trip to santa fe new mexico

23 Essential Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico (Travel Guide)

Welcome to “The City Different.” If you’re looking for the best things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I have you covered. After spending four days in this iconic Southwest city, all I can say is, book the trip.

I had little idea of what to expect on my visit to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in partnership with TOURISM Santa Fe and Steller . The itinerary was four days, exploring the ins and outs of what I knew to be a top destination — Conde Nast Traveler readers just named it the #2 best small city in the U.S.

What I found during my four days was just how vibrant the city of Santa Fe is. From its arts, food, design, museums, and rich history, Santa Fe lived up to its name as “The City Different.” And it truly is. From sitting at 7199 elevation (you may feel a bit winded walking around) to a bustling art scene as a UNESCO Creative City, you have it all.

I love that in one breath you can be walking through exquisite art studios along the famed Canyon Road and in another, out of breath hiking the trails of Santa Fe National Forest just seven miles out of downtown. It’s a spectacular blend of everything you could want on a trip. (And let me make a case for what is an epic girls’ getaway destination.)

If you’re looking to visit Santa Fe, this guide to the best things to do on a visit will help you plan your stay. There’s no shortage of things to do in The City Different. The question is: which will you do first?

Planning a Trip to Santa Fe? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Santa Fe:

• Four Seasons Rancho Encantado , for the best luxury hotel
• Hotel Santa Fe , for the best quintessential Santa Fe hotel

The 23 Best Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico

1. stay at four seasons resort rancho encantado santa fe.

Nestled amidst the pinon woodland landscapes of Santa Fe, the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado is a retreat that seamlessly blends luxury with the American Southwest. The resort’s adobe-style architecture sits perfectly in the natural surroundings, offering an immersive Southwestern experience.

Getting to spend two nights out at this resort was a wonderful start to my time in Santa Fe. It felt like a retreat in itself, being just 15 minutes outside of downtown. The grounds are stunning, almost like a living art gallery, where sculptures and art are intertwined into the design.

The casitas and suites are spacious and have wood-burning fireplaces, and Le Labo amenities in the bathroom. It’s a wonderful resort to book while visiting Santa Fe. Book the best rates here .

2. Grab Breakfast at Dolina Café

Such a delicious spot just outside of the downtown, Dolina Café is an Eastern-European-inspired cafe. The pastry case is hard to pass by but trust me when I say to sit down for brunch. The menu has many creative dishes on it, some traditional, and some with Slovakian roots. I loved my cinnamon French toast that is housemade daily. Their lunch menu with more savory dishes looked incredible, too.

3. Sip Bubbles at Gruet Winery

A descendant of Gilbert Gruet’s Champagne house in Bethon, France, Gruet Winery here in Santa Fe, New Mexico is a must-stop for bubble lovers. I came into the tasting room for a quick glass, and my friend did a tasting. Such a lovely space and fun to get to taste this New Mexico-made sparkling wine.

4. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a captivating tribute to the iconic American artist known for her vibrant and larger-than-life paintings of flowers, landscapes, and abstract forms. It houses an extensive collection of O’Keeffe’s works, providing visitors with a profound insight into her groundbreaking contributions to modern art. I highly recommend booking a reservation in advance as they only allow a certain number of guests daily.

5. Experience the Santa Fe Farmers Market

The Santa Fe Farmers Market was such a highlight of my time exploring Santa Fe! The big Saturday market set in the Santa Fe Railyard is packed with local vendors selling local produce, handmade goods, honey, and more. It’s one of the best markets I’ve been to in the country — I came home with several locally grown spices, dried beans, and more.

Another part of the market to enjoy is the “artisanal” where local artisans sell their art and jewelry. If you’re looking for a cup of coffee to fuel up while at the market, check out Sky Coffee . I’d recommend an early start as the market does get packed, and most vendors are cash-only.

6. Explore the Shops on Lena Street

This was my favorite part of Santa Fe as Lena Street is a young, hip area full of artist studios, small coffee shops, and restaurants. Park in one spot and just make your way down through several spots. My favorite finds were Living Threads for home goods and Whiskey & Clay for ceramics. We had lunch at Ozu , a Japanese eatery that makes onigiri and other Japanese food. For pastries and coffee, stop into the Bread Shop !

7. Dine at the Elevated Terra Restaurant

Set at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , Terra Restaurant boasts incredible views over the landscape. It’s an elevated dining experience, with a focus on flavors of Northern New Mexico. Some of my favorite dishes were the octopus tostada and the hamachi ceviche with a kick.

8. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Art Vladem Contemporary

One of my favorite museums as the setting is stunning, the New Mexico Museum of Art Vladem Contemporary is the newest in town. It’s a must-see if you only pick one! Inside, an array of art from modern to contemporary, and the building itself is worth touring as well. No reservation is required for this one!

9. Hit the Galleries on Canyon Road

If you’re looking for art in Santa Fe, go no further. Canyon Road in Santa Fe is a renowned art district boasting approximately 100 galleries that showcase an impressive array of artworks. Strolling along this picturesque street, you can pass by dozens of galleries along the way. I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 hours here if possible.

Another recommendation for this area, if you’re looking for a bite to eat, is  Joe’s Tequila Bar at Inn on the Alameda . And just up the street, Folklore and La Boheme are some of my favorite local stores in this part of Santa Fe.

10. Try Seasonal Cuisine at The Compound

For an upscale lunch, book a table at The Compound . This French meets New Mexico cuisine is an elevated dining experience in Santa Fe. This was my favorite for more refined dining, and their seasonal dishes were amazing, like the poached pear with blue cheese on toast.

11. Mix Clay and Cocktails at Tumbleroot Pottery Pub

If you’re looking to do something interactive but without a set time, come to Tumbleroot Pottery Pub . It’s a clay studio meets cocktail lounge where you can pay for a pail of clay. You can order drinks made with their own in-house spirits, and sculpt your clay pieces. In the pub itself, there are dozens of stunning ceramics made by local artists for sale.

12. Catch A Show at El Flamenco Cabaret

I had a friend tell me once that when in Santa Fe, you have to catch a flamenco show. Book yourself a table to see a show at El Flamenco Cabaret . It was so captivating to see the talented show that runs over 100 times a year with talented artists from Spain.

13. See the Sunset From the Cross of the Martyrs

Budget about 30 minutes or so to visit Cross of the Martyrs , it’s just outside of downtown (like 5 minutes!). But well worth driving to the very top as you get unparalleled views over Santa Fe. I came up for a quick look and loved getting such a wonderful perspective of Santa Fe.

14. Stay in the only Native-American-Owned Hotel, Hotel Santa Fe

Set just outside of the downtown, Hotel Santa Fe is a quintessential stay in Santa Fe. It has been open for 25+ years and celebrates the spirit of the Pueblo people. The hotel also has a spa and restaurant onsite, worth checking out if you have the time. One of the best parts of staying here is the complimentary, on-demand shuttle service that will take you downtown. Parking can be challenging at times, so this was super helpful to take advantage of! Book the best rates here .

15. Take a Georgia O’Keeffe-Inspired Cooking Class Demonstration

The Santa Fe School of Cooking offers a dedicated cooking class inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe . I don’t want to spoil the menu or the experience too much, but it was so interesting to learn more about the artist’s life through food. The experience is a 2-hour demonstration, lots of information on her gardening and preserving, followed by lunch.

16. Enjoy Creative New Mexican Cooking at The Shed

The Shed restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a popular spot known for serving up classic New Mexican dishes. I loved sitting in the inside courtyard, which had a lovely atmosphere. The food here is known to have a bit of that Santa Fe chile kick, so keep this in mind when ordering. I ordered the tamale appetizer, added chicken, and did the green chile sauce — so, so good. This place gets absolutely packed, so I’d recommend making a reservation far in advance.

17. Explore and Shop Near the Santa Fe Plaza

The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city with its historic charm. While there, be sure to explore the iconic Palace of the Governors , a centuries-old adobe structure that served as both the New Mexico capitol and the governor’s residence during the Spanish Colonial era.

Near the Santa Fe Plaza, there are many boutiques and galleries to peruse. For high-end fashion, Santa Fe Dry Goods is a must. Just next door, don’t miss Shiprock Santa Fe , one of the most impressive Native American jewelry and home goods stores. Up the street, The Rainbow Man is a great art gallery collection with local pottery and goods too. My other favorite two stores were Ex Voto for fine jewelry and Los Poblanos Farm Shop Norte for a curated home goods boutique.

18. Enjoy a Spa Day at Four Seasons Santa Fe’s Spa

On my last morning at the Four Seasons Santa Fe , I booked in for a spa experience set in one of their luxurious suites at the spa. It had its very own hot tub and steam room, with a fireplace inside the treatment room. I tried their chardonnay body scrub followed by a nourishing lotion (everything on the spa menu looked lovely!).

19. Spot Fall Foliage along the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway

If you want to get out into nature, take the drive up the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway . You could put in your maps the Aspen Vista Picnic Ground and Trailhead as your destination, but all along the way is truly wonderful. Come October, the fall foliage here is spectacular as there are so many aspens. Along the way, you’ll find many places to stop and hike as well.

20. Hike the Aspen Vista Trail

One of the most iconic trails to hike in the fall for foliage is the Aspen Vista Trail . The trail itself is rather flat, so it’s easy to do with all ages but keep in mind it starts at 10,000 feet elevation. If you want, you can park, walk to the aspens, and turn back to the parking lot.

21. Get a Coffee at CrashMurderBusiness

For a fun stop in Santa Fe near the railyard, CrashMurderBusiness specializes in craft coffee and elixirs. Their menu is hyper-creative and each drink is really beautiful. I tried their maple-infused “unicorn” drink and the bright glitter on top was so fun!

22. See the Historic Churches of Santa Fe

You’ll likely pass a few of these while strolling through downtown Santa Fe, so I’m highlighting my favorites. Some noteworthy churches you shouldn’t overlook include the San Miguel Chapel , often regarded as the oldest church in the continental United States, the Loretto Chapel , and the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi . All of these are within earshot of each other as well.

23. Try Sipping Chocolate at Kakawa Chocolate House

This was one of those stops I am so glad we made! Kakawa Chocolate is renowned for its artisanal approach to crafting exquisite chocolate truffles and historic drinking chocolates. They have ancestral chocolate blends to modern takes, and each day it rotates for their seasonal drinks. I had the Marie Antoinette drink that had orange blossom and a bit of almond milk, and it was so good (worth a visit!).

What to Know About Visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico

What is the best time of year to visit santa fe.

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a year-round destination with each season having something on offer. In my opinion, the best time to visit Santa Fe is during the fall, from September to November, when the weather is pleasant. You can’t go wrong during the winter months either when the town is decorated with lights. Come late spring, it’s equally temperate in weather.

How Much Time Do I Need in Santa Fe?

A visit to Santa Fe can be enjoyed properly in about 3 to 4 days. This timeframe allows you to explore the city’s rich art and culture scene, try its diverse cuisine, and take a few day trips in the surrounding area, including nearby attractions like Taos and Bandelier National Monument .

Where To Fly Into to Visit Santa Fe?

The primary airport for visitors flying into Santa Fe is the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), which offers convenient access to the city and is located just a short drive from the downtown area. Alternatively, you can also consider flying into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is the largest airport in the region and offers a wider range of flight options. From Albuquerque, it’s about a 60-90 minute drive to reach Santa Fe.

Do I Need a Rental Car When Visiting Santa Fe?

While Santa Fe itself is a walkable city with a compact downtown area, having a rental car is beneficial for exploring the surrounding area. I picked up a car at Albuquerque Airport when I flew in. My preferred website for low-cost rentals is Discover Cars .

Save This Post for Later on Pinterest

PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece: Best Things to Do

The Ultimate Kyoto 3 to 4 Days Itinerary

Best Things to Do in Palma de Mallorca: City Guide

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• French Polynesia
• Travel Tips
• Family Travel
• Accommodations
• Packing Lists
• Photography Tips
• Northern California Guide
• San Francisco
• Lightroom Presets
• Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
• California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Santa Fe   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

26 Top-Rated Things to Do in Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the U.S. Even if you don't have a specific destination in mind, you could spend hours wandering the scenic streets lined with Pueblo-style adobe buildings, some dating to the city's 1610 founding. Any

• All Things To Do

Santa Fe Plaza Santa Fe Plaza free

Since the city's founding in 1610, the Santa Fe Plaza has been its cultural hub. Today, surrounded by numerous centuries-old buildings like the Palace of the Governors , the plaza continues to be the epicenter of Santa Fean affairs, from live music to September's Santa Fe Fiesta. The plaza, which is a National Historic Landmark, hosts Indian and Spanish markets yearly, in addition to concerts and community gatherings. Any night of the week, the plaza is buzzing with activity with people enjoying restaurants, perusing galleries and checking out souvenir shops. Save a little money to do some shopping while here: Santa Fe Plaza is full of vendors selling authentic Native American items like jewelry, textiles and pottery (just be wary of the plaza's inflated prices).

Visitors say you have to make a point to stop by the Santa Fe Plaza to experience the lively atmosphere, noting that there always seems to be something going on, whether it's a parade, a market or a festival. Recent travelers also suggested taking time to browse the various shops around the plaza, but do warn things seemed a little overpriced. Others said it serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring Santa Fe's top attractions, many of which spool out from the plaza.

Canyon Road Canyon Road free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Canyon Road hosts events throughout the year, including the Canyon Road Art Stroll on Fridays during the summer and the annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk, when the avenue is lined with paper bags glowing with candles on Christmas Eve. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

If there's any doubt that Santa Fe is a prime destination for art lovers, Canyon Road quashes it. Situated less than a mile east of the Santa Fe Plaza , Canyon Road is home to more than 80 art galleries selling works from famed creatives, such as members of the Taos Society of Artists, and treasures like handmade Pueblo pottery and kinetic sculpture. Pop into the different galleries and boutiques along the street and you'll find everything from jewelry to paintings. The street itself is also a feast for the eyes: Many of the galleries found here are housed in historic adobe buildings laced with brightly colored flowers, art installations are often showcased outside and the enticing aromas emanate from the doorways of top-notch eateries like Geronimo Restaurant and The Compound Restaurant.

Museum of International Folk Art Museum of International Folk Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Located 2.5 miles south of the Santa Fe Plaza on Museum Hill, the Museum of International Folk Art neighbors the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian. In between visits, refuel at the Museum Hill Café. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

Of all the museums run by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, this one is probably the most unconventional and diverse. The Museum of International Folk Art also showcases more than 130,000 pieces of folk and traditional art from societies all over the globe. At this museum, you'll encounter African, Asian, Middle Eastern, contemporary Hispanic and Latino, European, North American and Spanish Colonial pieces ranging from household objects, ceramics and paintings to puppets and costumes. Don't worry about boring your kids: the large collection of colorful toys from around the world is sure to spark their interest.

Popular Tours

Ultimate Santa Fe History Walking Tour

(354 reviews)

from $ 130.00

Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe

(190 reviews)

from $ 179.50

New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza

(344 reviews)

from $ 183.83

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi free

If you're an architecture buff, take some time to check out the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, which was constructed beginning in 1869. Located a block east of the Santa Fe Plaza , this breathtaking French Romanesque Revival cathedral stands out among the city's adobe skyline. Adjoining to the cathedral is the small adobe chapel – all that remains of a previous church that was destroyed during the 1680 Pueblo Revolt – which contains the oldest representation of the Virgin Mary in the United States.

This historical church receives plenty of praise from travelers and Santa Fe residents alike. Visitors said you should stroll through the inside, take in the beautiful stained-glass windows and find a docent to help explain some of the history of the church. They also remind visitors that the church is active and to be respectful of services.

Attend a performance at the Santa Fe Opera House Attend a performance at the Santa Fe Opera House

The Santa Fe Opera House is a world-renowned venue that plays host to a variety of operas each summer. The company has presented operas – comedies, dramas, tragedies and more – every July and August since 1957 (in a succession of three structures). The current venue is an open-air theater surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountain ranges, which means it offers some gorgeous views, and it can accommodate around 2,100 spectators. Patrons can arrive up to three hours prior to the show and many often do, specifically to tailgate in the surrounding parking lots with picnics, gourmet meals and drinks. (The opera also offers special dining options like premade tailgate picnics and preview buffet dinners for a set price.)

Recent visitors offered plenty of praise for the Santa Fe Opera, saying the singers were impressive and that the setting is quite picturesque. They say it's a top Santa Fe experience — even if you're not a regular opera goer. Travelers and residents agree that tailgating is a must – people are dressed to the nines, sipping on sparkling wine and savoring "chic eats," so plan to bring some food and drinks to enjoy. Some warn that you may experience thunderstorms, but that the lightning makes for an even more dramatic backdrop during the show. They also suggest bringing a sweater or a wrap in case of an evening chill.

Palace of the Governors Palace of the Governors

Dating to 1610, the Palace of the Governors was the original capitol of New Mexico and has been in public use longer than any other building in the country. The adobe structure was connected to the Pueblo Revolt in 1680, when the Pueblo Indians successfully drove Spanish invaders out of Santa Fe (who then fled to El Paso ). Today, the National Historic Landmark showcases more than 400 years of the state's history (officially as part of the New Mexico History Museum ). Outside, Native American artists sell handmade pottery, jewelry and more.

Recent travelers said they gleaned a great deal of knowledge about New Mexico history from visiting this site. They also appreciated that the vendors educated them on the different wares for sale (and weren't too pushy, either). However, a few recent visitors were disappointed to find that many of the historical exhibits normally on display within the palace had been removed due to a building renovation that began in early 2023. Though the building is still accessible to visitors, the educational exhibits may be limited.

New Mexico State Capitol New Mexico State Capitol free

New Mexico's State Capitol, known familiarly as the Roundhouse, was designed by architect Robert E. McKee to resemble the shape of a Zia sun symbol, the image that adorns the state's flag. The 232,000-square-foot structure – the country's sole round capitol building – has a 60-foot-high central rotunda. Beyond its distinctive architecture, the capitol is worth visiting for art's sake. Its art collection, managed by the Capitol Art Foundation, has nearly 600 works, including paintings, sculpture, photography and more. Additionally, the Governor's Gallery on the fourth floor operates as an arm of the New Mexico Museum of Art and hosts several special exhibits annually. The building's 6 1/2-acre-grounds boast outdoor art as well as more than 100 types of local plants.

Recent visitors admired the art on display and report that the staff are very friendly. Reviewers also comment on the capitol's unique round style.

New Mexico History Museum New Mexico History Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two historic restaurants surround the museum. Family-owned and operated since 1953, The Shed occupies an adobe hacienda dating to 1692. The Plaza Café has served diner favorites since 1905; the same family has operated it for more than 75 years. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

The New Mexico History Museum has exhibits that recount the state's stories from a variety of perspectives. Its core "Telling New Mexico" exhibition offers an overview of more than five centuries of regional history. It also mounts various temporary exhibits that have concentrated on the legacy of the Fred Harvey Company, the state's role in World War I and how the museum amassed its collection of artifacts. Its collections include more than 1 million objects and documents, including rare 18th-century hide paintings, devotional art and photographs. There's also a working exhibit concerning New Mexico's printing and literary traditions. The museum also houses the Fray Angélico Chávez History Library, which boasts an extensive catalog relating to state and regional history and culture. The Palace of Governors is part of the museum.

Plaza Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe

(12 reviews)

from $ 119.00

Santa Fe Revisited

(256 reviews)

from $ 80.00

Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine & Tapas Tour

(3 reviews)

from $ 149.00

Explore the city with Routes Bicycle Tours of Santa Fe Explore the city with Routes Bicycle Tours of Santa Fe

With more than 400 years of history to revisit, Santa Fe feels like a living museum. One of the best ways to experience this history – not to mention spotting its architectural gems and other landmarks – is on a bike tour. Outfitter Routes Bicycle Tours offers tours exploring the city's art and history, local cuisine and craft beer. Guides lead each tour and offer historical information and local insights.

Recent reviews said a bike tour was a great way to get introduced to the city. They raved about the guides' knowledge. They noted that bikes allowed them to cover more territory than walking tours.

Museum of Indian Arts and Culture Museum of Indian Arts and Culture

The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, part of the Museum of New Mexico system, aims to tell the stories of the Southwest's native people from pre-history to the present day. Its collection includes more than 72,000 objects, including sculptures, baskets, pottery, jewelry, textiles and an ancient 151-foot-long hunting net made of human hair circa A.D. 1200. The museum also hosts various events, such as native pottery demonstrations and lectures, as well as educational programs. There's also an outdoor sculpture garden that features rotating exhibits by Native American sculptors.

Recent travelers said this museum is well worth a visit for its well-curated displays and educational exhibits. Several recommended stopping in the excellent gift shop.

Railyard Arts District Railyard Arts District free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While in the Railyard, check out Jean Cocteau Cinema, an indie movie house, and Beastly Books, a sci-fi and fantasy bookstore. "Game of Thrones" creator George R. R. Martin owns both. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

Along with Canyon Road and the Santa Fe Plaza , the Railyard Arts District represents a top "City Different" (Santa Fe's nickname) artistic hub. Spread along rail tracks that terminate at the Santa Fe Depot, the district has transformed from a home of industry to one for galleries, museums, restaurants and shops. The neighborhood is home to the Santa Fe Farmers Market on the weekend, as well as galleries, such as Blue Rain Gallery, Charlotte Jackson Fine Art and LewAllen Galleries. SITE Santa Fe, a contemporary art museum, showcases exhibitions and artist talks with leading-edge creatives from around the globe. What's more, Railyard Park hosts summer music concerts and events, such as the International Folk Art Market.

San Miguel Chapel San Miguel Chapel free

San Miguel Chapel bills itself as the oldest church in the continental United States. Indeed, the structure, or at least the original part of it, long predates the founding of the country as it is believed to date back to around 1610. (Over its centuries of existence, portions of the building have been reconstructed as is typical and required of adobe structures.) Located in Santa Fe's historic El Barrio de Analco district, near Santa Fe Plaza , the church is dedicated to the archangel Michael, a statue of whom stands at the site, along with a carved wooden alter screen and other artworks. The adobe building is used for Mass, live musical performances and other events. Be sure to check its calendar of events before visiting.

Visitors acknowledge that the chapel is modest, but stress that it merits a short visit, especially for those with an interest in history and mission-style architecture. Others praised the informative and friendly docents.

Meow Wolf Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf started as an arts and entertainment collective in 2008, but many people use the same name to describe the group's major interactive installation in Santa Fe, the "House of Eternal Return." This otherworldly, over-the-top, impossible-to-describe immersive installation is located in a 20,000-square-foot space and spread across more than 70 rooms. Opened in 2016, the exhibit quickly became a major permanent attraction in the city and offers a trippy escape into a world filled with scenes and settings worthy of sci-fi movies. There are hidden doorways, portals to other worlds, mysterious hallways, strange music and fascinating artwork. If you feel like following the mysterious story arc about the "family" who supposedly lived there (and disappeared), you can, but you don't have to in order to enjoy the exhibit.

Recent visitors raved about the unusual experience, saying it's unlike anything they have ever seen, and advise others to leave plenty of time to explore. Other reviewers said it's great for all ages, though some said tickets can get pricey for a family. They further advised to be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times like spring break, and visual chaos when you enter the exhibit. Several reviewers warned those with limited mobility that you will need to crouch or crawl for certain elements.

Welcome to Santa Fe: Private 2. 5 hr Introductory Walking Tour

(8 reviews)

from $ 175.00

Viator Exclusive: Alfresco Gourmet Brunch in Santa Fe with a chef

(64 reviews)

from $ 64.00

The Best of Santa Fe & The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum: Private Tour

(33 reviews)

from $ 210.00

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Famed artist Georgia O'Keeffe was inspired by Santa Fe's blazing landscape, and her portrayals of New Mexico earned her a reputation as one of the top southwestern artists. This namesake museum celebrates her career with its collection of 3,000 pieces, including 140 oil paintings, 700 drawings and hundreds of other works.

Fans of O'Keeffe generally enjoy the museum. Many recommend the free audio tour. (Be sure to bring your own earbuds.) However, some patrons warned that the museum is small and said they wished more of O'Keeffe's finished works were on display. The museum is in the process of planning an expansion and new building that is set to open in downtown Santa Fe in 2026.

Bandelier National Monument Bandelier National Monument

U.S. News Insider Tip: While in Los Alamos, don't miss the Bradbury Science Museum, which showcases the history and work of Los Alamos National Laboratory; and the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, which preserves locations associated with the development of the world's first atomic bomb. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

For centuries before the Europeans invaded North America, Ancestral Puebloan peoples lived in permanent settlements across the Southwest. At the Bandelier National Monument, visitors can explore the remnants of one of these settlements. At the base of Frijoles Canyon are a collection of ancient cave dwellings and other stone structures belonging to ancestors of today's Pueblo peoples.

