At Casa Blanca Village, a shopping center just off I-40, visitors can purchase pueblo arts and crafts. Gaming, a full-service restaurant and a snack bar are available at Dancing Eagle Casino and Travel Center at Exit 108.
Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.
Admission: Free.
Photography: Photography limited to certain areas.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Nambe
Pronounciation: nahm-BAY
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 13,586
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Language: Tewa
Nambe Pueblo (Nambe–Mound of earth, land in a circle) is tucked away at the base of the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains just 23 miles north of Santa Fe. Take Hwy 84-285 north to Pojoaque, turn right on 503 East Nambe Exit and proceed 3 miles, turn right at the Nambe Waterfalls Hwy (NP101). Local artists continue to make the traditional micaceous pottery, which is a recently revived technique. These artists and many others also do weaving, jewelry, stone sculpture and black or red pottery. Nambe Pueblo celebrates its annual feast day on October 4 in honor of the birthday of St. Frances de Assisi. A lake and natural waterfall are located 2 miles east of the pueblo; facilities include a picnic area, fishing, camping, hiking and motorless boating on the lake. Visitors can view 15 to 20 majestic buffalo grazing in their natural habitat.
Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday.
Admission: No admission to view the pueblo. Permits required for photography.
Lake/Recreation costs: Fishing $10, admission is $5 and up.
Groups: Reservations are required for guided tours of the buffalo, contact Ben Yates at 505-455-2036.
Waterfalls/Recreation area: Call 505-455-2304 (seasonal March to September).
Reservation: Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo (Formerly Pueblo of San Juan)
Pronounciation: OH-kay oh-WEEN-geh
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,545
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Language: Tewa
Previously known as San Juan Pueblo, Ohkay Owingeh is located five miles north of Española off US-285. In 2005 the San Juan pueblo changed its name back to its original name, Ohkay Owingeh, which means “place of the strong people.” The pueblo is headquarters of the Eight Northern Indian Pueblo Council, which promotes cooperative efforts among the northern pueblos. The pueblo has a well-known art center, the Ohkay Owingeh Arts & Crafts Cooperative. Traditional arts here include woodcarving and pottery. Buffalo, Basket and Cloud Dances with beautifully dressed dancers are presented several times a year. Tribal-operated gaming is available at Ohkay Casino and Resort.
Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday.
Photography: Current Tribal Council prohibits cameras of any sort.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pecos Pueblo (extinct)
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 18,763
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Reservation: Pueblo of Picuris
Pronounciation: peek-kuhr-REES
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,461
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Picuris Pueblo, often referred to as “Hidden Valley,” is located 25 miles southeast of Taos, near the town of Peñasco on NM-75. It is one of the smallest pueblos. Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards in the early 1540s, its population was estimated between 2,000 to 3,000. Since the mid-1960s there has been a revival of traditional religious activities. Picuris celebrates San Lorenzo Feast Day in August of each year. Picuris potters are known for their unornamented pottery, which has an interesting texture and a subtle glitter from small chips of mica in the pottery clay. A museum houses artifacts, and offers arts and crafts for purchase. Visitor attractions include a trout-stocked fishing lake, picnic area, overnight campground and archaeological excavations.
Restaurant: 9am-6pm daily. Seats 100, open 9am-6pm in the winter with extended hours in the summer. (May be closed for renovations; call ahead.)
Admission: $3 per person for self-guided tour.
Photography: Camera, camcorder and sketching fee.
Groups: Reservation required. Group rates available. Groups welcome, but guided tours are unavailable
Reservation: Pueblo of Pojoaque (extinct)
Pronounciation: po-HWAH-keh
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 13,520
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Language: Tewa
Pojoaque Pueblo is located 15 scenic miles north of Santa Fe on Highway 84-285. The Pojoaque Valley is situated amid the spectacular landscape of northern New Mexico’s juniper and piñon tree hilltops, mesas and mountains. The name Pojoaque is a Spanish version of Po Suwae Geh,which means “water drinking place.” The people of Pojoaque have returned from near extinction and have generated a multiplex of tribally owned and operated enterprises all while maintaining a traditional cultural base. The Pueblo of Pojoaque’s Tribal Council established the Poeh Museum and Cultural Center in 1988 as a permanent tribally owned and operated mechanism for cultural preservation and revitalization within the pueblo communities of the northern Rio Grande Valley. The Center emphasizes arts and cultures of all pueblo people with focus on the Tewa-speaking pueblos of Nambe, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Clara and Tesuque; and the Tiwa-speaking pueblos of Picuris and Taos. Additional funds generated via the tribally owned Cities of Gold Casino with Las Vegas-style gaming, and Cities of Gold Hotel, 505-455-3313, have been used to create the Pojoaque Wellness Center which houses a gym, pool, library, CHR Program, Senior Citizens Center and a Boys and Girls Club for tribal and non-tribal members. The Pojoaque Pueblo Tourist Center, 505-455-3460, displays and sells locally produced Native art and other souvenirs. Also available are gas stations and convenience stores, Towa Golf Course, True Value Hardware, Sports Bar and Casino and numerous restaurants. The pueblo’s feast days are December 11 and 12, and January 6.
