Santa Fe is such a novel vacation spot that’s actually like nowhere else within the United States. With orange pueblo buildings, tons of artwork galleries and enjoyable spas, New Mexico’s capital metropolis is the proper place for a ladies getaway or a calming lengthy weekend. There’s rather a lot to do right here, however 3 days in Santa Fe is simply the correct quantity of time to cowl the whole lot.
Whereas Santa Fe is a metropolis, it feels very very like a small city. The downtown space is compact, so you may simply get round on foot. Based in 1610 as a Spanish colony, the town has quite a few historic sights to see, together with the standard plaza and the Palace of the Governors.
It’s additionally fairly canine pleasant with a number of outside patios and pet-friendly lodges, so I selected to fly there with my Pomeranian, Luna. Her snow white fur bought completely coated in desert mud although, so be warned your pup may find yourself wanting fairly grubby!
There are additionally tons of distinctive and funky issues to do in Santa Fe, together with Meow Wolf – a wacky immersive artwork expertise – and the Sky Railway, a historic prepare that takes guests on a experience by means of New Mexico’s panorama.
I totally loved my time in Santa Fe and would positively suggest you go to! That will help you plan your journey, I’ve put collectively this 3 day Santa Fe itinerary, which covers all the very best sights and locations to eat.
How one can Get to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has its personal airport, Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), nevertheless it’s pretty small and is principally served by personal plane and only a few airways. Airways that fly into Santa Fe embody American, United, Delta and Alaska.
Flights to Santa Fe will be quite costly, so most individuals fly into Albuquerque, which is what we did. Take a look at my information to discovering low cost flights, which is crammed with suggestions for locating the most cost effective airfares.
Albuquerque Worldwide Sunport (ABQ) is about 68 miles south west of Santa Fe and the driving time is roughly 1 hour.
We rented a automobile from Albuquerque airport and the expertise was fairly seamless. I like to recommend utilizing Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles to seek out the very best offers. If you happen to don’t need to lease a automobile, you may e book a shuttle to/from the airport with an organization known as Groome Transportation.
Your different choice is to take a prepare from downtown Albuquerque. If you happen to’re coming from the airport, you can catch an Uber to Albuquerque prepare station. The New Mexico Rail Runner prepare operates between Albuquerque and Santa Fe seven days per week. You’ll get off on the Santa Fe Depot, which is near the farmer’s market and quite a few eateries.
Getting Round On Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
If you happen to plan on sticking simply to the downtown space in your weekend in Santa Fe then you can get round Santa Fe primarily by strolling or taking Uber. Visiting Santa Fe is feasible and not using a automobile, however you’ll need to ensure you’re staying at a downtown lodge and never one which’s on the sting of city.
Santa Fe has a bus service known as the Santa Fe Trails bus, which operates numerous routes round city. You possibly can see the schedules and routes right here. You could possibly additionally get round by renting a motorcycle and biking – try Mellow Velo bike rental, which is positioned within the Historic Downtown space.
Personally I’d suggest you lease a automobile on your 3 days in Santa Fe so you have got the liberty to go wherever you need. Renting a automobile will help you go to different locations in New Mexico, together with Taos Pueblo and Jemez Springs. It’ll additionally make it a lot simpler to get to locations which might be on the sting of Santa Fe too, akin to Ten Thousand Waves, Ojo Santa Fe Spa and Meow Wolf.
Santa Fe Itinerary: 3 Days
Now that we’ve coated learn how to get round Santa Fe, let’s get straight into this Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll spend your first two days discovering the Historic Downtown space and locations akin to Canyon Highway. Your final day shall be spent having a pleasant enjoyable spa day!
Day 1: Historic Downtown & Dinner
Begin your first day of your Santa Fe itinerary by heading downtown and visiting two of the town’s finest artwork museums – the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Artwork. Subsequent, make your approach to the plaza and stroll across the historic heart. Most of Santa Fe’s sights are positioned inside a small radius, so the whole lot is inside strolling distance.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and New Mexico Museum of Artwork
Positioned on Johnson St, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum celebrates the life and works of artist Georgia O’Keeffe, who spent a lot of her time within the southwest. A lot of her works have been impressed by the panorama of New Mexico and he or she was identified for work of flowers, leaves, rocks, shells, bones and landscapes.
The museum homes 3,000 items created by O’Keeffe, together with 140 oil work, 700 drawings and lots of of others created over the course of her profession.
Close by you’ll additionally discover the New Mexico Museum of Artwork, which is devoted to New Mexico artwork and is crammed with work, sculptures, drawings, images and numerous mixed-media works.