Santa Fe Farmers Market Santa Fe Farmers Market free

No matter your reason for visiting Santa Fe – whether it be to see the art along Canyon Road or ski the slopes – set aside some time to check out the Santa Fe Farmers Market. Open on Saturdays throughout the year, the market features dozens of vendors selling everything from locally grown produce, flowers and cheeses to baked goods, jams and honey. There is also a cafe selling coffee and other local treats. At the nearby  Railyard Artisan Market , crafters sell handmade items like jewelry and ceramics.

Recent visitors were supremely impressed by this farmers market, especially with the variety of fresh produce and the stimulation of the senses (from colorful veggies and fruits to the aromas of fresh flowers and spices). The only downside, according to some travelers, was that the venue was packed with people; many suggested getting there early to avoid the crowds. Others warned of difficulty finding a parking spot.

Explore the Santa Fe Margarita Trail Explore the Santa Fe Margarita Trail

Every region has its signature cocktail. The margarita is synonymous with Santa Fe. The Margarita Trail connects nearly 50 different restaurants and bars across Santa Fe County. Each restaurant has a specialty drink on the trail, such as the "Holy Margarita" at SkyFire Restaurant at Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection ; and the "Cowgirl Cadillac Margarita" at Cowgirl BBQ.

Of course, the trail's creators don't intend for people to drive all around town sampling. Rather, the trail is meant to be enjoyed over time, whether a few days during a weekend trip or over a longer span.  A "passport" where imbibers can track the trail locations they've visited is available in paper form from any of the Santa Fe visitor centers or via a digital app. If you present your passport at a participating location, you'll get a $1 discount on the specialty margarita. Plus, stamps can be redeemed for prizes, such as t-shirts and cocktail books. Opening times and prices vary for each margarita trail stop. For more information, visit the Tourism Santa Fe website .

El Rancho de las Golondrinas El Rancho de las Golondrinas

El Rancho de las Golondrinas, or the Ranch of the Swallows, is a living history museum that endeavors to show what life was like in the rural area south of Santa Fe in the 18th and 19th century. The 200-acre complex has buildings dating back to the early 1700s as well as reconstructed buildings from other areas of the state. Volunteer docents wear clothing reflecting the period and demonstrate lifeways from the era. The site stages various events, including the Santa Fe Harvest Festival each autumn and the Santa Fe Renaissance Faire in September.

Visitors recommend taking a tour as the guides are very knowledgeable and personable. Many also suggest wearing comfortable shoes because seeing all the exhibits requires a lot of walking.

Small Group Santa Fe Walking Tour

from $ 85.00

Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Downtown Plaza 'Sip & Savor'

(255 reviews)

from $ 209.00

Photo Creative Workshops-Half-Day to Chimayo

(18 reviews)

from $ 300.00

New Mexico Museum of Art New Mexico Museum of Art

The oldest art museum in the state (it opened in 1917), the New Mexico Museum of Art is set in a traditional adobe building and home to more than 20,000 pieces of American and European art. Pieces range from drawings, paintings and photographs to more unique displays like prints and textiles. The museum has a permanent collection and welcomes rotating exhibits. Special exhibits have included presentations like "Con Cariño: Artists Inspired by Lowriders," which celebrated the influence of lowrider cars; "The Nature of Glass," which exhibited various techniques used with the medium; and "Picturing Passion: Artists Interpret the Penitente Brotherhood." Vladem Contemporary, the museum's annex for contemporary art, is slated to open in the Railyard District in 2023.

Recent visitors appreciated the variety of art on display (a few said they liked this museum better than the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum ). Many museumgoers loved the rotating exhibitions and said they often return to see what new pieces are on display. Others recommended exploring the outdoor sculpture gardens and courtyard.

Santa Fe Botanical Garden Santa Fe Botanical Garden

The high desert landscape surrounds the City Different (Santa Fe's nickname), but there are few better places to appreciate its intricacies than the Santa Fe Botanical Garden. The approximately 20-acre garden features a collection of fruit trees, a xeric garden (dry plants that rely solely on rainwater) and the Ojos y Manos: Eyes and Hands ethnobotanical garden, which explores plants tied to human history. Meanwhile, the meandering Art Trail showcases annual sculpture exhibitions. A 3.25-acre Piñon-Juniper Woodland protects the foothills ecosystem that's unique to Northern New Mexico. Approximately 8 acres of the garden is developed with walking paths.

Recent visitors recommend visiting the garden, even if, being situated in the Southwest, it may not be the lush landscape many people expect. They say the relatively small garden has a wide variety of native plants and recommend taking a docent tour to appreciate the displays further. Tours aren't offered on a set schedule; they're available when staff and volunteers are. Inquire at the visitor center for availability.

Take a class at Liquid Light Glass Take a class at Liquid Light Glass

Liquid Light Glass is a hub for glass-blown art, sculptures, ornaments, vases and more. The shop and studio is located in the Baca Street Arts District, a neighborhood forming the southern end of the area of Santa Fe that's home to retail shops, furniture showrooms and art boutiques. Travelers can visit the studio to take a class with founder and glass artist Elodie Holmes, or one of her colleagues, to create colorful glass art.

Past patrons said walking through the shop to see all the unique glass-blown art is a treat; many added that they loved the class, during which items like paperweights, vases and bowls are made, and that the instructor was very patient and helpful.

Paseo Pottery Classes Paseo Pottery Classes

Santa Fe is an arts town through and through. It's easy for visitors to get swept up in the creative flow at places like Paseo Pottery, a working studio that also offers clay classes. A trio of artists founded Paseo Pottery in 1991. Ceramicists still work in the studio today; the on-site gallery displays their work. Many of these artists also teach classes, from seven-week long intensives to two-hour long clay experiences. During these sessions travelers and newbies can "play in the mud" with hand-building techniques and using the potter's wheel. At the end of class, their work is recycled back into the clay mound.

Reviewers enjoyed the studio's fun, welcoming atmosphere, and said it was fitting for both novices and experienced artists. They noted that instructors provide easy-to-follow instructions and are supportive. 

Loretto Chapel Loretto Chapel

The Loretto Chapel is known for its so-called miraculous staircase, which creates two 360-degree turns as it climbs 22 feet to the choir loft. The stairway is said to have been built by a wandering carpenter after the chapel itself was completed in 1878. According to the chapel, the carpenter used wooden pegs (not nails) and the staircase itself has no visible means of support. Other features of the neo-Gothic church – which is just 25 feet by 75 feet – include trefoil arches, buttresses and stained-glass windows imported from France.

Though they note that the chapel is small, visitors enjoyed seeing and learning about the remarkable staircase. However, a few said a stop inside is not worth the $5 admission fee, noting that there are several interesting churches to visit nearby that do not charge an entrance fee. 

A Walking Tour of Santa Fe's Most Beautiful and Historic Sites

(38 reviews)

from $ 216.69

Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Railyard Arts District

(78 reviews)

from $ 189.00

Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe

(23 reviews)

Nedra Matteucci Galleries Nedra Matteucci Galleries

U.S. News Insider Tip: After browsing, head across the street to Kakawa Chocolate House, which specializes in handmade truffles (like chili chocolate) and drinking chocolates. – Ashley M. Biggers, Contributor, Travel

Set on the edge of Canyon Road , Nedra Matteucci Galleries has established a reputation for fine 19th- and 20th-century American art. Viewers will find bold-faced names from history, such as the members of the Taos Society of Artists, artists from the American West, and leading contemporary American impressionists and modernists. Founded in 1972, the gallery showcases painting, pottery and jewelry, and features an outdoor sculpture garden with a scenic pond.

Peruse the Santa Fe Indian Market Peruse the Santa Fe Indian Market free

Held each year since 1922, Santa Fe Indian Market lays claim to being one of the oldest and most celebrated Native American art markets in the country. It showcases the juried work of more than 800 Native American artists representing some 250 federally recognized tribes from the U.S. and Canada working in mediums from jewelry to sculpture, and from painting to beadwork. The open-air market, which centers on the Santa Fe Plaza and surrounding roads, includes several days of shopping, as well as an award ceremony honoring the best artworks, a Native American clothing contest, an haute couture fashion show and other events. There are also food vendors, selling fry bread, Navajo tacos and roasted corn, among other dishes.

Recent visitors enjoyed the variety of vendors and applauded the quality of the work. Some cautioned that it can be hot (the event takes place in August) and recommended planning accordingly – or ducking into the shops around the plaza to cool off.

Ski Santa Fe Ski Santa Fe

It may come as a surprise to some visitors, but New Mexico is home to some of the top ski spots in the Southwest. Ski season here usually spans from late fall, around Thanksgiving, into March, and Ski Santa Fe receives an average of 225 inches a year. Because Ski Santa Fe is located about 15 miles northeast of Santa Fe, it's easy to add to your itinerary. The ski area covers 660 acres of terrain with 86 runs. There are more intermediate and expert trails, but beginners will be able to get their turns in here, too. It offers a base elevation of 10,350 feet and 1,725 feet of vertical drop, which skiers can access through seven chairlifts.

Visitors who tried Ski Santa Fe appreciated its proximity to downtown and said there's even a free shuttle (the RTD Mountain Trail Bus ) that runs from downtown Santa Fe to the mountain making it easier to access. Skiers said the quality of the snow was great, the views are impressive and there were rarely lift lines.

Things to Do in Santa Fe FAQs

Explore more of santa fe.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

This New Mexico City Has Relaxing Hot Springs, Beautiful Hiking Trails, and Luxury Hotels

Santa Fe is the perfect all-season destination — here's why.

It might sound like a cliché to say a city "has it all," but Santa Fe genuinely fits that description. With thriving arts and culinary scenes , thousands of years of human history, and dozens of miles of hiking trails through canyons , mountains, and forests, it's no surprise that there really is something for everyone.

While the activities vary greatly across Santa Fe, the city has an incredibly cohesive feel, thanks to its Pueblo-style exteriors and New Mexican–style interiors that are ubiquitous downtown, in restaurants, galleries, and hotels.

There's really no place quite like Santa Fe in the United States, which makes it the perfect destination for your next vacation. Here's everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Santa Fe.

The Best Time to Visit Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a year-round destination; because the city sits at an elevation above 7,000 feet, it experiences all four seasons, despite New Mexico generally having a desert climate. In the summer, you can expect temperatures to reach the high 80s or low 90s, while in the winter, temperatures can fall below freezing. As such, there's a great range of activities in Santa Fe, which travelers can enjoy throughout the year.

Mid-summer through early fall is the traditional high season, because the monsoon (typically July and August) brings much-needed rain to this arid region, bringing temperatures down considerably. It also causes the wildflowers to bloom, creating a scenic backdrop to the artsy city. Winter is also a popular time to visit Santa Fe's ski slopes. Spring and mid-to-late fall are shoulder season — you'll find great deals on your stay then, plus milder weather.

No matter when you visit, you're likely to experience good weather; Santa Fe has an average of 325 days of sunshine each year.

The Best Things to Do in Santa Fe

If there's one thing Santa Fe is known for, it's its arts scene. The city has long been beloved by artists drawn to its landscapes — Georgia O'Keeffe was a longtime Santa Fe resident, and there's a museum honoring her life and work here. Today, the city has one of the largest art markets in the country, with more than 250 galleries and dealers selling artwork and artisan-made goods.

Besides the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum , there's also the Museum of International Folk Art , the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture , the New Mexico History Museum , the New Mexico Museum of Art , Museum of Spanish Colonial Art , the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian , and Meow Wolf , an immersive, interactive art installation that draws an international audience.

Santa Fe is also known for its Pueblo-style architecture — everywhere you look downtown, particularly around the Plaza, you'll see structures made of reddish adobe bricks inspired by the buildings of the Pueblo peoples, whose communities you can visit just outside of the city. But there are other architectural gems here, too, including a number of churches and cathedrals, such as St. Francis Cathedral Basilica of Assisi and the Loretto Chapel.

And if it's an adventure you seek, the great outdoors is all around Santa Fe. Go hiking in Tent Rocks National Monument, or hit the slopes at Ski Santa Fe.

The Best Hotels in Santa Fe

There's no shortage of hotels in Santa Fe, and they range from sprawling luxury resorts to family-run boutique inns. One commonality between all of them? A dedication to Santa Fe–inspired décor, from adobe bricks to colorful textiles.

If you're looking to stay downtown near the Plaza, top hotels include the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi , the Inn of Five Graces , La Fonda on the Plaza , and Inn on the Alameda . You can even stay at a small resort downtown: La Posada de Santa Fe is set on six acres.

Looking for a resort just outside of town? Check out the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort , the Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder , Ten Thousand Waves , and Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection .

Experiencing the Santa Fe Springs

Santa Fe is something of an under-the-radar spa destination. Though it might not have the acclaim of Arizona's Sedona, the city is home to world-class spas, some of which are located in downtown hotels, and others of which are part of resorts built around natural hot springs.

Sister spa resorts Ojo Santa Fe and Ojo Caliente are located 25 minutes and 60 minutes outside of the city, respectively, and they offer soaking opportunities in spring-fed mineral pools — both hot and cold. Both properties have a range of services beyond soaking, from spa treatments to yoga classes, not to mention accommodations and restaurants. Whereas Ojo Santa Fe has a more lush property filled with greenery, Ojo Caliente offers a more desert-driven experience.

If there's one destination spa that could be considered "off-brand" for Santa Fe, it's Ten Thousand Waves — but don't let that deter you from a visit. The luxury spa, just a 10-minute drive from downtown, is designed in the style of a Japanese onsen, with private hot tubs and cold plunge pools that visitors can reserve up to 45 days in advance. But Ten Thousand Waves also has spa treatments like facials and massages, as well as the restaurant Izanami and suites for guests who'd like to stay overnight.

Hiking the Santa Fe Trails

Santa Fe is located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. As such, there are myriad hiking opportunities for people of all athletic abilities.

The city of Santa Fe itself operates the Dall Ball Trails, which provide 25 miles of hiking and biking just outside of downtown. Looking for a challenge? Head to the Santa Fe National Forest to tackle the Atalaya Mountain trail, a six-mile, out-and-back hike with an 1,800-foot elevation gain, or the 22.8-mile-long Winsor National Recreation Trail.

If you want to add a dose of history and culture into your hike, visit Bandelier National Monument, where 70 miles of trails weave through the ancient lands of 23 Ancestral Pueblo nations. Along the trails, you'll be able to see petroglyphs (ancient drawings) and historic architectural sites.

Where to Ski in Santa Fe

When we said Santa Fe is a four-season destination, we meant it. In the winter, Santa Fe transforms into quite the ski destination. Ski Santa Fe is the city's ski resort, located just 16 miles away from downtown in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. There are 86 runs here with a base elevation of 10,350 feet, and they're serviced by seven lifts. Ski Santa Fe has trails for all levels, but overall, this is a family-friendly mountain. Ski season in Santa Fe kicks off in December and runs through mid-March.

The Best Restaurants in Santa Fe

New Mexico, as a state, is well-known for its cuisine — a blend of Spanish, Indigenous, Mexican, and American flavors — and you can sample all of it in Santa Fe. Enchiladas, tamales, and posole (a pork stew) are a must, whether you try them at fine-dining establishments or crowd-favorite casual joints. Know that you'll have to pick between green or red chile for many savory dishes in Santa Fe — or you can opt for a "Christmas" blend of both, a style reportedly invented at Tia Sophia's Mexican diner, best known for its breakfast burritos. On the sweeter side of the spectrum, be sure to taste local chocolate, biscochitos cookies, and sopaipillas (fried dough often served with honey).

It's hard to pick favorite restaurants in Santa Fe, but we'll do our best. For fine dining, we recommend Geronimo and the Compound. For local eats, hit up Tia Sophia's or the Pantry , another diner. And for sweets, head to Dolina Cafe and Bakery or Kakawa Chocolate House .

And finally, you must make a stop at the Five & Dime General Store for frito pie — it's a classic!

Related Articles

© Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Missions, museums and Meow Wolf. All are players in the story of 'the city different,' a place that makes its own rules without forgetting its long and storied past.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

If you've been hankering for a trip to another dimension but have yet to find a portal, the House of Eternal Return by Meow Wolf could be the place for…

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

With 10 beautifully lit galleries in a rambling 20th-century adobe, this museum boasts the world's largest collection of O'Keeffe’s work. She’s best known…

Palace of the Governors & New Mexico History Museum

The oldest public building in the US, this low-slung adobe complex began as home to New Mexico’s first Spanish governor in 1610. It was occupied by Pueblo…

Museum of International Folk Art

Santa Fe’s most unusual and exhilarating museum centers on the world's largest collection of folk art. Its huge main gallery displays whimsical and mind…

For more than 400 years, the Plaza has stood at the heart of Santa Fe. Originally it marked the far northern end of the Camino Real from Mexico; later, it…

Museum of Indian Arts & Culture

This top-quality museum sets out to trace the origins and history of the various Native American peoples of the entire Southwest, and explain and…

Museum of Contemporary Native Arts

Primarily showing work by the students and faculty of the esteemed Institute of American Indian Arts, this museum also has the finest contemporary…

St Francis Cathedral

Santa Fe’s French-born bishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy – hero of Willa Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop – set about building this cathedral in 1869. Its…

Top picks from our travel experts

13 of the best things to do in santa fe.

Santa Fe Opera

Many visitors flock to Santa Fe for the opera alone: the theater is a marvel, with 360-degree views of sandstone wilderness crowned with sunsets and…

Bell Tower Bar

In summer this bar atop La Fonda hotel is the premier spot to catch one of those patented New Mexican sunsets while sipping a killer margarita. After dark…

Museum of Spanish Colonial Art

Celebrating the long history of Hispanic culture in New Mexico, this museum places the religious and domestic art of the region in the context of the…

Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian

Mary Cabot established this museum in 1937 to showcase Navajo ceremonial art, and its major strength is Navajo and Zuni jewelry, in particular silverwork…

Long renowned as the 'Inn at the end of the Santa Fe Trail,' Santa Fe’s loveliest historic hotel sprawls through an old adobe just off the Plaza…

Santa Fe for free: experience New Mexico’s capital without spending a cent

Santa Fe Spirits

The local distillery's tasting flight includes an impressive amount of liquor, including shots of Colkegan single malt, Wheeler's gin and Expedition vodka…

This spacious, relaxed indoor-outdoor cafe at the eastern end of Canyon Rd makes the perfect break while gallery hopping. More than 160 teas from all over…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

Santa Fe is an ancient and colorful city with a lot to explore. Immerse yourself in the area's culture and charm, one area at a time.

Santa Fe is the gateway to New Mexico; easy day trips can take you to sacred sites, hot springs, ancient Native American settlements and epic landscapes.

Transportation

Packed with info on everything from bus routes to local bicycle hire places, here's our guide to getting around in Santa Fe.

Free Things to Do

From dancing at outdoor evening concerts to tackling rewarding forest hikes, here’s our guide to visiting Santa Fe for free.

Latest stories from Santa Fe

Art and Culture

Oct 17, 2022 • 8 min read

Writer Simon Moya-Smith visits the 100th annual Santa Fe Indian Market and finds that, even a century on, old habits die hard.

Oct 22, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 18, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 4, 2021 • 6 min read

Sep 29, 2021 • 6 min read

Aug 26, 2021 • 6 min read

Aug 18, 2021 • 7 min read

Aug 12, 2021 • 9 min read

Jun 9, 2020 • 2 min read

May 26, 2020 • 2 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Santa Fe

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Santa Fe with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

48 Hours in Santa Fe

Things to Do

Best Museums

Art Galleries

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Santa Fe

Your Trip to Santa Fe: The Complete Guide

Santa Fe, New Mexico Guide: Planning Your Trip

Santa Fe, the nation's oldest capital   , boasts a vibrant and rich history that few other U.S. cities can match. Most of the town consists of 17th and 18th-century Spanish adobe buildings, providing an idyllic setting for browsing world-class art galleries along Canyon Road, shopping for Native American jewelry and crafts at the Palace of the Governors, or chowing down on blue-corn enchiladas, a New Mexican staple. Of course, you can't forget the city's incredible surrounding landscapes—plan on spending a day hiking under a canopy of aspen, soaking in a mineral spring, or kayaking the Rio Grande.

Read on for more about planning your trip to Santa Fe, including the best time to visit, how to get there, what to see and do, and where to eat and drink.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : With 320 days of sunshine   and a distinct four seasons, there's not really a bad time to visit Santa Fe. Still, visitors will find that late spring (May) and early fall (September through October) offer excellent weather and reduced accommodation costs.

Language: English, but Spanish widely spoken as well.

Currency: U.S. Dollar

Getting Around: The city center is compact and easily walkable, but you'll need a car if you want to head out for any day trips or a hike.

Travel Trip: Santa Fe's airport is small, with just a limited number of flights—fares can be exorbitant. Save money by flying into Albuquerque's airport , which is much larger and only an hour away.

Most things to do in Santa Fe are rooted in the arts or in the outdoors. The city is loaded with museums, galleries, and shops dedicated to showcasing the work of Native American artists and craftsmen, Western painters, and the many contemporary artists who call the city home now. If you wish to get some fresh air, Santa Fe is also an ideal destination for the outdoorsy set, whether you prefer skiing, fly-fishing, trail running, and more. As for what you can't miss:

• Visit Meow Wolf . This quirky, artist-run entertainment complex has attracted visitors from all over the world with its incredible interactive exhibit. It's truly a can't-miss.
• Shop at the Palace of the Governors. Shopping in Santa Fe is serious business, so if you're looking for turquoise, sterling silver, onyx, or other precious stones and metals, the Native American sellers at the Palace of the Governors are likely to have what you're after.
• Walk along Canyon Road. With more than 100 art galleries in a mile-long stretch   , famous Canyon Road is a great way to see world-class art for free.

Check out our complete guides to Santa Fe's best museums , top hikes , and day trips for more great things to do.

What to Eat and Drink

Santa Fe's unique regional cuisine is a draw for many visitors—this is the motherland of blue corn tortillas, red and green chile, biscochitos (New Mexico's state cookie), and countless other uniquely New Mexican dishes. Local favorites like Tomasita's and The Plaza Cafe have been long-running destinations for these favorite dishes, but if you're worried about a chile overload, don't fret. Santa Fe is also home to a remarkable number of international restaurants and fine-dining haunts.

As for drinking, margaritas are often the cocktail of choice, but despite its sometimes sleepy reputation, Santa Fe has a buzzy, high-class cocktail scene, with dedicated drinkers heading to bars like Secreto and Bar Alto. Beer drinkers will be delighted too, as there are a number of craft brewing outposts in the city.

Plan your trip with our guide to the city's best restaurants , top foods to try , and nightlife .

Where to Stay

Most of Santa Fe's hotels are centered around the Plaza, or close by. For first-time visitors, staying here will give you easy walking access to many of the city's top restaurants, galleries, and museums. While Santa Fe has many posh hotel options, like Rosewood's Inn of the Anasazi or Inn of the Five Graces , there are plenty of smaller inns and B&Bs that offer equally peaceful environments for a friendlier price.

If you want to get outside of the city center, the Japanese-inspired Ten Thousands Waves is located in a sybaritic setting at the base of the Santa Fe ski basin, while the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado is a family-friendly resort with tons of activities to keep you busy.

Getting There

Santa Fe is served by the Santa Fe Regional Airport, 10 miles southwest of the city center; however, flights are minimal. If you want to fly into Santa Fe directly, American Airlines flies to and from Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix, and United Express flies to Denver. Most visitors to Santa Fe arrive through the Albuquerque International Sunport , about an hour away. A small, but well-designed, airport, ABQ serves five million travelers each year and offers flights to and from most major U.S. cities, including Phoenix, Dallas, New York, Atlanta, and Chicago.  

Santa Fe's city center is walkable and it's easy to get to many restaurants, galleries, and shops in town, but if you want to explore further afield—say take a day trip to Taos or head out of the city for a hike—renting a car is a good idea. If you're planning to stay close to the city limits, Uber is available.

Money Saving Tips

• To see world-class art for free, go gallery-hopping on Canyon Road. On Friday nights, many of the galleries serve wine and cheese, and the owners and artists are often present—and always willing to chat.
• For a restful day, head to Ojo Caliente , a mineral spring outside of town. The $30 admittance fee on week days ($45 on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays) gets you day-long access to the public mineral pools, mud pool, steam room, and sauna.
• New Mexico's museums are generally reasonably priced, but the $30 New Mexico CulturePass gets you one-time access to all 14 of the state's museums, which can add up to significant savings. It includes museums like the New Mexico Museum of Art on the Plaza and the Museum of International Folk Art at Museum Hill.
• The nation's oldest state capital has a packed event calendar, filled with cultural events, flea markets, rodeos, and more. Check the calendar before your trip so you don't miss out on entertaining (and free!) events like the annual Santa Fe Indian Market and June’s Rodeo de Santa Fe parade.

