Taos in February is for people who know. The summer crowds are gone, the ski season is at full swing, and the town runs on local rhythm — galleries without lines, restaurants with tables, and energy that belongs to the people who live there.

The Taos art scene is one of the most storied in America. Dozens of contemporary galleries cluster around the historic Plaza and along the Kit Carson Road gallery corridor. Winter shows often feature the gallery owners' personal favorites.

Taos Pueblo — the UNESCO World Heritage Site just north of town — is extraordinary in winter: multi-story adobe against snow-capped mountains, smoke rising from cooking fires. In February you will have it nearly to yourself.

Allow a full day. Stop at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge on the drive up. Start early.