Heading north out of Taos and then driving Northwest on the way into the mountains, almost equidistant between the Town of Taos and the Village of Taos Ski Valley, you will arrive at the Village of Arroyo Seco, a 200-year-old community rich in history. This quaint little village is a picturesque place and has been the home to many interesting people, from historians and politicians to cinema actors and hippies.
Arroyo Seco is a wonderful location to visit for the day or to use as your home base as you discover Taos. This is a place to relax in a small-town atmosphere and soak in the beauty of the surroundings and the abundance of creative energy.4th of July Parade4th of July ParadeSeco in summerDelicious menu items at ACEQClaireworksSantos Y MasWeaving SouthwestWeaving SouthwestSeco LiveVillage of Arroyo SecoScott Carlson PotterySeco in FallSeco in WinterSeco in WinterArroyo Seco in WinterArroyo Seco in WinterSeco in Winter
This colorful village is home to Artists, Sculptors and Jewelers. Visit the potters, Scott Carlson Pottery, Logan Wannamaker Pottery and Rottenstone Pottery. Often you will see “Scotty the Potter” throwing pots outside his studio with his four legged companion sitting close by. Find some collectible pieces by renowned and award winning jeweler Claire Hayes of Claireworks. Visit Fine Art New Mexico to see exceptional quality prints and giclee.
If you would like to spend some time meandering through the shops you will not be disappointed here. There are only unique one of a kind stores located here. The Arroyo Seco Mercantile is an enthralling store offering all sorts of treasures and collectibles. Santo y mas is a colorful collection of New Mexico Folk Art and Francesca’s Clothing Boutique is full of fashions and accessories to suit all tastes.
Some of the best restaurants in Taos are located in Arroyo Seco and many locals make the drive out to frequent these establishments. Your choices include the organic restaurant ACEQ or Fine American Cuisine at Sabroso’s. For more relaxed eateries or food to go options visit the Taos Cow, renowned for it’s award winning ice-cream and Abe’s Cantina and Cocina a truly local establishment serving New Mexican food.
Throughout the summer months and Holiday season Arroyo Seco is host to some world class events in this small village town. Plan your Taos trip for the 4th of July and celebrate in Arroyo Seco. The annual parade draws thousands of spectators and the atmosphere is electric. Secolive.org is a non-profit organization that puts on several concerts throughout the summer. These concerts are by donation only bringing top-name, live entertainment to the Taos area. Concerts are preformed from the stage in the village of Arroyo Seco beside the Scott Carlson Pottery Studio.
At Christmas time the Village sparkles with holiday decorations. The Arroyo Seco Mercantile hosts an annual Christmas party open to all with the best Santa around! Local Merchants get together the Saturday before Christmas with a pop up sale throughout the village, bonfires, Hot Chocolate and free live entertainment.
Seco is home to the well publicized cooking classes held by James Beard Nominated Chef, Chris Maher. Cooking Studio Taos offers weekly classes that are 100% hands on and after class you sit down as a group to enjoy your magnificent meal.
If you would like to totally immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Arroyo Seco we suggest you use this as home base and stay here! There are many lodging choices from upscale vacation rental homes and studios to country Bed & Breakfasts or laid back youth hostel.
Whatever the season, Arroyo Seco is waiting to welcome you.
For more information visit secolive.orgDriving Directions: Google map directionsPopulation: 1,785Elevation: 7,634 feet