The constructing was designed by architects Isaac Hamilton and William Morris Rapp and accomplished in 1917. Its ‘Pueblo Revival’ architectural fashion makes use of trendy building supplies made to appear to be the historic adobe church buildings that may be discovered all through New Mexico.
Santa Fe Plaza
On the coronary heart of the town is Santa Fe Plaza, which is a serious gathering place and Nationwide Historic Landmark. It has the appear and feel of a standard Spanish plaza and options grass, timber and benches to take a seat on. Crimson chile ristras dangle from the timber and a 33 ft (10 m) stone cenotaph known as “The Soldier’s Monument” stands within the heart.
Palace of the Governors
To the north of the plaza is the Palace of the Governors, which is a big adobe construction that dates all the best way again to 1610. Constructed by the Spanish as an administrative constructing, it served because the seat of the New Mexico authorities for hundreds of years. Right this moment, many native artisans promote their wares and handicrafts beneath the lengthy walkway outdoors it.
Lunch at The Shed
Subsequent up in your Santa Fe itinerary – lunch time! Stroll to The Shed, which is a really well-known family-run spot with a cute courtyard patio. The doorway is sort of discreet however you may simply spot it from the colourful wood signal hanging outdoors. The Shed serves New Mexican delicacies and is understood for its pink chile enchiladas and yummy margaritas.
Loretto Chapel
When you’ve crammed your abdomen with tasty Mexican meals, stroll on over to The Loretto Chapel, which was as soon as a Roman Catholic church however now operates as a museum and wedding ceremony venue.
The chapel (commissioned in 1873) is known for its staircase, which has two full 360 diploma turns with no heart pole for structural help. Your complete weight of the staircase rests on the underside stair, which is fairly wonderful when you consider it!
Based on legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a 9 day novena to St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. The architect of the chapel had died earlier than entry to the choir loft was constructed and they also prayed to the saint to assist them clear up the issue.
Supposedly on the ninth day of prayer, a carpenter confirmed up with solely a hammer and carpenter’s sq.. After he constructed the staircase he disappeared and not using a hint and so the sisters of the chapel tried in search of him however couldn’t discover him. Some folks consider he was Saint Joseph himself, whereas others consider he was despatched by Saint Josef.
Initially the staircase didn’t have banisters, however these have been added about 10 years later to make it simpler to climb the steps.
Margaritas at Coyote Rooftop or La Fonda on the Plaza
After a protracted day of sightseeing you’ll in all probability need to chill and calm down. I’d counsel you head to a rooftop so you may have one thing to drink and benefit from the views over Santa Fe.
The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda on the Plaza is arguably the very best rooftop in Santa Fe and is the proper place to observe the sundown. Positioned on the fifth flooring of the lodge, it provides panoramic views over the town.
Alternatively you can go to Coyote Rooftop & Cantina, which has a colourful mural-painted rooftop and serves tasty southwestern delicacies.
Dinner at Sazón
Finish your day with dinner at Sazón – among the finest eating places in Santa Fe. Every little thing on the menu is wonderful and the bar workers are very educated. This upscale restaurant serves Mexican dishes with a up to date twist and provides a nine-course degustation menu with distinctive creations from the restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Chef Olea.
I didn’t attempt the degustation menu however I did attempt a number of dishes from the menu, together with the chef’s signature soup, pan seared tuna with pink cabbage, and the Crepes de Cajeta. The dessert was significantly among the finest desserts I’ve ever tasted, and I don’t even have a lot of a candy tooth.
Day 2: Museum Hill, Ten Thousand Waves, Canyon Highway
Museum Hill
Start your day by visiting Museum Hill, which is positioned 2-miles southeast of Santa Fe’s historic heart. I’m not often a lot of a museum individual so I questioned if this might be price it, but it surely completely was!
Museum Hill is a cluster of museums which might be perched on high of a hill, providing breathtaking views throughout Santa Fe and past. Even when you don’t go inside any of the museums, positively cease up right here to have a drink outdoors Weldon’s Museum Hill Cafe and absorb the unimaginable panorama.
The hill is residence to 4 museums:
- Museum of Spanish Colonial Artwork
- Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
- Museum of Indian Arts & Tradition
- Museum of Worldwide People Artwork
Whereas I didn’t go contained in the museums, I did go to Santa Fe Botanical Backyard, which is a beautiful backyard crammed with cacti and different flaura/fauna which might be native to the New Mexico panorama. Dotted across the backyard you’ll see numerous sculptures and artworks – it’s an excellent enjoyable place that’s positively price your time.
Lunch at Ten Thousand Waves
After visiting Museum Hill, drive on over (or Uber) to Ten Thousand Waves, which is a Japanese-style spa positioned northeast of Santa Fe.