TOURISM Santa Fe . "History."

TOURISM Santa Fe . "About Santa Fe."

TOURISM Santa Fe . "Canyon Road."

ABQ Sunport. About Us .

Top 12 Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The 10 Best Museums in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The 18 Best Things to Do in Albuquerque

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Albuquerque: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Santa Fe, New Mexico

Guide to Christmas in New Mexico: Activities, Events and Shopping

Baltimore Guide: Planning Your Trip

The 10 Best Santa Fe Art Galleries

Your Trip to Copenhagen: The Complete Guide

The Best 5 Shopping Destinations in Santa Fe

Los Angeles: Planning Your Trip

48 Hours in Santa Fe: The Ultimate Itinerary

Your Trip to Philadelphia: The Complete Guide

Phoenix Guide: Planning Your Trip

Kyoto Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

New Mexico Map

• Native Culture
• Explore Ballooning
• New Mexico True Certified
• New Mexico Magazine
• Public Records
• Tourism Department Website
• Partner Login
• Become a Partner
• Legal & Privacy Policy

Welcome to Santa Fe!

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is one of the great destination cities of the world.

For visitors, meeting planners and adventurers alike, Santa Fe provides an unparalleled quality of life, making it a perfect location for your next vacation getaway, convention or ski trip. 

ADDRESS: 201 W. Marcy St Santa Fe NM 87501 REGION: NorthCentral

TOLL FREE: 800-777-2489

View Lodging In Santa Fe

Santa Fe was called the Dancing Ground of the Sun by early Native American inhabitants and nicknamed The City Different by town fathers at the turn of the 20th century. By any name, Santa Fe is one of the world’s top award-winning and most beloved destinations—four centuries of history and legend, ancient and modern cultures , a majestic outdoor world of recreation and adventure , vibrant visual and performing arts, expansive culinary delights , revitalizing spas, and uniquely tasteful shopping. 

Santa Fe sits 7,200 feet up in the southernmost end of the Rocky Mountains—the oldest and highest capital city in the U.S. The city is tucked into a valley of the Rio Grande surrounded by 1.5 million acres of unspoiled national forest. There's no desert. You'll find juniper and piñon-covered hills, aspen and cottonwood groves, pine forests, grassland, abundant fruit trees, lilacs, rose gardens and hollyhocks.

Santa Fe is a four-season destination. The air is clean and dry, skies clear & bright blue. The sun shines 325 days a year on average. Night skies are stunning, protected from light and air pollution, something few cities have had for a long time.

Santa Fe is a small town—just over 33 miles square with 80,000 residents—but it's richer in history, arts and culture than cities five or ten times its size. With more than 400 restaurants, 250 art galleries and 19 world-class museums all in a small, walkable space, Santa Fe is easy and fun for families and everyone to enjoy.

Santa Fe County is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history all set against an exquisite high desert backdrop. If your curiosity is your guide when adventuring, there’s no shortage of things to discover. From our eight must-see parks and monuments, including Bandelier National Monument which was inhabited by ancient Puebloan people for more than 11,000 years, to Glorieta Battlefield Trail, a definite stop for any Civil War history buff.

Traditions run deep throughout the area and are yours to experience with a visit to El Santuario de Chimayó or a stop at Ortega’s Weaving Shop where in the old loom room at the shop you can still see weavers apply their ancient craft.

Feed your soul and your inner foodie with northern New Mexican fare at Rancho de Chimayó, or green chile cheeseburgers at Blackbird Saloon or the Mine Shaft Tavern .

Santa Fe Deals & Specials

Santa fe museums, santa fe events calendar, the city different videos, visit these locations & attractions close to santa fe.

Abiquiu | Angel Fire | Cerrillos | Chama | Eagle Nest | Española | Los Alamos | Nambé Pueblo | Madrid |  Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo | Ojo Caliente |  Picuris Pueblo |  Pojoaque Pueblo | Questa | Red River |  San Ildefonso Pueblo | Santa Clara Pueblo |   Taos |  Taos Pueblo | Taos Ski Valley |  Tesuque Pueblo | Tierra Amarilla | Truchas

Santa Fe Businesses

Events in santa fe.

Perfect 3 Day Santa Fe Itinerary – 72 Hours In Santa Fe

Looking for a Santa Fe itinerary? This three days in Santa Fe itinerary shares all the top things to do in Santa Fe, sights to see, and places to eat.

The first night you meet Santa Fe, you realize you’ve flung too far for a fling. One day in Santa Fe is not enough. You’re 7,000 feet above sea level, high on a city gleaming by the shadows of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. 

Two days in Santa Fe isn’t enough, either. You’re just getting to know Santa Fe’s tan lines, the bare browns that hold adobe illusions. You’ve tasted New Mexican food, felt the burn of green chile-smocked enchiladas, the citrus-cool of margaritas, and the sweet honeyed hit of sopapillas. 

Three days in Santa Fe lets you breathe. You’re drunk on art, hot from tea, and ready to roadrunner-dash through the dusty, arid Northern New Mexico landscape on a day trip. 

So, if you have just 72 hours in The City Different, here’s the perfect three days in Santa Fe itinerary to help you savor New Mexico’s capital.

Disclosure:   Heads up, this post contains affiliate links, which means Passport To Eden may get a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make an online purchase. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything. We still love that you’re here, reading our content (side note: we suggest getting a coffee or tea first because our blog posts tend to be long). You can read our full affiliate disclosure here to find out more.

Table of Contents

Day One: Getting To Know Santa Fe

9:30 AM – Downtown Santa Fe

I can see The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi as I walk up E San Francisco St. The sidewalk narrows and widens, shifting from brick to concrete. Like many roads in Santa Fe, E San Francisco street slants slightly. It’s not quite straight, but Santa Fe’s landmark church remains in sight. 

Sunlight escapes through two towers – one just a single brick layer taller than the other. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is massive, paler than the low-slung buildings that surround it, and looming. 

Feathers of frost leave my lips as I step up a small flight of stairs towards the church. I wait, along with a few others, for Ana Pacheco. Pacheco’s ancestors arrived in Santa Fe in 1692, close to two centuries before The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi was built. She’s lived in Santa Fe most of her life (minus a brief escapade to New York), and now works as a Santa Fe historian . 

For over a decade, she ran a quarterly magazine on New Mexican history. She recorded oral histories of Santa Fe locals. She authored three books on Santa Fe (and five more about New Mexico). No one knows Santa Fe better than Pacheco , so when I saw an open spot for a historic tour led by her , I knew I had to go ( this is the tour I booked . It sells out quickly, so I recommend reserving early). 

At 9:50 AM, Pacheco zips in with a big black binder. She speaks with the confidence of someone who has had years to dissect her relationship with Santa Fe, to grapple with its inconsistencies, and to frame The City Different in a way that fits battles lost and won . The photos in the binder are ones from her books; they show Santa Fe before. She raises them up, side-by-side against Santa Fe now.  

As our group follows her around downtown Santa Fe, she points out Moorish influences in Santa Fe. She shows us a tourist-bustling chocolate shop, and lets us know that, in the mid-20th century, this building was a checkpoint for the Manhattan Project . She explains why New Mexico was a U.S. territory for over sixty years before gaining statehood. She unpacks the Zia Pueblo sun symbol, bright red against the yellow of the New Mexican flag.  

There’s a personal touch to Pacheco’s tour. Santa Fe’s historic landmarks mean a lot to her; these are the places where she went to school, hung out after school, and went to church. Santa Fe is her city, and she invites us to know her home.

If you can’t get a spot on Pacheco’s tour , I still recommend blocking off the first few hours of your Santa Fe itinerary for a downtown stroll!

Downtown Santa Fe Guide

Some places to stop on a self-guided tour of downtown Santa Fe:

The Palace Of The Governors: Hand-crafted pots and silver jewelry wait under the portal. Every day, from 8:30 AM to 5 PM, Native artists sell wares here (this area is reserved for Native use under the Portal Program, so you can directly support indigenous artists).

Santa Fe Plaza: a small, grassy city park with a wide cross of sidewalks fenced in by shops, cafes, and vendors

IAIA Museum Of Contemporary Native Art: MoCNA is the only museum in the United States dedicated to exhibiting works by contemporary Native artists (admission is free on Fridays).

La Fonda On The Plaza: Wednesday through Saturday, La Fonda tours wind through an almost century-old hotel. Each tour begins around 10:30 and is free for visitors but requires a reservation (call 505-982-5511 and use the extension 4200)

San Miguel Chapel: one of the oldest churches in the US

New Mexico State Capitol Building: the roundhouse is home to a circle of paintings and mixed-media pieces, cementing New Mexico as a state of the arts.

Burro Alley: in the 1600s, burros brought firewood to Santa Fe. Today, this brick-paved donkey-homage is a pedestrian-only shortcut from W San Francisco Street to Grant Avenue.

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: a busy museum showcasing a selection of paintings by a world-famous artist

1:00 PM – Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

As I head from Old Santa Fe Trail towards The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , I see downtown Santa Fe at its peak. Chile ristras redden beneath the afternoon sun’s glare. Restaurant doors fling open, sneaking scents of warm tortillas and spice-sizzled meats into the air. Tourists hurry by chapped buildings, self-anointed fine art galleries, and every shopaholic’s balm: boutiques.

I walk until I see the face of one of the most photographed women of the 20th century —a powerhouse with a soft smile and creased eyes draped across adobe. Georgia O’Keeffe. 

There’s a crowd outside the museum and a crowd inside. It’s hard to get tickets on-site . Even if you do, you might have to wait a few hours to see the exhibitions. Advance tickets are a must ( this is the official website for booking tickets ). Entry is timed (in fifteen-minute intervals).

But you can stay as long as you want , and I plan to. I pop my headphones into my ears and listen to an audio tour . Few of O’Keeffe’s iconic, unfurling petals are in view, so I pause at landscapes instead. Her vivid, slow-burns mostly influenced by New Mexico and the Southwest.

The museum itself is minimalistic and sparse, with white walls spotlighting pastels on paper. Start at Making A Life (on view until 2025), a snapshot of O’Keeffe’s creative processes. Then, stroll through the current exhibition (a themed collection of her works). 

General Info

ADDRESS: 217 Johnson St, Santa Fe, NM 87501 COST: $22 Per Person

Restaurants

Henry & the fish.

My top pick for breakfast downtown! Coconut milk smoothies. Buddha bowls. Smooth matcha lattes.

La Plazuela

Santa Fe’s prettiest restaurant. Sharp mocktails, lightly seasoned enchiladas, and pillowy sopapillas.

Won a James Beard Award over twenty years ago, and it’s still hyped for its New Mexican food. Add your name to the wait list at 4 PM.

4:00 PM – Tumbleroot Pottery

In the spring and summer, Santa Fe’s sky takes longer to deepen from blue to black. The sun is unhurried, slow to settle behind mountaintops, a reminder that I should loosen my grip on my Santa Fe itinerary. 

I’m often my most ambitious in Santa Fe, but it’s not a city that demands ambitious travelers . Museums, shops, and restaurants don’t snap into focus as the minute and hour hands tick, and neither should you. 

So, I settle into a barstool at Tumbleroot Pottery , at a communal table , in the company of strangers. I let my fingers sink into a pound of clay , plopped into a tin, and start… what do I do with this? My knees knock against a metal counter as I dump a lump of gray clay onto a disk. I press it down with my hands, then a spatula. 

“Look, I made a snake,” a husband grins at his wife. He holds the snake, rolled leftover clay, in front of her. She smiles and continues working on her Southwestern-style pot. At another table, an older woman deftly carves a twisted trunk like those in O’Keeffe’s paintings. There are clay cacti, clay crosses, and clay chiles in progress, too. Everyone has been here for hours, making something that reminds them of Santa Fe . 

We share tools (one big set per table). The mallets, stamps, and brushes pass from counter to counter. Mostly, we create in quiet. We laugh at the bumbles and missteps. When someone new walks in, they ask if we’re locals. We shake our heads. 

Tumbleroot Pottery is a tourist destination . It’s downtown, on an easy-to-reach corner with heavy foot traffic. There’s a bar counter. Beer is served in charming, locally-fired pots (you can drink while working with the clay). There’s a gallery, too, with Mezcal cups and glaze-poured bowls by Santa Fe artists. 

The clay self-dries . You’re given a pound to work with and a how-to starter sheet. All the instruments you need are included : wires to cut slabs of clay, fettling knives for sculpting, a spritz of water to keep the clay smooth, primary colors of tempera paints, and even a box (just ask) to take your DIY creation home. You might need to nudge your neighbor for a tool if they forget to put it back in the shared container, but beyond that, Tumbleroot stays social without being sociable. Everyone gets lost in their clay projects (I do, too), scoring memories of Santa Fe into bookends and jewelry holders.

ADDRESS: 135 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501 COST: $9 Per Person

Santa Fe Itinerary Day Two: The Artist’s Path

10:00 AM The Railyard

I remember how wide Santa Fe is at The Railyard. People shuffle between two lines of buildings spread so far apart that a train can easily run in between. 

The first train arrived in Santa Fe at the end of the 19th century , signaling the end of wagons trundling into The City Different [ source ]. Santa Fe became more accessible. Tourists chugged in. Communities cropped up beyond platforms. The rail was on track to boost local jobs, activity, and gatherings. But, when the Interstate Highway gained traction, Santa Fe’s spotlight-bright rail stop lost its shine. 

In 2008, The Railyard was revitalized into a commercial space . Now, The Rail Runner sits on tracks outside the revamped Santa Fe Depot. You can hear Rio Metro’s transit ($10 from Santa Fe to Albuquerque) arrive before you see it, wheels groaning like the starting tumble of a laundry machine. 

Read Next: One Day In Albuquerque Itinerary

I sit on the patio of Sky Coffee with a cappuccino. Air nips my ears, but the drink warms my bones. People spill past the rail tracks; cars roll along Alcadesa Street. It’s been eight years since my last visit to The Railyard, and Violet Crown is still the prettiest building on the block, all sleek brown slabs like an unwrapped chocolate bar. The interior has aged quickly since the start of 2024 (supposedly not in connection to Violet Crown’s buyout by Elevate Entertainment Group ), but the theater is well-loved for its indie showings . 

When I finish my drink, I pop into the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market , a Saturday load of purpling cauliflowers and Looney Tunes-worthy carrots and turnips (so many turnips). The richness of garlic, butter, and yeast exaggerates as I rip apart a warmed-up piece of flatbread, green chile rubbed into its folds. 

Travel Tip: Many vendors, like Intergalactic Bread Company & Space Sauce, are cash-only. Bring at least $10, but if you need more, there’s an ATM outside the Farmers’ Market.  

Tomasita’s

A Margarita Trail stop. Sopaipillas are served with honey butter and raw honey.

Radish & Rye

American cuisine with a hint of Santa Fe. Reserve for a special date night.

Native New Mexico inspired. Has one of the best happy hour menus in town (4-6 PM).

Read Next: 15 Traditional New Mexican Foods You Must Try

The Farmers’ Market grows until late spring when vendors burst past the indoor venue onto a platform by the rails. So, from May through December , there’s a Tuesday Farmers’ Market , too. On Sundays , the area transforms into an Artisan Market dedicated to New Mexico artists.  

Across the street is SITE Santa Fe , a series of galleries that rise like phoenixes every quarter. Interior walls are torn down, and spaces are built anew to perfectly encase exhibits. SITE Santa Fe tries to rotate artists, re-engage, and make abstract works concrete . 

“He’s a little obsessed with Disney. Stare at it long enough, and you might see the influence,” an attendant says as I fish for a pamphlet about Arturo Herrera. I see splatter paints and Mickey Mouse’s gloved hands; the Disney I know, straight-forward and animated, is lost in this story. 

SITE Santa Fe tries to challenge the stories you know . A Carmen Herrera showing – tightrope straight lines made when Herrera was almost a centenarian (and then as a centenarian) – urges you to think about talent, ageism, and double standards. Erin Shirref’s Folded Stone tests how art is perceived and remembered.

Wonderfully enough, nothing about SITE Santa Fe feels highbrow. Guides stationed at each gallery answer questions earnestly , helping you tease out your feelings.

ADDRESS: 1606 Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, NM 87501v COST: FREE

1:00 PM Canyon Road

It’s this modern museum-style approach Elaine Ritchel takes to Canyon Road. Ritchel is the founder of Santa Fe Art Tours , a company democratizing Canyon Road’s art scene. 

I try to visit Canyon Road at least once every time I stop by Santa Fe. I’ve seen outdoor sculptures capped in snow and spring birds perched atop adobe roofs. I’ve walked here in the hot, unshaded summer heat and fallen in love with turquoise doors and grooved wooden entrances that creak under signs labeled fine art gallery . 

Santa Fe is the third largest art market in the United States (after New York and San Francisco). Canyon Road is proof of that, with over eighty galleries packed as densely as an adobe brick. 

There are  clusters of galleries , and within those clusters, sub-clusters. Everything is  walkable, compartmentalized, beautiful , but also overwhelming. So, Ritchel pre-selects a few places to visit.  Santa Fe Art Tours  is her Ariadne’s Thread in Canyon Road’s tight network of home-style galleries. 

You’ll unravel moods and unspool stories. Ritchel, in true Midwestern fashion, sets you at ease, then nudges you towards art appreciation.

Feel free to meander through Canyon Road unguided too! Just give yourself permission to wander and get lost.

Travel Tip: A short walk from Canyon Road is Kakawa, a specialty chocolate house known for its Mesoamerican elixirs. I recommend their hot chocolate flight (you can sample four different flavors)!

4:00 PM House Of Eternal Return

I’m not prepared for House of Eternal Return , and I’m not sure if there’s any way to prepare. House of Eternal Return is an interactive art installation built like a kid’s dream or nightmare (perhaps both—probably both). Little details from an eerie home appear like motifs once you tunnel through a laundry machine, squeeze past a fireplace, saunter into a refrigerator, and duck under a staircase. 

There are thrills and trips, color-dunked chaos orchestrated by over a hundred local artists, and a Goa-psychotic haziness bleeped into a PG landscape.

Open all the doors. House of Eternal Return has over seventy rooms ; when one door closes, another always seems to open. Skip past trees washed in neon, sneak off into a room of mirrors, and pad your shoes against bottle caps pressed into the ground. This is a maximalist fever dream , too imaginative for a quick two-hour pass-through and too labyrinthine-exhausting for three.

Editor’s Note: On April 15, Meow Wolf (the art production corporation behind House of Eternal Return) announced that over 100 employees will be dismissed. I visited House of The Eternal Return before the mass layoff, so I’m not sure if Meow Wolf’s company restructuring and reorganization will change the quality of this experience in any way. Just want to give y’all a heads up!

ADDRESS: 1352 Rufina Cir, Santa Fe, NM 87507 COST: $45 Per Person

Santa Fe Itinerary Day Three: A Getaway

7:00 AM Bandelier National Monument

Eight years ago, I arrived at Bandelier National Monument at 7 AM on a spring Sunday. There was a small wooden box with red maps to borrow. I grabbed one and headed onto Main Pueblo Loop Trail . Snapped twigs and leaves brushed the early part of the path. I heard Frijoles Creek, its water gliding over rocks.

Sunlight fragmented, falling golden on tufts of grass carpeting tuffs of rock. One million years ago, a volcanic explosion heaped ash onto this ground. The ash cooled and compacted into porous, igneous rocks (tuffs), later carved by Ancestral Puebloans . Wind eroded the tuffs, piercing little holes like Swiss Cheese.

Eight hundred-something years ago, Ancestral Puebloans turned those gaps into shelters known as cavates. The rugged dwellings rising stories high (picture an apartment building in rock).

You can scale wooden ladders , enter cavates, and be engulfed in darkness. I only made it up one! My fear of heights led to a panic attack, so I chose not to continue up to Alcove House, which lies 140 feet above Frijoles Canyon (I hope you understand).

But Bandelier is worth driving to; its human history rewinds 10,000 years, and you can feel how ancient this space is as you see the dry cracks, creases, and folds of rock.

Know Before You Go: Between May to October ( exact dates here ), a mandatory shuttle bus wheels you off to Bandelier’s main entrance (you board at White Rock Visitor Center). The bus service is free, departing in twenty(ish) minute intervals between 9 AM to 3 PM. All visitors still need an entrance ticket . America The Beautiful Passes are accepted. You can find more details about the shuttle bus here .

Read Next: 10 Best Day Trips From Santa Fe

Now, almost a decade later, I’m on the same road. I’m heading toward Bandelier National Monument, but stopping in Pojoaque first to visit The Poeh Museum & Cultural Center .

The complex is beautiful, with adobe brick and mud climbing towards clouds. Nah Poeh Meng is the exhibit to start with. Six immersive rooms blend art, history, and storytelling, conveying Pueblo people’s pathway (their emergence, their everyday, their anguish) through the seasons.

Past Nah Poeh Meng is a room of stories. The stories are told by Tewa pots , stacked in four corners, shining on tiered displays. No pot hides behind another. They have waited long enough to return; now, they speak.

Tewa representatives spent years trying to bring these pots home from The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian [ source ]. A long-term loan was negotiated. Now, the pots are back in Northern New Mexico , 5800 feet above sea level, gleaming under the bright lights of Poeh Cultural Center. They’ve come home.

POEH ADDRESS: 78 Cities of Gold Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87506 TIMINGS: Mon-Fri, 10 AM to 5 PM COST: $10 Per Person

General FAQ

It depends on what you’re looking for! If you prefer a great location, I recommend Rosewood Inn Of The Anasazi or La Fonda On The Plaza ! I personally love Hotel Santa Fe (it’s near The Railyard District and is the only Native owned hotel in Santa Fe).

At least a long weekend (Friday through Sunday, ideally). If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Fe during a longer stay, visit Museum Hill, relax at Ten Thousand Waves , drop into one of Santa Fe Community Yoga’s classes, and hike Sun Mountain!

I wouldn’t recommend visiting Santa Fe if you value nightlife (this town sleeps early), but if you like art and history and can handle a bit of spice (New Mexican food  can  be spicy), Santa Fe is a fantastic destination! It’s even a UNESCO-designated Creative City, recognized for its artists, museums, and performing arts venues. 🎨

Personal FAQ

I used a Sony Alpha a6400 and Canon EOS Rebel T5 (I don’t believe Canon manufactures this camera anymore).

Sopapillas, forever and always. I also love biscochitos (New Mexico’s holiday cookies). And anything smothered Christmas-style (New Mexico’s slang for both red and green chile). 😋

I don’t play favorites, but if I did, Santa Fe. 😊

Did you enjoy this Santa Fe itinerary? Let me know in the comments below! Please feel free to adapt this Santa Fe itinerary in any way to meet your travel needs.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

Related Posts

20 Photos To Inspire Your Next Ruidoso Trip

One Day In Albuquerque Itinerary

15 Traditional New Mexican Foods You Must Try (And Where To Find Them)

5 Best Bookstores In Santa Fe New Mexico

Best Time To Visit Albuquerque

Top Things To Do In Old Town Albuquerque

14 comments.

Wow, so fun. It looks like so good. And I loved the way you described it. Lovely.

Wow. That is one awesome weekend you had! Thanks for sharing the list of places worth visiting. The restaurants you suggested look like they serve really good food. Hopefully I get to visit Santa Fe someday.

I hope you get to visit too! It is such a pretty city! xx – Anshula

I’ve never been to Santa Fe myself but I would love to visit. Casa Chimayo sounds like a great place to visit for dinner I love Spanish food.

Yes! The food served there is sooooo good! xx – Anshula

That seems to be an amazing weekend. Love the photos that you have shared. And you describe it so detailed. I would definitely want to visit Santa Fe one day.

Thanks Karen, your comment is so sweet! Hope you get a chance to visit! xx – Anshula

Looks like you had an awesome weekend, visiting Santa Fe is on our bucket list. Everything looks so nice from the pics you took, I would love to visit Bandolier National Monument one day.

It really is a magical place! xx – Anshula

You sure looked like you had a fantastic weekend! I have never been to Santa Fe and I wish I could the soonest time. You definitely fed my wanderlust for the place with your photos!

Thanks so much, Kristine! I hope you get a chance to visit soon. xx – Anshula

Just visited Santa Fe for the first time last summer. I stumbled upon many of your recommendations. Enjoyed the memories and makes me want to return to try the rest on your list!

