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

last Updated: February 5, 2024 New Mexico santa fe

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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?!

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48 Hours in Santa Fe: The Ultimate Itinerary

Santa Fe is generally cast as a historic city with world-class culture. There’s plenty of reason: It’s the country’s oldest capital city, with more than 400 years of history overflowing from every crevice in its adobe-lined streets, and it has a visual art scene rivaling that of cities several times its size. But if you look past all that, there’s a trendy, even boundary-pushing side to this cultural capital that earns Santa Fe its quirky moniker as the City Different. To help you make the most of your weekend, we’ve compiled the spots you must check out in the city right now. From the best places to get your chile fix to the top art destinations, here’s how to have an unforgettable 48 hours in Santa Fe.

Day 1: Morning

8 a.m.: If you’re one of the lucky few to land at the Santa Fe Regional Airport , you’ll be able to drop your bags at the St. Francis Hotel within a few minutes. Since most travelers arrive at the Albuquerque International Sunport and take a train or shuttle to Santa Fe, the commute to the hotel can be a bit longer. Your first day in town, stick close to downtown Santa Fe, where many of the city’s timeless sites are located. After dropping off your bag, stroll a couple blocks to Tia Sophia’s for breakfast. The homey neighborhood joint wins hearts with its quintessential Northern New Mexico cuisine. Order a smothered breakfast burrito for a hearty fix of the state’s much-bragged-about green or red chile.

11 a.m.: You’ll travel through the Plaza, where the city was founded more than 400 hundred years ago, to your next stop. As you walk, take time to view the Palace of the Governors , one of the oldest continuously used public buildings in the U.S. and where territorial governor Lew Wallace wrote the classic tale "Ben Hur". The centuries-old building is now part of the New Mexico History Museum. Duck inside the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi . A French archbishop designed the grand Romanesque Revival style cathedral in the late 1800s, and it's a bit of an oddity when it comes to local architecture. It also houses La Conquistadora, the oldest statue of the Virgin Mary in the U.S., in a side chapel. A block away, explore Loretto Chapel , another of Santa Fe’s noteworthy religious sites.

Day 1: Afternoon

 Richard Cummins / Getty Images

Noon: Kick off your lunch with a beer at the downtown taproom, aka The Breakroom, of Santa Fe Brewing Co. It helped kick of the state’s beer boom and still has a few local favorites, like the Happy Camper IPA. Lunch at Café Pasqual’s will feel like a fiesta thanks to colorful decor and Mexican-inspired dishes. This Santa Fe staple started using local food in its dishes far before it was popular.

2 p.m.: After lunch, head to Museum Hill , where you’ll have to choose your own adventure by selecting among four of the city’s top museums: the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, devoted to the Spanish colonial style and art forms; the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, which exhibits Native American artifacts and art; the Museum of International Folk Art, which displays art from more than 100 countries in its permanent collection; and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, which displays Native American art in an building inspired by a traditional Navajo hogan. If you’d rather shop than museum hop, spend the afternoon wandering Canyon Road , an arts district with nearly a mile-long stretch of traditional, Western, and contemporary art galleries.

5 p.m.: Santa Feans love a ‘rita, and the Santa Fe Margarita Trail will guide you to more than 30 different, and delicious, versions. Try a classic take on city’s signature cocktail at Coyote Cantina , a rooftop lounge that overlooks downtown. While you’re there, nobody would blame you if you grabbed a plate of the nachos topped with whiskey marinated pork before your dinner reservation.

Day 1: Evening

Courtesy of Hervé Wine Bar 

6 p.m.: Amaya , at Hotel Santa Fe, focuses on seasonal ingredients prepared using pueblo culinary traditions. That’s fitting since Picuris Pueblo owns Hotel Santa Fe, making it the only downtown hotel owned by a Native American pueblo. Order off the Red Mesa Cuisine menu for dishes like San Juan red chile honey glazed quail or elk drizzled with chokecherry sauce. For dinner and a show, Canyon Road calls again. At least one night a week, El Farol hosts a flamenco dinner show. National Institute of Flamenco performers twirl and stomp through the restaurant showing why New Mexico has earned a reputation as one the best flamenco dance scenes outside of Spain.

10 p.m.: Before heading back to your hotel, have a nightcap at Hervé Wine Bar down a small alleyway just off the plaza. The bar serves selections from New Mexico winemaker D.H. Lescombs and stages live music most nights.

Day 2: Morning

8 a.m.: French country restaurant Clafoutis slid into Santa Feans hearts with its fresh baguettes and croissants. Grab your own to go or sit down for a savory crepe. If a nutritious meal is beckoning after a day of chile-laded dishes and multi-courses, Modern General is the eatery for you. You can peruse the cookbooks and garden tools while you wait for a green juice or a plate of mod-cakes (savory pancakes).

9 a.m.: After fueling up, drive into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Trails near Ski Santa Fe, which has a November to March season, and in Hyde Memorial State Park offer high-altitude hikes amid towering pines and aspens.

Day 2: Afternoon

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

1 p.m.: Back in town, it’s time to check out neighborhoods beyond the Plaza. The Railyard district is home to the twice weekly Santa Fe Farmers Market , but even when the market isn’t happening, Opuntia Café serves farm-fresh, healthy fare. The usual crowd is laptop-laden millennials and Gen Xers drawn here for hearty grain-and-protein bowls and piled-high avocado toast. If the addictive properties of chile are already working their magic and you find yourself in need of a fix, La Choza serves up the same award-winning sauces as The Shed restaurant, with half the wait times of its better known and more centrally located sister restaurant.

2 p.m.: Get in line for your reserved entrance into The House of Eternal Return . Set in a suddenly trendy industrial district, the 20,000-square-foot interactive art installation has shaken up the Santa Fe art scene since its opening in 2016. The Meow Wolf art collective created the attraction, which is part creepy fun house, part science fiction story, part neon-lit dreamscape. Wander fantastical realms like a multiverse travel agency or play plastic mushrooms like bongos in an unearthly forest.

4 p.m.: For an afternoon cocktail that goes down effortlessly, head to La Reina . Proclaiming it’s where “Fast Lives Slow Down,” the mezcal-centric bar in a former 1930s motor lodge (now the El Rey Court hotel) serves agave spirits perfect for sipping. Today, locals love hanging at the hotel bar and its swim club. If you need a caffeine boost rather than a cocktail, Iconik Coffee Roastery is your destination instead. It has three locations around town, but its southside Lena Street locale will be most convenient to get to from Meow Wolf. The industrial space is dripping with chandeliers and freshly made cappuccinos.

Day 3: Evening

Richard Cummins / Getty Images 

6 p.m.: Continuing your south side sojourn, drive to the city’s outskirts where Blue Heron restaurant at Sunrise Springs resort serves modern Southwestern dishes overlooking a spring-fed pond. Chef Rocky Durham, a longtime advocate of New Mexican cuisine and ingredients, prepares local-ingredient-laden dishes and makes an excellent green-chile cheeseburger. For more downhome takes on one of the city’s favorite dishes, try the recently reopened Santa Fe Bite . (It was long a city favorite; however, it was without a brick-and-mortar space for a few years). A burger from Shake Foundation , near downtown, will give your taste buds, and tear ducts, a run for their money with super-hot chopped green chile. At least at Shake Foundation, you can wash down your chile with a piñon caramel shake.

8 p.m.: Santa Fe’s visual arts may get top billing, but its stage shows are just as robust. Depending on the evening, at Lensic Performing Arts Center you might find performances from Santa Fe’s resident troupe of professional acrobats, a concert from the Santa Fe Symphony or NEA Jazz Masters, or lectures from internationally known thought leaders. Even if you don’t go inside, visiting the restored 1931 Moorish style vaudeville theater is a must. Jean Cocteau Cinema offers more bohemian evening entertainment. "Game of Thrones" visionary and Santa Fe resident George R. R. Martin owns the indie movie house, which screens off-beat flicks and film-fest darlings depending on the evening.

10 p.m.: Polish off your trip in one of two of Santa Fe’s favorited nightlife spots. (To be fair, the list is pretty short in this early-to-bed town.) Tonic , just off the plaza, evoked a jazz bar from the 1920s and offers live music several nights a week. If a rollicking scene is your style, opt for Cowgirl Santa Fe , where the uniforms are kitschy and the live rock, bluegrass, and folk music is loud.

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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!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Santa Fe, New Mexico

May 24th, 2024 |  By:  Grace Kim

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking on these links, I may earn a small commission that won’t cost you anything, but it helps me continue to run this website.

Known as the oldest capital city and the third largest art market in the United States, Santa Fe nestles in the heart of the Southwest. It’s filled with unique blends of Pueblo charm and Spanish influence that whether you’re a history nerd or an art enthusiast, the city offers something for everyone.

Santa Fe is surrounded with unique adobe architecture and over 250 art galleries that hold some of the most intricate, hand-made Native American art in the country. According to Travel and Leisure , Santa Fe has been voted as the second best city to visit in the US, and for good reason. From art to food and outdoor activities, the city attracts all types of travelers who want to experience culture and see iconic places like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Meow Wolf “House of Eternal Return” .

Prior to my visit, I didn’t know what to expect of Santa Fe but after my 4 day trip, the city exceeded my expectations. I didn’t realize how much history there was to the city that wandering through the streets made me want to move there! Not only is the food scene incredible with New Mexican infused dishes found at almost every restaurant, but you’ll also be able to get around places without a car as the city is extremely walkable.

12 Best Things to Do

Whether you’re planning on visiting Santa Fe for 24 hours or for a long weekend, there are so many fun and memorable things to do that will leave you wanting to come back for more. I spent 4 days exploring Santa Fe and it was the perfect amount of time to see the city. Santa Fe is extremely walkable, as we were able to get to most places on foot. There were a couple of places, like Meow Wolf , where we had to call an Uber, but for the most part, we were very happy getting our steps in for the day.

Santa Fe is full of so much art, culture, and history that your days are going to be packed. Make sure to save these places when planning for your Santa Fe trip.

1. Santa Fe Plaza

Located in the heart of Santa Fe is where you’ll find the Historic Plaza that is surrounded by adobe buildings, museums, outdoor art markets, and incredible restaurants. This is also where you’ll find the iconic Palace of the Governors , which is one of the oldest buildings in the country.

Santa Fe is full of so much history that you’ll want to go on a historic walking tour. We went on a History Walking Tour with Paul from Vigilante Guides and learned so much. Not only did we learn about significant events that took place on the Santa Fe Plaza over the last 400 years, but Paul also took time describing so many important art pieces around the city. He is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the city that if we had the time, we could’ve spent hours and hours just talking about art and the development of the city.

2. Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

While exploring downtown, you’ll be faced with stunning angles of Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis . Sitting on the edge of E. San Francisco St., you’ll find this beautiful cathedral covered in stained glass windows with a courtside with benches to relax at.

Cathedral St. Francis was built back in the 19th century as it serves as a cultural expression to Santa Fe. You’ll find a statue of Mary, also known as “Our Lady of Peace, La Conquistadora”, inside the cathedral, as she symbolizes strength to the church. You’ve also probably seen photos of Mary in different outfits because she gets changed every two weeks by local volunteers with over 300+ outfits!

3. Loretto Chapel

Only steps away from Cathedral St. Francis is where you’ll find Loretto Chapel , which is renowned for its phenomenal staircase. Originally, Loretto Chapel was part of an all girls school when it was built.

When the nuns got to the chapel, they needed help with the rest of the construction, so they prayed. After a few weeks, a man knocked on their door and said that he was able to help with the physical labor. For 8 months straight, he worked on building what is now known as the miraculous staircase, and then left without notice. Not only did he leave without asking for payment but till this day, no one knows who this man was.

If you’re looking to visit Loretto Chapel, it is worth the visit as tickets are $5 per person.

4. Santa Fe Farmers Market

Open on Saturdays is where you’ll find some of the freshest produce, goods, and handmade crafts made from local Santa Fe businesses. The Santa Fe Farmers Market is a favorite to both locals and tourists as hours range between 8am-1pm.

My favorite was trying freshly made Roasted Garlic and Arugula Bread from Intergalactic Bread Company. You can find the stand in the beginning of the market as they only take cash. Before closing, I actually went back to my hotel to get cash because I refused to leave without trying some! I also loved the blue corn lavender donut found at Whoos Donut in the market’s cafe. I did not know that donuts could taste that good as the dough had an interesting, sweet corn like taste.

If you are visiting Santa Fe during the week, there is also a Tuesday Market open until the end of the year between 8am-1pm. One of my favorite activities was shopping for fresh produce and quick bites first thing in the morning. And if you missed the Farmers Market on Saturday, you’ll get another chance to swing by on Tuesday!

5. Railyard Arts District

Home to studios, galleries, restaurants, and shops, The Railyard Arts District is iconic to Santa Fe. The best time to visit is after strolling through the Santa Fe Farmers Market since it’s located right outside the market. You’ll find outdoor art pieces from international artists showcasing their work right by The Railyard. And if you’re lucky, during certain times of the year, you’ll be able to enjoy live music performances and events while shopping around.

6. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Located in the heart of downtown is where you’ll find hundreds of art pieces from Georgia O’Keeffe , one of America’s most celebrated artists. Georgia’s art ranges from paintings of the Southwest, floral studies, and inspiration from her international travels to Japan. I loved how intimate her paintings were, as so much of her art expressed her current life and relationship with her photographer husband, Alfred Stieglitz.

7. Ojo Santa Fe Spa

If you’re looking for a quick break from the bustling city, you’ll be in for a treat at Ojo Santa Fe Spa . Unwind at the spring-fed pools and indulge in spa treatments at this peaceful spa. Relaxing at Ojo Santa Fe made me feel like I was transported to another planet as the resort was so peaceful and inviting.

If you want the full experience, I recommend booking massages and reservations at the restaurant in advance since it gets pretty busy throughout the year. There is also another Ojo Spa in Caliente, which is about an hour away from downtown. Although there are more thermal pools in the Caliente location, if you’re in Santa Fe only for a limited time, you’ll enjoy your time just as much at the Santa Fe location.

8. Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return

Get ready to embark on an interactive, art experience with over 70+ rooms to explore at Meow Wolf . Once you walk inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into mysterious portals and fantasy realms with exceptional art. There are rooms within rooms, and art pieces with hidden meanings waiting to be rediscovered.

Every corner is unique with a different narrative as you can spend hours getting lost in the rooms and haunted houses. Entrance fee starts at $40 as it is a must visit place perfect for people of all ages, families and kids, couples, and solo travelers.

9. Cross of Martyrs

Located on top of a hill is where you’ll find a cross overlooking the city. The Cross of Martyrs is the perfect place for sunrise as it was built in remembrance of the Franciscan Friars, those who lost their lives back during the Pueblo Revolt in 1680.

Spend some time admiring the views and landscapes seen on top of the hill as it gives you a completely different perspective of Santa Fe. Catching sunrise at the Cross of Martyrs was my favorite as it was extremely serene and peaceful at the top. Just remember to wear sneakers and to bring a jacket since it does get cold at the top.

Note that if you are planning to call a Lyft or Uber for sunrise, to schedule your ride in advance since drivers are very limited. And if you’re up for the adventure, spend another 20 minutes walking back downtown and grab coffee at Agapao Coffee . We enjoyed our lattes and conversations with Dave!

10. Ten Thousand Waves

If you’re looking for the best hidden gem during your visit in Santa Fe, you won’t regret taking a trip up to Ten Thousand Waves . Located about 15 minutes from the city center is where you’ll feel like you’re in Japan. The resort has everything from spa treatments, restaurants, hot tub soaking and saunas, and lodging but just remember to make reservations in advance. Plus, if you happen to visit during snowfall, you’ll seriously feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.

11. Canyon Road

Canyon Road is a vibrant road filled with unique galleries, sculptures, and botanical gardens. It’s about a 15 minute walk from the city center as there is world-class artwork all around within adobe architecture.

We spent some time on Canyon Road after grabbing lunch at The Compound , which was my favorite restaurant to dine in Santa Fe. Don’t forget to get their Chicken Schnitzel – this dish will have you speechless.

