Arroyo Seco: Lovely Northern New Mexican Mountain Village

If you are looking for a destination for a late summer trip, you would be doing yourself a favor by visiting lovely Arroyo Seco, NM. Made up of several blocks of quaint shops, Arroys Seco will both charm and entertain you.

Abominable Snow Mansion, Inn, Hostel and Campground

Located on State Road 150, also known as Ski Valley Road, “Seco” as the town is affectionately known, is home to the Abominable Snow Mansion, a hostel and classic ski lodge inn and campground, providing lodging for many of the visitors to the area. If you are in the mood for more rustic camping, Ski Valley Road is replete with small campgrounds managed by the Forest Service providing large lovely wooded sites at a nominal cost. Every summer weekend, the campgrounds are filled with tents and camper, a tribute to the popularity of the area.

Arroyo Seco is all about entertaining and caring for visitors to the town. In addition to the Snowmansion, there are a multitude of small shops and stores. Catering to tourists and locals  alike. The Arroyo Seco Mercantile is a mainstay, offering gift items, interesting souvenirs and antiques all in the same shop. Francesca’s Clothing Boutique, started and run by a woman from New York’s garment district is truly a treat to visit, as encapsulated by their slogan, “It’s a great time to be a girl!” You can find one of a kind items not likely to be seen anywhere else.

Galleries are also a popular stop in Seco. There are several pottery galleries,  including Rottenstone Pottery, a gallery providing a large selection of unique wood-fired pottery. The Doug West and Des Montes Galleries exhibit and sell contemporary fine art. The Jack Leustig Gallery provides fine art and photography.

And there is no shortage of great places to eat. Restaurants abound in Seco. Abe’s Cantina, providing classic New Mexican and American cuisine, is a staple. Taos Cow, home of the famous Taos Cow Ice Cream, is a necessary stop on any hot summer (or any season) day. It is not to be missed. A newer entry into the food provision business is “Aceq.” Opening in 2012, Aceq provides delicious foods, utilizing the best of local, wild and farm fresh ingredients.

Seco is a lovely place to visit by all accounts. Check them out on their website, www.visitseco.com. And to locate a place to stay during your visit to Seco, read more about New Mexico campgrounds and things to do in New Mexico.