Thanks Craig! That’s so great to hear! xx – Anshula

It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d definitely donate to this superb blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will share this blog with my Facebook group. Chat soon!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

What are you looking for?

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

Santa Fe Itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days in Santa Fe, New Mexico

last Updated: February 5, 2024 New Mexico santa fe

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to New Mexico and looking for the best Santa Fe itinerary out there?! You’re in luck – this (super) comprehensive guide has everything you need to plan the perfect 3 days in Santa Fe!

Santa Fe (also known as “The City Different”), is the state capital of New Mexico. It’s known for its traditional adobe-style architecture (with earth-colored adobe walls), cultural diversity (a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences), and its thriving artistic community (honestly, there’s so many art galleries, museums, and studios here!). Plus, you can’t forget about the food – intoxifying Southwestern cuisine with loads of green and red chilies (and sweet sopapillas and spicy margaritas!).

It’s got laid-back historic adobe charm with a vibrant artistic energy, tons of traditional jewelry and crafts, and the famous Santa Fe Plaza. I had been wanting to check out New Mexico (and Santa Fe in particular) for oh so long, and was thrilled when I finally made it happen!

If you’ve never been to New Mexico, you’re in for a real treat. The perfect Santa Fe itinerary, coming right up!

Santa Fe Itinerary Logistics

Where is santa fe and how to get there.

Santa Fe is located in the high desert region of northern New Mexico. It sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the United States (yes, even higher than Denver ’s whopping 5,280 feet)!

The city is right off Interstate 25 (I-25), which makes it the perfect stop on a much-longer New Mexico road trip , like we did! It’s not far from Albuquerque , the largest city in New Mexico (at just over an hour away), so I highly recommend visiting both cities in one trip!

And there’s so much natural beauty here – Santa Fe is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east and the Jemez Mountains to the west, plus the Rio Grande River flows to the west of the city! Don’t forget to look out the window if you’re flying in…

Flying to Santa Fe

Yes, you can fly direct to Santa Fe – I honestly didn’t even realize the city had its own airport until I started researching for my trip. 

However, The Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF) primarily serves regional flights, and there’s a super limited number of direct flights available (only from Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix at this time). It’s a tiny airport, so to be expected.

Because of this, most visitors (including us!) fly into the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is the largest and busiest airport in New Mexico. It’s only about 60 miles south of Santa Fe, and there’s loads more flight options. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or take the The Rail Runner Express commuter train to Santa Fe.

If you don’t mind driving a few hours (about 5!) and are planning to visit Southern New Mexico (like White Sands National Park and/or Truth or Consequences ), you can also fly to El Paso International Airport (ELP). A great idea if you’re starting your New Mexico road trip in the southern part of the state.

Driving to Santa Fe

Already in New Mexico or the southwest? Santa Fe is easily accessible by car! Since the city is right along I-25 (a major north-south highway that runs through the central part of New Mexico), it’s super convenient if you’re coming from either north or south.  And you can easily rent a car at ABQ airport.

We drove to Santa Fe after our weekend in Albuquerque and had no problems whatsoever. 

Note that there are THREE different routes you can take between Albuquerque and Santa Fe:

• Interstate-25 is the quickest and most direct, right on the main highway
• The Turquoise Trail takes about 1 ½ hours, a 50-mile stretch through mining towns with gorgeous views along the way – make sure to fill up your gas tank before starting the drive!
• Driving through the Jemez Mountains takes about 3 hours, plus however long for stops (which goes through Bandelier National Monument and Jemez Springs)

Since we only had about 3 days in Santa Fe, we didn’t wanna waste any time so simply took I-25. And since we were on a week-long New Mexico road trip , we saw plenty of scenic views the other days!

Here’s driving distances from other popular spots nearby-ish:

• From Albuquerque, New Mexico : 65 miles (1 hour)
• From Taos, New Mexico: ~70 miles (1 ½ hours)
• From White Sands National Park , New Mexico: ~250 miles (4 hours)
• From Durango, Colorado : ~215 miles (4 hours)
• From Las Cruces, New Mexico : ~300 miles (4.5 hours)
• From El Paso, Texas : ~325 miles (5 hours)
• From Colorado Springs, Colorado : ~325 miles (5 hours)
• From Flagstaff, Arizona : ~400 miles (6 hours)
• From Phoenix, Arizona : ~500 miles (7 ½ hours)

Public Transport to Santa Fe

Don’t feel like driving? I get it – you’re on vacation! Thankfully there’s a few ways to get to Santa Fe by public transit.

Train : The New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a commuter train that connects Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It’s perfect if you’re spending a few days in Albuquerque first. Psst – The Santa Fe Depot is the train station in downtown Santa Fe. It’s in the Railyard District, where you can either walk or call an Uber to take you to your hotel.

Shuttle bus : There’s a few different shuttle services that operate between the Albuquerque airport and Santa Fe. Check out Sandia Shuttle, ABQ Express Shuttle, and Groome Transportation.

How to Get Around Santa Fe

Driving in Santa Fe : Since public transit is a bit lacking in Santa Fe, it’s recommended to get a car for your Santa Fe itinerary. Especially if you wanna visit a few bars and restaurants a little off the main drag, plus take day trips to Bandelier National Monument and/or a day spa! 

Since we were taking a New Mexico road trip throughout much of the state, we had our rental car with us. Note that most hotels charge for parking, and it’s kinda difficult (although not impossible) to find parking in the downtown Plaza – just something to keep in mind. There’s a fairly large parking garage directly across the street from the Rosewood Hotel if you wanna plot that on your map. 

Walking in Santa Fe : Yes, walk! Santa Fe is super pedestrian friendly, especially the downtown areas! There’s also plenty of bike paths if it’s warm out. If you’re staying right in Old Town (highly recommended), you’ll be able to walk to dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Public transit in Santa Fe: The city doesn’t have its own extensive public transit system like many big cities do. You’ll find Santa Fe Trails, the city’s public bus service with several routes within the city. We didn’t take it so can’t comment on how reliable the bus is unfortunately. 

Rideshare : If all else fails, there’s always taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft!

When to Plan your Long Weekend in Santa Fe Itinerary 

Santa Fe experiences a semiarid climate with four distinct seasons. And just like Albuquerque, tons of bright blue skies and over 320 days of sunshine! Bet you had no idea! 

TL;DR — The city has cold winters with occasional snowfall and warm, wet summers. High elevation keeps temperatures moderate, ranging from about 85° F in July to lows near 20° F in January.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a glorious time to visit Santa Fe – the temps are mild (50s to 70s °F), crowds are fewer, and there’s tons of blooming flowers! The aspens and cottonwoods start leafing, and the cactus flowers start blooming. 

Note that nights can still be quite cool (bring layers) and it’s possible for a late spring snowstorm or two to happen! Be prepared for all weather conditions. 

Summer (June to August)

Summer heats up, with daytime highs in the 80s to low 90s°F. The city is exceptionally busy, so expect to pay higher prices for hotels and airfare, and to wait a while at popular restaurants. However, the days are super long, meaning you can squeeze in oh so much into your 3 day Santa Fe itinerary.

Take note of the dramatic summer thunderstorms that can happen – it’s monsoon season in this part of the country (bring a raincoat)! Thankfully, the storms never last too long (usually happening in the afternoon – plan your outdoor activities in the morning) and, well, rainbows! 

If you do find yourself with some rain, don’t fret – just pop into a museum or art gallery, there’s lots to choose from.

Plus, the Santa Fe Opera season runs during this time (!!!), and the Santa Fe Indian Market (one of the largest and most prestigious Native American art markets) is held annually in August.

Fall (September to November)

Near perfect weather (with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s °F – perfect for playing tourist) and stunning fall foliage. Plus, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is held in September, which is exactly as it sounds – celebrating the region’s wine and culinary offerings!

October is when the famous Balloon Fiesta takes place in Albuquerque, and plenty of visitors make the short drive up to Santa Fe for a day or so. Meaning, it’ll be exceptionally busy. Plan your long weekend in Santa Fe another time if you aren’t planning on attending the balloon festival (still on my USA bucket list!).

For reference, we visited Santa Fe at the end of November, and while there were still some fall colors left, locals told me it was beginning to shift to winter. And it was WAY colder than I expected it to be, so make sure you wear your layers! 

We had crisp blue skies almost the entire time we were there, and heard that it snowed the day after we left!

Winter (December to February)

Winter is chilly, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s°F, and lows in the 20s. Nights can be extremely cold, often dipping below freezing. Come prepared with true winter gear – it definitely gets cold here! 

And there’s snow, typically from sometime in late November through March, although most of it is up in the ski area and not tons in town.

This is considered low season, so it’ll be less crowded, but some attractions have reduced hours (and the La Fonda on the Plaza Bell Tower rooftop is sadly closed for the season).

Where to Stay in Santa Fe

If it’s your first time in Santa Fe, I highly recommend staying in either the Historic District (Old Town) or the nearby Railyard District (up-and-coming trendy area). 

Since we ended up staying 4 nights in Santa Fe (we left early our last morning to head south to Truth or Consequences ), we actually stayed in both areas!

Historic District (Old Town)

This is iconic Santa Fe. 

Here you’ll find the Santa Fe Plaza, a charming and authentic Southwestern atmosphere with adobe architecture, and tons of cultural attractions. Plus Native American markets and even some art galleries. 

We stayed at the Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi and were blown away by the gorgeous sitting area/library, authentic furnishings, and the in-room fireplace. Didn’t hurt that we were given free margarita coupons for the bar, plus chocolate chip cookies before bed every night. The true key to my heart, haha. 

Our hotel was literally right in the middle of everything (literally less than 5 minutes away), meaning we could walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and trendy bars every day/night. That’s one huge benefit of staying right in Old Town – it doesn’t get more convenient than that. 

It is the most expensive area to stay in Santa Fe (understandably), but hey, location, location, location!

Railyard District

The Railyard District is a vibrant and evolving area that’s undergone a huge revitalization lately. It’s got a way more contemporary and urban feel compared to Old Town, and feels kinda trendy in a sense. You’ll still find a mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants here, but more modern and eclectic. 

The area’s well-within walking distance to the Plaza (only 15 minutes away or so), but it doesn’t have the same historic ambiance as Old Town. That’s not to say that’s a bad thing though, just different!

Plus, staying in the Railyard District is way easier on the wallet, so if you wanna save a few bucks for some extra margaritas, I won’t fault you! 

Our stay at Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe was phenomenal – much more basic than the Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi of course, but still very design-focused (especially the common area) and way less expensive. The owners kept the historic feel of the 1800s building while giving it a sleek southwestern vibe. We just loved it!

Other hotels we were considering in Santa Fe were El Rey Court (I was obsessed with those cool western vibes, OMG – at least come for a cocktail one night), Hotel Santa Fe Hacienda & Spa (right in the Railyard District), and La Fonda on the Plaza (with its popular rooftop bar).

Other Important FAQs for your a Santa Fe Itinerary 

Is 3 days in Santa Fe really enough?! I think yes, a long weekend in Santa Fe is the perfect amount of time! Personally, I felt pretty satisfied with our 3 days in Santa Fe, although you could easily add on an extra day or two and not get bored (especially if you wanna do a day trip or two). Any more and it’d be overkill in my opinion. 

What to eat in Santa Fe? I swear New Mexican food is my new favorite food group, haha. It’s wildly underrated in my book, and the flavors are just so, so good. 

I’ll give lots of restaurant recommendations at the end of the itinerary, but here’s a few foods you shouldn’t miss:

• Chiles Rellenos : Green chiles stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings, coated in egg batter and fried
• Posole : traditional hominy-based soup with pork or chicken, red or green chile, and various toppings 
• Biscochitos : spiced shortbread cookies often flavored with cinnamon and anise, yum! New Mexico’s official state cookie!
• Sopapillas with Honey : Fluffy, deep-fried pastries served with honey – my new favorite!
• Blue Corn Pancakes : pancakes made with blue cornmeal and topped with local honey or syrup (a regional specialty!)
• Fry Bread Tacos : A dish influenced by Native American cuisine, with fry bread loaded with taco ingredients.
• Margaritas : I mean, you are in Santa Fe! And the cities even got their own Margarita Trail.. So it just makes sense to participate!

Where should I go after Santa Fe? Ohh – good question! 

We spent a weekend in Albuquerque before heading north for 3 days in Santa Fe and Bandelier National Monument , then made our way south to Truth or Consequences , Las Cruces, and White Sands National Park ! 

I highly encourage you to explore more of New Mexico – it’s such a fascinating, underrated state!

Can I take a day trip to Santa Fe from Albuquerque? Sure, why not?! The two popular cities are only about an hour away, and thankfully, the Rail Runner Express commuter train makes it super easy. The train takes just over an hour and a half, so if you leave early enough, you’ll have time for shopping at The Plaza, checking out the art galleries on Canyon Road, and plenty of mezcal margaritas and frito pie, haha!

BUT I really think you’d be better off with at least a night and two full days in Santa Fe to really get a feel for the town.

On that note, I think you can easily do a day trip to Albuquerque from Santa Fe and see oh so much! Although you’re probably flying into ABQ, so that’d just be silly!

Why is Santa Fe called “The City Different”? Because Santa Fe is just different, in so many different aspects! Some people compare visiting NM to a different country, and I can totally see why. It’s got its own unique and distinctive character – a rich blend of cultures, artistic vibrancy, and historic charm. There’s really nowhere else like it!

Finally, what you came here for – the perfect 3 days in Santa Fe itinerary! Let’s get to it!

3 Days in Santa Fe Itinerary 

Santa fe itinerary day 1: old town santa fe .

On the first day of this 3-day Santa Fe itinerary, you’ll be hanging around Old Town and the plaza! This is Santa Fe’s famous historic district, a culturally rich neighborhood with distinctive adobe-style architecture, art-filled streets, and a vibrant plaza! You can easily spend all day here, and that’s exactly what we did!

It’s super chill but there’s actually quite a bit to see. If you wanna have a leisurely day and still see everything on this list and eat, I’d stick to one museum visit.

NOTE – I typically provide a specific order of activities on my itineraries, but no need for that today! Everything in Old Town is super close to each other, and you can kinda go with the flow and pick and choose (except for the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum – but more on that in a bit). 

Also – there’s TONS of amazing restaurants here in Old Town. I’ve included a whole long list of all our favorites at the end of this post, but here’s what I recommend for Day 1:

• Breakfast : Cafe Pasquals or Tia Sophias
• Lunch : The Shed (gets busy so put your name down before you’re absolutely starving, haha)
• Dinner : Coyote Cafe or La Boca

Here’s all my recommended things to do in Old Town:

Wander through Santa Fe Plaza

This is the central hub of Old Town, and a must on any Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll see tons of people out and about, enjoying the park with their families and children. Throughout the year there’s plenty of events, markets, and cultural festivities over here – if you’re lucky, you may just catch one.

Directly north of the Plaza you’ll find vendors selling tons of handcrafted items at the Palace of the Governors. This is the Native American Artisans Program, and the artists sell and showcase pottery, textiles, and jewelry made of traditional materials like turquoise, coral, and silver. 

And the program is regulated – meaning the artisans only sell the highest quality merchandise, handmade themselves (never mass-produced or imported).

I really love this initiative, and highly encourage you to speak to some of the vendors about their pieces. By buying from them, you’re directly supporting the family who made them.

You can also try a Famous Frito Pie at the Five & Dime General Store less than a block away – literally a sliced open corn chip bag piled high with cheese, chilis, and meat. Mmm… delicious in the best kinda way.

IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA)

If you’re interested in learning about Native American contemporary art plus history and culture, make your way over to the Museum of Contemporary Native Art, or MoCNA for short! 

It’s the only museum in the entire country dedicated to the progressive work of contemporary Native artists (and there’s lots here – over 10,000 Contemporary Indigenous artworks, created from 1962 to the present on rotation).

The museum is honestly kinda small, but the collection is downright excellent – with tons of sculpture installations, digital media, murals, and paintings.

The colorful pillars outside are what really caught my eye! Such a fun place for photos, and you know we took a lot, haha. I thought it’d be packed with people, but we found it relatively empty most times we strolled past.

Wanna get into the museum for free? Come the first Friday of every month when there’s free admission from 5-7pm (although some of the exhibits are closed).

There’s also the New Mexico Museum of Art if you haven’t had your art fix yet!

Go Shopping at The Plaza 

Shopping at The Plaza is an absolute must – you’ll find plenty of Native American jewelry, clothing, boots, pottery, and more. Like in Albuquerque , there’s of course some tacky souvenir shops, but I promise you there’s tons of beautiful handmade stuff as well. Talk to the shop owners and vendors and you can easily tell what’s authentic.

There’s *so* many cool spots to check out and explore (honestly, Santa Fe really surprised me), but these were my favorites:

• O’Farrell Hat Company (truly custom hats with outstanding quality; prepare to drop some money) 
• The Rainbow Man (a super eclectic main courtyard with multiple indoor spaces, with everything from Mexican pottery to arts and crafts)
• Parts Unknown (upscale Western clothing store with lots of unique designs)
• chocolate + cashmere (chocolate and cashmere, what more could you want?!)
• Shiprock Santa Fe (GORGEOUS Navajo rugs, jewelry, woven baskets, and accessories)
• Back at The Ranch (the most beautiful exotic cowboy boots you’ll ever see – too bad they were way outta my price range)
• Original Trading Post (lots of unique gifts and souvenirs with that New Mexico touch – green or red chiles, chiminea wood burners, and fine regional pottery)

I so wish I left some room in my suitcase for a handwoven rug – they were all so gorgeous and I just loved the traditional colors.

Admire the Santa Fe Churches

Santa Fe is home to several historic and architecturally significant churches, and I highly encourage you to check them out. Just remember to be respectful and quiet – these are places of worship and mass still occurs.

• Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi: Located right off the Plaza, this Roman Catholic cathedral is full of Romanesque Revival architecture and a beautiful interior. You can go inside if you’d like to see the religious artifacts and statues, but I simply admired the cathedral from the outside.
• San Miguel Chapel: A few blocks away you’ll find what is believed to be the oldest church in the United States, built around 1610 (very fitting that it’s directly across from the Oldest House Museum, haha). 
• Loretto Chapel : Finally there’s the Loretto Chapel with its famous spiral staircase, known as the “Miraculous Stairs”. This elegant, wooden staircase has no visible means of support (really, there’s no poles and no nails!), and people just love it! Especially those into architecture! You’ll need to grab a ticket, but the admission fee is just a few bucks.

Explore the Oldest House Museum

Also known as the De Vargas Street House, the Oldest House Museum was apparently built in the early 1600s – yes, making it one of the oldest homes in the United States! It’s made of thick adobe walls which help regulate temps and give us clues into the architecture back then.

It’s not so much a museum, but a few rooms with some signage, pictures, and artifacts (and a large gift shop… of course haha). It only took us a few minutes to walk through, but worth the short visit to imagine life back then. Plus, it’s free! 

Take Photos at the Inn & Spa at Loretto  

I have to admit I came here solely for the iconic Santa Fe photo opp! The adobe architecture really is stunning, with its earthy-orangey color and soft curves. 

Note that anyone can take photos here, as this is literally the entrance to the hotel. Bring your patience if you want a clear shot though – people were coming and going with their suitcases and the valet was doing his job bringing cars to the entrance. We came mid-morning and the sun was super harsh, so I recommend either going just after sunrise or right before sunset.

Sip some Bubbles at the Gruet Winery

This isn’t an absolute must, but if you’re in the mood for some bubbly, make a quick pit stop at Gruet Winery for some New Mexico made champagne! I tried the New Mexican sunrise and it was *chefs kiss* – perfect for a quick pick me up before my visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

If it’s warm, definitely sit on the back patio with a flight of sparkling wine. You’ll probably wanna make a reservation in advance (I was able to walk in for a quick glass, but not so sure a full-on tasting would have been available for me).

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

You can’t visit Santa Fe and not visit this museum. If you’re not familiar, Georgia O’Keeffe was one of the most significant American artists of the 20th century. New Mexico is the place that inspired her work, so it makes sense to view it here! 

I honestly didn’t know too much about her before visiting, and still loved the museum – all her works are downright fascinating and I loved learning about her life. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum houses the largest collection of her artworks, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures spanning her entire career. I loved her famous flower paintings and New Mexican landscapes the most (she had a deep connection to the state).

When I was visiting, there was a temporary exhibition showcasing her time in Maine, where she went back and forth for a few years. Felt pretty fitting since I collected shells when I was younger as well, and still do!

The museum is a tad smaller than I expected, but done really well and was a great way to spend an hour or so.

Note that you need to purchase a timed ticket in advance on the website. This is one of the most popular things to do in the entire city, so if you desperately wanna make it here on your Santa Fe itinerary, plan for it beforehand! A few of my friends missed out because they didn’t book their tickets enough in advance… buy your ticket here (a few weeks prior in busy season). 

I chose one of the last time slots and loved slowly strolling throughout the gallery after running around all day.

Psst – If you’ve got an extra day in Santa Fe (and a car!), you can also head north to Ghost Ranch, one of O’Keeffe’s first homes. On my list for next time!

Watch Sunset at Cross of the Martyrs

I love watching the sunset, especially when I travel, so was thrilled when I learned Cross of the Martyrs is the best place to do so! From up here you get sweeping panoramic views of Santa Fe; you can really see the whole city from here! 

Getting here is easy peasy – you can either walk up (an easy but kinda steep 10 minute up-hill walk) or drive to the parking lot and walk down to the cross. There’s also some history of Santa Fe on the plaques on the way up too.

We actually came here twice – I walked here after browsing the O’Keeffe Museum one night, and then took my husband back a few nights later. Sunsets just hit different in the desert. Of course you can visit any time of day, but I found it exceptionally gorgeous at sunset.

Santa Fe Itinerary Day 2: Railway District and Canyon Road

Day two of your three days in Santa Fe has you exploring two other areas of the city – the Railyard District and Canyon Road. They’re not as overly iconic as Old Town, but still very much worthy on any Santa Fe itinerary. And since they’re pretty small, you can totally explore both in the same day.

Again, so many great restaurants/cafes/bars in these areas as well. Here’s my recommendations for Day 2:

• Breakfast : CrashMurderBusiness or Iconik Coffee Roasters
• Lunch : El Chile Toreado (definitely get the pork Adobada burrito) and Whoo’s Donuts
• Dinner : La Choza, Paloma, or Paper Dosa

Morning: Santa Fe Railyard Arts District

Start the day strolling around The Santa Fe Railyard District! It’s experienced a significant revitalization the last few years, and hence has a vibrant, chill vibe. Perfect for hanging out for a few hours. You can even walk here from the Plaza if you’re staying in Old Town.

Stop 1: Fuel up with some caffeine

Before the day really gets going, pop into one of the coffee shops nearby. I chose CrashMurderBusiness , a cozy spot that specializes in craft coffees and elixirs (what a fun name, right?). Everything on the menu sounded downright delicious (and super creative), but we chose the Race of Roadrunners (with hints of cacao, red chile, and smoked sea salt) and the Parliament of Owls (an earl gray tea with cardamom and orange blossom honey).

There’s also Iconik Coffee Roasters if you’re looking for something more substantial (they’ve got a full breakfast menu as well as plenty of coffee options).

Stop 2: Santa Fe Farmers Market or Artisan Market

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, Saturday, or Sunday, you’re in luck (and I highly recommend rearranging your days to make this happen)! You’ll be able to check out either the Santa Fe Farmers Market or the Artisan Market – both perfect for a morning stroll.

Note that the Tuesday Market is not open year round, and the markets have different opening hours:

• OPEN ALL YEAR LONG
• 8am – 1pm
• May 7th – December 24th
• Sundays 10am to 3pm

The Santa Fe Farmers Market is the King of them all. It’s packed with vendors beyond vendors!

If you can get to the Railyard on a Saturday, you’re in for a real treat. Expect tons of fresh produce, handmade goods, locally grown spices, eggs, dried beans, honey, and much more. The Saturday Market has the largest variety of vendors and products by far. I so wish we were in Santa Fe on a Saturday so I could’ve bought and tried a whole bunch of things. 

At the market 100% of the veggies, fruits, and plants are grown right in Northern New Mexico – no imports here! And you’re guaranteed everything is super, super fresh. And remember, buying here means you’re directly supporting the farmers of NM!

I recommend coming early as the market does get quite busy. Stop by right after breakfast for an hour or two. 

The Tuesday Market is similar to the market on Saturday, although much smaller. When I visited in late November, it was mostly confined inside – although I’ve seen photos where it spills outside. Must be time of year! It seemed like a mixture of a farmers market and an artisan market – there were a bunch of both.

