Espanola, New Mexico

Espanola, a city of 9,688, is located in north central New Mexico, on the banks of the Rio Grande near Santa Cruz Lake, and just 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of the state capital, Santa Fe. The area was originally inhabited by Pueblo peoples, and the first Europeans, Spanish explorers, came into the area and established a colony in the late 1500s. As a result, the town has both a proud Native American and Hispanic heritage.

If you are looking for a day out, take the family to any of a dozen area Hispanic or Pueblo Indian fiestas. Go shopping for Pueblo-style crafts, including pottery, baskets, woven cloth, and metal crafts. And don't forget the area's wonderful cuisine – whether your tastes range from standard fast food to spicy local fare, you'll find it. And if you're in the mood, you can polish off a fine evening – such as an evening at one of the area's several casinos – with a good bottle of wine from one of the three nearby wineries.

January temperatures average 40F (4C) and July temperatures average 80F (27C), so you can get out and get active all year. There is easy access to Chaco Culture National Historic Park and Colorado's Mesa Verde National Park. Or go horseback riding or hiking in the Sangre de Cristos or Jemez mountains outside the city. Maybe try whitewater rafting and kayaking. If your interests lean more toward skiing, no fear: from Espanola it is an easy drive to locations like Taos Valley Ski Resort, Angel Fire Resort, and Ski Santa Fe.

Espanola is a great place to visit, but it's an even better place to live!

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