12. Kakawa Chocolate House

Tucked between downtown and Canyon Road is where you’ll find rich chocolates infused with exotic spices and recipes at Kakawa Chocolate House . The Yuzu and Mezcal chocolates were my favorite as this boutique chocolate house offers everything from hot drinks, chocolate truffles, and packaged chocolate bars. There is even a seating area where you can enjoy flights of your selected chocolate drinks.

Best time to visit

Santa Fe has seasonal weather with winters getting low in the 40s to summers getting high in the 80s. There are so many events that happen throughout the year that there isn’t just one best time frame to visit.

The weather can be unpredictable as the beginning months have a mix of cold and slightly cooler days. Temperatures range in the 60s-70s and hotel prices are pretty reasonably priced.

The summer is the busiest time of year as there are several annual events that draw large crowds and activities, which means that hotel rates are typically high with low availability. However, the weather seems to be perfect everyday as temperatures range between the 50s-80s.

Similar to the spring, temperatures during the fall range in the 60s-70s, and is the perfect time for hiking. There are a ton of events that go on, such as Fiesta de Santa Fe, and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, that if you don’t plan in advance, accommodations can be difficult to find.

If you like to ski, Santa Fe is the place to be during the winter. Ski Santa Fe is perfect for families and outdoor lovers as there are 86 different ski trails. It also gets chilly as temperatures only get as high in the 40s, but has the best hotel rates with high availability.

Where to stay?

Depending on budget and time of year, there are a handful of great places to stay in Santa Fe. You’ll want to stay walking distance to the city center since that’s where you’ll find the best restaurants, activities, and museums to visit.

During my visit, I stayed at Hotel Sante Fe (sp Santa) and couldn’t have asked for better accommodation. Not only is the staff extremely kind and attentive, but it’s also seconds away from Santa Fe’s Farmers Market and the popular Railyard Arts District. There’s also a fantastic bar and restaurant downstairs to start off the night with quick bites and delicious happy hour drinks.

Hotel Santa Fe is also the only indigenous owned hotel in Santa Fe, which will make you feel that much more immersed in the culture. The rooms and lobby also all have a local touch of indigenous art and design that will make you feel like you are traveling back in time.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Santa Fe should be on everyone’s USA bucket list as there is something to be offered in the city for every type of traveler. From museums to beautiful artworks and serene sunsets, there is so much to Santa Fe that will want you coming back for more. As someone visiting from the east coast, Santa Fe seems to be such an underrated city to visit, but has now been one of my favorites in the US. Traveling in Santa Fe made me feel like I was traveling in South America as there was just so much history, culture, and architecture encapsulating the city.

After spending 4 days in Santa Fe, I already imagined myself living there for a few months! There are so many events that go on throughout the year, restaurants I still wanted to try, and hidden alleyways that I wanted to explore that I know this is not my last time visiting.

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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.

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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 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.

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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!

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Weekend in Santa Fe: Our 3-Day Santa Fe Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Looking to spend a weekend in Santa Fe, New Mexico? Follow our three-day Santa Fe itinerary for the best things to see and do there!

Sante Fe, New Mexico is known for its rich history, delicious food, and amazing natural beauty.

In this post, we’re sharing our 3-day weekend in Sante Fe itinerary followed by a detailed list of the best things to do in Santa Fe!

We’ve also included a description of the top restaurants and hotels so your travel plans go off without a hitch!

Table of Contents

3-Day Weekend in Santa Fe Itinerary

Here’s our 3-day Santa Fe itinerary, followed by a detailed list and explanation of the 11 best things to do in Santa Fe.

For reference, I visited Santa Fe in October when temperatures during the day were between 57 – 70 degrees.

The pleasant weather during this time makes it one of the most popular times to visit.

Santa Fe Itinerary: Day 1

• Brunch: On the patio at Terra (a beautiful restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort); requires a car to get there if you’re staying in Downtown Santa Fe
• Spend the afternoon walking and shopping around Downtown Santa Fe and Santa Fe Plaza
• Stop at local landmarks around the Plaza including the Palace of the Governors, Saint Francis Chapel, and the New Mexico State Capitol
• Lunch: Coyote Cafe’ & Rooftop Cantina (fun, colorful murals, and delicious margaritas!)
• Happy Hour at Herve Wine Bar
• Dinner: Raidsh & Rye

• Breakfast: Cafe Pasqual’s
• Drive 40 minutes to Los Alamos: Check out the Visitor Center and walk around the grounds that has plenty of interesting, educational signage
• Drive an additional 25 minutes to Bandelier National Monument: Check out the Visitor Center and go on a hike; after, grab lunch at the onsite cafe
• Return to Santa Fe to make stops and get stamps on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail
• Dinner: The Shed

• Explore The Santa Fe Railyard district
• Brunch: The Teahouse on Canyon Road (loved this place!)
• Walk along Canyon Road admiring the galleries and artwork
• Spend the afternoon visiting the downtown museum or spa of your choice
• Dinner: Gerinomo

Why visit Santa Fe, New Mexico

Sante Fe, New Mexico has long been a popular tourist destination, perfect for girl’s weekends, family trips, and solo explorations. 

As one of the oldest cities in America, it has a well-preserved 17th-century historic district perfect for exploring.

It also has a thrilling local art scene, pueblo-style architecture, and regular festivals celebrating varying heritages. 

Most people visiting Santa Fe fly into the Albuquerque airport (ABQ). From there, rent a car, and then drive the 65 miles northeast to Santa Fe. Downtown Santa Fe is extremely (and preferably) walkable, but if you’re looking to explore beyond downtown, additional transportation is necessary.

Looking for more girl’s weekend destinations? We’ve got you covered:

• The Ultimate Napa Valley Girls’ Trip (3-Day Itinerary)

Scottsdale Girls Weekend: Best Things To Do + Itinerary

• Girls Weekend in Austin TX: Best Things To Do + Itinerary
• Nashville Girls Weekend: Things to Do + Best 3-Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate Girls’ Weekend in Palm Springs: 3-Day Itinerary

11 Best Things to Do in Santa Fe

Here’s a list of the best, and most popular things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico!

1. Visit the Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe Plaza is a historic gathering place located in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Surrounded by adobe buildings, it features a central park, vibrant shops, and cultural events.

Established in 1610, the Plaza showcases Southwestern charm with art markets, live music, and a rich history, making it a popular tourist destination.

Additional planning tip: The  Palace of the Governors , which is located on the north side of the plaza, is worth a visit as it’s where Native American artists sell handmade jewelry and crafts.

2. Do a Food Tour

Santa Fe is considered a foodie city and it’d be impossible to try all of its amazing restaurants in just one visit.

One of the best things to do to get to know Santa Fe’s impressive culinary scene is to go on a guided food tour!

By participating in a food tour you’ll not only learn about Santa Fe’s history, but you’ll get to try some of its best and most popular dishes.

I highly recommend Food Tour New Mexico’s New Mexican Flavors Tour for the best New Mexican-inspired cuisine in the city.

3. Explore the Santa Fe Margarita Trail

The Santa Fe Margarita Trail involves purchasing a “Passport” that includes a map of 43 different, potential spots to stop and have a margarita.

As you travel along the Margarita Trail, you then present your Passport for $ 1 off the signature margarita offered at each participating location.

Next, ask your server to ‘stamp’ your Passport or app after trying their signature margarita, and submit your passport.

Different amounts of stamps completed yield different prizes that you’ll claim when you’re finished.

This is a very fun experience, especially if traveling with a group, or when on a Santa Fe girls’ trip!

4. Explore Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico is a gorgeous archaeological site that is open to the public.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of ancestral Pueblo people while enjoying hiking trails (of various levels of difficulty) that unveil the area’s natural and cultural wonders.

Here, you’ll explore ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and scenic canyons amidst the rugged landscape.

We did the easy, Main (Pueblo) Loop Trail which is 1.4 miles in length and took us 1 hour to complete.

The best part of this trail is that ladders along the trail allow visitors to climb into  cavates  (small human-carved alcoves) on the cliffside.

Bandelier National Monument is a 50-minute drive from Downtown Santa Fe but is well worth the drive. I highly recommend visiting here!

5. Visit a Museum

Santa Fe’s museums offer a diverse cultural experience.

Explore art, history, and Native American heritage in captivating exhibits, showcasing the city’s rich culture.

Santa Fe’s museums include:

• New Mexico History Museum
• Museum of International Folk Art
• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
• Museum of Indian Arts and Culture
• New Mexico Museum of Art

6. See the Historic Churches

Santa Fe is known for its historical churches that embody architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

The city boasts adobe masterpieces like the San Miguel Chapel – the oldest church in the U.S. – the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and the Loretta Chapel.

7. Check out the Railyard Arts District

The Railyard Arts District in Santa Fe is both a locals’ and tourists’ gathering spot.

Here, you can walk around several contemporary art galleries, studios, and shops in a repurposed rail yard.

You can also browse the gigantic Santa Fe Farmers’ Market that offers produce and other foods, art, and community events.

The Railyard has a lively, laid-back atmosphere and is a great place to head to in the morning or afternoon.

8. Explore Canyon Road

Canyon Road in Santa Fe is a half-mile, tree-lined, pedestrian-friendly stretch of roadway that has the highest density of art galleries in the U.S. (100+!).

Once all private homes, the charming adobe-style buildings host a wide range of artworks including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.

Created by artists from all over the world, dozens of pieces of artwork sit outside of the buildings (on their lawns) and can be easily admired from the sidewalk. (…Meaning you never have to step foot into a gallery to appreciate the artwork on Canyon Road.)

Canyon Road in Santa Fe is not only known for its art galleries but also features several restaurants, cafes, and eateries.

9. Visit Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf in Santa Fe is not a traditional museum but an immersive art experience.

Here, you’ll find the House of Eternal Return which features over 70 rooms of interactive art and a mysterious narrative throughout.

It’s a blend of art and storytelling, allowing visitors to explore and engage with the unique and imaginative elements throughout the exhibits.

The experience is known for its creativity, interactivity, and the sense of stepping into a different, fantastical world.

10. Ten Thousand Waves Spa

Ten Thousand Waves is a renowned Japanese-inspired spa and resort in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Inspired by Japanese hot spring resorts, it offers a tranquil retreat in which each bathing environment is self-contained with a hot tub, sauna, and your own private changing room.

There’s also the Grand Bath that allows communal bathing and cold plunging for up to 18 guests.

Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere, therapeutic services, and beautiful natural surroundings.

11. Santa Fe Botanical Garden

Calling all flower, pond, and botanical lovers!

The Santa Fe Botanical Garden features a variety of themed gardens, walking trails, and educational programs.

Visitors can explore diverse plant collections, including native flora, and enjoy the beauty of this botanical oasis in the high desert landscape.

Best Restaurants in Santa Fe

Sante Fe is known for New Mexican cuisine and delicious farm-to-table dining. 

Here are some of the most popular Sante Fe restaurants that you need to try during your weekend in Santa Fe!

• Sazón – Upscale, traditional Mexican ingredients and cooking practices 
• The Shed – New Mexican, classic dishes, red chile sauce, green chile stew, and carne adovada 
• Geronimo – Fine dining, American and New Mexican fusion, chocolate-chile tart
• Tomasita’s – New Mexican comfort food, margaritas, green chile stew, blue corn chicken enchiladas
• The Compound – American, Southwestern, in a historic adobe building 
• Terra – Luxury dining, local dishes, extensive wine list, incredible views
• Sante Fe Bite – Green chile cheeseburgers, casual fare
• Café Pasqual’s – A local staple, New Mexican, contemporary and traditional, great brunch 
• Coyote Cafe – Imaginative Southwestern, rooftop views, amazing cocktails and small bites
• Radish & Rye – Farm-to-table, local, seasonal, good vegetarian options
• La Plazuela at La Fonda – Indoor courtyard, American and New Mexican 

These restaurants are popular with tourists and locals, specifically during peak travel seasons. Make sure to reserve ahead of time for guaranteed seating!

Best Places to Stay in Santa Fe

Deciding on a home base for your trip to Santa Fe is an important step to ensuring a relaxing stay.

I recommend that you stay in Downtown Santa Fe close to the hub of activities, where everything is within walking distance to one another.

A beautiful hotel in the heart of Santa Fe, we loved our stay at Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi .

Located just steps from Santa Fe Plaza, Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is in a prime location and offers a blend of Southwestern culture with upscale amenities.

Our other recommendations include staying at the Inn of the Five Graces or La Fonda on the Plaza . 

Both of these hotels are located in the downtown core and are impeccably decorated. 

Our other top options for accommodations include:

Resorts and spas

If your top priority is relaxing on your trip, we recommend a stay at a luxury spa resort. 

Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-inspired resort with an upscale spa. 

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs is located outside of Santa Fe proper.

Guesthouses

If you’d prefer accommodations where you could cook fun group meals and have a bit more privacy, try renting a casita or guesthouse for true Southwestern living. 

VRBO and Airbnb have several options for your perfect fit. 

Bed and breakfasts

If you’d like to immerse yourself in local culture, why not stay at a quaint B&B?

El Paradero and Pueblo Bonito Bed and Breakfast Inns are charming, welcoming, and centrally located. 

3-Day Weekend in Santa Fe: Conclusion

That rounds up our 3-day Sante Fe itinerary with its exciting attractions, top restaurants, and the best places to stay in the city. 

I hope you’ve found our recommendations useful in exploring Sante Fe’s many draws, from its fascinating art scene to its historic charm. 

Happy travels!

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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A Weekend in Santa Fe: A Brilliant Santa Fe Itinerary

Nicknamed The City Different, Santa Fe has quite a reputation to live up to… and it does. Discover how to spend a weekend in Santa Fe with this brilliant two day itinerary.

With all the fuss about Santa Fe and its quirky vibe, I couldn’t resist a trip on my recent American southwest adventure. And do you know what? I was not disappointed.

I’ll be honest – there’s so much to see and do in the city that planning an itinerary, particularly a short one can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry; I’ve done all the hard work for you. Here’s a finely tuned Santa Fe itinerary to guide your two-day journey. From checking out the city’s artsy side to chowing down at some of the best eateries in New Mexico , let’s explore.

Wanna Take a Sneak Peek? Check Out My Youtube Video on Santa Fe! 

Handy Tips for Planning Your Santa Fe Itinerary 

Top tours for your santa fe itinerary .

• Santa Fe: Canyon Road Curated Art Walking Tour – This exciting 2-hour guided walking tour is a fantastic way to dive into the best art galleries along one of the city’s arts district highlights.
• Santa Fe: Private Art Tour and Chocolate Tasting – A stunning chance to visit three of the city’s contemporary art museums. Don’t skip this 2-hour guided tour that includes a chocolate tasting. 

Top tip: See more of Santa Fe on foot with my guide to the best hikes in the city .

What to Pack for Your Santa Fe Itinerary

Before jumping into what you’ll fill your Santa Fe weekend trip with, you’ll need a few packing ideas. Thankfully, I’ve put together a travel packing list to help you.

First things first. Santa Fe is ideal for casual and laid-back clothing, although, at night, it can get cold, so pack a light jacket. 

Bring along comfortable trainers for when you’re out exploring the city streets. Of course, if you’re planning some downtime, pack a pair of fashionable sandals (I swear by my Birks ).

Although you’re in town for only a weekend, remember your hiking boots and water bottle if you decide to venture out and go hiking. As for the essentials, don’t forget a daypack to carry what you’ll need when you’re out and about.

Where to Stay for Your Santa Fe Getaway

Eldorado hotel & spa.

Undoubtedly one of the best places to stay for a weekend in Santa Fe, the Eldorado Hotel & Spa is a stunning 4-star property. Its grand architecture screams New Mexico at its finest,  with spacious interiors showcasing a range of must-have amenities.

It also sits close to many of the city’s top museums and attractions. While on-site, there is the tantalising Agave Restaurant & Lounge and the tranquil Nidah Spa – which I highly recommend taking advantage of, if you can spare a couple of hours.

Check Rates and Availability 

Quick Info for Your 2 Days in Santa Fe 

• Time Zone: Mountain Daylight Time (GMT-6)
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)
• Plugs: Type A & B (120V, 60Hz)
• Nearest Airport: Sante Fe Airport (SAF)
• 5 Must-See Spots: Canyon Road, Meow Wolf, New Mexico Museum of Art, Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, Loretto Chapel
• Top Tip: Explore the diverse culinary scene of Santa Fe. The city has some of the best food you’ll ever taste.

