7 Ways To Experience New Mexico Like a Celebrity
Celebrities lead pretty enviable lives. Constant parties, trips all over the world, red-carpet galas in the latest fashions, private spa retreats…who wouldn’t want to live like that, at least for a while?
Riiiight. Few of us have celebrity-sized budgets, and photo shoots and galas tend to interrupt our 9-5. But there’s still a way we can taste that jet-setting, glamorous lifestyle: by getting to New Mexico. The state’s long been a favorite haunt of celebrities for its art, unique culture, and wild landscapes, while the film industry has turned the Land of Enchantment into the next Hollywood (aka Tamalewood). Here are just a few ways you can be a part of it all.
Celebrity sighting #1: Brad Pitt at White Sands
Photo:
Google “Brad Pitt White Sands Photoshoot,” and let the recreation commence. One of the first results will show you that he visited the area wearing a sweater and pants, which — guess what? — you totally have in your closet, too. Watch out,
Frolicking (and apparently shoulder stands) complete, know that
Celebrity sighting #2: Hugh Jackman at Sandia Crest
New Mexico is Wolverine-approved. While filming in
To get there, take the 2.7-mile
Celebrity sighting #3: Tavi Gevinson at Tent Rocks
If you need a break from gallivanting around Santa Fe, one go-to trip is to
“Tent Rocks” gets its name from the red-and-white-striped volcanic rocks that have — thanks to time and erosion — formed into towering, sci-fi-esque cones that pierce the desert sky. The best way to see these formations is by following the Canyon Trail, winding through a narrow gap in the rocks and eventually cresting an elevated mesa. Here you’ll overlook just about everything.
Celebrity sighting #4: George R. R. Martin at the Jean Cocteau Cinema
Photo: Linda Carfagno for the
Game of Thrones fans may be annoyed at the fantasy author’s time-consuming side projects (he’s still writing, don’t worry!), but Santa Feans sure are pleased at the time and attention that Martin has paid to lovingly restoring the
Now, the theater has screenings of everything from obscure arthouse films to cult favorites, readings and signings by writers both local and international (come back soon, Neil Gaiman!), art exhibits, performances, and the weekly game night or occasional free Game of Thrones screening. It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring the refurbished Railyard area with its parks and markets, art galleries like SITE Santa Fe, bars and restaurants, and historic plaza.
Celebrity sighting #5: Simon Pegg in Madrid, New Mexico
The best way to get to know this tiny community is by strolling down the main drag (still Hwy 14, because that’s how small we’re talking). Pop into a few historic buildings, galleries, and cafes, and definitely grab a drink from Jezebel Soda Fountain, the real deal dating back to the 1920s.
Celebrity sighting #6: Ruth Bader Ginsburg at the Santa Fe Opera
Photo courtesy of New Mexico Tourism
The only person who could make a night at the opera even classier is
Before the show, you can take in the sunset on the outdoor terraces while sipping champagne, or do as the locals and have a fancy tailgate in the parking lot with drinks and hors d’oeuvres, while dressed to the nines in an evening gown and opera gloves. Or, if you’re lucky, judicial robes.
Celebrity sighting #7: The Obamas at Carlsbad Caverns
We know the Obamas have a penchant for jealousy-inducing tropical island vacations, but they also use their family time to explore
The main attraction is the Big Room, a massive chamber nearly 4,000 feet long and 255 feet high, filled with columns, stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations. It’s accessible by following the main walkway that leads into the mouth of the cave. Carlsbad is also home to a large bat colony, which you can watch leave the cavern in a giant swarm at sunset. Thanks for the travel recommendation, Obama.