If you have any questions, please contact dmoya@poehcenter.com or call 505-455-3334 ext. 5056.
Reservation:Pueblo of San Felipe
Pronounciation: sahn fey-LEE-peh
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 34,767
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905.
San Felipe Pueblo is situated 30 miles northwest of Albuquerque off 1-25 and about 10 miles north of Bernalillo. The present pueblo was founded during the early 18th century and today still retains its traditional customs. Outsiders are generally not encouraged to visit but the pueblo does welcome visitors to the Annual Feast Day on May 1. Innovative pottery and some jewelry forms are produced by pueblo members. Tribal-operated gaming is available at San Felipe Casino Hollywood.
Other: Visitors discouraged; contact Pueblo Office.
Reservation: Pueblo of San Ildefonso
Pronounciation: sahn eel-deh-FOHN-soh
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,293
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Language: Tewa
San Ildefonso has been located at its present site, 20 miles northwest of Santa Fe off NM 502, the road to Los Alamos, since the late 1500s. Beautifully situated on the eastern bank of the Rio Grande, San Ildefonso is very well known for its black-on-black pottery which commands the respect of fine art collectors worldwide. Some dances are open to the public throughout the year; of particular importance is the Buffalo-Deer Dance, which takes place on San Ildefonso’s feast day. A museum displays local arts and crafts. The Visitors Center can provide additional information and direct people to craft shops in the pueblo. Fishing is available at the lake.
Hours: 8am-5pm daily (Visitor Center hours).
Admission: $3 carload.
Photo Fee: Photos are allowed, for a fee, in the village only. Certain areas of the pueblo are off limits.
Groups: Advance notice required.
For dance and other information please contact the Visitor Center prior to arrival.
Reservation: Pueblo of Sandia
Pronounciation: sahn-DEE-ah
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 24,187
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Sandia Pueblo, located 14 miles north of Albuquerque, is visible from I-25 but must be accessed off NM-313. Sandia has been in existence at its present site since as early as 1300 A.D., and was one of the campsites of Coronado in 1541. Pueblo land elevations range from 5,000 feet in the Rio Grande Valley to 8,200 feet in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Visitors are welcome to Sandia Pueblo’s annual feast day on June 13. The Pueblo owns and operates three enterprises:
1) Sandia Lakes Recreation Area (505-897-3971), located 15 minutes from downtown Albuquerque, with fishing, picnicking, nature trails and a bait and tackle shop.
2) Bien Mur Indian Market Center, with the highest quality of Indian arts and crafts.
3) Sandia Resort & Casino, located immediately north of Albuquerque and deemed one of the most beautiful and spacious gaming facilities in the Southwest. Las Vegas-style gaming, gift shop, buffet/fine dining, deli/coffee shop, lounge, amphitheater, and extraordinary views of the Sandia Mountains all add to the fun and excitement of Sandia Casino.
Hours: Bien Mur Market Center: 9am-5:30pm Mon-Sat; 11am-5pm Sun.
Reservation: Pueblo of Santa Ana
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,361
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
The Pueblo of Santa Ana is located on NM-550, about 8 miles northwest of Bernalillo, just west of the confluence of the Rio Jemez and Rio Grande. Santa Ana is a small pueblo with a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. Although Santa Ana is one of the smaller pueblos, the people take pride in being one of the more progressive economically. The pueblo has become a multi-faceted corporation, with enterprises such as the Tamaya Cooperative (selling traditional items, as pottery and textiles), a Garden Center, Blue Corn Enterprises, fine dining restaurants and 45 holes of championship golf. To showcase their tradition of hospitality, the Pueblo has created the Santa Ana Star Casino and the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort& Spa. Starlight Lanes Bowling Alley is part of the Santa Ana Star Casino. At Santa Ana, culture and land are one.
Photography: No photography allowed.
Admission: Free.