Getting Around 

Santa Fe is a place best explored on foot, especially within the various areas of the city where most of its famous attractions and activities lie. However, you might be glad to hear that Santa Fe also has a very efficient public transport system. 

Six bus routes run throughout the city, with the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle service also offering stops and pickups close to many city highlights. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft or hire a car for the weekend.

Top tip: Book your car rental in advance to make sure you get the best deal.

2 Days in Santa Fe Itinerary 

Santa fe itinerary day one: history & art of santa fe.

I hope you’re ready to pack a whole lot into two days! Kicking off your Santa Fe weekend, you’ll first explore some rave-worthy hotspots within its rich and diverse historic downtown and Canyon Road.

Grab Breakfast at Tia Sophia’s

You can’t start your day without breakfast, and if you want it to be a fantastic bite, begin your morning with a stop at Tia Sophia’s. 

I recommend their breakfast burrito, served here since 1975; it’s absolutely delicious (filled with scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage or chorizo, with either red or green chile sauce to garnish – or both). 

Not just that, but it’s a cheap breakfast at about $14, and portion sizes are huge.

Explore the New Mexico Museum Complex

Next up, right across the street, you’ll find the New Mexico Museum of Art. Beyond the beautiful facade, inside, you’ll find multiple exhibits influenced by the southwest. 

Afterwards, enjoy a short stroll along the stunning Santa Fe Plaza and stop by the Palace of the Governors for a cool photo opp.

Finally, head to the New Mexico History Museum, where dozens of displays focus on local history, with a few rotating exhibits each year. This is the best spot to learn more about native populations and how the Santa Fe Trail shaped much of New Mexico’s development. 

Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA) 

By now, it’s probably early afternoon, so let’s keep the fun coming. No trip to Santa Fe is complete without spending some time at the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts . 

It’s pretty tiny but features stellar displays of Native American art, from jewellery to traditional canvas paintings. 

Loretto Chapel

From here, head down Cathedral Pl, passing the gorgeous Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi on your way to Loretto Chapel. 

A Gothic Revival-style chapel where you can grab a snapshot of one of the world’s most unique spiral staircases, Loretto is not just an architectural marvel. In fact, there’s a rather curious story about how the staircase came to be. 

Legend has it that the chapel was originally built without a staircase to the choir loft, and due to limited space, a traditional staircase was deemed impossible. 

The Sisters of Loretto prayed for a solution to the problem and within days, a mysterious carpenter arrived at the chapel offering to build a staircase, but then disappeared after completing the staircase. 

Canyon Road

Moving down East Alameda Street and onto Paseo De Peralta, you’ll arrive at one of the artsiest areas ever, Canyon Road. Home to over 80 galleries, it’s a whirlwind of captivating art and artistic installations. 

Aside from the many galleries, you’ll also find an assortment of artisan boutique stores for some retail therapy.

There are a few standouts but plan to spend a few hours here. Include stops at Meyer Gallery, the Longworth Gallery, and Kay Contemporary Art. While indulging your artistic side when peckish, head to Cafe Greco for a quick bite or Kakawa Chocolate House for your sweet tooth.

Museum Hill & Santa Fe Botanical Garden

Ending your first day in Santa Fe, you’ll grab the bus at the Alameda @ Palace stop just up the road from The Teahouse on Canyon Road. This line will take you directly to Museum Hill, where you’ll discover another few Santa Fe must-visit spots.

Spend time admiring the displays housed at the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art and the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, finishing with the Museum of International Folk Art. Before leaving, stop by the Museum Hill Cafe to grab something to eat. 

Finish up with a late afternoon stroll through the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens right across the street.

Dinner at Radish & Rye

Head back into town for an incredible dinner at Radish & Rye. Take my advice – it’s the best restaurant in town. Championing farm-to-table, R&R offers a range of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. 

The menu changes frequently to reflect what’s fresh and in season, but expect inventive and delicious dishes. I had a rib-eye steak on my recent trip and, not to be dramatic here, but I think it seriously might be the best steak I’ve ever eaten. 

But that’s not all, as the restaurant’s cocktail menu is equally impressive, with creative drinks made with local spirits and ingredients. It’s the perfect way to round off your first day in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Itinerary Day Two: Essential Santa Fe 

Your second day in Santa Fe is dedicated to essential attractions that make any trip to the city different (get it?). 

Morning at Meow Wolf Santa Fe

Santa Fe was the OG installation from the Meow Wolf Collective – trust me when I say that you have to add a visit to The House of Eternal Return to your weekend itinerary. 

It’s everything you expect it to be, crazy, eclectic and a few things you probably didn’t expect too. 

In a world where immersive art is having a moment , it’s the ultimate experience. Fair warning, though: it’s pricey and gets busy over the weekends, so it’s best to arrive as early as possible. 

Wander around for hours and marvel at creations that will blow your mind. Some of these include a gigantic robotic raven, an archway made of televisions, and a geodesic dome of glowing animal eyes. 

I told you it was bonkers. 

Discover the Baca Street Arts District

Heading up Cerrillos Road from Meow Wolf, you’ll find the Baca Street Arts District, which occupies part of the Railyard Arts District. Beyond its collection of galleries, take the time to indulge in some retail therapy and tempt your tastebuds at a few eateries.

You can try your hand at glass blowing with a visit to Liquid Light Glass, although you need to book a spot at their workshops in advance. 

Alternatively, test your skills at Baca Street Pottery, snatch up some vintage clothing at Art.i.fact, and, trust me on this one, end your time here with a bite from Counter Culture Cafe.

Catch the Sunset from The Cross of the Martyrs

Venturing through downtown Santa Fe one last time on your weekend escapade to the city, make your way to The Cross of the Martyrs. Head onto a short walk up a winding path that cuts its way up a hillside lined with city plaques devoted to this landmark.

It’s not known as one of Santa Fe’s epic sunset spots for no reason. The viewpoint provides a glorious view over the downtown area. All that’s left for you to do is bask in the blazing hues of the last light. 

Indulge at Zataclan and Santa Fe Spirits Tasting Room

Making your way into the heart of the city, your next stop is Zataclan for dinner. This brilliant contemporary Mexican restaurant serves up some of the best eats in the city, including a rather delicious selection of tacos and burritos. 

Once you’ve filled up, it’s time to head to Santa Fe Spirits Tasting Room. And, if you love going where locals go, this is the place to be. 

Every type of spirit you’ll find here gets distilled in-house and is aimed at capturing the essence of Santa Fe. While the staff here prefer to serve these delicious brews straight, the menu also includes a variety of tasty (and boozy) mixed drinks. 

Santa Fe Itinerary – Map 

Add These to Your Santa Fe Itinerary

• 20 Brilliant Things to do in Santa Fe
• Incredible Day Trips From Santa Fe to Add to Your Itinerary
• Stunning Santa Fe Hikes You Should Try
• Unmissable Things to do in New Mexico

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Perfect Santa Fe Weekend Itinerary

Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, Santa Fe beckons with its rich tapestry of culture, art, and history. With its adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty, the city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for a weekend getaway. If you’re planning a visit to the City Different, here’s a curated itinerary to help you make the most of your Santa Fe weekend trip.

DAY 1: FRIDAY IN SANTA FE

Afternoon : After arriving in Santa Fe indulge in some authentic New Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re craving green chile stew, carne adovada, or stacked enchiladas, you’ll find plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. Wander and explore Canyon Road, lined with galleries showcasing everything from traditional Southwestern art to contemporary works. Spend the afternoon meandering through the adobe-lined streets, taking in the eclectic mix of paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.

Evening : As the sun begins to set, head to the Santa Fe Railyard, a hub of creativity and innovation. Browse the shops and art installations, then grab dinner at one of the trendy restaurants or food trucks. Afterward, catch a performance at the Railyard’s outdoor amphitheater or enjoy a drink at one of the hip bars. And just like that, you’ve started your 48 hours in Santa Fe, keep following this guide to make the most of your time!

DAY 2: SATURDAY IN SANTA FE

Morning : Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of Santa Fe’s cozy cafes. After breakfast, head to the historic Plaza, the heart of Santa Fe. Take a stroll around the square, where you’ll find Native American artisans selling their crafts under colorful umbrellas. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the iconic Palace of the Governors, a centuries-old adobe structure steeped in history.

Lunch : After working up an appetite, treat yourself to a hearty brunch at one of Santa Fe’s charming eateries. Whether you prefer classic American fare or international cuisine with a New Mexican twist, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

Afternoon : Spend the afternoon exploring Santa Fe’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to admire the iconic artist’s timeless masterpieces, then wander over to the New Mexico Museum of Art to discover works by local and regional artists spanning centuries.

Evening : Make the last night of your Santa Fe weekend memorable and immerse yourself in Santa Fe’s performing arts scene. Catch a live concert at the Lensic Performing Arts Center , where world-class musicians and performers grace the stage year-round. Alternatively, enjoy a night of traditional music and dance at a local pueblo or cultural center, where you can experience the vibrant rhythms and rituals of Native American culture.

DAY 3: SUNDAY IN SANTA FE

Morning : On your final day of your Santa Fe weekend, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s historic neighborhoods, admiring the adobe architecture and colorful gardens that adorn the streets. Stop by the Santa Fe Farmers Market to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.

Lunch : Before you bid farewell to Santa Fe, savor one last meal at a quintessential New Mexican restaurant. Whether you opt for a cozy cantina serving up sizzling fajitas or a fine dining establishment specializing in innovative Southwestern cuisine, be sure to indulge in one last taste of the city’s culinary delights.

Afternoon : As you prepare to depart, take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made and the experiences you’ve shared during your 48 hours in Santa Fe. Whether you’ve explored ancient ruins, hiked scenic trails, or immersed yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene, one thing is certain: this Santa Fe weekend has left an indelible mark on your heart, and you’ll carry its spirit with you wherever you go.

If you find yourself wanting to spend more time in Santa Fe, extend your trip and find a river adventure to round out your Santa Fe Weekend! New Mexico River Adventures offers whitewater rafting , kayaking , paddle boarding , and more near Santa Fe.

Rio Grande Racecourse Half Day

Rio Grande Gorge Rafting Full Day

Rio Chama River Rafting 3 Day

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23 Best Things to Do in Santa Fe — From Sculpture Gardens to a Margarita Trail

New Mexico's capital is home to world-class galleries, stunning nature trails, mouthwatering cuisine, and more.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

As far as capital cities go, Santa Fe is a bit of an anomaly. It's on the smaller side, at least for New Mexico's size, with just over 90,000 people. Set in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it has Pueblo-style buildings instead of skyscrapers. The entire city revolves around a traditional plaza where arts and handicrafts are still sold to this day.

Santa Fe's deep-rooted Native American heritage and stunning desert landscape have inspired countless artists, making the city one of the world's top art destinations. But there's more to it than art and history. From hiking the trails to trying "Christmas-style" burritos and sipping the city's best margaritas, here are 23 of the best things to do in Santa Fe.

Explore Meow Wolf.

The art on display at Meow Wolf bends the mind. This 70-room art installation has one foot set firmly in another world. Under the narrative "House of Eternal Return," the interactive exhibit is the brainchild of a collective of Santa Fe artists.

Get inspired at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

Many famous artists have called Santa Fe home over the years, but arguably none as renowned as Georgia O'Keeffe. Her paintings of enlarged flowers and New Mexico landscapes are on display at her namesake museum , which also tells the story of her life. Just make sure to reserve your ticket early, as they do sell out.

Visit Bugs Bunny and co. at the Chuck Jones Gallery.

Chuck Jones is the artist behind many of the world's most beloved characters: Daffy Duck, Road Runner, and Marvin Martian, to name a few. Each character — and the artist behind them — gets plenty of love at this gallery, which also houses work by animators like Dr. Seuss and Charles Schulz.

Get a drink on the "oldest hotel corner in America."

La Fonda on the Plaza was built in 1922 on what is now reportedly the "the oldest hotel corner in America." The Santa Fe landmark is on the site of an inn that dates back to when the city was founded by Spaniards in 1607. Today, you can look out over the plaza, with a drink in hand, at the rooftop Bell Tower Bar.

Treat yourself at a Japanese-inspired spa.

You don't have to travel to Japan to experience the country's iconic hot spring resorts. Just outside downtown Santa Fe, near the national forest, is a Japanese-style sanctuary with private hot tub suites — each with its own cold plunge and sauna. And while you're there, you might as well take it to the next level and book a shiatsu massage.

Check out the "miraculous" staircase at Loretto Chapel.

Loretto Chapel is a beautiful old church, but most people visit to see the "miraculous" staircase. According to legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a nine-day novena to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, for help building a staircase to the choir loft. After nine days, a skilled carpenter showed up out of the blue, built a helix-shaped spiral staircase, and then disappeared without receiving thanks or payment.

Order your burrito smothered in green chile — or better yet, "Christmas style."

New Mexico is known for its green chile. And the celebrated ingredient is used at every opportunity (no complaints here!). While you're in town, you'll want to do as the locals and smother everything in the good stuff. Or you can order it "Christmas style" for a mix of red and green chile.

Hike the Aspen Vista Trail.

One of Santa Fe's most beautiful trails is the Aspen Vista Trail , a six-mile route that leads you through aspen forests to the top of Aspen Ski Basin. The trail is beautiful year-round but really pops in the fall, when the aspen trees turn shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Go gallery hopping in the Railyard.

The vibrant Railyard District southwest of downtown is the place to be for contemporary art, live music, film screenings, and cool architecture. Pop in and out of galleries and museums — including Site Santa Fe , a contemporary art museum — shop for interiors and fine jewelry, or just sit back with a beer at Second Street Brewery , which has live music almost nightly.

Experience the Canyon Road art destination.

Canyon Road packs more than 100 galleries, restaurants, and boutiques into a mere half mile. But rest assured quantity does not negate quality. The strip is a destination for art collectors who go to peruse everything from traditional to abstract art by artists from all over the globe.

Sip your way around town on the Margarita Trail.

Santa Fe loves a good margarita — and if you do, too, you can experience more than 40 of the city's best on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail . The self-guided, tequila-fueled tour will take you all over town as you collect stamps in your paper passport or app. (Plus, you'll get $1 off the signature margarita at each participating location.)

Shop for turquoise jewelry at the Santa Fe Plaza.

The Santa Fe Plaza is the true heart of the city. In addition to being a National Historic Landmark, the plaza, or city square, is still where Native American vendors go to sell traditional jewelry and artwork in front of the New Mexico History Museum .

Catch a show at the open-air opera house.

A trip to the Santa Fe Opera is a memorable way to spend an evening in New Mexico's capital. The venue has seen performances like "Madama Butterfly" and "The Barber of Seville" in its open-air theater. Just make sure to pack a jacket for when the temperature drops.

Swing by one of the nation's oldest and largest farmers markets.

The farmers market in Santa Fe might put your local operation to shame. At times hosting as many as 130 vendors, the market is hyper local, only selling goods from New Mexico farmers and producers. The Saturday market runs year-round in the uber-hip Railyard District.

Visit the oldest church in the U.S.

Although very little of the original structure is still present, the San Miguel Chapel just south of downtown Santa Fe is thought to be the oldest church in the U.S. The original structure was built around 1610 as a Spanish colonial mission church.

Take a glass-blowing class from a master.

Blowing glass is something many people want to try but never get the opportunity. Book a Friday, Saturday, or Monday class at Liquid Light Glass , a glass-blowing studio and shop that was established in 1986. The artists will help you create any number of things, from paperweights to flower vases.

Rent a bike and cruise the La Tierra trail system.

When it comes to mountain biking, Santa Fe continually tops the charts. One of the best and most accessible trail systems is La Tierra , which has more than 25 miles of trails rated easy to moderate. The best part? All the trails are just a few miles outside of town.

Catch a sunset from the top of the Cross of the Martyrs.