The Railyard Artisan Market (on Sundays) is dedicated to local artisans and small creative businesses, and is actually one of New Mexico’s oldest markets! 

Here you can purchase original works straight from the artisans, including lots of fine art (like paintings, printmaking, and even sculptures), wooden and ceramic crafts, Native American jewelry, and even lotions and potions and health remedies, oh my. 

Stop 3: Browsing/shopping on Guadalupe Street

End the morning with some shopping on Guadalupe Street, where most of the shops and cafes are. It was pretty quiet when I visited on a Tuesday morning, but can see it being really busy on the weekend.

These were my favorites on/near Guadalupe:

• form & concept: An art gallery in a sleek, airy space showcasing the works of eclectic artists, both established and up-and-coming. Some really colorful and interesting pieces here.
• Double Take: Everything is so eclectic in this vintage/thrift store. There’s two sides to it – a low end with lots of thrift pieces and a higher end, selling designer and vintage pieces. I spent so much time in here, whoops!
• Rio Bravo Trading Co: What a gem! There’s tons of vintage rugs, hats, and jewelry. Plus, the owner’s dog is the cutest. I must’ve spent over 20 minutes listening to his stories there.
• Array : The cutest gift shop with tons of things to browse. You never know what you’ll find.
• Kowboyz: A western store with the coolest vintage boots at actually affordable prices. Plus loads of cowboy hats.

If you’re looking for a pre-afternoon cocktail/beer, check out As Above, So Below Distillery (female owned and distilled!) or Second Street Brewery at The Railyard. Or both, because, ya know, you’re on vacation and there’s no rules. 

Note that As Above, So Below is currently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan around that if you’re craving some time in the cocktail lounge.

Afternoon: Canyon Road and Kakawa Chocolates

Any Santa Fe itinerary isn’t complete without a wander down Canyon Road – it is quintessentially Santa Fe afterall! 

Here you’ll find an eclectic assortment of art galleries in historic adobe homes and sidewalks lined with coyote fences and plenty of trees. The whole area is undeniably charming, with hidden sculpture gardens and patios serving up wine and margaritas. 

Plus tons of art everyone! Where else can you see classic black-on-black pottery, contemporary mixed-media, exquisite Navajo weavings, and vibrant lithographs all on the same block?! An absolute *must-see* for art lovers spending a long weekend in Santa Fe!

It’s said that there’s about 80 art galleries on Canyon Road alone, and while it’s impossible to visit them all, I promise you’ll make your way into so many good ones. 

We popped into about 6 or 7 and found each gallery showcased wildly different things – all so varied and I promise you’ll never get bored! Plus, the gallery staff were all so friendly and chatty. Note that some galleries are closed on Sundays, so double check if there’s anywhere specific you wanna visit.

Here’s a few galleries we popped into that I especially loved:

• Gerald Peters Contemporary
• Prescott Sculpture Gallery
• Freeman Gallery
• Adobe Gallery

Kakawa Chocolate House : But before you start your walk, pop into Kakawa Chocolate House for some chocolate elixirs and truffles! There’s a reason it’s super famous afterall. And yes, that means it can get *extremely* busy, so prepare to wait in line a bit. 

What’s so special about this place? Most of their menu features traditional historic recipes from Mesoamerica, Mayan, Aztec, and Colonial Mexico (way back from 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD). 

There’s lots to choose from (and thankfully they give samples). We blended the Zapoteca and Aztec Warrior (both Mesoamerican), and found it to be the perfect combo, not too sweet and with a hint of spice. Plus loads of whipped cream on top.

A lot of the chocolates are made with a very high percentage of cacao – meaning the truffles are the perfect balance of sweet and rich. So, so delicious, although I don’t think anything will ever beat those chocolate truffles we loved in Bruges, Belgium.

What’s an elixir you ask?! I wasn’t sure myself either. An elixir is essentially a beverage that contains ingredients meant to support the body and its functions, like herbs and superfoods. Now that is something I can get behind! Chocolate drinks that are good for you? Sign me up!

The Tea House: If you walk all the way to the end of Canyon Road, you’ll eventually get to The Tea House. This is an easy local favorite, with over 150 different types of tea and plenty of scones (plus a full menu if you’re feeling famished). We didn’t make it here (I was too full of chocolates), but it’s on the list for next time for me!

Santa Fe Itinerary Day 3: Bandelier National Monument and Hot Springs Soak

The last day of this long weekend in Santa Fe brings us on some day trips outta the city. Hiking in Bandelier National Monument and/or a soak at Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort – two of our favorite things we did on our New Mexico road trip!

If you want a really chill last day, you can just do one. BUT I honestly think you have time for both; maybe it’s being a tad ambitious, but it’s less than 2 ½ hours of driving total… and they’re both excellent experiences. I recommend heading to Bandelier in the AM, and then driving straight to Ojo Santa Fe for a soak!

Morning: Bandelier National Monument

Time to get your hike on! Bandelier is one of the best places near Santa Fe to get yourself out into nature. Imagine well-preserved ancestral cliff dwellings, stunning scenery (full of canyons, mesas, and the Frijoles Creek), and even ancient petroglyphs. Plus ladders to climb, cavates to explore, and tarantulas to watch out for – yes, we saw one!

And nope, you don’t need to go all the way to Mexico , Greece , Italy , or Guatemala to see remains of ancient civilizations. They’re right here in New Mexico!

Bandelier is a must-visit if you’re interested in soaking up the stories and rich heritage of the American Southwest, plus lots of natural beauty. And getting some cool pictures too!

I recommend waking up early, grabbing a quick breakfast, and making your way to Bandelier (it’s only about an hour from Santa Fe, so really not that bad). The park does get busy though (understandably!), so the earlier you arrive, the better. 

Plus, if you’re visiting in summer you’ll wanna ensure you get a spot in the parking lot so you aren’t forced to take the shuttle (mandatory after 9am from mid-June to mid-October).

With only a few hours in the park, you should prioritize the Main Pueblo Loop Trail. This is the most popular hike in the park, and in only 1.4 miles (roundtrip), you’ll see multiple archeological sites within the canyon and even use the ladders to crawl into a few cliff dwellings. 

Don’t leave without stuffing your face with some fry bread (covered in sugar) from the park’s semi-famous restaurant, Sirphey. The perfect after-hiking treat!

Psst – since you’ll basically be passing Santa Fe on your way to the hot springs, this is the perfect time for some lunch! Unless you wanna eat at the Blue Heron Restaurant overlooking the springs like we did – they’ve got an all-day brunch! Mmm – that breakfast burrito smothered in chiles really hit the spot.

Afternoon: Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort

After a morning full of hiking (or a long, leisurely brunch… no judging!), it’s time to finally hit the spa! Santa Fe (and New Mexico in general) are known for their hot springs, and what better way to soothe those aching muscles by soaking in a tub of steamy 100°F water. Okay, fine, the hikes in Bandelier really aren’t *too* strenuous, but hey, you deserve some R & R.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to purchase a day pass (good for as many hours as you wish – they don’t take reservations), and optional robe and slippers. It’s a tad expensive (at $45 during the week and $65 on weekends and holidays), but if you stay a few hours, I feel it’s more than worth it.

The whole resort is gorgeous – with multiple soaking areas, plenty of spring-fed thermal pools, comfy hammocks, a duck pond, a full-service spa, a bunch of walking trails, and even a first class restaurant on-site. You can also book yourself a private pool ahead of time if you want more privacy.

It looks especially beautiful in the fall when all the leaves change color (we visited in late fall/early winter and most of the leaves had sadly already fallen off). And once you’re done soaking, it’s only a 20-minute drive back to Santa Fe! Unless you wanna stay (for $$$), but I honestly don’t recommend it since it’s kinda isolated from the rest of the city.

Note: There’s also Ten Thousand Waves (a Japanese-style spa hotel with views of the mountains) about 10 minutes north of Santa Fe. BUT you can’t just walk on in, so prepare to make a reservation for one of their public communal pools or private soaking tubs a few weeks in advance.

We also visited Riverbend Hot Springs a few hours south in quirky Truth or Consequences, and had great experiences at both. If you’re embarking on a NM road trip like we were, I highly recommend both – never too many hot springs in my book!

Where to Eat in Santa Fe 

This wouldn’t be a very complete Santa Fe travel blog without a whole slew of restaurant recommendations. I had NO clue just how much of a foodie spot this diverse city is, and boy am I glad we had a full 3 days in Santa Fe to eat as much as we could. 

Honestly, New Mexican food is oh so flavorful and full of spice – it may be my new favorite food group (although, mild for me, please)! You can really taste the rich cultural heritage of the region just by its food – a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo!

Whatever you do, don’t miss all the red and green chile sauces, blue corn anything and everything, fry bread tacos, posole (which I discovered I loved ), and sopapillas (best drizzled with honey).

Margarita Trail : Before I get into the actual restaurants and bars we loved, I need to mention the Margarita Trail. Yes, Santa Fe has its very own established Margarita Trail, with over 50 signature margaritas at various locations throughout the city! There’s even an app for it or a paper passport – yup. 

It seems a little gimmicky (if I’m being honest here)… with prizes available and the need to purchase the app or a paper passport for tiny discounts. No visitor in their right mind is gonna try more than a dozen in a weekend, so I feel it’s best suited for locals or those living in New Mexico who visit Santa Fe quite frequently.

BUT margaritas! Passport or not, the city boasts tons of creative margaritas, which you should totally try. My husband tried silver coin margaritas at the Rosewood (where we stayed), a frozen strawberry marg at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, something fun at El Rey Court (I honestly forgot what, haha), and a prickly pear marg at La Choza. And surprise, surprise, he didn’t complain about any of them, haha.

Christmas-Style Chile : Another thing to note – you’ll undoubtedly get asked red or green whenever you order a New Mexican dish. They’re asking if you want red or green chile, and I recommend always asking for Christmas-style, meaning you get both!

Where to Eat in Old Town

• Cafe Pasquals: Super popular and busy, busy, busy for breakfast, so put your name down and wander Old Town. It’s a colorful, eclectic restaurant with lots of art on the walls and flags hanging from the ceiling. We tried the pancakes with chiles, mole, and maple syrup (said to be amazing but I think we missed something…).
• The Shed : Located right in the plaza, this is probably one of the most popular spots in Santa Fe serving traditional New Mexican cuisine – famous for their green chile stew, enchiladas, and fresh tacos. Either make a reservation for dinner, or come for lunch (no reservations needed, but expect a long wait time). Sit outside in the courtyard if it’s nice out!
• Tia Sophias: A no frills, authentic spot filled with plenty of locals. Great for breakfast – promise me you’ll order a Christmas style breakfast burrito (huge!) and sopapillas. Plus, it’s where the term “Christmas” style was invented, so you know it’s good.

• Coyote Cafe: Everyone recommended this place to us, and I can totally see why! We actually had Thanksgiving Dinner here, and wow, just wow. All the flavors were on point, and I’d love to come back to try their regular menu. I’m still dreaming about that banana cream pie. Head up to the Rooftop Cantina for views of downtown.
• La Boca: Here you’ll find Spanish tapas and small plates. We unfortunately missed this place (didn’t have enough time!), but I heard so many great things about it. It’s a bit fancy, so perfect if you wanna dress up a little. Surprisingly, the artichokes are one of their most popular dishes – try them and report back to me!
• Frito Pie from Five & Dime General Store : You should totally eat a frito pie at least once during your 3 days in Santa Fe. I mean, even Anthony Bourdain ate here, so that’s good enough for me! 
• Cocktails at Los Poblanos Bar Norte : A super cute shop curated with bar accessories, snacks, and other home goods. The tiny bar in the back is super cute – and right down the block from our hotel! We went to the restaurant location in Albuquerque and had a great meal, so I had a feeling the bar in Santa Fe would be just as great.
• Drinks at The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda : The perfect spot for happy hour with sweeping 360° views of the mountains and city below. Plus amazing cocktails (margaritas!) and small bites. Come for sunset! Closed for winter unfortunately!

Restaurants in the Railyard District

• La Choza : This was easily one of our favorite meals during our 3 days in Santa Fe. It’s admittedly got a very similar menu to their sister restaurant, The Shed, so perfect if you couldn’t get in there. Expect truly authentic New Mexican food, like green chile stew, blue corn soft tacos, spicy enchiladas, and carne adovada. Don’t miss the sopapillas – and drizzle on as much of that honey as you want! My new guilty pleasure. Usually very long wait times, so come for an early dinner.
• El Chile Toreado: There’s a reason the chef earned a James Beard nomination in 2023. Don’t miss the pork adobada burrito (marinated pork in adobo sauce cooked with onions) – so, so, so good. I desperately wanted to go back for another one but we ran out of time. Perfect for a chill, casual lunch. Just note it’s a food truck and there’s nowhere to eat, so if you’re visiting in late fall/winter like we were, you’ll probably wanna eat elsewhere, haha. Way too cold to stand around and eat outside.

• Whoo’s Donuts: A quick stop for some blue corn donuts (standouts being the blue corn blueberry lavender and blue corn maple pecan). And boy were they good. Just make sure you specify you want blue corn as there’s also regular donuts as well.
• Paloma : Upmarket Mexican cuisine (with creative cocktails) in a rustic-chic colorful space. YOU GUYS – I was beyond obsessed. Literally everything we got was perfect – tuna tostaditos, carnitas quesadillas (with oaxaca cheese!),  guac, short rib barbacoa… it was all beyond perfection. Make a reservation; you won’t regret it. Plus, the best mezcal selection I’ve ever seen.
• Crash Murder Business: Coffee and tea drinks with a quirky twist inside such a cozy space; perfect for your morning caffeine before hitting up the shops.
• Paper Dosa: Genuine, authentic Indian cuisine right here in Santa Fe! It’s a bit south of the Railyard District, but super, super popular, and extremely busy. FOR A REASON – I couldn’t stop talking about my dosa for days, haha. They don’t take reservations, but I highly recommend coming for an early dinner. We got there just a little after opening and already had a 45 minute wait or something like that.

• El Rey Court: You definitely can’t walk here (regardless if you’re staying in Old Town or closer to the Railyard), but I promise it’s worth the short drive. The perfect after-dinner stop for some mezcal margaritas in a super chic space. The bar inside the hotel is cute and modern, and super cozy in the winter with the fireplace going! I loved the design so much we came back the next day to take some photos!

So there ya have it – my personal recommendations on the perfect 3 days in Santa Fe! Are you headed to New Mexico soon?!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Santa Fe, New Mexico

America’s oldest capital city, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is home to boatloads of intriguing history, culture, and art waiting to be explored! 

With over 250 art galleries and 20 museums, Santa Fe is home to many fascinating opportunities to immerse yourself in the history and art of many cultures, including, but not limited to, Spanish and Indian influences. These cultural influences extend to the local cuisine with mouth-wateringly delicious foods, like Native American fry bread-style sopaipillas and other fresh and locally made dishes, available for you to savor. 

Santa Fe is filled with history and some of the oldest historical landmarks in the United States. From the Oldest House to the Oldest Church, Santa Fe preserves and shares the rich history of this magnificent city known as the “City Different” settled in the “Land of Enchantment.” 

Surrounded by rugged desert landscapes, Santa Fe is a place of opportunity to explore the many attractions. Places like El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, a living museum with original colonial buildings settled in the rural farming valley that once acted as a rest stop for travelers is a great place to see. On the natural side of things, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort is home to natural springs and geothermal pools that have drawn in travelers for many years. These are only some of the outstanding attractions to consider on a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

For the ultimate Santa Fe itinerary, follow along with my top recommended activities and attractions to explore for the best three days spent in Santa Fe! 

How Many Days to Spend in Santa Fe 

Spending three days in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the prime amount of time to experience this fantastic city’s history, culture, and cuisine. This world-class getaway destination offers many attractions, from museums and spas to art and architecture. 

Take the weekend off for the perfect three days spent in Santa Fe. Make memories you’ll never forget and will cherish in this charming city where history meets luxury. 

Day One in Santa Fe

On day one in Santa Fe, we should start the trip with a step into Santa Fe’s historical background. And there’s no better way to do that than explore downtown Santa Fe and all its history and culture!

From the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market to the Oldest House Museum, on day one, we’ll be able to absorb this outstanding city’s magnificent culture and history. So, prepare your appetite and your wallet – this will be a day filled with fun, food, and shopping! 

Morning: Breakfast & Farmer’s Market 

Start the morning—or brunch—with house-baked bread and open-face sandwiches at Sage Bakehouse. Sage Bakehouse is a unique European-inspired cafe, a one-of-a-kind pastry shop, artisan bread bakery, and cafe settled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. The tartines, toasted open-face sandwiches, and paninis are to die for! They have pre-made cold sandwiches ready to go if you’re in a hurry and farmers’ market specials that vary seasonally. 

Speaking of farmers’ markets, the Santa Fe Farmers Market is a morning or early afternoon activity I highly recommend traversing. If you don’t mind walking, Sage Bakehouse is only 0.6 miles from Santa Fe Farmers’ Market. Walking from point A to point B is a great way to get a feel for Santa Fe and see sights you would only passively glimpse in a car! 

Not too far from Sage Bakehouse, this widely popular farmers’ market has been running since the 1960s. Located at the Santa Fe Railyard, the market runs year-round on Saturdays and is known as one of the best farmers’ markets in the United States! 

There is an incredible selection of fresh produce, plants, apothecary, locally made goods and foods, and more to explore for a fun morning of vibrant colors, a welcoming atmosphere, and fresh products. 

On Sundays, the Santa Fe Farmers Market runs the Railyard Artisan Market from 10 AM – 3 PM. This day is dedicated to all local artisans and small creative businesses, representing one of New Mexico’s oldest art markets. On this day, there are plenty of options of fine art, crafts, mementos, souvenirs, jewelry, home goods, and more to explore for a unique purchase to take home with you.

If you find you have an appetite after walking around, the cafe at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market is open Tuesday-Sunday for select hours. The menu focuses solely on farmers’ market ingredients with seasonal menu items and guaranteed freshness in each bite. The cafe also offers excellent selections from other local businesses like Aroma Coffee, Whoo’s Donuts, and Chocolate Maven, to feature a wide selection of foods from breakfast burritos and juice to coffee and donuts! 

Afternoon: San Miguel Chapel

After exploring the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, the San Miguel Chapel is a wondrous Santa Fe attraction that is a must when visiting this historic city. The San Miguel Chapel is 1.2 miles from the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market.

Situated in the Barrio de Analco, a national historic district in Santa Fe, the San Miguel Chapel is a Spanish colonial mission church built in 1610 by Tlaxcalan Indians and Franciscan friars. Known as the oldest Catholic church in the United States, the adobe church had to be rebuilt twice! One of the times in 1710, after the Pueblo Revolt, ended as the only successful Native uprising against a colonizing power in North America. 

The church offers tours Tuesday-Saturday so that more information and critical points on its background and history can be revealed to guests wishing to learn about this historic Santa Fe attraction. 

Next: The Oldest House Museum

Conveniently located across the street from the San Miguel Chapel is the Oldest House Museum, the next Santa Fe attraction to explore!

Standing as one of the oldest buildings in the United States, the Oldest House Museum is a museum attached to a house that was added in the late 1800s and later converted to a gift shop. This neat gift shop offers various items that embrace the spirit of the many cultural influences of Santa Fe’s history. 

In the Oldest House Museum, there is history that dates back to 1200 CE. The museum utilizes entertainment, activities, education opportunities, and events to peel layer by historical layer back to encourage guests to step back in time. Take in the Spanish Pueblo architecture of this house, estimated to be about 350 years old, which hones a spot in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Admission into the Oldest House Museum is free, with self-guided tours taken at your own pace! 

After touring the Oldest House Museum, sit for dinner at the Rio Chama Prime Steakhouse. This refined ranch space is famous for its prime rib, filet mignon, and happy hour. 

Located within walking distance from the Oldest House Museum, the steakhouse is also settled in the oldest neighborhood in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Incredibly popular with locals and tourists alike, we had to make a pitstop at this popping steakhouse—and I’m glad we did! The food was mouth-wateringly delicious, the atmosphere refined yet inviting, and the drinks refreshing. We highly recommend stopping at Rio Chama Prime Steakhouse one of the nights during your stay in Santa Fe! 

Day Two in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is teeming with history and culture, displayed in many forms like art, cuisine, and landmarks. And there’s no better way to experience them all than combining a little bit of everything! 

That’s why on day two in Santa Fe, we’ll be joining a historic walk of Santa Fe, strolling down Canyon Road filled with hundreds of art galleries and shops, and taking part in a walking food tour of Santa Fe’s authentic cuisine to really get a taste of Santa Fe! 

Morning: Historic Walks of Santa Fe

Before heading over to Historic Walks of Santa Fe, grab breakfast at Dolina Bakery & Cafe. This airy and modern cafe features house-baked goods, a pleasant setting, and contemporary American brunch with an Eastern European influence. Enjoy their selection of fresh espresso, coffee, breakfast croissants, breakfast burritos, omelets, and other breakfast menu options to fuel up before heading out to the Historic Walks of Santa Fe.

It’s important to note that the Historic Walks of Santa Fe requires reservations and a minimum of two people per private tour. The tours run for one hour and 45 minutes, with professional guides meeting guests at Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza at 10 AM. 

Through touring with Historic Walks of Santa Fe, you can experience the best of Santa Fe by first-hand experiencing its significant attractions. The tours are led by professional guides, art historians, seasoned actors, and museum docents that strive to recreate the past for a unique experience that presents Santa Fe’s impressive history. 

Fun fact — The Historic Walks of Santa Fe tours are pet-friendly thanks to the company’s mascot, Andy, who was featured on National Geographic’s “Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel”. So, if you end up bringing your pet with you to Santa Fe, the Historic Walks of Santa Fe encourages you to bring them along for a time of fun and adventure!

Want to try out other walking tours? Check out this architectural walking tour and wine tasting ! This fun tour takes you through Santa Fe’s historic Eastside neighborhood filled with New Mexican architecture styles while tasting and savoring the local wines. 

Afternoon: Canyon Road

Featuring over a hundred workshops, art galleries, and studios, Canyon Road is an art lovers’ paradise! 

The street is committed to the country’s finest art, offering a pleasant stroll to view outstanding pieces and collections. On the enigmatic Canyon Road, a wide variety of shops hone contemporary crafts, stunning jewelry, creative home goods, awe-inspiring sculptures, and Native American artifacts and arts. 

Offering a refreshing and inspiring setting, Canyon Road displays a vital piece of Santa Fe’s history and heritage through internationally renowned folk and local artists. If you find yourself building up an appetite during your inquisitive adventures of Canyon Road, there are a few selections of cafes and restaurants to consider to quench your appetite. 

Consider stopping at The Teahouse for lunch. This quaint haunt features an eclectic menu of teas from around the world. With a driven passion for discovering and sharing unique botanicals and loose-leaf organic teas, The Teahouse has become famously known across the globe as a top importer and Master Tea Blender of the world’s finest teas. 

If you like trying new things, I highly recommend exploring the vast options of exceptional aromatic teas and blends at The Teahouse. Though The Teahouse is an acclaimed specialty tea store, it is also a restaurant, beer garden, and wine bar, so there are plenty of options to explore for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 

If you desire to learn more about the local art scene of Santa Fe, consider this Canyon Road Curated Art Walking Tour . Through this interactive tour, you will have the opportunity to chat with local artists and gallerists and learn more about the local art history of Santa Fe! 

There’s one other option for your afternoon that I recommend.

Wander New Mexico Food Tours is top-rated for its premium food tours of Santa Fe. People can eat, drink, and discover New Mexico through an immersive dining experience of New Mexico’s rich history. Offering a variety of tours to consider, this interactive tour is led by a local guide that introduces its guests to local business owners, farmers, producers, and chefs. Through this interaction, you can take in the authenticity and hard work that goes into creating each menu item and growing the ingredients that go into them! 

This experience is like no other. On this walking food tour, you will be able to socialize, learn, savor, and be inspired by the culinary aptitude and history of Santa Fe. 

Day Three in Santa Fe

On your last day in Santa Fe, we’ve got to end it with a bang. That’s why we’re hitting up major Santa Fe attractions like El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, a living museum, and the Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort—because treating yourself is the best part of a vacation, and this spa has sacred springs and mud baths! 

Morning: El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

On the way over to El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, stop for breakfast at The Pantry Dos! This sweet little breakfast spot proudly stands as Santa Fe’s meeting and eating place since 1948. Serving fresh-from-scratch, quality comfort food, The Pantry Dos is a family-owned business that offers the best chile in Santa Fe. After scoffing down some tasty food from The Pantry Dos, like the Breakfast Quesadilla or the Stuffed French Toast, it’s time to explore El Rancho de las Golondrinas! 