Arriving at Ten Thousand Waves I felt like I’d been teleported straight to Japan. Your complete resort has been modeled within the fashion of a standard Japanese mountain onsen and is extremely peaceable.
We didn’t really soak right here (we selected to go to the Ojo Santa Fe Spa for that), we did have lunch within the resort’s izanami restaurant. This upscale izakaya serves genuine Japanese delicacies, together with seafood that’s flown in straight from Tokyo.
A lot of the restaurant’s pork, rooster and wagyu beef is natural or sustainably raised, and there are many gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan gadgets on the menu. The entire desserts are made in-house and there’s an in depth Japanese sake menu when you like sake!
Every little thing we ate at izanami was scrumptious and it was among the finest meals we had on the journey. We dined outdoors as a result of I had my canine with me, however the restaurant has quite a few seating choices, together with cubicles, desk seating and conventional tatami flooring seating.
Kakawa Chocolate Home
Ensure you depart just a little room for some dessert, since your subsequent cease shall be Kakawa Chocolate Home, which is positioned close to Canyon Highway. This specialty chocolate firm makes numerous historic consuming goodies utilizing recipes that date from the time interval 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.
Along with consuming elixirs, Kakawa additionally sells do-it-yourself ice lotions, truffes, agave caramels and onerous goodies, that are made in small batches. The corporate makes use of recent, seasonal elements and makes use of some distinctive flavors akin to pomegranate, cherry-chili, prickly pear, and mezcal.
Canyon Highway
After sampling goodies at Kakawa, head to Canyon Highway, which is Santa Fe’s well-known artwork road. Santa Fe is residence to lots of of galleries and has the second greatest artwork scene after New York Metropolis.
Canyon Highway is lined with artwork galleries that includes advantageous artwork created by among the finest artists in the US – and the world.
Spend your afternoon looking the artwork after which cease by the Ahmyo Wine Backyard, which serves wine and artisanal meals in a peaceable desert oasis backyard setting. It’s the proper place to relaxation your weary legs after a day of sightseeing!
If you happen to don’t really feel like consuming alcohol you can cease by The Teahouse, which provides an in depth menu of loose-leaf natural teas and distinctive botanicals. The teas are sustainably sourced and imported straight from the growers, then blended in-house by grasp tea blenders.
Dinner at El Farol or Geronimo
For dinner there are a few nice choices on Canyon Highway. El Farol is known for its Flamenco Dinner Present, which takes place each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night time. The present begins at 8pm and features a Pre-Fixe dinner that includes entrees akin to pan-seared salmon, beef medallions and Spanish paella.
Alternatively you can make a reservation for Geronimo, which is a advantageous eating restaurant housed in an adobe residence constructed by Geronimo Lopez in 1756. The restaurant has gained quite a few awards and was voted one of many high eating places within the US. On the menu you’ll discover numerous a la carte dishes in addition to a four-course vegetarian tasting menu, which prices $80 per head.
Day 3: Railyard, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, Meow Wolf
Day 3 of your Santa Fe itinerary shall be a bit extra relaxed, with the chance to wash in a sizzling spring and go to the bizarre Meow Wolf.
Ikonik Espresso Roasters
Begin your day with a espresso from Ikonik Espresso Roasters, which is one among Santa Fe’s finest espresso retailers. Housed in a former college constructing, the espresso store boasts a big ethereal house with classic chandeliers, cozy armchairs and lengthy communal tables for working. If you happen to didn’t have breakfast at your lodge you then’ll discover quite a lot of breakfast gadgets right here, together with breakfast tacos, croque madame waffles, benedicts and Egyptian dukkah.
Railyard Arts District
Subsequent, try the Railyard Arts District, which options seven up to date artwork galleries housed in spacious warehouse fashion buildings. On Saturdays the railyard additionally hosts the Santa Fe Farmers Market, which is crammed with lots of of various distributors promoting all types of agricultural produce.
Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort
Among the finest spas in Santa Fe, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort boasts a number of spring-fed thermal swimming pools and 77 acres of lush gardens. It’s the proper place to appease your physique, coronary heart and thoughts.
The resort’s communal bathing areas overlook a small lake and are surrounded by cottonwood timber and lounge chairs. It’s a extremely lovely setting and I felt so relaxed right here! Spend your afternoon soaking within the mineral-rich waters, then take pleasure in lunch within the resort’s Blue Heron Restaurant.
The restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes made with elements from the Ojo Caliente Farm and native Southwest area. We ordered the The Butcher The Baker & The Farmer grazing platter – it was wonderful!