Just northeast of the plaza is a hilltop park with a cross that gets some of the best sunset views in town. The cross itself was erected to commemorate the death of 21 Franciscan friars during a revolt against colonial occupation. The history, which is outlined on plaques that line the path to the top, is worth a visit on its own, but if you can make the trip at dusk, you'll be treated to a stunning sunset .

Meander through Allan Houser's sculpture garden.

On a sunny day, head just south of Santa Fe to the Allan Houser Sculpture Garden and Gallery . You can walk amongst more than 70 pieces of the artist's best and biggest works, then duck inside the gallery to see smaller pieces. Tours are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, weather permitting.

Hop in the car and drive to the Bandelier National Monument.

Less than an hour down the road is a national monument that protects the land and homes of the ancestral Puebloans. You'll get a glimpse into their way of life by climbing in ancient cave dwellings and gazing at petroglyphs carved into the soft rock.

Road trip to the religious pilgrimage site in Chimayo — and pick up a woven rug while you're there.

Every year, more than 300,000 Catholics make the pilgrimage to El Santuario de Chimayo , a religious shrine and National Historic Landmark, to ask for healing. From central Santa Fe, your pilgrimage is short, just 40 minutes, and is well worth the drive. Plus, the community of Chimayo is also famous for its stunning, handcrafted weavings.

Grab a fish taco from Bumble Bee's Baja Grill.

When you think of land-bound Santa Fe, seafood probably doesn't come to mind. But Bumble Bee's Baja Grill is working to change that. Swing by for a fish taco and an aguas fresca and enjoy your meal outside. Then, go back in for more.

Visit the largest collection of international folk art in the world.

Santa Fe may be small, but it has a long and rich cultural heritage. One place you can experience that heritage is at the Museum of International Folk Art , which is heralded for holding the largest collection of folk art in the world. Inside you'll find pieces from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and of course, New Mexico.

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3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary

We have prepared this 3 Days in Santa Fe Itinerary to help you enjoy and experience the fullest of this charming city. It’s based on our experiences as we had an amazing time there. America’s oldest capital city, Santa Fe, in New Mexico, is the only one to have fascinated travelers for more than 400 years. Moreover, Santa Fe is one of the nation’s highest significant towns. It is located at the top rim of the vast upper Rio Grande basin, 7,000 feet above sea level. The city has achieved world-class status as a fascinating getaway destination. It offers incredible art & architecture, delicious food, museums, and operas.

Why Visit Santa Fe?

Santa Fe is the capital of the U.S. state of New Mexico . It was founded in 1610 as the capital of Nuevo México after replacing Española. Thus, it is the oldest state capital in the United States.

The population is over 84,000. Furthermore, Santa Fe is considered one of the world’s great art cities because of its many art galleries and installations. It is on UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network list.

So, we have prepared a 3-Day Santa Fe Itinerary. But there are so many attractions in the area that you can spend a week or more here. Santa Fe is a fantastic base for exploring northern New Mexico. This itinerary is based on my and my partner Chris’s experiences in this city. We love New Mexico and visit Santa Fe whenever we have the opportunity. All the photos in this article are mine and Chris’s.

How To Get To Santa Fe?

The Santa Fe Municipal Airport offers daily direct flights from Denver, Dallas, or Phoenix, making it a perfect destination for a weekend or extended getaway. Some car rental agencies are located right at the airport. The closest international airport is Albuquerque International Sunport.

How to Get To Santa Fe From Albuquerque?

It’s only a short one-hour drive from Albuquerque International Sunport to Santa Fe. Take I-25 North. At Sunport, you can choose from several car rental agencies.

Another option is a shuttle. One service at the ABQ airport is the Sandia Shuttle Express . The shuttle offers to pick up and drop off at all Santa Fe hotels and other locations. Shuttle time is 75 minutes one way.

If you prefer to travel by train, you can choose The New Mexico Rail Runner (NMRX). It is a commuter rail system serving Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico metropolitan areas.

The Best Time To Visit Santa Fe

When is the best time to visit Santa Fe? It is a beautiful year-round destination because Santa Fe’s climate is characterized by cold, dry winters, warm summers, and relatively low precipitation.

Santa Fe has over 300 days of sunshine a year. At any time of the year, you will find exciting activities. So, your interests determine what the best time to visit Santa Fe for you is. We have prepared weather charts for you below.

Santa Fe Ski Season

If you want to enjoy world-class skiing, you should plan to visit Santa Fe from December through early March. This is the height of the ski season, so you should book your accommodation in advance.

Ski Santa Fe is a fantastic ski resort. It offers 79 trails and over 200 inches of snow every year. The tracks have different levels, suitable for both experienced and beginner skiers. Daily temperatures can vary from the high 50s to the low 30s. However, the cold air is dry and doesn’t feel as cold as damp. Winter is beautiful in Santa Fe.

Spring in Santa Fe

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Santa Fe. It is a very mild season, with temperatures usually hovering between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is perfect weather for outdoor activities. During the spring, Santa Fe also has festivals, outdoor exhibits, and markets.

Summer in Santa Fe

Summer in Santa Fe can get hot, but the nights are usually fantastic. The temperature is usually about 80F, which is excellent for walking and hiking. July is the warmest month and has the highest precipitation average. Monsoons are also common during July.

Fantastic events occur in Santa Fe during the summer , like the Spanish Market , Indian Market , or Santa Fe Opera .

Fall in Santa Fe

Santa Fe in the fall is similar to Santa Fe in the spring. The weather is mild, with cool nights and mornings. The days can warm up from 50F to high 70F. The crowd is smaller. So, September, October, and November are the best months to visit Santa Fe if you love the outdoors.

The mild weather is perfect for hiking adventures. Furthermore, there are many Santa Fe events during autumn .

3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary – Famous Santa Fe Events

Below are some of our suggestions for the most fantastic Santa Fe events . It might help you to choose what is the best time to visit Santa Fe for you. Due to the popularity of these events, it is worth booking tickets (when needed, like to the opera) and accommodation in Santa Fe in advance .

In our opinion, three days in Santa Fe is the minimum time to experience its atmosphere. On the map below, you can check actual hotel prices and their detailed locations.

Santa Fe Farmers Market

Santa Fe is famous for its outstanding cuisine, and we can’t wait to come back to enjoy these flavors again. Regardless of what month you plan your visit, it is worth going on one of the local culinary tours .

What’s more, if you love local cuisine and fresh food, the Santa Fe Farmers Market is something for you. It is held in the Railyard district of Santa Fe every Saturday year-round and Tuesdays from May through November.

On market days, the Railyard is full of shops, stalls, and tents selling fresh produce, dairy, and meat. Moreover, you will find beautiful artisanal goods, unique handicrafts, and a great atmosphere. The Santa Fe Farmers Market starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m.

International Folk Art Market

The Mission of the International Folk Art Market (IFAM) is to create economic opportunities for and with folk artists worldwide who celebrate and preserve folk art traditions. So, you can admire handmade cultural traditions and support folk artists’ work.

Spanish Market & Indian Market

The Spanish Market takes place the last week of July every year. It features over 250 local artists who offer handcrafts such as carving, painting, tinwork, silversmithing, and much more. The event takes place around the 400-year-old Plaza de Santa Fe.

In August , you can participate in the Indian Market . So, it is an opportunity to meet the artists and learn about contemporary Indian arts and cultures.

Santa Fe Opera Festival

You can participate in the Santa Fe Opera Festival from the end of June through August. The internationally acclaimed Santa Fe Opera Festival began in 1957. The Gala Opening Celebration includes an Opera Ball.

It is worth booking tickets for operas well in advance. So, if you are an opera lover, one of the top things to do in Santa Fe is to see a performance at the Santa Fe Opera.

Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta

Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Lunch and Wine Tours are some of the best local tours in the town, available almost all year round. However, if you visit Santa Fe in September, you have a chance to join the local fiesta.

The Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is an annual five-day weekend of events in September featuring the culinary artistry found in Santa Fe. So, if you’re looking for a world-class culinary experience, plan your trip during the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta .

Furthermore, the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta brings together over 90 wineries from around the country and 75 of Santa Fe’s world-class restaurants with the unique culture and traditions of northern New Mexico.

Fiesta de Santa Fe

In early September each year, you can experience Santa Fe’s culture, history, and artistic community by visiting the Fiesta de Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Fiesta is a festival commemorating Santa Fe’s reconquest by Spanish settlers in 1692. During this event, you can enjoy live music, carnival food, people-watching, and a great atmosphere. It is connected with the Zozorba Burn Him Festival.

Zozorba Burn Him Festival

Established in 1712 as a religious observation, the Santa Fe Fiesta now incorporates a Fine Arts and Crafts Market, historical observances, and the fiery destruction of Zozobra – a 50-foot tall marionette, during Zozobra – Burn Him Festival.

Furthermore, the burning of the 50-foot-tall effigy known as Zozobra – Old Man Gloom began in 1924 and has become an annual tradition for Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Independent Film Festival

Each October , top international films, American independents, and the most competitive New Mexico programs participate in this film event. So, if you like independent films and events, visit Santa Fe during the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival .

Where To Stay In Santa Fe?

In this chapter of the 3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary, we tell you where to stay in this fabulous city. Santa Fe offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, hotels, motels, and RV parks.

Below are some of our suggestions for accommodation in Santa Fe for different budgets, including the best hotels and Santa Fe campgrounds. Most importantly, these suggestions enjoy the highest customer reviews. Check Deals Finder below to get the best prices!

3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary – The Best Hotels in Santa Fe

($$$) luxury accommodation in santa fe.

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is a luxury 5-star hotel with a restaurant, near Santa Fe Plaza in the town center. It offers 3 restaurants on site. All rooms feature a kiva fireplace and free Wi-Fi. Southwestern cuisine is served daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Anasazi Restaurant and Bar. The Patio serves appetizers and cocktails seasonally. There is also a shared lounge and TV area and a library.

Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe is a 5-star amazing mountain resort with a spa, near Santa Fe Opera. It is 15 minutes from Downtown Santa Fe. The resort is a wonderful getaway for couples. It is among the rolling hills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains under the bright skies of Santa Fe. Furthermore, the natural environment of the Resort’s setting is inherent throughout the spa design and treatment experience. The 10,000-square-foot Spa features 15 treatment rooms.

Inn & Spa at Loretto is a 4-star stylish hotel in the heart of Santa Fe. It offers an amazing Inn and Spa. It is modern lodging infused with the art and soul of the Southwest. Furthermore, it is close to Canyon Road’s “Artist Row” and truly captures the spirit of the area’s artistic community. We love this place.

($$) Average Accommodation in Santa Fe

Inn of the Governors is a 3.5-star hotel, perfect for families near Santa Fe Plaza. It offers a free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Rooms have a southwestern design. Del Charro Restaurant serves burgers and sandwiches. The full bar features margaritas and other cocktails.

The Parador is a 3-star charming and cozy B&B, convenient to Santa Fe Plaza. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the Santa Fe Farmers Market. The cozily furnished guest rooms at The Parador offer bathrobes, a private entrance, and a dining area. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.

Villas de Santa Fe by Diamond Resorts is a 3-star hotel with an outdoor pool near Santa Fe Plaza, walking distance from Santa Fe attractions. It offers guests fully equipped kitchenettes as well as an outdoor barbecue area. Furthermore, there is also an on-site games room and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

($) Economy Accommodation in Santa Fe

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Santa Fe is near the Gallery District and Santa Fe Plaza. It offers free Internet and free continental breakfast. It’s a comfy, clean and nice place.

Comfort Inn Santa Fe is 2.7 miles from the Santa Fe Country Club. It offers warmly decorated rooms with cable TV and a work desk. It also features an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi.

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Santa Fe is located in Santa Fe, 5.6 miles from The Plaza and 400 m from Santa Fe Place Mall. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and free continental breakfast. It’s really nice and comfy.

Santa Fe RV Parks

Rancheros de Santa Fe Campground is a quiet, wooded campground only minutes from Old Town Santa Fe. It has 99 spaces, 53 of which are full hookups. It also offers tent sites.

Santa Fe Skies RV Park is located on the Western Slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, looking out upon the vast Rio Grande Valley, just south of Santa Fe city, resting on the top of a hill. You can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the total Santa Fe area.

Our goal in the 3-Day Santa Fe Itinerary is to inspire you to visit this fantastic place. We will give you tips on exploring the city on your own and suggest some great tours with a local guide that will allow you to feel the authentic atmosphere and charm of this city and learn about its remarkable history and culture.

Santa Fe is also the best location and area as a base for visiting the northern part of New Mexico. We want to show you the vast possibilities this place offers. So, we divided our Santa Fe Itinerary into three days of sightseeing.

It will allow you to enjoy the town, discover its main attractions, and get to know the best bars and restaurants. Furthermore, you will find a recommendation for the best places to visit in the area of Santa Fe, as a trip from Santa Fe. If you are busy and have limited time, even one day should be enough to explore Santa Fe, as it’s a small town.

Day 1 of Santa Fe Itinerary

TRIP TIP : When you reach Santa Fe, ensure you have plenty of water to acclimate to our 7,200-foot elevation. Remember that hydration is essential to enjoying this beautiful scenery without health problems.

Explore the Plaza Area & Cathedral

The Santa Fe Plaza is the commercial, political, and social center of Santa Fe since the city was founded in 1610. It is a National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Plaza has long served as the city’s gathering place for festivals, fiestas, Indian Market, Spanish Market, and a host of other events.

The bandstand hosts regular concerts and performances all summer long. So walk down Palace Avenue to the Plaza. Stroll by the Native Americans selling their crafts under the portal at the Palace of the Governors.

The seller or their family makes all the pieces, so you are getting quality work. Furthermore, there are hundreds of shops in downtown Santa Fe featuring clothing, jewelry, art, and souvenirs of Santa Fe.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

The regal Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, just east of the Plaza, is one of Santa Fe’s most important landmarks. The cathedral’s construction began in 1869.

New Mexico’s first archbishop, Jean Baptiste Lamy, directed the works. He brought stonemasons from France and stonecutters from Italy to Santa Fe. Their descendants still live here. Finally, it’s one of the most striking churches in the Southwest.

Palace of the Governors

Enjoy visiting the Palace of the Governors, right on the Plaza. Initially built in the early 17th century as Spain’s seat of government, it now houses two museums. One ticket allows access to both the original museum. New Mexico History Museum is said to be one of the best history museums in the country. Furthermore, a great option is to take a guide.

During the Architectural and Interior Walking Tour , you will have a chance to learn about the history and culture of Santa Fe.

Visit the New Mexico Museum of Art

The fantastic downtown museum is the New Mexico Museum of Art. It features excellent works by many New Mexican artists, including woodcuts by Gustav Baumann or works by Gina Knee Brook and Paul Burlin. There are also temporary exhibitions.

Visit Meow Wolf

Visiting Meow Wolf is one of the top things to do in Santa Fe if you are an art lover. The mysterious multiverse of Meow Wolf brilliantly blends interactive art installations with a fantastical funhouse in “House of Eternal Return.”

It is a permanent exhibit created by a collaborative group of young artists. So, Meow Wolf is a wild & mysterious art journey.

Visit Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is the perfect place to admire one of the world’s most iconic artists. The museum holds the world’s most extensive permanent collection of O’Keeffe’s work— 3,000 items, including oil paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

Exhibits in nine galleries change annually, including O’Keeffe’s work and other American Modernists.

Sunset in La Fonda

At the end of the day, visit the historic La Fonda Hotel . It is a perfect place for sunset. It is situated on the corner of the Plaza; this has been the site of hostelries since Spanish colonial times. Much public hanging occurred here.

Taste Flavors of New Mexico

Santa Fe is famous for its outstanding cuisine. You can discover the fantastic flavors of New Mexico here. You’ll find some of the best restaurants in the region. In the last chapter, you can read our recommendations about where to eat in Santa Fe.

However, if you don’t have much time for sightseeing, consider a Half-Day Santa Fe Food and History Walking Tour . You will explore downtown Santa Fe’s best food and wine locals. You will sample classic New Mexican flavors.

Furthermore, you’ll also visit landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis, Loretto Chapel, and the Palace of the Governors. Your guide tells you about the town’s history and the mix of cultures that have shaped its food culture.

Day 2 of Santa Fe Itinerary

Walk canyon road arts.