Once a ranch, El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, or “The Ranch of the Swallows,” is now a living museum. Located on 200 acres, the ranch is in a rural farming valley south of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Strategically constructed on the Royal Road, which connected Mexico City to Santa Fe, the ranch was once used as a paraje, or official rest stop, for travelers. 

El Rancho de Las Golondrinas is committed to preserving and sharing the 18th and 19th-century history, culture, and heritage of New Mexico using the living museum. On the grounds are additional historic buildings that have been reconstructed at Las Golondrinas from other sections of northern New Mexico to pair with the original colonial buildings on the grounds that date back to the early 1700s. 

When arriving at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, visitors are welcomed by villagers clothed in the fashion of hundreds of years past to personify life lived on the frontier. El Rancho de Las Golondrinas hosts special events and festivals to present an in-depth step into many aspects of life during the Spanish, Mexican, and Territorial periods. 

With a mixture of outdoor and indoor aspects, I highly recommend taking a guided tour of this expansive museum and ranch instead of the self-guided tour. The costumed guides are professional, knowledgeable, and personable, taking you on a wonderfully fascinating and educational tour of all El Rancho de Las Golondrinas is committed to preserving and sharing with all who enter its grounds. For guided tours, you must reserve your tour in advance! 

Afternoon: Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort

After a long weekend of walking and exploring, it’s time to relax and reset at the Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort.

Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort isn’t just any run-of-the-mill spa! For centuries, this spa has seduced travelers from around the world to its natural springs and geothermal pools in search of healing, relaxation, and respite. 

Now, in the present, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort has been voted “World’s Best Spa” by Travel & Leisure 2021 for its continued dedication to best healing practices to provide an inspiring and immersive experience to all who visit. The spa’s tradition of utilizing hydrotherapy and body therapies that soothe the soul has continued to rejuvenate, nourish, and soothe the body, mind, and soul. 

The waterside spa and tranquil oasis of Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort offer a more profound level of relaxation than any other spa I’ve visited. Soaking in the sacred springs is a must before or after your appointment. It does wonders when combined with the magic of Ojo’s waters and local botanicals.

Once you’re done relaxing and soaking in the rejuvenating vibes at Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, hit up El Parasol on the way back to Santa Fe. 

Recognized by locals as the “best” in all of Santa Fe, El Parasol has mastered its family recipes. So much so that the restaurant has been featured in national publications like New York Times, Bon Appetit, and Gourmet! This down-to-earth counter service restaurant boasts homemade tortilla chips, tamales, tacos, biscochitos, salsa, and other Mexican dishes that draw locals and tourists from all over to this appetizing restaurant. 

Evening: Meow Wolf Santa Fe

This mind-bending, interactive art experience welcomes those of all ages for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Meow Wolf Santa Fe is proud to call itself the original immersive art adventure. And what an experience it is!

Hosting over 70 rooms filled with immersive art, Meow Wolf Santa Fe is filled with adventure and opportunities to get lost in art. The company’s mission is to inspire creativity through art and exploration through an immersive experience that will transform worlds with the power of imagination. 

The success and creativity of Meow Wolf Santa Fe have extended its reach to big names like The New York Times, RollingStone, and Forbes. How impressive for a company that first got its start in 2008 as an informal DIY collective of Santa Fe artists! It’s so awesome to discover these local Santa Fe-based artists become founders of an outstandingly creative business such as Meow Wolf Santa Fe, which overflows with dreams, creativity, imagination, and opportunity. 

End the night at Second Street Brewery – Rufina Taproom, where Santa Fe’s favorite beer is brewed. Boasting three locations in Santa Fe, Second Street Brewery achieved rapid success and humble beginnings in the supportive and welcoming community of Santa Fe. The brewery now sells Santa Fe’s favorite beer in restaurants, bars, and cans in stores all over New Mexico. 

Grab a bite of The Original Alien Burger (yes, you read that right!) or The Tesuque Grandma (yes, you still read that right!) with a side of Second Street Brewery’s beers on tap like the Boneshaker Bitter or the Sloppy Sloth. Options are galore and just as delicious, no matter which one you pick. I can promise you that! 

What To Know Before You Go

There are a few things you should know before you go to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico. From where to stay to the best time of year to visit, you need to take into account these factors when planning a trip to Santa Fe! 

Where To Stay in Santa Fe

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Fe is an ideal hotel to consider staying at during your vacation in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for the best affordable stay and desirable accommodation. 

Settled in a convenient location, your stay is only four miles from the best of Santa Fe. The lobby is incredibly welcoming and vibrant, where you’ll be greeted by inviting staff and outstanding service. 

Start every morning with a complimentary fresh breakfast, including scrambled eggs, fruit, oatmeal, sausage, oatmeal, and more tasty options. A perfect opportunity if you’re interested in saving money to spend on souvenirs, gifts, or other attractions to be found in Santa Fe. 

The contemporary hotel rooms at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Fe are spacious and comfortable, making it easy to sit back and relax in between activities or at the end of the day. Free Wi-Fi is part of the package at this accommodating hotel, which is perfect when you need pictures of your trip on Instagram or Facebook to show all your friends and family! Other facilities include a fitness center and swimming pool to take advantage of while staying at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Fe. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Santa Fe

If you’re wondering what the best time of year to visit Santa Fe is, I highly recommend visiting anywhere from September to November. The temperature hit up to the high 70s during this time range, making it perfectly comfortable to stroll and walk around the stunning lands of Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

Though summer may be ideal for most, as temperatures lie between the 50s and 80s, it’s important to note that this is tourist season, so hotel rates are high, and availability will be low. However, if you can make a reservation for a hotel in advance, you may beat the tourist season rush.

The winter season in Santa Fe can be quite chilly, with highs reaching the 40s during the daytime. As a result, many would rather skip this type of weather, understandably, during vacation due to the chill. 

Side Note – Santa Fe is known for its consistently intense sun rays year-round. No matter what time of year you visit Santa Fe, Mexico, it’s important that you apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn. 

How To Get Around Santa Fe

As you may have noticed, I planned many of the activities for this guide on how to spend three days in Santa Fe within walking distance of one another (minus day three, which will require transportation). 

Getting around Santa Fe is not only affordable, but it’s great for your overall health. Voted one of America’s Top Rated Walking Cities, Santa Fe homes compact historic districts and other attractions conveniently located within walking distance of one another. 

When considering longer-distance trips, Santa Fe has several other transportation systems and services available. Uber and Lyft are two of the most common, easy-to-use ride-hailing applications that can be used to get around from your stay to attractions in Santa Fe. Other transportation services to consider include the public transportation system, shuttle services included with your hotel stay, rental cars, and charter vans. 

Safety Advice for Santa Fe

When traveling to an unfamiliar place, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety. Like anywhere in the world, bad people or unfortunate circumstances can occur and, most often, can be avoided. 

Unfortunately, the crime rate in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is high. 

Always keep your personal belongings in sight or in a secure location while traveling around Santa Fe. If renting a vehicle, only park in designated areas. Lock your vehicle and keep personal belongings out of sight. 

When in secluded areas, do not walk alone. Suppose there are any instances of concern or potential threat, dial 911. Avoid outlying or desolate areas of Santa Fe, as these areas are known for high drug activity. Instead, remain in the tourist areas. 

There are other factors to be aware of when traveling to Santa Fe. 

Santa Fe has a lot of snakes. Therefore, you must be aware of your surroundings when around pools or lakes, though you can also run into a snake on land. 

If you are not accustomed to high altitudes, you must be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Santa Fe rests at 7,200 feet, with some of the mountains at 12,000 feet. If you find yourself hiking in these areas, you may find yourself suffering from dizziness or headaches. 

Altitude sickness is often likened to feeling like a hangover, with other symptoms like nausea and muscle aches to pair up with dizziness and headache. If not approached correctly, altitude sickness can extend to high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or lung buildup, which can be life-threatening. The best remedy for altitude sickness is acetazolamide, a commonly used medication to treat altitude sickness. It can be used to decrease symptoms or as a preventative measure before any symptoms occur. 

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

21 Thrilling Things to Do in Tennessee

How to Spend Three Magnificent Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Cusco, Peru: A 2023 Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

• South Africa
• Czech Republic
• United Arab Emirates
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• Accommodation
• Travel Gear
• Itineraries
• Travel Blogging + Photography
• Where I’ve Been
• Bucket List

21 Things You Need to do on a Trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico

I’ll just come out and say it— Santa Fe is one of my favorite cities in the US, and it always surprises me that more people haven’t been! The New Mexico capital is magical and I hope this post shows you why it’s worthy of a visit and that there are SO many awesome things to do in Santa Fe.

Whether you’ve already started to plan a trip here or are curious about planning one in the future, this post will give you tons of ideas for ways to spend your time in “The City Different.” From epic shopping adventures to historic train rides and the best margarita in town, I promise you’ll be kept plenty busy with all the things I have in store for you in this post.

But first, why do I love Santa Fe so much? Well, let me count the ways.

This New Mexican city has so much charm. Between the incredible adobe architecture and Native American heritage and the wildly creative community that calls it home, Santa Fe is a truly unique place that is brimming with creative energy around every corner. It’s no wonder that one of the most famous artists of our time, Georgia O’Keeffe, decided to call this beautiful area home.

Another awesome thing about Santa Fe: It’s quite small! At least for a capital city at least. With only 80,000 or so residents, Santa Fe is quite manageable in size and it’s super walkable. It’s small enough to feel like you can truly get your bearings and experience the best of the city even in a short trip.

So let’s get onto the best things to do during your time in Santa Fe!

The Best Things to do in Santa Fe, NM

1. take home unique goods from the plaza.

You’ll no doubt find yourself here on any trip to Santa Fe. The main plaza downtown is incredibly walkable, and it’s where you’ll find a ton of the city’s top restaurants, museums, historic churches and the most incredible shopping.

I love that beyond a single Starbucks and Häagen-Dazs, there isn’t really much here in the way of chain establishments.

Instead, you’ll find tons of independent hotels, galleries and boutiques hawking all kinds of Southwestern attire. If you’ve been in the market for a hand-made cowboy hat or some turquoise jewelry, you’ve come to the right place. At the O’Farrell Hat Company , you can even put in an order for a custom hat, although you’ll have to wait about 16 months for it to be finished.

Some of my favorite shops you can’t miss in Santa Fe are Rainbow Man for all kinds of funky trinkets, Parts Unknown for hats/boots/dresses that feel very Santa Fe, and Seret & Sons , which is a massive warehouse sized store (over 50,000 square feet!) of incredible furniture and decor pieces from places like Tibet, Afghanistan and other parts of Central Asia.

2. Ride the Historic Sky Railway

One of the most unique things to do in Santa Fe is to book a ride along the Sky Railway, a refurbished train that offers a variety of curated trips for visitors and locals to Santa Fe along the historic rail route between Santa Fe and Lamy.

There are tons of different options you can choose from depending on your vibe like Flamenco themed rides, stargazing rides after dark and more. I personally loved the sunset ride because it’s one of the best places in the city to catch a beautiful New Mexico sunset.

3. Try Sipping Chocolate with Chile

Kakawa Chocolate House isn’t your average chocolatier. Based in Santa Fe, these guys specialize in drinking chocolate elixirs and specifically take inspiration from ancient cultures and communities between the time periods of 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.

I’ve revisited this place every time I’m back in Santa Fe. The truffles are absolutely delicious—try the mezcal and goat cheese and sage if you’re into unique flavors.

What really makes this spot unique is their menu of sipping chocolate elixirs. Some of them even have a classic Santa Fe chile kick so be careful if you’re spice sensitive 😉

If you’re visiting Santa Fe in fall or winter, this is a perfect way to warm up between gallery hopping along Canyon Road.

4. Go Gallery Hopping Along Canyon Road

Canyon Road is where you’ll find the highest concentration of art galleries in Santa Fe and perhaps in the entire country. Within just a half mile, you can explore over 80 art galleries, plus many boutiques, restaurants and even a wine garden within easy walking distance from the main Santa Fe Plaza.

This is a must if you’re an art fiend or collector. Even if you’re not, this is still a great place to get outside of the busiest section of downtown and go for a nice stroll.

5. Try Christmas Chile

There’s one common question you’ll get at most Santa Fe restaurants if you’ve ordered some sort of New Mexican fare and it’s this: red or green? They’re talking about their famous chiles of course. The beauty of ordering it “Christmas” style is that you get the best of both worlds.

Red is the spicier option but even as someone who is pretty sensitive to spice I found that most red chiles I ate weren’t too much for me to handle.

Some favorite places in town to grab enchiladas, breakfast burritos or other dishes you’d want to get with Christmas chile are Cafe Pasqual’s , The Shed and Tia Sophia’s (go here for breakfast and get the breakfast burritos).

6. Stay in the Only Native-American Owned Hotel in Santa Fe

There are many beautiful hotels and resorts in Santa Fe, but Hotel Santa Fe is the only Native-American owned hotel in the city. This hotel truly embodies the spirit and heritage of the Pueblo people who are at the root of Santa Fe’s culture and history. Hotel Santa Fe is situated in the up-and-coming Railyard Arts District, but it’s only a 10 minute walk from the downtown plaza.

Through a stay here, you’ll have access to Native-American inspired spa treatments, their multi-million dollar art collection that celebrates their Native-American heritage, authentic cuisine at restaurant Amaya, and live music weekly by a Native flutist.

They also have an incredible free shuttle service that will literally drop you anywhere downtown for free! Everything is so walkable you’ll barely need it, but it was such an incredible amenity to have during our stay.

7. Experience the Wild World of Meow Wolf

If you’ve never heard of Meow Wolf, then buckle up because you’re in for a wild ride. This is an absolute must if you’re in Santa Fe and I guarantee it’s unlike anything you’ll probably ever experience. Plus, it originated in Santa Fe which makes it one of the best things to do in “The City Different”.

Think of Meow Wolf like stepping into a completely different universe filled with psychedelic, whimsical and interactive art installations that will tap into your inner child and simultaneously make you go, “what THE HECK?!” It’s almost impossible to fully describe to anyone who hasn’t experienced it for themselves.

Meow Wolf has been taking the country by storm and opening experiences in various cities, but Santa Fe’s version “House of Eternal Return” is the original exhibit.

We spent 2 hours here roaming around, but you could easily spent more so definitely set aside a full morning or afternoon for this experience. Check here for ticket availability .

8. Visit the Railyard Arts District

After an extensive redevelopment project, the historic Railyard reopened in 2008 to Santa Fe locals and visitors as a contemporary public space for people to enjoy arts, culture and recreational activities in the city.

While you’ll notice that a lot of Santa Fe attracts an older crowd, this is the place to be to tap into the younger social scene and is a great place to spend a day that feels very modern compared to the cultural charm of downtown.

A few favorite spots to check out in the Railyard are cocktail lounge Altar Spirits which often has live music, Second Street Brewery , The Violet Crown and The Sky Railway .

9. Relax and Recharge at Ten Thousand Waves

If rest and relaxation is on the agenda for your trip, then Ten Thousand Waves is one of the best things to do in Santa Fe. This Japanese-style spa feels like an unexpected slice of paradise that will transport you to a mountain hot spring onsen in Japan without ever leaving New Mexico.

There are several ways to experience Ten Thousand Waves, whether it’s with a spa treatment, soaking tub reservation, dinner at their incredible restaurant Izanami or even booking an overnight stay. If you have time, I recommend making an afternoon of it and making early dinner reservations before heading to the spa for an evening treatment and soak.

Reservations fill up quickly, so make sure to book as far in advance as you can.

10. Try a Tea Elixir at Crash Murder Business

Despite the slow service, we really enjoyed our beverages or “elixirs” rather at this newly opened Santa Fe coffee shop. If you’re sick of the old Starbucks latte, Crashmurderbusiness is a nice spot to check out that will give you something a little more exciting to sip on.

It’s a unique concept that serves coffee and tea drinks with a quirky twist, and even quirkier names to boot. For example, I ordered the Parliament of Owls, an Earl Gray tea concoction paired with orange blossom honey, cardamom, and charred cedar bitters, which definitely was not the most bizarre thing on the menu but it WAS delicious!

Next time I’ll be ordering the Glory of Unicorns which is served with “sparkle maple syrup.”

11. Sip Your Way Through Santa Fe’s Margarita Trail

If you’re traveling to Santa Fe on a girls trip or with a group of friends, the Margarita Trail is a fun activity to take part in while you sip your way through the streets of the City Different.

I actually didn’t know this existed on my first trip to Santa Fe, so this was a fun surprise on my recent trip and a new way to interact with Santa Fe’s fun dining establishments.

How it works: Pick up a Margarita Trail “Passport” at the tourism office in downtown or download their app and check out their extensive list of participating restaurants and bars that have created a signature margarita specifically for the Margarita Trail.

When you purchase the designated margarita at any of these spots, they’ll stamp your passport and you get various prizes and freebies depending on how many stamps you pick up along the way!

12. Go for a Hike Along the Aspen Vista Trail

Whether or not you’re visiting Santa Fe in fall when the Aspen trees are in their golden glory, you’ll still enjoy this moderate 6-mile out and back trail.

If you’re not used to hiking at elevation, the incline can feel a little bit more challenging than normal, but the great thing about this trail is that you can choose your own adventure and turn around at any point if you don’t feel like hiking the full route. If you’re traveling with a furry friend, this is also a great spot to bring them off leash and is a favorite local spot for dog owners.

13. Explore the Historic Churches of Santa Fe

I’ll be the first to admit that visiting churches is typically not on my must-visit list in most destinations, but the ones in Santa Fe are some of my favorites due to their unique adobe architecture and colorful interior murals.

A few you can’t miss: the San Miguel Chapel , which is also considered to be the oldest church in the continental United States, the Loretto Chapel , and the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi , which is like the shining centerpiece of downtown Santa Fe. These are all within walking distance of each other and all beautiful and unique in their style and architecture.

14. Taste New Mexico’s Finest Sparkling Wine

If you’re a fan of authentic French champagne you won’t want to miss a tasting at Gruet. The Gruet family who began making fine Champagnes in Bethon, France in the 1950s, brought their traditional methods of winemaking to New Mexico in the 1980s when they planted an experimental vineyard in Engle, New Mexico.

Turns out, New Mexico’s sandy loam soil and climate would make for ideal conditions for crafting the perfect bubbly.

Since then, Gruet has only grown throughout the state and has birthed award-winning sparkling wines. Their tasting room located inside the Hotel St. Francis is one of the best places in the country to taste test sparkling wines, and it’s surprisingly affordable for a generous flight.

15. Take a Day Trip to Bandelier National Monument

If you have extra time to take a day trip outside of Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument should be on your list. This is a 33,000+ acre park filled with preserved petroglyphs and dwellings of Ancestral Puebloans. The coolest park of Bandelier is that you still have the opportunity to actually climb ladders up into these dwellings for a unique look at how Native-American cultures used to live in these parts of the Southwest.

I would factor in about 5-6 hours for a day trip out to Bandelier including the driving time out from Santa Fe, plus an hour for lunch in their amazing on-site cafe (they claim to have the best burgers in New Mexico)! It’s also good to know that depending on the time of year/day, you’ll need to park in the main visitor lot and take a 30 minute shuttle into the actual park. You can find more helpful info on visiting Bandelier here .

16. Enjoy a Tapas Dinner at La Boca

There are so many great restaurants in Santa Fe, but if you’re sick of Mexican fare which we definitely were by the end of our trip, then you’ll want to head straight to La Boca, which was a breath of fresh air after a week spent indulging in burritos and Christmas style chile.

La Boca is an upscale, Spanish style tapas restaurant with an incredible wine list and inviting atmosphere. We enjoyed everything we ate here, but the grilled Roman artichokes with orange zest and mint were definitely a favorite.

17. Have a Margarita at the El Rey

I consider myself a margarita connoisseur and our favorite in Santa Fe was without a doubt the mezcal margarita at El Rey Court.

The El Rey is a renovated roadside motel with hipster vibes, and their tiny bar inside is open to the public if you’re in the know. It’s not the most busy or exciting bar if you’re looking for a lively vibe, but I think it’s worth it to swing by here on a sunny afternoon to sip a margarita on their patio and get a stamp in your Margarita Trail passport while you’re at it.

18. Get a Bird’s Eye View at Cross of the Martyrs

Santa Fe is not a city full of peaks and skyscrapers—the city sits within the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, so needless to say it’s pretty flat. And on top of that, most buildings are not allowed to build above 45 feet, which means getting a great overlook over Santa Fe is challenging.

Your best bet is to head to Cross of the Martyrs for a birds-eye view over downtown. Plus, you’ll get an easy workout and history lesson along the way.

19. Visit the Iconic Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

The name Georgia O’Keeffe is synonymous with New Mexico culture and no trip to Santa Fe would be complete without partaking in some sort of activity inspired by the renowned artist. There are several different ways to do this depending on your level of interest.

If you’re willing to make the drive about an hour outside Santa Fe, you can tour Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio in Abiquiú or take a horseback ride through her other iconic property The Ghost Ranch—highly recommend this one, especially if you can snag the sunset tour.

However, if you’d rather stay in downtown Santa Fe, you’ll find the Georgia O’Keeffe museum which houses a large selection of the artist’s works and a great showcase of portraits of the artist in her later years.

20. Watch Sunset from the Rooftop at La Fonda

La Fonda is one of the few buildings in downtown Santa Fe that was allowed to build higher than the typical 45 foot city limit, and thus its rooftop is one of the best places in the city to catch a sunset.

This place is also one of the busiest spots in the plaza, so it’s best to make a reservation or show up pretty early to snag a spot. Also pro tip: If you’re looking for a public bathroom while exploring downtown Santa Fe, the restrooms in the bottom floor of La Fonda on the Plaza are always my go-to.

21. Drive the High Road Out to Taos for a Day

Taos is another beautiful New Mexican town to explore just 1.5 hours from Santa Fe. I spent a couple nights out here last year and loved the gorgeous high desert scenery and rich Native American history.

If you’re itching to get outside of Santa Fe, the High Road to Taos is a beautiful scenic drive between the two towns that has many points of interest to stop at along the way including churches and Spanish colonial towns and several National Historic Landmarks. You can learn more and check out a map of stops here .

***This post was sponsored by the City of Santa Fe, but as always, all of my opinions are my own and I would never promote anything I don’t freaking love.***

You Might Also Like

50+ Awesome & Fun Things to do in California

11 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Mendocino, California

8 Things You Need to See in Yellowstone on Your First Trip

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

2023 © Live Like It's the Weekend - All Rights Reserved

Privacy Policy • Affiliate Disclaimer • Terms of Service

Little Blue Backpack

chase what's fun.

Destinations , Down South , Road Trips , Vacations · June 8, 2022

The Perfect Weekend in Santa Fe, New Mexico Itinerary

Sun-warmed adobe buildings. World-class art. Chile-drenched New Mexican cuisine. Historic museums and churches. And, of course, margaritas 🙂 It’s called City Different for its combination of rich cultures. And a weekend in Santa Fe, surrounded by art, mountains, and the color teal, will make you feel…

happy, energetic, and curious from start to finish.

And did you know, founded between 1607 and 1610, it’s the highest and oldest capital in the United States? The Spanish revival style architecture, a blend of Spanish and Native American cultures, and narrow streets that don’t follow a grid pattern, but the lay of the land instead, all make for a preserved legendary history.

Whether I’ve already convinced you to visit or not, keep reading. First, a few standard questions…

How Many Days Should I Spend in Santa Fe?

Three days makes for a great experience in Santa Fe. But there are plenty of attractions, museums, restaurants, and shops to extend your trip to a long weekend in Santa Fe for a total of 4-5 days. This way, you can do things at a more leisurely pace.

We did not take days off work, drove from Colorado, arrived in Santa Fe on a Friday night around 7:00 PM, and left on Sunday around 2:00 PM. I think having a few more hours on Friday or Sunday would have been ideal. But, as always, we squeezed A LOT in. 🙂

Make it a full road trip and incorporate some of these other Best Vacation Destinations in New Mexico !

Is Santa Fe, New Mexico Walkable?

YES—it’s one of the best parts about a trip here. A small city relative to some in the U.S., nearly everything you experience is within walking distance. And the lively, picturesque streets make it that much more enjoyable. Everywhere you turn, there is artwork, pops of colors, and green trees and mountains!

During the full day Saturday, we walked 6.5 miles. And on Sunday (we did drive to a different area), 3.5 miles.

