Historical Marker
Vásquez de Coronado’s Route (4)
Under orders from Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in 1540, Captain Hernando de Alvarado explored among the pueblos and followed this route from Española to the Pueblo of Taos. Captain Francisco de Barrionuevo also passed this way the following year on his way to the same pueblo.
The state has a rich tradition of cowboy culture and rodeo, with many annual events celebrating this heritage. One of the most famous is the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which features hundreds of hot air balloons and draws thousands of visitors each year.