If you’re an art lover, you’ll love Santa Fe. During your walk, don’t forget about Canyon Road Arts . You will see how vital the arts are to this city and its people.

You will find galleries, restaurants, and shops in charming adobe-constructed buildings. In just a half-mile walk you can meet fascinating gallery owners exhibiting stellar work by artists from around the globe.

Visit Loretto Chapel

The Loretto Chapel is one of the architectural jewels of Santa Fe. It is located just south of the Santa Fe Plaza. According to the legend, a mysterious man came to the unfinished chapel after the Sisters of Loretto prayed for nine days for help to complete the project.

Behind closed doors, the man built the Miraculous Staircase with only simple tools, then disappeared before the sisters could pay or even thank him.

Due to a collaboration between Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Lamy and Antoine Mouly, a French architect, this chapel stuns with an elaborate and pristine design. It is worth getting inside to be amazed by the wooden spiral staircase.

Develop Your Creativity & Talents

Santa Fe is a city of art and artists. After a walk around galleries, exhibitions, shops with handicrafts, it’s worth participating in the creation process.

Develop or discover your or your kids’ talents. The town offers many attractions related to creativity for children and adults: painting classes or photo creative workshops .

Visit Museum Hill

Santa Fe is a mecca for museum lovers. So, Museum Hill is the perfect place for museum exploration. It is situated on a picturesque hill east of downtown.

Museum Hill offers stunning views of the city and four fine museums—the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, and the renowned International Folk Art Museum. After visiting museums, you can rest in Santa Fe Botanical Garden, all on the same hill.

Day 3 of Santa Fe Itinerary

Last day of our 3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary, we suggest exploring the great area of northern New Mexico . Below are some of our suggestions for unusual activities; you can choose what suits your interests. They are the perfect one-day or half-day trips from Santa Fe.

Take a Bath in Ojo Caliente Hot Springs

The famous healing waters of Ojo Caliente Hot Springs are one of North America’s oldest health resorts. Ojo Caliente is the only hot spring in the world with four different types of mineral water, including lithia, iron, soda, and arsenic.

The twelve pools are filled with different types and combinations of these waters, and their temperatures range from 80 to 106 degrees.

Visit the Archaeological Site Bandelier National Monument

If you like Native American history, you should add to your Santa Fe Itinerary a trip to Bandelier National Monument. This place is located an hour northwest of Santa Fe, near Los Alamos. It protects Native American cliff dwellings dating to the 13th century carved into the side of a forested canyon.

A series of ladders leads 140 feet above the canyon floor to the picturesque Alcove House. The ancient Anasazi ruins are a fantastic adventure.

See Natural Wonder Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

If you like hiking and the wonders of nature, make sure to add a visit to the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument to your 3-day Santa Fe Itinerary. It is only around 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe.

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks Hike is a fantastic adventure. It allows you to see the unique geologic formation of cones or teepees. It’s an excellent idea for a half-day trip from Santa Fe. It is one of the best hikes in New Mexico.

It’s a moderate loop trail that is only about three miles long and leads through a slot canyon with hoodoos and striated rock formations.

Visit UNESCO Site in Taos Pueblo

Make sure to add a trip to Taos Pueblo to your Santa Fe Itinerary. Taos Pueblo in New Mexico is one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited communities. The multi-storied adobe buildings have been dwelled for over 1000 years. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.

Iconic Old Village is home to 150 tribal members who live traditionally without running water. We were delighted with the Taos Pueblo Tour. It is located 73 miles north of Santa Fe. So, it is an excellent idea for a one-day tour from Santa Fe.

Taste New Mexico Wines

If you have a few hours off and are a wine lover, consider Wine Tours to taste New Mexico wines. The trip includes lunch and door-to-door service.

What’s more, if you have the whole day and would like to combine wine testing with adventure, it is a great solution is to choose the Rafting & Wine Tour . It will be a relaxing day of rafting the Rio Grande with good wine & food after your rafting. The trip includes transportation, lunch & snacks, guide, driver.

3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary – Where To Eat In Santa Fe?

The last chapter in our three days in Santa Fe Itinerary is about food. Santa Fe is a culinary paradise. Bars, restaurants, and cafes serve outstanding food. Below are some suggestions we have checked ourselves so we can recommend them to you.

The Pantry Restaurant ($$)  – We recommend this restaurant as a perfect place for breakfast because they serve amazing breakfast burritos with vegetarian sausage red and green sauce. If you are not a big fan of burritos, you can also try Durango Omelette. Please make sure to be ahead of your breakfast time. There is always a line in front of this place.

Tune-Up Cafe ($) specializes in fantastic huevos rancheros. You can also try their oatmeal or pancakes, both of which are very good. Don’t forget to order green chili sauce on the side. Another excellent option is eggs benedict—they prepare it to perfection!

La Choza ($$) – It’s hard to find a good restaurant in this town that is not a Mexican one. And La Choza is typical Mexican cuisine. You can order vegetarian meals like posole or green chile (sauce, not stew). If you are more for the meat, try beef tacos with red and green chile. For bigger hunger, you can also try the enchilada plate. You should also order margaritas – they are delicious!

Kohnami Restaurant ($$$) —If you are not a fan of Mexican food but are still hungry in this fantastic city, a good option might be this Japanese restaurant. For lunch, we recommend a bento box with tempura on the side. We also love dragon rolls in this place!

Radish and Rye ($$$)— We don’t want to guide you only to Mexican restaurants. Thus, we can recommend one beautiful American diner serving fabulous food. They have a lovely outdoor garden located in a quiet part of the town. If you are a fan of rib eyes, this is the place for you. A more vegetarian option worth recommending is fried green tomatoes. Tasty cocktails should accompany everything.

315 Restaurant & Wine Bar ($$$) —Maybe you already know we are big fans of wine tasting, so we can’t resist putting this winery on our recommendation list. You can drink on the patio and order French food. This place is very romantic. We love their mussels and oysters, but you should also try salmon and steak. We can recommend trying onion soup for soup fans—it’s just delicious!

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Agnes Stabinska is a writer, photographer, and co-founder of The Van Escape. She loves wildlife, landscape photography, and outdoor adventures, especially hiking, camping, and exploring U.S. national parks. Although she has traveled to many countries for almost 20 years, her favorite places are Alaska, the American Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest, which she often visits and explore with her partner, Chris. Their travel tips, itineraries, and recommendations will help you get away from it all and plan a wonderful vacation.

13 Comments

I have never visited Santa Fe yet. In your blog you have nicely portrayed about the place, in fact with a lot of details. I love history and crafts and I came to know from your blog that Santa Fe is filled with such interesting places and history. I also found it helpful how you have listed down places where to eat. It really helps travelers like me who gets confused what to eat and where while visiting a new place.

hi truly a comprehensive article incorporating just about everything one would like to know about Santa Fe. Seeing the visual on the architecture I could not help but notice how the design and martial used is so characteristic to the climate of the region. additionally, there is a strong link and vibe to the days of the past. truly being a resident of Santa Fe would be so interesting and exciting a thought. 

WOW what a jam packed itinerary. You certainly managed to cover a lot in your time here! I never knew that santa fe had so much to offer. santa fe Independent film festival sounds awesome! I cant wait to visit one day 

Planning to visit soon and I heard that the altitude in Santa Fe is high? Can you confirm this? How many days do you think it will take acclimatize? I also want to know if you had difficulties in breathing when you arrive. The most difficult altitudes I’ve encountered are Peru and Bolivia. Will appreciate your help. Thanks in advance!

Hi Trisha! Santa Fe altitude is 7200 feet (about 2200 meters above sea level). We had no problem with acclimatizing at this height. So, it is less than in Peru or Bolivia. But for sure it is worth drinking a lot of water when you arrive. I wish you a great holiday! We hope to back there one day, it is an amazing place 🙂

The history of Santa Fe is so very interesting. I have not read much about New Mexico earlier and was hence rivetted to learning more. Wine and some great food are good enough reasons to visit the place.

I first heard the name – Santa Fe at Disneyland Paris, they have a resort close to the park called Santa Fe, reading through this felt familiar and actually the design of the buildings at Disneyland is an exact replica of how the hotels and museums in Santa Fe look like. I like that you have a detailed 3 days itinerary for all sort of travellers. I will love to take a bath at the oldest health resort. It must be refreshing and healing to do that.

I’ve always wanted to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico. I would totally do the third day of your itinerary! What a fun experience going into the cliff houses and soaking in the salt baths! But I have to say, as much as my sons would benefit from the historical significance of this trip (who knew it was NA’s oldest capital city?), I would come during the September Wine and Chili festival with my husband!

I would love to visit Santa Fe as it receives 210 days of sunlight and also having oldest church of USA. This places has many quaint corners like that Worrell Gallery and I love such places. Your Lorretto hotel stay looks splendid and truly like an ancient fort. By looking the photographs this place looks unique in USA and not like other cities with high rises. 

I am always curious to learn about places that promote art and culture and I had learned about Santa Fe. It was good to know more about it virtually. Thanks for the information. With so many activities and events and festivals taking place all round the year, this place is definitely an art lovers place. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks Hike looks really interesting.

Beautiful one…

HEY, GUYS!! YOU DIDN’T MENTION LA FONDA HOTEL IN SANTA FE!! IT’S MY FAVORITE, HAS LOTS OF HISTORY, AND A DELICIOUS RESTAURANT PLUS A FAMOUS ROOF TOP BAR!! A LITTLE EXPENSIVE, BUT WELL WORTH IT!! HAPPY TRAVELS……LORETTA IN PHX.

We had a quick day trip to Santa Fe and knew we wanted to go back. Your 3 days gave you much more time to enjoy this charming city. I think we would love to go back in September when the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is on. And we would definitely not want to miss the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.

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How to Spend One Beautiful Day in Santa Fe, New Mexico-The Perfect Guide

July 17, 2022 June 3, 2022 | Paroma

Spending one day in Santa Fe, NM and overwhelmed with where to begin? Fear not, cause this repeat visitor to Santa Fe is here to guide you on how to make the best of experiencing Santa Fe in 1 day. Read my 24 hours in Santa Fe guide and top tips for covering what this magical city has to offer in a short time, so that you can leave with everlasting memories with a hankering for more!

Disclaimer: This post may contain some affiliate links. Clicking on them may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you for the product. Thank you for supporting free content on this site!

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is not only a capital city that looks unlike any other in the lower 48 states of the union, but is also the proud owner of many “first” titles. Established as a capital in 1610 by the Spanish of the then “Nuevo Mexico” territory, it is the oldest capital city in USA and also the highest, perched at 7,199 ft above sea level (sorry Denver!) in the shadows of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, which constitutes the southernmost range of the Rockies.

Besides the rich history and unique geography, what sets this city apart from other state capitals is its aesthetics-330 days of clear sunshine drenching Pueblo revival style Adobe buildings and houses with splotches of bejeweled red ristras (dried red chili bunches) framing the entrances and windows, hundreds of art galleries jostling for your attention (Santa Fe in fact has the highest number of art galleries per capita in the nation), red and green chili sauce smothered food and a way of life that has at least culturally retained much of the Native American influence, who were the original stewards of the land. 

Visiting Santa Fe is a magical experience and one that is no way identifiable with what we associate with other state capitals. It is modern yet firmly ensconced in the bygone times and retains the old world, historical charm from the pre Mexican-American war days when it was yet to be annexed to the union. Plus who can escape the irresistible pull of the arts, crafts, pottery, weaving and history that hangs so thick in the air, not to forget the delicious chili (red and green) stews and sauces?

There is a lot to do if you’re visiting Santa Fe for one day and after having visited three times for different durations, I am here to craft the perfect itinerary for you to make sure you see the very best of Santa Fe in 1 day. Keep on reading to find how to make the most out of your 24 hours in the capital with this super detailed and authentic guide filled with what to do, see, eat and where to stay. Trust me, this one day in Santa Fe guide is all you need for a day trip or an overnight stay in New Mexico’s capital city.

HOW TO PLAN ONE DAY IN SANTA FE, NM: MY TOP TIPS

I know you want to skip this section to move onto what to do in Santa Fe in one day, but if you’re a first time visitor, this stuff here is important to ensure you have a hasslefree trip. Keep these tips handy so that you don’t have to waste any time during your short stay in the city (you are welcome in advance!).

HOW TO GET TO SANTA FE

Santa Fe has a tiny regional airport that has limited flights coming in from Denver, Dallas and Phoenix. The airport is about 20 minutes drive or 12 miles from the city center/downtown Santa Fe which is commonly referred to as Santa Fe Plaza. If you’re not flying in from one of these three cities or are looking for more options, then your best bet is to fly into Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ) and taking a taxi, rented car, rideshare or pre-reserved shuttle to the Santa Fe Plaza.

ABQ airport is 66 miles south of Santa Fe plaza and if you’re not driving, then hailing a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) can get expensive. I highly recommend pre-booking one of the many shuttles that will take you to the plaza from the arrival terminals, my favorite being Groome Transportation (formerly known as Sandia Shuttle). Their shuttles are clean, drivers are polite and punctual and they pick you up right from your hotel! You can book your transportation in advance both ways to save yourself any and all transportation headache.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTA FE?

Having visited the capital in three different seasons (Spring, Summer and Fall), my vote goes hands down to a Fall visit when the air is cool and crisp and there are spectacular fall colors everywhere vying for your attention. That would be the month of October-November which is when we drove from Santa Fe to Taos which is easily one of the most memorable US road trips in my travel life.

Spring, i.e. April and May are good options to visit Santa Fe when the mercury continues to hover around a reasonable 75-80F (high) and 50-60F (low). Winter sees a noticeable dip in mercury with bright days (40-45F) but cold nights (19-20F) and snowfall (because of the altitude).

Summer is undeniably the most popular time to visit thanks to the International Folk Art Market (July) and the mega Santa Fe Indian Market (August) that draws thousands of visitors from all over the world. But summer is hot as hell, with temperatures easily rising above 95F. Coupled with the high altitude, the sun’s intensity is really something to reckon when visiting from June-September. 

DO I NEED TO DRIVE IF VISITING SANTA FE FOR 1 DAY?

As someone who’s visited Santa Fe solo without driving anywhere (I will not drive even if my life were in mortal danger), I can tell you one thing: you don’t need to drive everywhere to make the best of your one day stay.

Santa Fe is a small town and extremely walkable with most attractions centered around the plaza. As long as you’re staying at or near the plaza (which by the way has many, many hotels), you’re good. You can always hail an Uber/Lyft if you absolutely must go anywhere further, such as on one of the several fantastic day trips listed in this post.

IS ONE DAY IN SANTA FE ENOUGH?

Don’t be fooled by its size, one day is definitely not enough to see everything in Santa Fe. However, if you follow my super-duper tried and tested guide, you will see the very best that the city has to offer in 24 hours including where to eat and drink. I am here to guide you through what you need to see and do to make every hour count during your short stay!

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA FE FOR ONE NIGHT?

If you’re pulling an overnighter, I recommend staying at or near the Plaza. Not only will you be near the galleries, restaurants etc but most hotels at the Plaza have their own restaurants serving excellent food! There are hotels for all sorts of budgets as well. I stayed at Hotel St. Francis which is right on the plaza on Don Gaspar Avenue which is an unbeatable location. This is a dog friendly hotel.

The hotel is a work of art (the lobby decor is simply elegant with statues of St. Francis of Assisi, ornate candelabra and a gallery wall) but the rooms are on the smaller side with no kitchenette. And, although self parking may be subject to surcharge (you are better off parking on the plaza in less busier streets), the hotel has a fantastic restaurant (Market Steer Steakhouse) , Santa Fe’s best bar (Secreto), massage/spa services and Gruet Tasting room showcasing Santa Fe’s wines.

Besides Hotel St. Francis, the other two hotels that I highly recommend for their amenities are the historic hotel La Fonda on the plaza celebrating its centennial year in 2022 and Inn and Spa at Loretto . Both are on the plaza, are built in the puebla revival style and are simply a stone’s throw from all the Plaza attractions. 

