Chaco Culture National Historical Park is one of the most amazing places to take kids in New Mexico.
It’s an absolutely stunning walk through the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans in the Four Corners region (New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado).
You probably know of famous sites like Mesa Verde National Park, whose cliff dwellings the Ancestral Puebloans also built. Yet, historians believe it was actually Chaco Canyon that was the heart of San Juan Basin region a thousand years ago.
There are so many amazing things to do in Chaco Culture with kids!
First, I recommend exploring Hungo Pavi, not far from the visitor center. Hungo Pavi is an unexcavated Chacoan great house, meaning it’s still covered by dirt, sand, rubble, and native plants.
Next, you absolutely must explore Pueblo Bonito, the largest great house in the region. The stunning height of the walls is sure to take your breath away!
You can wander through some of the rooms in Pueblo Bonito too! Be sure to keep your hands off the walls and leave any artifacts you may find alone.
After Pueblo Bonito, drive to Casa Rinconada to see a Great Kiva.
Become a Junior Ranger in Chaco with kids
And of course, don’t forget to pick up a free Junior Ranger book! Once kids complete the activity book, they can turn it in at the visitor center for a badge.
I wrote a full post on exploring Chaco Culture with kids for ABQ Mom. Find everything you need to know about visiting Chaco Culture with kids there!
And please remember, these sites may seem like places of history. But they are still very sacred to the descendants of the Ancestral Puebloans, including many of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos.
Getting to Chaco Canyon
Chaco Culture National Historical Park can be tricky to access. It’s in a remote corner of Northwestern New Mexico, about three hours from Albuquerque.
From Albuquerque, travel north on Interstate-25 to US 550. Then, continue about 100 miles to CR 7900. Finally, follow signs to the park visitor center.
To enter the park, visitors must drive down a dirt road that crosses an arroyo, which can flood after rain or turn to impassible mud. Be sure to check road conditions before you go!
Are you planning more New Mexico adventures with kids?
Check out my posts on more amazing New Mexico adventures and to other National Parks sites around the state.
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