Reservation: Pueblo of Santa Clara
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 49,369
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Santa Clara lies 22 miles northwest of Santa Fe and is easily reached via US 84/285 and NM-30. The pueblo’s Tourist Information Office provides information on the pueblo and directions to various arts and crafts shops. Santa Clara is known for its highly polished black and red pottery, and its outstanding painters and sculptors. Several dances and festivals such as the Buffalo and Corn Dance are open to the public. Additionally, the pueblo offers fishing and camping in the Canyon Recreational Area. The beauty of the pueblo’s archaeological sites and the splendor of its scenery are famous in the Southwest. Tribal operated gaming is available at Big Rock Casino Bowl.
Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.
Admission: No general access fees, but fees must be paid to visit the Puye Cliffs and for artistic pursuits.
Photo Fee: Photo fee. Certain areas of the pueblo are restricted.
Group: Puye Cliffs and Canyon closed, call Governor’s office for information.
Reservation: Pueblo of Taos
Pronounciation: TAH-os
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,361
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
The Pueblo at Taos is one of New Mexico’s most authentic examples of pueblo architecture and tradition. The pueblo’s renowned multi-story apartment houses and famous church can be reached via NM-68 north from Española, through the town of Taos. Taos Pueblo, with Mount Wheeler–the highest mountain of New Mexico–as its backdrop, is known for its prime scenery, farmland and hunting. Taos is also known for the drum-making and leather work of its artisans, and its fine dancers who are admired widely. Visitors are welcome. Tribal-operated gaming is available at Taos Mountain Casino.
Hours: Summer 8am-4:30pm daily, Winter 8am-4pm daily.
Admission: $10 per person (adult), $8 per person (group of 3 adults or more), $5 per person (students).
Photo Fee: Still camera $5/per camera, video camera $5/per camera. No photography allowed on feast days. Commercial photographers and/or artists must obtain approval before photographing or using the image of Taos Pueblo.
Groups: Advance notice required. Storyteller guides available.
Reservation: Pueblo of Tesuque
Pronounciation: te-SOO-keh
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,471
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Tesuque Pueblo, about 10 miles north of the city of Santa Fe off US 84/285, is thought to have been established prior to 1200 A.D. Pueblo artists specialize in brightly colored pottery based on traditional designs, and modeled figurines decorated with lively designs, which are widely collected by pueblo art aficionados. The most popular Tesuque dances, the Harvest, Deer and Buffalo, are held in winter. Gaming is available at Camel Rock Casino.
Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday.
Admission: Free.
Photography: Not allowed.
Group: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Zia
Pronounciation: ZEE-ah
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 17,515
Established by: Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants; acts of Congress approved Dec. 22, 1858 (xi, 374), and June 21, 1860 (XII, 71: see Gen. Land Off. Rep. for 1876, P. 242, and for 1880, p. 658) Executive orders of June 13 and Sept. 4, 1902, setting apart additional lands for San Felipe and Nambe Pueblos and Executive order of July 29, 1905, setting apart additional lands for Santa Clara Pueblo.
Zia Pueblo blends into the landscape atop its rocky knoll, 18 miles northwest of Bernalillo on NM-550, where it has been located–almost invisibly–since 1300 A.D. The Zia sun symbol is familiar as it has been adopted by New Mexico as the official state insignia and appears on the state flag. The pueblo is small, but it has produced beautiful, traditional works of art. The Zia have long been known as creators of excellent, well-fired pottery with artistic decorations in brown or black (often utilizing a bird motif). Some Zia painters have achieved recognition for their fine watercolors.
Admission: Free
Photography:No photography, camcorders, sketching or recordings permitted.
Groups: Advance notice required.
Reservation: Pueblo of Zuni
Pronunciation: ZOO nee
Tribes: Pueblos
Acres: 215,040
Established by: Executive orders, Mar. 16, 1877, May 1, 1883, and Mar. 3,1885. The original Spanish grant comprised 17,581.25 acres.
Zuni Pueblo, the largest of the 19 New Mexico pueblos, can be reached on NM-602, about 32 miles southwest of Gallup in the west central part of New Mexico. Zuni jewelry is widely acclaimed. Fashioned of turquoise, shell and jet stone, it is set in silver in intricate patterns known as “needlepoint” or in fine inlay patterns. The Zuni people also are known for their fine beadwork and exquisite animal fetishes carved from translucent shell or stone.
Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.
Admission: Free.
Photo Fee: Photos, camcorders and sketching fee. Pictures are not allowed at any ceremonies.
Groups: Advance notice required.