OTHER HELPFUL TRAVEL TIPS

Thanks to its unique geography, i.e. being perched 7,199 ft above sea-level, a lot of visitors (unless you’re from Denver or a city with similar high altitude), experience shortness of breath due to lack of oxygen. Santa Fe is also very dry and experiencing severe dryness (nosebleed, chapped lips and dry skin) or even dehydration is not uncommon. Finally, the sun really shines down on you at this altitude, so sunburns are a major worry.

As a San Francisco resident happily residing next to a beach, all I can tell you from experience is that all of these conditions are real and you need to be prepared. Don’t forget to pack in sunglasses and a hat for extra protection, sunscreen, vaseline, body lotion and a moisturizing lip balm/chapstick. Also, carry plenty of water with you at all times. Don’t try to tackle advanced level or tedious hikes on day 1-let your body get used to the altitude and change in weather.

HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN SANTA FE: BEST THINGS TO DO, SEE AND EAT

Finally, here is the section that you’ve been waiting for to answer the burning question of what is there to see in Santa Fe in 1 day. Here is my nearly hour by hour guide to maximize your Santa Fe sightseeing if you have only one day in hand. All these recommendations are based on my personal experience, so rest assured that I have done everything that I am about to share with you. Let’s get started!

ENJOY A SUNRISE AT THE CROSS OF THE MARTYRS

Start your day bright and early at Santa Fe with a brisk morning walk right before breakfast to a historic monument located in the Old Fort Marcy Park, about 0.8 miles northeast of the Plaza (12 min walk). This huge white cross, dedicated to the 21 Franciscan friars who lost their lives in the Pueblo revolt of 1680 , stands atop a hill with sweeping views of Santa Fe and the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. 

The “hike” up is along a paved path that winds up gradually and is dotted with plaques describing the history of Santa Fe in a chronological order (from 1598-present times) donated by city businesses and churches which will provide a snapshot of historic information as you climb up the path while taking in the views. This is not a strenuous hike at all and is great as both a sunrise and or a sunset spot, all the while being very close to the plaza.

SAVOR A HEARTY BREAKFAST AT CAFE PASQUAL’S

Once you’re done with your early morning walk, head straight to what is considered Santa Fe’s most popular breakfast spot-a tiny cafe in the heart of the plaza known as Cafe Pasqual’s (did you know that San Pasqual is the patron saint of the kitchen?). Word to the wise: arrive by 8:30 AM for a seat since this tiny place gets filled up pretty quickly.

Loved by locals and visitors alike, this cafe opens at 8AM and serves breakfast, lunch and also dinner. Not only is the coffee and food fantastic, the inner decor replete with colorful murals by Oaxacan artist Leovigildo Martinez   instantly cheers you up. They also have a dedicated art gallery open from 10AM-5PM on the second floor of the cafe that is worth visiting!

If you’re one of those early risers feeling hungry after watching a sunrise from the Cross of the Martyrs, then you can head to French Pastry Shop and Restaurant inside the La Fonda on the Plaza that opens its doors at 6:30AM. The coffee is good, the crepes decent and the pastries are delicious. Having said that, I still recommend Cafe Pasqual’s for the ambience and food if you can make it.

EXPLORE THE PLAZA ON A WALKING TOUR

I am going to let you on a life changing Santa Fe travel hack right now, and that is precisely this-if you can make it to Santa Fe either on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday then whatever you do, book the Historic Architecture and Interiors Walking tour of the Plaza, courtesy of Heritage Inspirations . The tour ends with a complimentary wine tasting at Gruet wine tasting room in Hotel St. Francis, but this is optional (although I cannot think of a reason as to why you’d pass up on this option unless you are a teetotaller or are driving).

First of all, the tour is not necessary for your one day in Santa Fe sightseeing since you can wander aimlessly around the plaza on your own. But if you don’t, you will miss out on one of the best tours that you can ever go on to learn about the ins and outs of Santa Fe’s fascinating history, arts, culture and architecture. In a nutshell, if you want to make the most of your 1 day in the city, take this tour. I guarantee it will one of the best $$ you’ll ever spend.

In the three hours between 9:30-12:30 PM, your guide Daniel (writer, editor and guide born and raised in New Mexico) will keep you riveted with facts, stories, anecdotes, suggestions (on where to eat, see and shop in the plaza) and the rich layered history of the city, the plaza businesses and the churches and how things came to be, all while taking you through different stops in the plaza (you will also enter a few places for added effect).

Once you’re done with the tour, you will know exactly how to spend the remaining precious hours in the plaza-the galleries to visit, the museums to explore, the shops to spend money at and of course where to find the best red chili sauce in town. Wear comfortable shoes and sunglasses, bring some water and be ready to learn about Santa Fe in the most entertaining way possible. Having done food tours and walking tours over my many years of travel, I cannot stress enough on how good this one is! 

This tour was not sponsored in any way. I spent my own hard-earned money and so I can vouch for the authenticity of my experience

If by some terrible stroke of misfortune, you cannot snag a ticket to the tour or are visiting Santa Fe on some other day, read my post on best things to do in Santa Fe Plaza for wisdom nuggets on what to see, do and where to eat and shop on the plaza based on my experience (and Daniel’s suggestions that I made keen mental notes of during our tour).

ENJOY A COURTYARD LUNCH

Santa Fe is blessed with 330 days of sunshine and some charming courtyards where you can take advantage of the weather and enjoy an al fresco lunch post your walking tour. I recommend tacos (or anything else) with a side of red chili sauce at the Shed , Mediterranean food at the tranquil La Casa Sena or New Mexican specialities at La Plazuela inside La Fonda Inn Plaza.

VISIT ONE OF THE MANY MUSEUMS IN SANTA FE

Santa Fe is a city steeped in art and history and if you’re a fan of either or both, you cannot leave the city without spending some time in at least one of its many museums which are some of the finest and most unique in the nation. There are at least four prominent museums in the plaza itself or you could drive down to Museum Hill, which is 1.7 miles from the plaza, for even more. However, for the sake of time I suggest sticking to the plaza for your fill of museum exploration.

With only the latter half the day at your disposal (assuming you opted for the tour that I’ve been ardently begging you to go on), I recommend taking your pick of only one of the four museums on the plaza. These are the Georgia O’ Keeffe Museum (open Thursday-Monday), New Mexico Museum of Art (open everyday 10AM-5PM except Monday), New Mexico History Museum (includes entry to the Palace of the Governors and open everyday 10AM-5PM and up to 7 PM on Friday) and the Institute of American Indian Arts (see hours).

If you’re a history buff, then the 3 levels of historic artifacts, records and collections at the New Mexico History Museum is what you should opt for, which will take at least 2 hours to explore meaningfully. However, if your proclivity towards arts is stronger, I suggest choosing either the stunning O’Keeffe museum or heading straight to the New Mexico Museum of Arts. 

Georgia O’Keeffe is one of the most celebrated 20th century artists in the world and possibly the most famous North American female painter. She moved to New Mexico permanently in 1949 and stayed here for the next four decades producing stunning works of art depicting the NM landscapes at Abiquiu and Ghost Ranch, her homes. Advanced ticket reservations are required to enter the museum, thanks to its popularity.

The O’Keeffe museum showcases the entire collection of her works-from her early days in Texas and New York and her famous “flower paintings” to the works produced in New Mexico, depicting the natural beauty of northern New Mexico. The museum also provides tickets to her Abiquiu home and studio tour (you have to reserve tickets online) which I went on during my recent most trip (it was an unforgettable experience).

The New Mexico Museum of Art is one of the very best in the country and one that you must visit if you are an art lover. You will be transported to a different world once you step inside the absolutely beautiful courtyard of the building showcasing the Pueblo Revival architecture. The courtyard is adorned with six frescos by master painter Will Shuster depicting native american traditions pertaining to the four elements of fire, air, water and earth as well as day to day activities such as wheat winnowing and pottery making. 

Besides these frescos, there are two levels of galleries showcasing over 20,000 paintings, photographs, sculptures, prints, drawings and mixed-media works of celebrated New Mexico artists and beyond as well as a beautiful sculpture garden. A hidden gem of this museum which is often overlooked by people is the St. Francis auditorium to the very left of the entrance where you have some jaw-dropping murals. This auditorium looks like a church but is not really one-concerts are held here.

Pro tip-If you want to get an art museum experience minus the ticket price, head straight to the New Mexico Capitol building which is a mere 0.5 miles south of the plaza. The Capitol Arts Foundation has curated and showcased over 450 artworks (painting, photos, sculpture) of contemporary New Mexico artists that is spread all over the four levels and is completely free to the public!

STOP BY ONE OF THE CHURCHES ON THE PLAZA

Santa Fe plaza is home to three prominent churches built at different times by the Spanish Missionaries as part of the conquerors efforts to spread Christianity amongst the Native Americans. Each of these three churches have their own history and have different architectural styles along with stunningly beautiful interiors. If you can spare an hour, I recommend visiting all three of them despite your religious leanings (or lack of it like mine).

These churches are the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (Roman Catholic Cathedral built in 1714) named after St. Francis, an Italian Friar who is also the patron saint of Santa Fe, The Loretto Chapel known for its miraculous stairs (you need to pay $5 to see this winding staircase) and the San Miguel Chapel , known as the oldest chapel in USA whose foundations date back to pre-Columbian times. 

Daniel’s heritage walking tour provides a lot of interesting facts about the history of these chapels and their construction with entry to the St. Francis cathedral to show the oldest statue of the Madonna and Child in USA, who was brought in 1625 to Santa Fe. Although she is now known as the “Lady of Peace”, her original title was that of La Conquistadora (i.e. the one who conquered) since Spanish soldiers attained victory in key battles after praying to her.

The oldest house in USA (built in 1626 but with foundations pre-dating arrival of the Spaniards) is right across San Miguel Chapel and is home to a free museum and a gift shop. You can explore this on your own if you visit the chapel (chapel is open for only a few hours everyday) or go on the walking tour since it is one of the stops.

VISIT THE SANTA FE FARMERS MARKET AT THE RAILYARD

If you’re visiting Santa Fe over the weekend, then skip lunch at the plaza and head to the Railyard to experience a vibrant farmers market (Saturdays from 8AM-1PM year round and Tuesdays 8AM-1PM, May-November) or the Railyard Artisan Market on Sundays (10AM-3PM) where dozens of artists exhibit their art in booths in the farmers market pavilion. You can always have lunch at Second Street Brewery and taste local craft beer on the tap along with their famous green chili cheeseburger (listed as “original alien burger” on the menu).

MARVEL AT THE ARTWORK IN THE GALLERIES

With over 220 galleries vying for your attention, it can seem pretty daunting as to which one to have a dekko during your one day in Santa Fe visit. Luckily, I have snooped around quite a bit and am here to help you solve this dilemma. Most art galleries are in Santa Fe Plaza or along the artsy Canyon Road. Walking along Canyon road can take up an entire afternoon, so I suggest doing so only if you’re genuinely interested in a particular gallery or are staying for longer in Santa Fe.

I recommend visiting Manitou Galleries and  Sorrel Sky Gallery on the Plaza for their art, Native American pottery and jewelry and sculptures (Sorrel Sky has some lifelike black and white David Yarrow photographs of the wild west). Shiprock Gallery is another gallery worth stopping by to admire their vast collection of Navajo woven textiles.

INDULGE IN SOME SHOPPING AT SANTA FE PLAZA 

You cannot (or should not) leave Santa Fe without at least a souvenir or two. Galleries can be terribly cost prohibitive for shopping unless you have $$$ to spare and many souvenir shops are just jammed with the usual pottery, jewelry and textiles that can leave you feeling overwhelmed. I got some solid recommendations from Daniel where I went for shopping and loved everything that I purchased (small pottery items, wooden tchotchkes, chocolates and ceramics) 

Some of the places where I shopped from are: the Detours gift shop inside the La Fonda Plaza, The Rainbow Man (doubles up as a repository of rare Edward Curtis photographs of Native American life in Santa Fe), Chocolate + Cashmere (get their truffles) and El Nicho Folk Art gift shop.

If you want to directly put money in the pockets of Native American artists and craftsmen, then head onto the Portal of the Palace of the Governors that runs along one end of the plaza right next to the history museum. The portal is a shaded portico where Native American artists showcase their wares (authentic turquoise jewelry, art, pottery etc) every day. Grab some cash and buy these souvenirs to take home.

Kakawa is Santa Fe’s most famous chocolate shop serving chocolate elixirs (drinks), bars, barks and truffles. Their nearest location is on Paseo de Peralta Avenue which is about 0.6 miles away from the Plaza. If you have time, do pay a visit for a red chili chocolate drink and buy their 80% dark chocolate chili truffles. Their chocolate bars are also sold at Detours in case you cannot go all the way to their store.

GO FOR PRE-DINNER DRINKS AT THE BELL TOWER BAR

Unwind after a busy one day in Santa Fe with pre dinner drinks and maybe some small bites at the Bell Tower Bar, which is the rooftop bar in La Fonda (and you don’t have to stay at the hotel to access the bar on the 5th floor). Drinks maybe pricy but the ambiance and views are top notch. Come around sunset to see pink skies unfold before your eyes as you sip on your drink.

DINE IN STYLE AT ONE OF THE BEST SANTA FE RESTAURANTS

Santa Fe is no San Francisco, Los Angeles or New York City when it comes to fancy dining or diversity, but there are at least two establishments that everyone swears by when it comes to having a good time and a memorable feast. I am talking about Geronimo on Canyon Road or Saźon on the Plaza, both of which epitomize fine dining in the city and require advance reservations.

Both restaurants incorporate New Mexico flavors in their food and have an extensive wine list to choose from. I particularly enjoyed the “opening dish” of my dinner at Sazon which was a complimentary tasting of a trio of moles, i.e. Oaxacan sauces that reminded me of my good times in Oaxaca city . 

EXPERIENCE A NOCTURNAL ADVENTURE AT MEOW WOLF

This is completely optional (I never really enjoyed it during my visit because I was too sensorily overwhelmed), but if you’re looking for an evening activity either pre or post dinner, then get tickets to Meow Wolf Santa Fe , a 70+ room of immersive art experience labeled as “House of Eternal Return” which is a mystery waiting to be solved through various portals.

Psychedelic colors, sounds, effects and installations will greet you at every turn which are funky and playful. I kind of could not figure out what was happening and lost my way through the installations, but I recommend it nevertheless since it is a very unique experience and it has rave reviews from visitors.

This brings me to the end of my one day in Santa Fe guide. I have visited Santa Fe three times and am already planning my fourth visit as I type because I am enthralled by all that it has to offer, which is a far cry from San Francisco or any other modern US city. Seeing Santa Fe in one day is a daunting task but I hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration on how to make the most of your 1 day Santa Fe itinerary. Thanks a lot for stopping by and safe travels!

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55 Things to Do in Santa Fe New Mexico, Bucket List Experiences

Top things to do in santa fe new mexico.

If you are planning a trip to Santa Fe New Mexico and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place. Santa Fe is blessed with 325 days of sunshine and blue skies to highlight the city’s Spanish Pueblo architecture. It is a fantastic destination to slow down, rejuvenate, and enjoy America’s Southwest. You will find an artistic community full of art galleries, public sculpture parks, silver and turquoise jewelry, Pueblo pottery, and Native American Rugs. Browse the list of must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Santa Fe New Mexico bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Santa Fe New Mexico trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Enjoy your time out of the office!

Read Things to Do in Albuquerque New Mexico Read Things to Do in Taos New Mexico

Things to Do in and Around Santa Fe New Mexico

Learn about Hispano heritage at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas

Step inside an art installation at Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return

Wander the adobe homes in the Barrio de Analco

Shop for folk art at the International Folk Art Market

Check out the Oldest House and the Oldest Church in the USA

Gaze at Loretto Chapel’s Helix to Heaven

Take a food and history tour

Stop at La Fonda Hotel’s Bell Tower Bar for sunset cocktails

Check out the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Shop for jewelry at Santa Fe Plaza

Listen to music at the Santa Fe Bandstand

Take a Ghostwalker tour

Learn about New Mexico’s history at the Palace of the Governors Museum

Grab some lunch at Roque’s Carnitas Stand

Watch the sunset from Cross of the Martyrs Park

Explore the art of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Take a cooking class at the Santa Fe School of Cooking

Stop for a margarita at Coyote Café’s rooftop cantina

Explore the Canyon Road Sculptures and Art Galleries

Watch a flamenco show at El Farol

Check out the Museum of International Folk Art

Hike Dale Ball Trails for gorgeous desert views

See a show at The Santa Fe Opera’s open-air theater

Eat a frita pie and green chili cheeseburger

Shop for chili at the Santa Fe Railyard Arts District Farmers Market

Walkthrough of the San Miguel Mission

Take a bike ride along the Santa Fe River Trail

Download the Santa Fe Margarita Trail app and fill in your passport

Go horseback riding in the Santa Fe National Forest

Relax in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves

Visit the tasting room of Santa Fe Spirits

Check out the Capital Art Collection at the Roundhouse

Have dinner at the Pink Adobe

When asked red or green, answer Christmas!

