Chaco Culture, New Mexico
Ancestral Puebloans built what was effectively a massive trade center in the heart of the New Mexican desert. Chaco Culture consists of a series of large stone buildings which were constructed around AD 850 and is believed to have been used as a ceremonial and administrative center despite the arid landscape and long winters.
Typically, visitors can take ranger-led tours at these ruins to view the remains of the impressive multi-story “great houses” close up and to learn about the spiritual significance of the surrounding mountains and mesas. An International Dark Sky Park, it’s also an airy place to view the stars!