Where to Stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico

There are some great hotels and Airbnbs to stay at in Santa Fe. I highly recommend staying right in the downtown area —everything is so close and it’s worth the extra expense vs. spending money on cabs or relying on your own car (keep in mind there are a LOT of margaritas in this area…lol.)

If you are looking for a hotel experience, the historic La Fonda on the Plaza is magnificent with a ton of amenities , including a rooftop patio, restaurants, an outdoor pool, and robes. You will pay for it though at $300-400 per night. (If you don’t stay here, still hit the rooftop bar! More on that later.)

If you want a bit cheaper option right in the city, we loved our Santa Fe Airbnb just a 5-minute walk to the heart of downtown. It was cute and clean with a comfy bed and a hot tub. When it was all said and done, it came out to just over $200 per night.

Chile? What do I need to know?

Santa Fe’s love language is chiles. Smothered all over everything you eat. And you’ll love it. Your answer is either “red chile,” “green chile,” or “Christmas” which is a combination of both. It’s spicy with a sweet flavor and I think it changed my life lol.

That covers the basics, so let’s get into the Weekend in Santa Fe Itinerary!

Weekend in Santa Fe: Day 1

If you arrive before dinnertime, check out one of the museums outlined down below before you eat. But we’ll kick off with the first great meal in Santa Fe—there will be many:

Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen

This is easily one of the best restaurants in Santa Fe! Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen is a huge space—general dining areas, an indoor bar, an open-air bar, and an outdoor patio. And you’ll realize how good this place is right off the bat because their chips and salsa are the BEST— plus, they are free and unlike some of the trendy restaurants that charge. (Pet peeve.)

Not only that, but you’ll peruse a menu of literally over 100 margaritas! It’s tough to choose, but you can’t go wrong. I loved “Girl’s Best Friend.” And their tacos (go with pork belly) were delicious, authentic, and didn’t skimp on the avocado. Maria’s is a local favorite, as well as a popular spot for tourists. Don’t miss it!

More Santa Fe Dinner Options to Choose From

La Choza is another fantastic, highly rated option for dinner that we had recommended to us multiple times. Unfortunately, we did not make it here but it is #1 on my list for next time. If you go, make sure to let me know how it is! And don’t skip the red chile. Or green chile. Or Christmas! 🙂

Another option is Paloma which you will also see recommended often; it’s one of the best restaurants in Santa Fe according to many internet reviews. We made reservations for when we got into town and LOVED the atmosphere of the outdoor patio—very trendy.

But, we were disappointed with the food. Our dishes included good pieces of meat and homemade tortillas, but both lacked any flavor. To pay over $90 for steak fajitas, two fish tacos, chips & salsa, one margarita, and one whiskey was a tough swallow. And though we won’t come back, maybe we just got unlucky because people RAVE about Paloma.

After dinner and drinks, get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow is a LARGE day!

Weekend in Santa Fe: Day 2

The first full day of your weekend in Santa Fe. I promise it’s going to be a memorable one full of delicious food, strong margaritas, art, and the opportunity to learn more about this beautiful city.

Dolina Bakery

Dolina Bakery is the perfect place to start your day! An aesthetically-pleasing inside and a front-side outdoor patio space give you two options for enjoying your coffee. Order at the counter, and whatever you do, don’t skip the Almond Croissant. It was one of the best I have ever had! Bonus: this is a fun, short walk from the Airbnb.

TIP: Don’t get full here. Treat it as your morning coffee stop and split any food with others. Trust me, there is plenty in your future!

Santa Fe Farmer’s Market

After you are ready and energized, it’s time for the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market . This lively market is the place to be on a Saturday morning! I absolutely loved the vibe and strolling through the food vendors with local produce, art, and fresh baked goods.

And it’s huge! Start on the north end at the artisan market and make your way along the railroad tracks where you eventually end up at the food market. There are outdoor tents as well as a big indoor space with even more goodies. Make sure to walk the whole thing—it’s one of the best outdoor activities to enjoy the weather.

Note: There is also a Spanish Market and an Indian Market—check to see if you are visiting when those are scheduled.

Santa Fe Plaza

Next, make your way right into the heart of the downtown which is the Santa Fe Plaza. This area is bustling with tourists, street vendors, shops, and restaurants. Here, downtown Santa Fe shows off its natural beauty and culture. And one of my favorite things was all of the green—something I did not expect! Once you make it here, you’re right at the center of everything you want to do!

And if you didn’t get full at Dolina Bakery or the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market…

Cafe Pasqual’s

Walk over to brunch at Cafe Pasqual’s where you will love the atmosphere just as much as your food. Small, quaint, and full of artwork, Cafe Pasqual’s offers breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, pancakes, and more that are all organic with pasture-raised meats.

I ordered the Huevos Barbacoa Con Chile and loved the slow-cooked beef cheeks with green chiles. (We also had a plain black coffee and loved it!) Keep in mind that this place gets busy so stop by and get your name on the list. They will call/text you and in the meantime, you can…

Shop in Santa Fe

Shops are endless in Santa Fe. And you will quickly experience all of the creative talents in this city. Not to mention, the beautiful Spanish and Native American cultures. One of my favorite ways to learn about the area was through the shops, boutiques, and studios.

Spend some time both while you wait and after your meal walking around the different shops in this area. A few of my favorites:

Santa Fe Olive Oil & Balsamic Co.

Forever a favorite of mine. “Uh oh” is usually what comes out of my husband’s mouth when we notice an olive oil shop! And Santa Fe Olive Oil & Balsamic Co. did not disappoint. They offer free, do-it-yourself tastings and a variety of oils, vinegar, olives, and spices. There are also other souvenirs including fun-shaped pasta, books, and gift sets. I left with the White Truffle Olive Oil and a bag of pasta and can’t wait to put it to good (delicious) use!

Collected Works Bookstore & Coffeehouse

I don’t know what gives me the feels more—olive oil or new books lol. Collected Works Bookstore & Coffeehouse is a great bookstore with Santa Fe stories and history, new fiction, memoirs, and a children/teens section. There’s also a large cafe with comfy seating, puzzles, and a peaceful community vibe. Make sure to stop in here if you’re a reader!

Indigo Rug #2

The first shop that made me say WOW, there are some talented folks out here. This shop does not stop at rugs and you will have such a fun time admiring the cool art pieces. We spent a solid half-hour walking through, talking to the owner, and picking a (small) piece to take home with us.

Shopping is hard work. And there are too many sensational margaritas in this area to not get to one by noon!

After a nice, relaxing morning with coffee, brunch, and shopping, it’s time for a little marg-hop. Here are all of the places to stop:

Coyote Cafe

The colorful, lively, and fun rooftop at Coyote Cafe is where to start. The adobe building overlooks the touristy streets and has pops of color and artwork in every direction. If you’re a little slow from a big brunch, this place will pick you right back up!

I went with the Turquoise Margarita and it was a good choice. And after this, I was ready to ramp up the day drinking lol. (Shoutout to the fantastic waitress who helped us out with some great recommendations for the rest of our trip, too.)

NOTE: This is one of the top restaurants to eat at as well. Their indoor dining is more elegant and expensive.

Margaritas on a vibrant outdoor patio with live music? Yep, sign me up. And sign up everybody else too because this popular place is ALWAYS busy. At least on the weekends. We made our 5-minute walk over from Coyote Cafe and there was about a 30-40 minute wait at Cowgirl. But it’s worth it! And there are a few shops right along the block to kill some time.

Cowgirl is known for its award-winning BBQ, green chili cheeseburger, and the Caddilac Margarita. While we didn’t eat, we continued the margarita tour. And weren’t disappointed—plus, had local musicians to go with it! Definitely a fun, Saturday afternoon experience.

Shop While You Wait

As I mentioned, stroll around a few of these shops while you wait for a table at Cowgirl. P.S. you 100% want outdoor seating there vs. indoor. It’s worth the wait. Here is where to shop:

A fun, high-end home decor and gift shop. Array is one of those places where you want to take home one of everything! Charcuterie boards, soaps and lotions, ceramics and artifacts, plus pillows, frames, and candles. You will be ready to revamp every room in your home.

Double Take Consignment Shop

Looking for a pair of cowboy boots or turquoise jewelry? Peruse Double Take where they combine retail and resale in a very large space with two levels. It is higher-priced than most thrift stores, but you may just snag a steal.

Okay, back to the marg-hop…

More margs? More outdoor patios? Yep, there’s more where that came from. Start heading back towards the Santa Fe Plaza (you’ve explored most of the southwest side and now we’ll head east.) And no, I don’t expect you to make this entire 10-minute walk without a margarita break 😉

Make a pit stop at The Pantry , where you can sit on a corner patio and sip your drink. They have a very good classic margarita and if you like them on the sweeter side, this might be your favorite one!

La Fonda on the Plaza: Bell Tower Rooftop Bar

Make sure you go into La Fonda on the Plaza at some point during your trip—even if you aren’t staying there! It’s a beautiful historic hotel. And the best part is the Bell Tower Rooftop Bar . Head to the elevators and get to floor 5.

From there, you can walk out and find a table or seat along the perimeter for the best views of Santa Fe! Adobe buildings, churches, green mountains. It’s one of the best things to do in the area and they also happen to serve my top-rated Margarita in Santa Fe! (My full ranking to come—I will link here!)

We’re 4 margaritas in, maybe it’s time for some food?

Dinner at The Shed

This is hands down the best Mexican food I have ever eaten in my entire life. The Shed is as AUTHENTIC as it gets, plus spicy and delicious. The Shed opened in 1953 and has been in its current location, adobe hacienda (Prince Patio), since 1960.

A Weekend in Santa Fe is not complete without The Shed.

And it’s not a secret. We had a TWO-HOUR wait here on a Saturday night and didn’t get in until 8:30 PM —they take reservations up to 3 months in advance. And, trust me, it was worth every single second of waiting. We almost ate elsewhere and I am beyond thankful we didn’t. I had the Chicken Enchiladas Plate with Green Chile. The flavor was unreal with both heat and hints of sweetness. (And their famous red and green chile come directly from the farm.)

While You Wait…

Okay, so a 2-hour wait is quite a long time. Make sure to secure a reservation or come long before you want to eat something and get your name on the list. We learned this the hard way but, luckily, there are plenty of other places to explore while you wait.

Anasazi Restaurant

Anasazi , an upscale Southwestern restaurant, is just around the corner and lured us in with its beautiful outdoor space. While the margarita was one of the best I had the entire trip, the 25 minutes it took to get it wasn’t all that enjoyable. I like a slower-paced restaurant experience just so it’s not over in a half over, but the service here will stop me from ever coming back. There was zero urgency, the staff didn’t seem happy, and after mentioning a look at the appetizer menu, we were never asked what we’d like. Skip this and head to:

Low ‘n Slow

Ah, much more our style. Fun bar area with smiling bartenders, good music, and a few TVs to catch some of the game. We were (after taking a look at the pizzas coming out) 10 seconds away from skipping The Shed and eating at Low n’ Slow . I’m still glad we didn’t, but next time, I would love to dig into a fresh-looking pizza!

NOTE: They serve HAWT Pizza Co. which is just down the block.

Weekend in Santa Fe: Day 3

After you eat at The Shed, you will be as full as it gets haha. Enjoy a well-earned sleep. Here is what to do first thing on Day 3 (if you can stop yourself from going to Dolina Bakery again!)

Ikonic Cafe

Ikonic Cafe has a gorgeous outdoor space with green plants, flowers, and the adobe building backdrop that is perfect for morning coffee. And the inside is large, welcoming, and full of character. They offer large breakfast menu items like tacos, benedict, and waffles, and while it looked delicious, I was still full and just went with a classic Americano.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

After grabbing coffee, we wanted to explore the east side of Santa Fe (specifically Canyon Road) since much of yesterday was the west. And if you thought everything was artsy and colorful over there, this walk will bring it to a whole new level!

There are a ton of historic buildings to explore in Santa Fe—honestly, we probably should have spent more time on this! But it was fun to admire a few from afar, including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi .

Stroll Canyon Road

An art lovers dream! Walk along the narrow streets of Canyon Road and you will find over 100 art galleries and boutiques. Art from both local artists and those around the country (and the world) are showcased. It is such a gorgeous place to be.

The Teahouse

All the way towards the far end of the art galleries is The Teahouse . And they serve some delicious breakfast! Their patio space is full of green trees and pretty flowers and you’ll love a Sunday morning experience here. We ordered a quiche and I did not want to stop eating it! “Today’s Quiche” was with mushrooms, green chiles, and cheese—yum. We also shared the granola yogurt bowl full of fresh fruit.

NOTE: Parking is horrendous over here! The best way to do it is to walk (which is very entertaining) or take an Uber. The parking lot is very small for their large outdoor patio and it’s one of the only restaurants open for breakfast in the morning so it gets busy.

If you’re in Santa Fe, you should check out a museum or two. And if the standard museum doesn’t excite you, I have something that just might be up your alley—in a weird way? Lol. After breakfast, head to…

A Santa Fe main attraction, and a short 10-minute drive from the heart of downtown, which is the crazy Meow Wolf , the House of Eternal Return. A crazy, 70-room interactive experience that will have you in a different universe every 60 seconds.

It’s fun, it’s bizarre, and it’s definitely a unique experience.

It costs $42 per person ($27 for a child) which is a little steep (what isn’t these days?) but you also get a unique experience you won’t forget! Enter during your timeslot and you can stay as long as you want. There is a missing family mystery game to be played throughout the rooms if you wish. Otherwise, just walk around, find new rooms, touch and climb, and have fun!

TIP: Right when you get in, skip the first couple of rooms nearby (unless you play the game) and get more towards the back to help avoid people. It does get a bit crowded.

ONE MORE TIP: You have to pay a few dollars extra for 3D glasses and coins for the photo booth or games. Skip it. I did both and it’s not worth it.

Additional Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico

As mentioned, we should have had a few more hours in Santa Fe to accomplish a couple more things! If you do happen to have more time, make sure to explore a few museums and churches. They are some of Santa Fe’s top attractions.

Museums in Santa Fe

• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum : This would be my first pick! Dedicated to her legacy this museum is full of modern watercolors, charcoals, and oil paintings. It’s $18 and free for kids.
• New Mexico Museum of Art : Regional art and photography in the cutest adobe building. I’d love to do this one, too! It’s $12 for non-residents and free for kids.
• New Mexico History Museum : Three interlocking buildings, including the Palace of the Governors (1610), you will learn all about New Mexico’s deep history and rich cultures. It’s $12 for non-residents and free for children.
• Museum of Indian Arts and Culture : Interactive exhibits and artifacts to explore and learn more. It’s $9 for non-residents and free for kids.
• Museum of International Folk Art : Art and artifacts from 100+ countries. It’s $12 for non-residents and free for kids.
• Wheelright Museum of the American Indian : Founded in 1937 and dedicated to Native American Arts. It’s an $8 admission.
• Museum of Spanish Colonial Art : Spanish colonial style art, textiles, and furniture. This one is free!

Churches in Santa Fe

• San Miguel Chapel : the oldest church in Santa Fe—1610.
• The Loretto Chapel : the unique spiral staircase is a must-see.

Weekend in Santa Fe, New Mexico Itinerary

I want to spend another weekend in Santa Fe as soon as possible! And I hope you enjoy your trip to northern New Mexico as much as I did. As one of the most historic cities in North America, it is a destination that does not lack rich culture, artist’s studios, or views. (Or top-notch tacos and margaritas!) You won’t regret a trip here. And let me know your favorite part!

Did this post help you out?  Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

You’ll Also Love

The Best Things to Do in Leadville, Colorado (25+ Ideas)

What the people love.

• Destinations
• Save Money to Travel
• Tips & Tricks
• Let’s Connect

Copyright © 2024 Little Blue Backpack · Theme by 17th Avenue

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Santa Fe Vacations from $498

Book a hotel + flight or car together to unlock savings.

• Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Your Santa Fe Vacation

Well known for its artistic creativity and rich history, Santa Fe is the perfect getaway destination. Lock in one of our Santa Fe vacation packages and uncover all that this exciting city has to offer. Make your trip to Santa Fe even more enjoyable by including some sightseeing. Santa Fe Opera , Palace of the Governors and Museum of International Folk Art are some of the most popular attractions worth exploring. Browse Expedia's wide range of travel options and book your ideal vacation to Santa Fe today.

The Latest Santa Fe Vacation Packages

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Albuquerque Midtown

Reviewed on May 27, 2024

Villas de Santa Fe

Reviewed on May 26, 2024

Fort Marcy Hotel Suites by All Seasons Resort Lodging

Reviewed on May 21, 2024

WorldMark Santa Fe

Reviewed on May 18, 2024

La Fonda on the Plaza

Where to stay in santa fe.

Downtown Santa Fe

Visitors to Downtown Santa Fe rave about its fascinating museums, popular shops, and acclaimed art galleries. You might also want to make some time to see Santa Fe Plaza or Lensic Performing Arts Center while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Historic Eastside

While visiting Historic Eastside, you might make a stop by sights like Canyon Road and Old Fort Marcy Park.

Southside is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Meow Wolf and Camel Rock Casino, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Fe.

South Capitol

If you're spending some time in South Capitol, Railyard Arts District and Santa Fe Climbing Gym are top sights worth seeing.

North Hills

While North Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Old Fort Marcy Park and Santa Fe Plaza.

Santa Fe Essential Information

Santa fe hotel deals.

Reviewed on May 23, 2024

Reviewed on May 25, 2024

All Inclusive Vacations

Beach Vacations

Kid Friendly Vacations

Golf Vacations

Luxury Vacations

Romantic Vacations

Ski Vacations

LGBTQ Friendly Vacations

Adventure Vacations

Where to go when

Honeymoon Vacations

Mountain Vacations

Fishing Vacations

Adults Only Vacations

Waterpark Vacations

Scuba Diving Vacations

Yoga Vacations

Cheap Vacations

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in santa fe, santa fe plaza.

Home to many landmarks in the heart of the city, this spacious square evokes echoes of the Spanish colonial era with its markets, bandstand and live music.

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Meow Wolf during your travels in Santa Fe. Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this walkable area.

Loretto Chapel

A mysterious spiral staircase with no known origin is the highlight of this former church that now acts as a wedding chapel and museum.

What to do in Santa Fe

2-hour photography class while touring downtown santa fe, smart phones welcome, santa fe: canyon road arts district walking tour, wander new mexico food tour - railyard arts district, other vacations you might like.

• Nearby Cities
• Destinations similar to Santa Fe
• Vacations from
• Best vacation destinations by month
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Albuquerque Vacations
• El Paso Vacations
• Las Vegas Vacations
• New York Vacations
• Orlando Vacations
• Los Angeles Vacations
• Miami Vacations
• San Francisco Vacations
• New Orleans Vacations
• Chicago Vacations
• Fort Lauderdale Vacations
• Boston Vacations
• Vacations from Atlanta
• Vacations from Austin
• Vacations from Boston
• Vacations from Chicago
• Vacations from Dallas
• Vacations from Houston
• Vacations from Las Vegas
• Vacations from Los Angeles
• Vacations from Miami
• Vacations from New York
• Vacations from Orlando
• Vacations from Philadelphia
• Vacations from Phoenix
• Vacations from Pittsburgh
• Vacations from Seattle
• Vacations from Washington
• January Vacations and Deals
• February Vacations and Deals
• March Vacations and Deals
• April Vacations and Deals
• May Vacations and Deals
• June Vacations and Deals
• July Vacations and Deals
• August Vacations and Deals
• September Vacations and Deals
• October Vacations and Deals
• November Vacations and Deals
• December Vacations and Deals

Santa Fe Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Santa Fe, NM ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Capital of New Mexico, with a population of ~84,000 across 37.4 square miles.
• Founded in 1610 , it is the oldest state capital in the United States.
• A melting pot of three cultures (Anglo, Native American, Hispanic), the city has a rich history and varied history. Even today, Santa Fe has the second largest art market in the country (second to New York City).
• Nicknames: The City Different. Some refer to Santa Fe as “The Land of Entrapment” – the city is notorious for being hard to leave (those who do move away tend to come back!)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  US Dollar  (USD)
• Spoken languages:  English and Spanish .
• Best time to visit: from  August  to  October  (dry, continental climate).
• Arriving via airport : the Santa Fe Airport is a small airport limited commercial flights. You are most likely going to be flying into Albuquerque, in which case your best bet is to rent a car, hop the Sandia Shuttle, or take the train. The Groome Shuttle operates 30 trips a day between Santa Fe and the Albuquerque airport. The Rail Runner runs from Belen through Albuquerque up to Santa Fe, and there is a shuttle service between the airport and the Rail Runner station.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotels greatly vary in price – downtown Santa Fe has the more upscale accommodations ($200/night and up), while south  Santa Fe offers more budget options (closer to $100/night).

GETTING AROUND

• Santa Fe is small enough that there are only 10 bus routes.
• Fares are very reasonable. A single adult fare is $1, a day pass is $2, and a 3-day pass is only $5. Riders must have exact fare.
• To get around faster, consider requesting an Uber through the app.
• For car rental , look for the national chain brands downtown (e.g. Enterprise, Hertz, Budget).

SANTA FE NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 21 , and last call is at 1:30 AM .
• Santa Fe is a very small town and there isn’t really a separation of nightlife areas.
• Generally, everyone (wealthy, hipster, student, and blue collar) mixes downtown .
• Great bars for solo travelers: The Matador, Evangelo’s, Staab House Restaurant, New Mexico Hard Cider (lots of locals), La Reina, Desert Dogs Brewery, and the outdoor patio at Tumbleroot Brewery.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Built in 1931, the iconic  Lensic Theatre  was the long-time favorite for movies and vaudeville. Restored in the early 2000s, the Lensic is now a performing art center, and is used by the Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, and the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival.
• Visit the  Loretto Chapel  to find out about the legend of the “miracle staircase.”
• The San Miguel Mission on East De Vargas Street was built in 1610, and is thought to be one of the oldest churches in the United States. Sunday Mass is still held here.
• The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi was built by Archbishop Lamy – this Romanesque structure is a sharp contrast to the pueblo style buildings that dominate Santa Fe.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Canyon Road is one of the most concentrated areas in the nation for art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll up Canyon Road, wander into the art galleries, and have your picture taken with a bronze statue of Mark Twain.
• Walk along the Plaza of the Governors in downtown Santa Fe. Known simply as “The Plaza,” the whole downtown is a walking district centered around this old Spanish building from the 1600s. Unique shops and restaurants line the plaza, and every summer there is free live music.
• Walk up Upper Canyon Road and peek at the multi-million dollar homes built in the traditional New Mexican fashion. Make it to the top, and you will reach the Audubon Center and Sanctuary .
• Note: check the weather report before going on any long walks or expeditions, especially in the summer. This is monsoon season, which always brings a risk of flash floods.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Santa Fe is located at 6,500 feet above sea level . Give yourself a day to acclimate to the thinner air. Drink a lot of water , moisturize your skin, and always wear sunscreen . It is all too easy for visitors to get sick from from the altitude and/or climate.
• The state question is “Red or green?”  this refers to the type of chili you want on your meal). The appropriate answers are: red, green, or “Christmas” (half smoky red chili, and half citrusy green chili).
• The Paseo de Peralta is a road that runs along where the old city walls used to be. Locally known as “The Paseo”, in some places the Paseo de Peralta is so narrow two cars can barely squeeze by each other.
• Great restaurants to try in Santa Fe: Jambo Cafe ($$ – African with vegan options), Sazón ($$ – book in advance),  Izanami Restaurant ($$ – Japanese)
• Looking for the best casual Mexican food in town? Try El Parasol, Café Castro, La Choza Restaurant ($$), and The Shed.
• Where to get cheap eats: Don Gaspar Avenue and Galisteo Streets. For something off the beaten path, you can’t go wrong with Cerrillos Road . Cerrillos Road (pronounced “Sir-eee-ohhs”) will take you further out of town into the more densely populated Hispanic neighborhoods, where any hole-in-the-wall restaurant you stop in will be full of locals enjoying authentic New Mexican food.
• Dangerous areas : while Santa Fe is generally a safe place, there are a few unsafe barrios (ghettos) in the city. Avoid: Airport Road, Alameda (south of Solano), and West Agua Fria.

