Located near Los Alamos, the Bandelier National Monument is an exceptional place and the first Cliff Dwelling or village leaning against the cliffs that you will encounter after Santa Fe. The visitor center is coupled with an explanatory museum.
You have to take a short walk to get to the site. You will arrive at the village and archaeological site by climbing up a wooden ladder. There is also a very beautiful kiva (or underground ceremony place with ladder) still preserved on site. The view is exceptional. The surrounding nature is just as special, with a pretty river flowing through tall poplars and pines at the foot of the cliffs.