Watch a movie at the Jean Cocteau Cinema

Join a historic walk in Santa Fe

Stop by Rooftop Pizzeria and order the #3 for a pizza with a kick

Check out the La Cieneguilla Petroglyphs

Tour the Black Mesa Winery

Relax in the geothermal mineral waters at Ojo Caliente

Learn about the Manhattan Project at the Bradbury Science Museum

See the cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument

Explore the Puye Cliff Dwellings

Hike the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks

Raft down the Rio Grande

Float over the badlands in a hot air balloon

Take the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

Explore the Tinkertown Museum of Miniatures

Browse the shops in Madrid

Explore Maggie’s Diner from Wild Hogs in Madrid

Tour Madrid’s Old Coal Mine Museum

Check out the Old West Town of Cerrillos where Young Guns was filmed

Have a drink at the Black Bird Saloon in Cerrillos

Take a day trip to check out the multistoried Taos Pueblo

Spend a day exploring Albuquerque

Be sure to check the Santa Fe New Mexico Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Santa Fe   Travel Guide

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

Santa Fe Farmers Market & Railyard Food Tour

from $ 212.50

Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch

(110 reviews)

Santa Fe Deep Dive History Walking Tour

(5 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.

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Santa Fe Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

• December 13, 2023 July 27, 2024

Smack dab in the heart of the Southwest, Santa Fe, New Mexico has an abundance of rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and endless artistic flair. Whether your a nature lover, art enthusiast or history buff, Santa Fe has something for you. In this comprehensive Santa Fe travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you go – from the best time to visit to must-try local foods and everything in between.

Your Ultimate Santa Fe Travel Guide

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MST (Mountain Standard Time) / UTC-7

Best Time to Visit Santa Fe

The best time to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico depends on your preference and what type of experiences you might be looking for. However, the city’s climate makes it a year round destination, with each season having distinct advantages. Here’s what you can expect:

Spring (March-May)

Springtime in Santa Fe brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. A perfect time for exploring outdoors activities, cultural events, A Spring highlight is the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, which showcases local produce and crafts.

Summer (June-August)

Summer, not surprisingly, is the peak tourist season. Warm temperatures and many festivals such as the Santa Fe Opera, Spanish Market, and Santa Fe International Folk Art Market are just a few of the events that draw visitors from around the world.

Fall (September-November)

Fall is a wonderful time to visit Santa Fe. The weather is pleasant and the landscape is full of changing colors. The aspens are an especially lovely backdrop to all of your sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor explorations. And equally as delightful are the city’s smaller crowds during this time.

Winter (December-February)

While winter in general might not be anyone’s preferred time of year to visit most places, this season does have its own special magic in Santa Fe. More quiet. More intimate. The city’s iconic adobe architecture dusted with snow creates a charming, picturesque setting. And since there are less outdoor activities available, it is perfect for indulging in the already-cozy vibes of Santa Fe, and taking in art galleries and museums, along with the delicious local cuisine. 

Getting to Santa Fe

You should have no problem getting to Santa Fe by any means of transport, as it is conveniently accessible all around.

Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) is the closest airport to the city, offering domestic flights. Alternatively, Albuquerque International (ABQ) is about 60 miles away and has a wider array of flight options.From either airport you can rent a car, take a shuttle or rideshare to get to Santa Fe.

By Car, Campervan, RV, etc.

As van-lifers, this is our preferred method, and boy, did we enjoy the scenic drive from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. Interstate 25 is the primary route running north to south, and Interstate 40 runs east to west. Keep an eye out for roadrunners!

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief route runs between Chicago and Los Angeles. The Rail Runner Express, a commuter train, connects Santa Fe to Albuquerque. Rail travel is a great way to relax while enjoying the landscapes and scenery of the Southwest.

What to Do In Santa Fe

Explore the Historic Districts

Santa Fe’s historic districts, including Santa Fe Plaza and Canyon Road, are a treasure trove of adobe architecture, art galleries, and charming boutiques. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the centuries-old buildings, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere that defines Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Plaza

A National Historic Landmark , Santa Fe Plaza was a witness to over 400 years of New Mexico history, including two major liberation movements – the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 and the War for Mexican Independence that ended in 1821. In 1846, an American general, standing in the plaza, proclaimed that New Mexico was a United States territory. The heart of downtown Santa Fe – the Plaza – is still the central part of the city, hosting Indian and Spanish markets, community events, concerts, and other annual events.

Canyon Road

If you’re drawn to Santa Fe for its arts scene, Canyon Road is the city’s most famous art district. There are approximately 80 galleries – yes, 80! – within the three quarters of a mile stretch between Paseo De Peralta (at the bottom) and The Teahouse (at the top). You can explore on your own, or for a more curated experience, consider booking a guided small-group tour with an art historian . Museum hours vary – some are open daily, some are closed on Sundays and Mondays, and some are by appointment only, so you’ll want to check online, call ahead, and plan accordingly.

Visit Some of Santa Fe’s Many Museums

With nearly 20 museums in Santa Fe, you’re sure to find at least a few that speak to your tastes.  Two of the most popular are located right near Santa Fe Plaza:

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum :

Featuring a comprehensive collection of the iconic American modernist artist’s paintings, drawings, and sculptures, the museum also provides insight into O’Keeffe’s life and artistic evolution. The museum is located about a block and a half from the historic Santa Fe Plaza. 

The New Mexico Museum of Art :

Just off of Santa Fe Plaza on West Palace Avenue, this museum offers a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region, showcasing a diverse collection of Southwestern art, from traditional to contemporary works. 

Museum Hill – Four Museums, One Hill

If your stay in town isn’t terribly long, you can visit four different museums, all in one magnificent place called Museum Hill. Located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Museum Hill is home to the following museums:

The Museum of Spanish Colonial Art :

The Spanish Colonial Arts Society showcases the cultural heritage of Hispanic New Mexico and its living traditions. Fun fact: It’s the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to Spanish colonial art.

The Museum of International Folk Art :

Renowned for its extensive collection of folk art from around the world, this museum celebrates the creativity and cultural diversity of global communities. Exhibits include traditional textiles, ceramics, and other crafts, providing a rich tapestry of artistic expressions.

The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian :

Dedicated to Native American art and culture, the Wheelwright Museum showcases an impressive collection of jewelry, textiles, and pottery. The museum also offers insights into the spiritual and ceremonial aspects of Native American life.

The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture :

Focused on the Native American heritage of the Southwest, this museum explores the art, history, and culture of indigenous peoples. Exhibits feature artifacts, pottery, textiles, and contemporary artworks that highlight the contributions of Native American communities.

During your time up on Museum Hill, you can also enjoy the Santa Fe Botanical Garden , the International Folk Art Market , and the Museum Hill Cafe .

Check Out the Railyard

The historic Railyard district is a modern day cultural epicenter that blends the city’s rich cultural history with contemporary energy. Originally a bustling hub for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railways, the historic Railyard retains its distinctive character with weathered brick buildings and vintage railroad remnants. And trains aren’t just a thing of the past at the Railyard – the New Mexico Rail Runner offers commuter service 7 days a week between the Railyard in Santa Fe, Albuquerque and Belen. Home to the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, the Railyard district also boasts a green space known as Railyard Park, an eclectic mix of art galleries, shops, and restaurants, as well as community events. It’s a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon taking in the vibes.

Hike the Trails

Nature enthusiasts will love the hiking trails surrounding Santa Fe. The Dale Ball Trails and Atalaya Mountain Trail are two of the most popular choices for hikers of all levels. The diverse landscapes, from high desert terrain to mountainous vistas, are sure to give any outdoor adventurer a breathtaking perspective of Santa Fe.

Attend Cultural Events

Santa Fe hosts loads of cultural events throughout the year. The Santa Fe Indian Market , the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market , and the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta are just a few examples. These events showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and also provide a platform for artists and artisans to display their talents.

Attend a Traditional Pueblo Feast Day

Immerse yourself in the local Native American culture by attending a traditional pueblo feast day. These celebrations often include dances, ceremonies, and communal meals. Check the schedule in advance and respectfully participate in these events to gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Day Trips from Santa Fe

If you’re spending long enough in Santa Fe, the city is also a great springboard for many different types of day trips that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry even further. Here are just a few we highly recommend, all within an hour or two from Santa Fe.

Just a 90 minute drive from the city, the historic town of Taos beckons with its adobe architecture and the iconic Taos Pueblo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pueblos are one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. Once you arrive at the visitors center and pay the admission, we highly recommend jumping on one of the guided tours , which run every 20-30 minutes and are led by locals of the village. Bring cash, as the tour guides are volunteers and are not paid an hourly wage, plus, some of the local shops and restaurants are cash-only. If there is only one day trip you make from Santa Fe, this should be the one.

Drive the Enchanted Circle

This is something to add to your visit to Taos. If you’ve got enough time, make your Taos day trip a two-day trip. Spend one day doing the town and another day driving the scenic Enchanted Circle. This route spans approximately 83 miles, weaving through the Southern Rockies and the Moreno Valley, presenting travelers with a breathtaking array of natural wonders and cultural gems. As you venture along, the road winds through the Carson National Forest, with panoramic views of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Make a pit stop in the charming town of Questa, surrounded by pristine wilderness, and continue your drive to the alpine resorts of Red River and Angel Fire. These mountain retreats beckon with opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking in the warmer months to skiing in winter. Whilehe drive itself takes approximately 2-3 hours, the numerous views, activities, and attractions you might stop for make it ideal for at least a half, if not a full day excursion.

Bandelier National Monument

For both nature and history enthusiasts, Bandelier National Monument unveils ancient cliff dwellings and hiking trails amidst the rugged beauty of the Jemez Mountains, and it’s barely an hour from Santa Fe. The significance and impact of these amazingly preserved cliff dwellings cannot be overstated. Visitors can even climb into some designated areas to get a closer look and feel for what life might have been like hundreds of years ago. If you’re really brave, the climb up into Alcove House consists of four wooden ladders and many stone stairs . Bandelier is a very close second to Taos, as far as must-do day trips from Santa Fe. 

Valles Caldera

The Valles Caldera National Preserve is a geological marvel and a natural wonder. This massive volcanic crater, spanning 13.7 miles in diameter, was formed over a million years ago and is surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests, and meandering streams. Home to diverse wildlife, including elk, bears, and a variety of bird species, the caldera provides an immersive outdoor experience. Whether you’re hiking the trails, admiring the wildflowers, or simply taking in the panoramic views, Valles Caldera is an awe-inspiring testament to the dynamic forces that shape our planet.

What to Eat and Drink in Santa Fe

No Santa Fe travel guide would be complete without covering the food. Santa Fe’s culinary scene is a fantastic fusion of flavors influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cuisines. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, here are some culinary delights you’ve gotta try while in town.

Green and Red Chile

No trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico is complete without trying the iconic green and red chile dishes. Whether smothering enchiladas, served in stews, or as a topping for burgers, the spicy and flavorful chiles are a staple of New Mexican cuisine. Many restaurants offer green, red, or “Christmas” – which is both!

Navajo Tacos

Navajo tacos are a fusion of Native American and Mexican flavors. These tacos feature fry bread as the base (instead of tortillas), and are topped with beans, ground meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Each bite is a delicious journey through the diverse culinary influences of the region.

Just in case the above-mentioned fry bread is a new one for you, we’ll give it its own mention here, as it is a must-try in the region. It basically is exactly what it sounds like. Hot tip: a native of Taos Pueblo – whose in-home restaurant was where we had our first fry bread, which she made fresh to order – told us to try it her favorite way, with honey and chili powder. We can attest, YES!

Blue Corn Pancakes

Start your day with a Santa Fe breakfast classic – blue corn pancakes. Made from blue cornmeal, these pancakes have a unique texture and flavor. Top them with local honey or piñon butter for a delightful morning treat.

Piñon Coffee

Sip on a cup of piñon coffee to experience the rich and nutty flavor of pine nuts. This unique coffee blend, often enjoyed with breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, reflects the distinct flavors of the Southwest.

Restaurants in Santa Fe (Recommended by Locals)

You know a spot is good when it comes recommended on different occasions, by different locals, in different areas of New Mexico. Located just around the corner from the Railyard, Tomasita’s is a Santa Fe institution , and we quickly learned why. Ask for a sopaipilla to start things off. Of Latin American heritage, sopaipilla is a pillow-shaped fried pastry dough, similar to Native American fry bread. Top with butter, honey, and enjoy! Tomasita’s is where we were introduced to “Christmas” – both red and green chili smothering one of our entrees, which was a veggie burrito. If you’re indecisive, this is a great solution. Everything was wonderful at Tomasita’s, from the food to the staff. You should go. 

Pasqual’s also comes highly recommended by locals. Full of charming Southwestern ambiance, the restaurant effortlessly blends traditional adobe architecture with a warm, inviting atmosphere. And the friendly staff goes above and beyond in making you feel like family, too. But most importantly, the food is the true star here. Pasqual’s takes pride in sourcing fresh, local ingredients, resulting in a menu that showcases the vibrant flavors of the region. From their signature blue corn pancakes to savory green chile stew, every dish celebrates the area’s rich culinary heritage. If you’re looking to savor a true taste of Santa Fe, New Mexico, Pasqual’s is a must-visit, offering a delightful blend of flavors, culture, and hospitality.

Where to Stay in Santa Fe

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial to enhancing your overall Santa Fe, New Mexico experience. The city offers a range of lodging options, from historic adobe inns to luxury resorts.

Historic Inns and Bed & Breakfasts

Immerse yourself in the charm of Santa Fe by staying in one of its historic inns or bed and breakfasts. These accommodations often feature adobe architecture, authentic Southwestern décor, and personalized service. The Inn of the Five Graces and the Antigua Inn are excellent choices for a cozy and intimate stay.

Boutique Hotels

Santa Fe’s boutique hotels provide a blend of style and character. Choose from a variety of unique properties that offer a personalized and intimate atmosphere. La Fonda on the Plaza and Hotel Santa Fe are popular boutique options, each with its own distinctive charm.

Luxury Resorts

If you’re a “little extra,” Santa Fe also offers a selection of upscale resorts with spa amenities, fine dining, and breathtaking views. The Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado and the Ros ewood Inn of the Anasazi are renowned for their world-class hospitality and attention to detail.

Tips for Visiting Santa Fe

Respect the Local Culture

Santa Fe has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect the customs and traditions of the local communities, including (and especially) Native American Pueblos. Be mindful of photography and videography restrictions, participate respectfully in cultural events, and support local artisans.

Embrace the Local Pace

Santa Fe operates at a relaxed and laid-back pace. Embrace the opportunity to slow down, savor the moment, and just chill.

Pack Layers

The weather in Santa Fe can vary throughout the day, with cooler temperatures in the morning and evening. Pack layers to stay comfortable and be prepared for temperature fluctuations.

In Conclusion

Santa Fe is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Rich in culture, artistic soul, and stunning landscapes, the city is a true Southwestern gem. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Santa Fe’s unique charm and vibrant energy is sure to win you over. 