Recommended trip duration:  1-2 days

• Albuquerque, USA
• Memphis, USA
• Nashville, USA
• New Orleans, USA
• Austin, USA
• Phoenix, USA

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Between 1821 and 1880, the Santa Fe Trail was primarily a commercial highway connecting Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The route was pioneered by Missouri trader William Becknell, who left Franklin, Missouri in September 1821. Others before him had been arrested by Spanish soldiers once they neared Santa Fe, and most had been hauled south toward Mexico City to serve lengthy prison sentences. Becknell, however, was pleasantly surprised to find that Mexico had overthrown the Spanish yoke, and the new Mexican government – unlike their predecessors – welcomed outside trade. Not surprisingly, others got into the trade soon after Becknell returned, and by 1825 goods from Missouri were not only being traded in Santa Fe, but to other points farther south as well. Some traders used the so-called Mountain Route, which offered more dependable water but required an arduous trip over Raton Pass. Most, however, used the Cimarron Route, which was shorter and faster but required knowledge of where the route’s scarce water supplies were located.

From 1821 until 1846, the Santa Fe Trail was a two-way international commercial highway used by both Mexican and American traders. Then, in 1846, the Mexican-American War began, and a few months later, America’s Army of the West followed the Santa Fe Trail westward to successfully invade Mexico. After the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the war in 1848, the Santa Fe Trail became a national road connecting the more settled parts of the United States to the new southwest territories. Commercial freighting along the trail boomed to unheard-of levels, including considerable military freight hauling to supply the southwestern forts. The trail was also used by stagecoach lines, thousands of gold seekers heading to the California and Colorado gold fields, adventurers, missionaries, wealthy New Mexican families and emigrants.

In 1866, just a year after the Civil War ended, an unprecedented period of railroad expansion began in the new state of Kansas. Within two years, rails had been laid all the way across central Kansas, and by 1873, two different rail lines reached from eastern Kansas all the way into Colorado. Because the Santa Fe Trail hauled primarily commercial goods, this railroad expansion meant that the trading caravans needed to traverse increasingly short distances. During the early 1870s, three different railroads vied to build rails over Raton Pass in order to serve the New Mexico market. The winner of that competition, the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad, reached the top of Raton Pass in late 1878. Additional track mileage further shortened the effective distance of the Santa Fe. Then, in February 1880, the railroad reached Santa Fe, and the trail faded into history.

More Information

Santa Fe National Historic Trail Learn more about other  National Historic Trails

You might also like.

• santa fe national historic trail
• santa fe trail
• national trails
• historic trails
• passport stamp
• junior ranger

Last updated: May 20, 2024

Road Trip USA: Exploring The Diverse Cultures of New Mexico

E xplore the byways and historic Camino Real on a New Mexico road trip and add unexpected pleasures to your Southwestern overland adventure.

The unique fusion of Native American, Hispanic and Anglo cultures makes an Albuquerque to Taos road trip particularly interesting. With 22 Native American tribes in the area, there are 19 pueblos (villages) to visit. Additionally, tour many of the numerous reservations with guides, take an arts and crafts workshop or plan to attend an authentic celebration. All reservations and pueblos have reopened since the Covid era.

The first Spanish colonial settlement was founded in 1598 in what is now northern New Mexico. The Hispanic influence remains strong there today. You will see this influence in the layout of the cities and towns, in the flavors of the local cuisine, and in the various festivals and events. The Anglo influence is evident in the area’s dude ranches, ghost towns and western shows.

The actual drive time from Albuquerque to Taos is a mere 2.5 hours. There is much to see in and around these cities. We think it’s worth making a few detours and turning it into a week-long (at least!) family New Mexico road trip. 

Suggested Weeklong New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

There are so many possibilities for stops along the way or on a short detour, offering something for everyone to remember in nothern New Mexico.

Our suggested 7-day itinerary follows:

First Day: Albuquerque

Second Day: Albuquerque to Acoma or Outdoors

Third Day: Albuquerque to Spaceport America

Fourth Day: Albuquerque to Santa Fe

Fifth Day: Santa Fe and the Arts or Outdoors

Sixth Day: Santa Fe to Taos

Seventh Day: Taos

Need a discount rental car for your New Mexico family vacation?

Day 1: Albuquerque Old Town on your New Mexico Road Trip

The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque is one of the most colorful in the United States, and a genuine representation of the “southwestern spirit.” A multi-cultural metropolis of 560,000 people, Native American, European, and Hispanic influences are found in every corner of the city.

Exploring Albuquerque’s Old Town

For southwestern authenticity at its finest, explore Albuquerque by hopping aboard a trolley with ABQ Trolley Co , which offers an 85-minute city tour with a Burquee (Albuquerque local) as your guide. Note that during this period of halting tourism, they are operating only spring to fall.

Be sure to take a stroll through Old Town Albuquerque lined with mud and adobe buildings, a part of the city that has been the center of community life for over 300 years. Set aside a few hours for your family to explore this old part of town. There are several interesing shops, boutiques, churches, plazas and fabulous restaurants. Cocina Azul and La Guelaguetza are popular for Mexican fare. Monica’s El Portal is a classic in the Old Town offering both Mexican and New Mexican cuisine.

Albuquerque Off the Beaten Path Museums

Another must-see is The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center , a museum and cultural institution owned and operated by the 19 Native American pueblos of New Mexico. This one complex showcases the history, culture and accomplishments of indigenous peoples with displays, performances, demonstrations and workshops. They also operate a huge gift shop of jewelry, pottery, kachina dolls and other items certified authentic by the pueblos . Take a break from the exhibits and sample fry bread at the Indian Pueblo Kitchen to taste the Native culture.

If you’re looking for an unusual stop, and it’s not too late in the day, check out the American International Rattlesnake Museum , hosting the largest collection of different species of live rattlesnakes in the world. Hours may be limited so be sure to check their website.

Day 2: Albuquerque to Acoma – 62 miles

A very worthwhile side trip, when the elders decided it’s safe enough to reopen, is to the ancient Acoma Pueblo . The breathtaking drive from modern Albuquerque starts on I-40 West for 50 miles, then turns onto NM-23 for 12 miles to “Sky City.” This pueblo is so named because it is located 367 feet above the desert floor, or 7,000 feet above sea level on a sandstone mesa. After the hour-long drive as you approach the actual village, you understand how its location provided excellent defense against enemies.

Archaeologists date the pueblo to 1150 AD as one of the oldest continuously-inhabited communities in the United States. You may not roam independently. Indian guides lead visitors through many interesting sights including multi-story adobe dwellings with mica windows, wood ladders leading into ceremonial areas called  kivas , cisterns for collecting rainwater (there is no running water or electricity), and the Spanish Colonial San Esteban del Rey Mission , built between 1629 and 1640 to honor the pueblo’s patron saint.

Day 2 Alternative: Albuquerque’s Outdoor and Natural Wonders

For the best view of Albuquerque, Santa Fe and the environs, take a thrilling ride on  Sandia Peak Tramway , the longest such ride in the US. At 10,400 feet, it is a 2.7-mile trip from the lower terminal, with a vertical rise of 3,819 feet. The 15-minute ride takes you from the desert to the mountainous terrain of the  Cibola National Forest .

Spanning New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma, the forest boasts deer, bears, eagles, changing plant life and dramatic granite formations. At the summit (where there may be a 20º drop in temperature), the observation deck provides an 11,000-square-mile panoramic view. At present, the tram is only operating Thursday to Monday.

Amazing Natural Sites Outside of Albuquerque

Petroglyph National Monument , established by Congress in 1990, is about 8 miles west of Albuquerque. Hike it to see an estimated 24,000 petroglyphs scratched, pecked, or carved with stone tools. Easy to carve basaltic rock is a remnant of volcanic action of 110,000 years ago. Study the powerful cultural symbols that reflect the complex society and religion of the Pueblo Indians in this sacred place.

Boca Negra Canyon is the most popular viewing spot. Three self-guided trails (5 to 40-minutes long) range from easy to moderately strenuous. Those with stronger legs and lungs can hike 1.5 miles through Piedras Marcadas Canyon or Rinconada Canyon , a 2.2-mile trek. Download the new Junior Ranger Activity Book (ages 6-13 plus a Seniors version) to earn a Junior Ranger badge on your visit.

Head about an hour south for more stunning landscapes of the Southwest.  Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge  boasts a 12-mile auto road along the Rio Grande that offers opportunities to view wildlife. Views from the winding road — the Chupadera Mountains to the west and the San Pascual Mountains to the east — are stunning.

From October to March, thousands of sandhill cranes and snow geese roost in the refuge. The annual November Sandhill Crane Festival is spectacular. Hop a tour bus or even view the massive flocks from the road. In San Antonio , don’t miss the famous Green Chili Cheeseburgers made with Hatch chilis. Owl Bar , said to feature the actual bar from Conrad Hilton’s first hotel, is the original middle-of-nowhere watering hole. Across the street, less crowded and, many say, serving bigger and juicier burgers, is Buckhorn Tavern .

Day 3: Albuquerque to Spaceport America, White Sands – 150 miles

Spaceport America in the southern part of the state represents the future of air travel. The launch complex spans 18,000 acres adjacent to the U.S. Army White Sands Missile Range. Although they have provided commercial vertical launch services to Virgin Galactic and SpaceX since 2006, Spaceport America can only be visited on an escorted tour. Tours run by Final Frontier may be limited. Scheduled departures leave from Truth or Consequnces or Las Cruces. And if you can go, do!

Families with more time will want to stay overnight to visit Carlsbad Caverns , go caving and see the Brazilian Free-tailed bats take flight at night. They’re in residence from April to late October and usually migrate south in winter. The park requires entry reservations. With older kids, don’t miss a chance to try dune sledding at White Sands National Monument . The gift shop sells plastic saucers that zoom down the sand dunes.

Day 4: Another Albuquerque Day on the way to Santa Fe – 64 miles

If you’ve returned to Albuquerque, depending on what time you begin your trek onwards towards Santa Fe, there are a few more (ok, maybe more than a few) places to visit. Explora , the Science Center and Children’s Museum of Albuquerque offers creative, constantly changing and hands-on exhibits for the whole family to enjoy. Their exhibits are very engaging with a goal, as they say, to “nurture thoughtful activity.” True.

The budding scientists in your group may enjoy a visit to the  National Museum of Nuclear Science and History . It is one of many nuclear history sites on a New Mexico road trip. The indoor exhibits include explanations of the principles of atomic energy, full-scale models of “Fat Man” and “Little Boy” (the bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki to end the war with the Japanese). Look for information on peaceful applications such as nuclear medicine. Little Albert’s Lab is a hands-on exhibit that aims to help kids grasp the fundamentals of physics. The museum’s 9-acre Heritage Park features many military aircraft including B-52 and F-1015D bombers and a 280mm atomic cannon. Their size will evoke cries of “awesome” from the kids.

The Albuquerque Biological Park is an environmental museum with four neighboring attractions. Choose among the Albuquerque Aquarium , Botanic Garden , Rio Grande Zoo and Tingley Beach . While the zoo houses over 250 different animal species, Tingley Beach offers a fishing lake and a model boating pond and the four facilities offer fun for all.

Top Sights En Route to Santa Fe from Albuquerque

The distance from Albuquerque to Santa Fe is a short hour-long drive along the scenic I-25 N. About 45 minutes into your drive, be sure to make a stop at the 300-year-old historic El Rancho de Los Golondrinas . It’s now a living history museum portraying life in Spanish colonial New Mexico. Historically, the ranch was a major stopping point along the Camino Real , the famous road from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Open to the public from June through October, it offers self-guided tours of the grounds off season. Be sure to check their website for events including frontier days, harvest festivals and Mexican music and dance performances.

With adobe architecture and a high desert landscape, New Mexico’s capital city Santa Fe is quite simply a place of natural beauty. Assuming you’ll be arriving in Santa Fe later in the day, check out the city’s central plaza . This open square is marked by a large park and surrounded by numerous shops, galleries and restaurants. Grab your first meal just east of the plaza at The Shed , offering traditional and rustic cuisine of Northern New Mexico.

Day 5: Santa Fe and the Arts on your New Mexico Road Trip

Don’t be overwhelmed by the number of interesting and exciting things to do in Santa Fe . It all comes down to how you would like to spend your time in and around the city.

The extremely high concentration of galleries throughout the narrow back lanes makes Santa Fe a thriving center for multicultural arts.

Four terrific art collections, a cafe and the botanical garden are up on Museum Hill . Together, they present the art, history and culture of the Anglo, Native American and Hispanic Southwest. All the museums are worth a visit. Kids are usually most responsive to the International Folk Art Museum. Perhaps that’s because it houses hundreds of toys and dolls from around the world. Read more about all the arts venues in our story, Santa Fe With Kids .

A smaller gem is the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , housing the works of a prolific artist. Inside the museum, there is a short film on her life and influences and ongoing special exhibitions. Admire the splendor of the Southwest scenery to understand how O’Keefe created works of such beauty. Some call her the state’s official painter.

Kids say the Santa Fe Children’s Museum is great. The Back Yard is a large outdoor garden packed with exhibits. There are interactive exhibits, an open art studio and more. Don’t miss Wee Wednesday for stories, songs and games programmed for toddlers and their parents or caregivers.

Day 5 Alternative: Discoveries Outside of Santa Fe

If you have the time, consider a trip on the  Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad . It is America’s longest (64 miles) and highest (mountain passes up to 10,015 feet) narrow gauge steam railroad. Get a glimpse of history as you chug along amid dramatic, unspoiled scenery. Registered as a National Historic Railroad, several day-long itineraries alternate between Chama and Antonito, Colorado. A very different train ride runs from Santa Fe to Lamy on the Santa Fe Southern route. The new sightseeing train, Sky Railway , offers scenic vistas and comfortable seats. Rail fans will appreciate the tiny museum and gift shop in the Lamy Station.

Shoppers and history buffs should drive The Turquoise Trail . The 62-mile National Scenic Byway follows the money through past gold and turquoise mining boom towns. The Turquise Mining Museum and stylish Station Mercantile make Cerillos a frequent movie stand-in for classic Wild West Main Streets. Have lunch at Mine Shaft Tavern in Madrid , another cute community known for its Old Coal Town Museum .

A side trip north on Rte. 84 north and west on Rt. 502 for about 36 miles brings you to Los Alamos . The town was the site of the top secret “Manhattan Project” of the early 1940s. The fascinating Bradbury Science Museum explores the subject of atomic energy.  Many hands-on exhibits teach how atomic energy works and how scientists are seeking solutions to energy problems. Take a walking tour of the town of Los Alamos to learn the history of WWII’s “Secret City.”

Bandelier National Monument

Forty-six miles west of Santa Fe are remains of the Anasazi civilization , ancestors of the Pueblo Indians. The ruins of these “cave-dwellers” are located on the mesas and canyons of  Bandelier National Monument . Home to approximately 500 Indians between 1100 and 1550, this site is fascinating to behold. Most travelers begin with an orientation at the Visitor’s Center and then proceed on a 1½-mile trail to the principal ruins. These ruins include spectacular panoramic views of the cliffs, several  kivas,  natural caves and cave rooms, and petroglyphs. A must-do is to climb 140 feet up piñon ladders to view an “apartment” of the prehistoric people. Choose between 70 additional miles of trails rated for a variety of abilities.

Due to crowds, Bandelier is enforcing a mandatory shuttle between mid-June and October of 2023. Unless you’re disabled, traveling with a pet or a tour group, you’ll have to park your own vehicle. Then, take the shuttle into the park from the White Rock Visitor Center. Discover Los Alamos suggests booking your parking pass in advance and researching what you want to do there before arrival. Dress the family in light layers with a rain jacket to accommodate monsoon season (July-August.) Carry a light backpack to store snacks, water bottles, sun hat and sunscreen.

Adventure seeking families should check out rafting, skiing and hiking experiences from New Mexico True Adventures . In winter, head up to Ski Santa Fe , the nearest local mountain, and enjoy the view from the slopes.

Day 6: Santa Fe to Taos – 70 miles

Be sure to stop at the city’s moving Farmers Market before you leave. Here you will find local farmers and craftspeople selling their finest goods and produce. Purchase everything from quality meats, dairy and eggs to homemade body care, CBD products, jellies and jams. Look for traditional dried fruits which are great for the kids on the road. Don’t miss the local musicians who keep the shoppers happy with tunes that make the market alive.

Pick up 84 N out of Santa Fe and continue for an hour and a half before reaching Taos . Taos offers a unique mix of past and present. Explore all three towns; Taos proper, Taos Pueblo and Ranchos de Taos.

Start at Taos Pueblo , renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. Approximately a thousand years old, the Pueblo is just a mile north of Taos proper. As many as 150 people live in the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States. They work hard to preserve their language and culture in this very conservative pueblo. Normally, open to the public daily from 8am to 4:30pmthey are completely closed to the public.

For great food and great views, try the Lambert’s of Taos restaurant, located between Taos proper and Taos Ski Valley . Lambert’s is a bit formal and, in spring and summer, offers outdoor seating and live music, too. Doc Martin’s is another option. This casual bar and eatery downtown is known for its craft brews and locally sourced green chile burgers and enchiladas.

Day 7: Exploring Taos with the Family

Spend the morning exploring the area around the central plaza. Those with kids 12 and under must visit  Twirl  which hosts children’s crafts workshops, storytelling sessions and fieldtrips, many of which are free!

The area around Taos offers some of the most scenic rafting in the country. Sign up at Los Rios River Runners for half or full-day rafting excursions. Families can paddle along the famous Taos Box for 17 miles. The shore is surrounded by rugged cliffs and challenging rapids (kids ages 12 and up). With younger children, book a guide along the scenic Orilla Verde . Either way, you’ll get the best views of the area from a raft.

Before your trip comes to an end, take a drive over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge . It’s only 10 miles northwest of Taos. It is the fifth highest bridge in the United States—quite a way to end your Southwestern experience.

At any of these stops, the New Mexico Tourist Office can help you find motels, hotels, quaint B&Bs, campgrounds.

The post Road Trip USA: Exploring The Diverse Cultures of New Mexico appeared first on My Family Travels .

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Plan Your Trip with the Official Santa Fe Visitors Guide

Order the 2024 visitors guide.

The 2024 Santa Fe Visitors Guide is complete with handy links to museums, businesses, shops, restaurants, and more!  Click here to view the digital edition of the 2024 Guide or scroll to view.

 Order your own copy of the 2024 Guide using the form below.

Order Your 2024 Visitors Guide

US addresses only. International Visitors: Please view the interactive digital edition.

* Indicates a required field.

Santa Fe Business Bulk Order (66+ guides): To order the Santa Fe Visitors Guide in bulk,  click here .

International Requests: Please view the digital edition of the Visitors Guide by clicking on the cover image above. If you would like to request a hard copy to be mailed internationally, email  [email protected] .

• Santa Fe Weather
• Industry Partner Login
• Film Permit
• Privacy Policy
• Santa Fe County Adventures

TOURISM Santa Fe Santa Fe Community Convention Center 201 W. Marcy St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 800-777-2489

© 2024 Tourism Santa Fe

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.

By clicking the Agree button, you agree to us doing so.  VIEW PRIVACY POLICY

Hello, what can we help you find today?

Consider browsing by category:, popular topics.

• Programs & Resources for Students (external link)
• Request your official Stanford transcript (external link)
• Potential COVID Exposures on Campus (external link)
• Alumni Membership Card (external link)
• Stanford Alumni Email

Contact Information

• SAA Customer Service (external link)
• Stanford University Contact Information (external link)
• SAA Departments

Explore the country’s oldest capital, the contributions of the Indigenous population, and the later communities who found inspiration in the city’s rich atmosphere.

Enrichment and education in New Mexico

From the adobe-style structures of the Pueblo people to the Spanish conquistadores seeking the Seven Cities of Gold to the generations of artists who were drawn to the quality of light, Santa Fe continues to inspire. 

Join us as we seek to move beyond the romanticized narrative of the Native American Southwest. We’ll explore ancient Indigenous ruins filled with petroglyphs, stunning European-style churches, and the O’Keeffe Home and Studio, whose architecture blends Indigenous and Colonial styles. Travelers will have opportunities to visit contemporary Pueblo communities and hear from speakers whose perspectives will allow a deeper understanding of what the original inhabitants called “the dancing ground of the sun.”

Minimum age

Ready to go looking for more information, be the first to know when reservations open, have a question for us.

Get in touch with someone at Travel/Study.

• E-NEWS SIGNUP

Remembering J. J. Brody and Duane Anderson

by Michael F. Brown | May 23, 2024 | In Memoriam , News

In the past few weeks, SAR lost two important friends and accomplished scholars, J. J. Brody and Duane C. Anderson . Both played important roles in SAR’s history.

J. J. (Jerry) Brody during the 1980s. Photo courtesy of SAR.

J. J. (Jerry) Brody, 95, died at home surrounded by his family, including Jean, his wife of 68 years. Jerry received his BA, MA, and PhD from the University of New Mexico, where he served on the faculty of the departments of Anthropology and Art History for twenty-four years. A noted expert on Native American art, his responsibilities at UNM included directorship of the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology.

His many books include three published by SAR Press: Mimbres Painted Pottery (2005 ), Pueblo Indian Painting (1997), and Yazz: Navajo Painter (1983, co-authored with Sallie R. Wagner and Beatien Yazz).

Jerry is remembered fondly by forty-year SAR employee Carol Sandoval. “Dr. Brody used to sit in as interim president when Doug Schwartz would go on sabbatical or was out on medical leave. He was friendly and just happy to help. He kept his hand on the steering wheel but let us do our jobs, then just handed it back to Doug and went on with his life.”

His grandaughter, Thea Brody, describes Jerry Brody as a “much beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather; a respected colleague, scholar and educator; and a valued friend and neighbor. He was rarely caught without a joke or a terrible pun.”

A memorial service for Jerry Brody was held at UNM on May 17, 2024.

Duane Anderson at SAR in 2003. Photo courtesy of SAR.

Duane Anderson received his doctorate in anthropology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, in 1972 after completing two years of active duty in the U.S. Army. He held multiple teaching and high-level administration positions at museums in Ohio and Iowa before serving as SAR’s vice president and director of the Indian Arts Research Center from 1992-2000. Subsequent to his time at SAR, he served as director of the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Santa Fe, for five years.

Carol Sandoval recalls Duane as “an experienced administrator who taught me so much about being in HR, from conducting interviews to performance evaluations and more. He had such an impact on my professional growth. He was thoughtful, friendly, and wanted the best for SAR and the IARC.”

Santa Fe-based art consultant Gerald Stiebel remembers Duane Anderson for his professionalism and generosity of spirit: “Having visited Santa Fe for some time, I was acquainted with the School of American Research, as SAR was then called. In 1997 a friend and colleague, Gene Thaw, sponsored a five-day SAR seminar on the subject of cultural property, a matter I had worked on in the past. I phoned Duane Anderson to suggest an arts writer from the International Herald Tribune who I thought would be good on the panel. Duane stopped me in my tracks when he said he had wanted to invite me to join this illustrious panel. During breaks in the seminar, when other members went to Ten Thousand Waves, I was out getting to know Santa Fe on a bicycle. I have Duane to thank for an experience that turned me from a visitor into a resident and devoted Santa Fean. My wife Penelope has reminded me that Duane was always proud of the fact that he was responsible for turning what was a parking lot on Museum Hill into the Milner Plaza.”

Duane is survived by his wife Carol and other family members.

These two friends of SAR will be sorely missed.

Addendum, May 25, 2024 :  The Santa Fe New Mexican published a  thoughtful appreciation of Duane Anderson’s impact on Santa Fe as well as on museum policies with respect to Native American communities and collections.

Upcoming Events

Field trip: arroyo hondo revisited, sar historic campus tour, indian arts research center tour at sar, gala dinner: sar celebrates 50 years of resident scholar fellowships.

Memorial Day travel could be the busiest in almost 20 years

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Nearly 44 million Americans are expected to travel this Memorial Day weekend, which may make it the busiest in about two decades, according to AAA.

The Albuquerque International Sunport’s travel numbers are expected to reach new heights this weekend.

“People are fully traveling again,” said Leah Black, Sunport spokesperson. “We used to use the barometer of 2019, the pre-COVID years, to look at our numbers. That’s gone now.”

The weekend holiday rush began Thursday, with more than 53,000 flights scheduled nationwide – busier than the Thanksgiving travel rush last year.

The Sunport isn’t expecting it to slow down at all through the weekend.

“We are expecting roughly 90,000 people coming and going over these next four days this weekend,” Black said.

That’s a 4.5% increase from last year. However, travelers at the Sunport weren’t sweating it.

As far as renovations go, the new TSA area is completely open. The food court is still under construction, but that’s hidden from travelers.

Black advises travelers to arrive early in order to catch their flight.

“I know for a fact it’s going to be crazy,” she said.

If you have an early flight planned for Friday morning, you might think you’re beating the crowds, but that’s when the Sunport is actually expecting the highest number of people at the airport – between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. Friday.