Looking for more Travel Guides? Try these :

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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.***

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Planning a Trip in Santa Fe

By Plane -- Many people heading to Santa Fe choose to fly into the Albuquerque International Sunport, the state’s largest airport. This is especially worthwhile if you are also visiting Albuquerque. The Sunport is about 66 miles from Santa Fe, a straight shot via I-25. All major car rental companies operate out of Albuquerque Sunport; if you don’t want to drive yourself, Groome Transportation ( www.groometransportation.com ; tel. 505/474-5696 ) runs shuttles daily from the Sunport to Santa Fe and back again at a cost of $38 per person one-way. New Mexico Rail Runner Express (see below) also runs to Santa Fe, at a cost of $9 per person, with a free shuttle bus taking travelers from the airport to the train.

If you plan to skip Albuquerque, you can save time (but pay a bit more) by flying into the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF; www.santafenm.gov/airport ; tel. 505/955-2900 ) just outside the southwestern city limits off Airport Road. The airport has non-stop service from Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix with American Airlines ( www.aa.com ; tel. 800/433-7300 ), plus non-stop service from Denver with United Airlines ( www.united.com ; tel. 800/864-8331 ). From the Santa Fe Municipal Airport, Roadrunner Shuttle ( www.rideroadrunner.com ; tel. 505/424-3367 ) takes visitors anywhere in Santa Fe and throughout most of northern New Mexico. A ride for one from the Santa Fe Airport to Santa Fe Plaza costs $60. Many Santa Fe hotels offer free shuttles from the airport.

By Train  -- Daily train service from Albuquerque to Santa Fe is provided by New Mexico Rail Runner Express ( www.riometro.org ; tel. 866/795-7245 ). Amtrak ( www.amtrak.com ; tel. 800/872-7245 ) has a daily east-west train, the Southwest Chief , running from Chicago to Los Angeles, which stops in Lamy, about 20 miles from Santa Fe. Roadrunner Shuttle (see above) provides transportation between downtown Santa Fe and the train station. Cost is $40 per person one-way; reservations are necessary.

By Car  -- I-25 skims past Santa Fe’s southern city limits, connecting it along one continuous highway from Billings, Montana, to El Paso, Texas. I-40, the state’s major east–west highway, which bisects Albuquerque, affords coast-to-coast access. (From the west, motorists leave I-40 in Albuquerque and take I-25 north; from the east, travelers exit I-40 at Clines Corners and continue 52 miles to Santa Fe on US 285.) For those coming from the northwest, the most direct route is via Durango, Colorado, on US 160, entering Santa Fe on US 84.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Santa Fe Depot - New Mexico Rail Runner Express

Review Highlights

“ My husband and I flew into Albuquerque with plans to rent a car and road trip into Santa Fe and Taos. ” in 8 reviews

“ Just make sure you know the schedule back otherwise you might be marooned! ” in 3 reviews

“ Easy to purchase tickets online. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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410 S Guadalupe St

Santa Fe, NM 87501

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New Mexico Black Car is the premier transportation option in Santa Fe, Albuquerque and throughout the state of New Mexico. We specialize in prearranged private black car service and on demand Taxi service as well. With cars on call… read more

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About the Business

The Santa Fe Depot is the Rail Runner's northern terminus. It is marked by bustling activity, including an active farmers market, restaurants and breweries, art galleries, and retail offerings. Additional attractions, including the historic Santa Fe Plaza, are just a short walk or bus ride from this station. …

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Overall rating

Easy and enjoyable ride. The cost round trip Is minimal. The train is very clean. The staff is very helpful.

Ok, so the price jumped almost 400% from $2.50 to $9 in less than a year? And, yes, someone had to write the one-star review, complaining that there is no shade. I would hate to see his review of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. No shade, no benches, sheep poop everywhere! One star of Bethlehem! Still, there's no faster, cheaper, easier, and safer way to get from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, if you so choo-choo-choose. It's convenient because you don't have to get there early to get a ticket, or deal with a machine, or even make sure you have cash. The friendly crew comes by to sell you tickets while you sit there and pretend your feet weren't on the chair in front of you. They don't like that. There are no layovers like airports or transfers like buses or weird colored lines like subways. The trains are clean and comfortable. Sometimes the guys on the speaker sound like you're on Big Thunder Railroad- I almost expected him to say "this here's the wildest ride in the wilderness". I wish they had wi-fi, especially now that I know they raised their prices. Maybe I *should* throw some shade since they don't got none.

I choo choo choose you.

Business owner information

Business Owner

Nov 14, 2023

Thank you for your comments. We were running a 75% Off fare promotion through April of this year, which is why you noticed the difference in fares. Regular rates went back into effect in May, but did not increase. We are in the process of testing a new WiFi system and hope to have it back up and running soon. Thank you for riding the Rail Runner. Meep Meep!

Station is under renovation. No shade for passengers waiting and only one bench for sitting.

Under renovation

Sep 26, 2023

Hi Matthew. Thank you for your comments. We do not own the building at the Santa Fe Depot and do not have details on the construction or timeline. Please contact the City of Santa Fe for inquiries regarding the renovation project. We hope you continue to ride the Rail Runner!

Cute smaller railway! $2.50 Santa Fe to Albuquerque. Clean, timely, friendly staff. You pay on the train (cash or credit). You might also get to see George RR Martin's "Sky Train" adventure train experience cars parked to the side.

Dec 22, 2022

Thank you for your review. Glad you enjoyed your experience. Meep Meep!

I had an amazing experience traveling from Santa Fe to ABQ . 2.50$ for a lovely ride took a little over an hour. There was also a bus waiting at the ABQ depot to take people to the airport for free, the gentleman who was driving was so kind and helpful and I tried to tip him but he wouldn't take it, he deserved it though!!

Thank you for your review! We are happy to hear that you had a great experience using the Rail Runner. Meep Meep!

By far the best way to travel I-25. Ugh I hate the drive to Santa Fe from Albuquerque. I love sitting back and relaxing while the smooth train takes me! It is super clean and you can sit in the upper car which is what I do. Some seats have tables. Super comfortable. Buy your tickets online through the app. That's the easiest for me. There is also security in the night. I was approached by a man saying he had just gotten out of jail and can I give him money for a ticket to Albuquerque, while I waited for the train at night. Immediately the security guy had the man turn around and walked him away in a really respectful manner. He was really nice to the man and de-escalated the situation in a peaceful way. I was impressed.

Rode the train to Santa Fe for the first time a couple days ago. Was so impressed with the crew on the train. Elizabeth was particularly helpful and friendly. She explained the schedule and what to expect on the train. She was amazing. Thank you team. My trip to Santa Fe was so wonderful and so relaxing because of you. I will do it again.

A was such a friendly spot we enjoyed the time there. The people were friendly and and Willing to help with directions.

Great way to get around in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe area. I take the train 3 days a week from Placitas to Santa Fe Depot to commute to work and really enjoying the ride. It is less stressful then dealing with the drive and then parking, I sit back and listen to podcasts. The staff are very friendly and it is very safe. The conductors are pleasant, especially Sheldon and Luis they are always smiling and if you are lucky Sheldon will belt out a tune. I would definitely recommend taking the train and go spend the day in Santa Fe and enjoy a relaxing day!

This saved our trip to New Mexico over this week with a snow storm that closed off most of the major roads in town. My husband and I flew into Albuquerque with plans to rent a car and road trip into Santa Fe and Taos. We made many lodging resevations in advance. Little did we know, we were due to arrive in a severe, last-minute snow storm that pummeled down over most of New Mexico. After landing in Albuquerque and having some beers with some awesome locals (NM folks are the friendliest people around), we got some valuable advice and canceled our car reservation. They recommended we take the Rail Runner train to Santa Fe, and so we did. Fantastic experience. Only 4 bucks from Albuquerque to Santa Fe with a student discount. The train is clean and and comfortable, with places to chill out and charge your phone. Best of all, we didn't lose our lodging reservations and we got to experience everything except for Taos. The trip was a little under 2 hours, the same projected time for driving if the roads were open. We saw blizzardy, white blanketed landscapes in a clean and comfy ride instead of white-knuckling it on icy roads for hours. I would take this train even if the weather was sunny and warm. There are free shuttles all over Santa Fe once you arrive. No need for a car, whatsoever. The Rail Runner kicks ass. Don't hesitate to use it. Spread the word!!!!

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U.S. CBP planning to deploy aerostatic balloon in Santa Teresa

SANTA TERESA, New Mexico (KVIA) -- U.S. Customs Border Protection El Paso Sector is planning to deploy an aerostatic balloon just west of the Santa Teresa Port of Entry in September 2024 to monitor the area of the U.S.-Mexico border in that zone.

This area is part of the Santa Teresa, New Mexico Border Patrol Station area of operation, which has the largest number of migrant encounters in the El Paso Sector.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations (AMO) uses the Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) to provide long-range detection of low-altitude aircraft at the radar’s maximum range. The elevated sensor mitigates the curvature of the earth and terrain masking limitations.

According to a spokesman with U.S. CBP El Paso Field Office, this area also has a significant number of human smuggling-related deaths and rescues as the area’s harsh desert conditions and remote terrain present a dangerous risk to migrants who are often abandoned in the area by criminal smugglers.

In a statement sent to ABC-7, U.S. CBP said:

"The Tactical Aerostat Program (TAS) is an aerostat-borne surveillance capability which provides land domain awareness and persistent surveillance along the United States-Mexico border. The TAS Program consists of lighter-than-air aerostats. The aerostat systems feature multiple sensor types, including electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR)."

ABC-7 also contacted U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector to learn the current numbers recorded in our border area.

A spokesperson with Border Patrol said El Paso Sector has seen 230,336 migrant encounters this FY24 through July, representing a 36% reduction compared to this same time last year (364,089). Most of the migrant encounters take place in the Santa Teresa, New Mexico area.

El Paso Sector has recorded 884 rescues and 164 deaths.

U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez also commented on the aerostat deployment saying:

"This technology is not only meant to increase Border Patrol's situational awareness and ability to apprehend folks that are crossing the border illegally, it also enables them to save lives, and we can do that effectively with the implementation of smart technology, including the aerostat, which should come online next month, right here at the Santa Teresa border patrol station. That along with other technology that we really need to fund, will prevent those types of deaths that we're seeing in Dona Ana County. Technology is just one part of that solution."

According to his office, Rep. Vasquez wrote a letter last fall asking CBP to deploy tactical aerostats in the El Paso sector, because he is supportive of this technology to reduce the number of migrant deaths and rescues in our sector.

Jump to comments ↓

Heriberto Perez

Heriberto Perez Lara reports for ABC-7 on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.

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• Per Diem Lookup

FY 2025 per diem highlights

We establish the per diem rates for the continental United States (CONUS), which includes the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. Federal agencies use the per diem rates to reimburse their employees for subsistence expenses incurred while on official travel.

Federal per diem rates consist of a maximum lodging allowance component and a meals and incidental expenses (M&IE) component. The standard rate of $178 ($110 lodging, $68 M&IE) applies to most of CONUS. For fiscal year (FY) 2025, there are 296 non-standard areas (NSAs) that have per diem rates higher than the standard rate.

Since FY 2005, we have based the maximum lodging allowances on average daily rate (ADR) data. ADR is a widely accepted lodging industry measure derived from a property’s room rental revenue divided by the number of rooms rented. This calculation provides us with the average rate in an area. For more information about how lodging per diem rates are determined, visit Factors influencing lodging rates .

We remind agencies that the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) allows for actual expense reimbursement when per diem rates are insufficient to meet necessary expenses. Please see FTR § § 301-11.300 through 11.306 for more information.

FY 2025 results

The standard CONUS lodging rate increased from $107 to $110. The M&IE rate tiers were revised for FY 2025; they were last revised in FY 2022. The standard M&IE rate increased from $59 to $68, and the M&IE rate tiers for non-standard areas increased from $59-$79 to $68-$92.

The following locations that were NSAs (or part of an established NSA) in FY 2024 moved into the standard CONUS rate category:

• Ft. Wayne, IN (Allen County)
• Canton, OH (Stark County)
• Mentor, OH (Lake County)
• East Greenwich / Warwick, RI (Kent County)
• Waco, TX (McLennan County)
• Wisconsin Dells, WI (Columbia County)

PER DIEM LOOK-UP

1 choose a location.

Error, The Per Diem API is not responding. Please try again later.

No results could be found for the location you've entered.

Rates for Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories and Possessions are set by the Department of Defense .

Rates for foreign countries are set by the State Department .

2 Choose a date

Rates are available between 10/1/2022 and 09/30/2025.

The End Date of your trip can not occur before the Start Date.

Traveler reimbursement is based on the location of the work activities and not the accommodations, unless lodging is not available at the work activity, then the agency may authorize the rate where lodging is obtained.

Unless otherwise specified, the per diem locality is defined as "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city, including independent entities located within those boundaries."

Per diem localities with county definitions shall include "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city as well as the boundaries of the listed counties, including independent entities located within the boundaries of the key city and the listed counties (unless otherwise listed separately)."

When a military installation or Government - related facility(whether or not specifically named) is located partially within more than one city or county boundary, the applicable per diem rate for the entire installation or facility is the higher of the rates which apply to the cities and / or counties, even though part(s) of such activities may be located outside the defined per diem locality.

Watch CBS News

When and where to see August's rare supermoon blue moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 19, 2024 / 5:33 PM EDT / CBS News

August's supermoon blue moon , the first of 2024's four consecutive supermoons, will appear full from Sunday through Wednesday this week, giving astronomy fans a rare show when they look to the skies. 

The full moon had been expected to reach its peak on Monday, Aug. 19, at 2:26 p.m. EDT, and it will appear full for three days, NASA said. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S. 

When and how you can see the August supermoon blue moon peak?

While the full moon peaked on Monday afternoon, it first appeared full on Sunday morning, and will continue to appear full through early Wednesday morning.

Around 98% of the moon's nearside had been expected to be illuminated by the sun on Sunday, according to NASA. By Monday, 100% of the moon's nearside will be illuminated and about 99% of it will be illuminated by the sun on Tuesday.

You don't need binoculars or a telescope to enjoy the spectacular view.

What is a supermoon?

Supermoons occur when the moon's orbit is closest to Earth at the same time as the moon is full, according to NASA. The moon's distance from Earth varies between about 221,457 miles and 252,712 miles. 

During this month's supermoon peak, the moon will be around 225,288 miles from Earth. It will be even closer to Earth in September: roughly 222,005 miles. In October, the full moon will be about 222,095 miles from Earth. The last supermoon in the series — November's — will be when the moon is around 224,385 miles from Earth.

Supermoons appear bigger than the average full moon. It's similar to the size difference between a quarter and a nickel, according to NASA . They're also about 16% brighter than an average moon. 

How much bigger and brighter will the August supermoon appear than the average full moon?

While all supermoons appear bigger and brighter than the average full moon, there is some variance. According to NASA, the August full moon should appear 6.2% bigger and 12.8% brighter than the average full moon. 

The moon will appear even bigger and brighter the next month. September's full moon will look 7.5% bigger and 15.5% brighter than average, NASA said.

October's full moon, which will appear 7.6% bigger and 15.7% brighter than average, will be the biggest and brightest moon of the year, according to the space agency.

The November full moon will appear 6.2% bigger and 12.8% brighter than 2024's average full moon.

When are the next supermoons this year?

August's full moon is the first of four consecutive supermoons this year. The full moon in September will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17. It's known as the Harvest Moon.

The full moon the following month, known as the Hunter's Moon, peaks on Thursday, Oct. 17. The final supermoon will be November's Beaver Moon, which peaks on Friday, Nov. 15.

According to NASA, the full moons in September and October will be virtually tied for the closest full moons of the year.

Will the blue moon look blue?

August's full moon is not just a supermoon — it's also a blue moon. But those hoping to see a shade like cerulean, cobalt or navy blue when they check out the moon are out of luck. A blue moon has two meanings when it comes to astronomical phenomena, and neither one is related to color. 

A blue moon refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons, as is the case with this August's full moon, according to NASA. The term is also used to refer to the second full moon in a month that has two full moons. 

Does August's full moon have a special name?

August's full moon is called the Sturgeon Moon, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac . The name comes from the giant lake sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain, which was easily caught during this part of the summer. 

This month's full moon is also known as the Red Moon, Corn or Green Corn Moon, the Barley Moon, the Herb Moon, the Grain Moon and the Dog Moon, NASA notes.

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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