To get to Ojo Santa Fe you really want a automobile, because it’s positioned about 15 miles southwest of downtown Santa Fe so that you’ll must drive to get there. Uber is typically out there, however it may be troublesome to snag one.
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is an immersive artwork expertise that began in Santa Fe however has since expanded to Las Vegas and Denver. Santa Fe’s expertise is known as The Home of Everlasting Return and options over 70 rooms of immersive artwork which might be appropriate for adults and youngsters of all ages. It was constructed on the positioning of a former bowling alley and has since develop into a extremely popular Santa Fe attraction.
I had completely no thought what to anticipate after we lined up for it, however I’m so glad I went! It’s so troublesome to clarify, but it surely was form of like stepping right into a Tim Burton film. Suppose Alice in Wonderland meets Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing unit meets…Japanese Kawaii Monster Cafe?
It mainly begins in a home, besides it’s not your regular home. Open the fridge door and also you’ll uncover a tunnel that results in one other dimension. Crawl by means of the hearth and also you’ll end up in a room crammed with bizarre artwork. It’s very interactive and there are all types of secret passageways and issues to climb.
Anticipate to spend about 2 hours at Meow Wolf and attempt to go within the late afternoon when it’s much less busy. That’s why I’d counsel visiting the spa first after which you are able to do this within the afternoon.
The expertise is open until 8pm on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t try to go then!
Dinner at Radish and Rye or Restaurant Martin
My favourite restaurant in Santa Fe was Restaurant Martin – it was so good we ate there twice! One other nice restaurant we tried was Radish and Rye, which serves farm-to-table delicacies.
Issues to Do Close to Santa Fe
When you have greater than 3 days in Santa Fe, lease a automobile so you may see extra of New Mexico. I LOVED the surroundings and driving on empty open roads. Some high day journeys to incorporate in your Santa Fe itinerary embody:
Bandelier Nationwide Monument
This nationwide monument protects over 33,000 acres of land that options proof of the Ancestral Pueblo those who dates again hundreds of years.
Most of Bandelier is simply wilderness, but it surely does include numerous petroglyphs, masonry pueblos and dwellings carved into the cliffs. If you wish to be taught extra concerning the monument, begin on the Customer Heart, which contains a museum, bookstore, 14-minute film, giftshop, snack bar, and picnic space.
From the Customer Heart you may take the Essential Loop Path, which is a brief 1.2 mile loop that leads by means of excavated archeological websites in Frijoles Canyon. One other well-liked hike is the The Tsankawi part of the park, which contains a 1.5 mile mesa-top path with 4 ladders. You’ll get to see petroglyphs, an unexcavated Ancestral Pueblo village, and exquisite vistas alongside the best way.
Jemez Springs/ Spence Springs
One other well-liked day journey from Santa Fe is a visit to Jemez Springs, which is understood for its therapeutic mineral springs and mountain surroundings. The village is positioned on the Jemez Mountain Path Scenic Byway, which is near Valles Caldera Nationwide Park.
Sights right here embody the Jemez State Monument (Jemez Historic Website), which dates again lots of of years, and the sixteenth century San José de Guisewa (Jemez) Church) – one of many largest missions in the US.
If you wish to soak in a pure sizzling spring with unimaginable views, I’d counsel visiting Spence Springs, which is accessible by way of a brief mountaineering path. The new spring is positioned off NM State Freeway 4 and has a small parking space that matches about seven automobiles. The spring contains a small pool with water that sits round physique temperature, so it’s finest to go to throughout the hotter summer season months when it’s not too chilly.
Within the city of Jemez Springs there are a selection of business sizzling springs and bathhouses the place you may soak and revel in numerous spa therapies. Take a look at Jemez Scorching Springs, Jemez Springs Tub Home, Canon del Rio Retreat & Spa, and Adobe Morning Day Spa.
Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Website, positioned about 73 miles (a 1 hour 40 minute drive) from Santa Fe. You possibly can take the scenic Santa Fe to Taos Excessive Highway to get there. The village is about on the base of the gorgeous Sangre de Cristo Mountain vary and consists of many multi-storied adobe buildings which were repeatedly inhabited for over 1000 years.
It’s nonetheless a dwelling Native American neighborhood with a inhabitants of round 4,500 folks, so it’s necessary to be respectful of their privateness and guidelines whenever you go to.
Entry to the pueblo prices $16 for adults and $14 for seniors or college students. Youngsters below 10 go free. The pueblo is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t attempt to go to on lately. Verify the Taos Pueblo web site for up-to-date opening instances.
Madrid and the Turquoise Path
If you happen to’re driving from Santa Fe again to Albuquerque in your rental automobile, you may drive alongside the Turquoise Path Scenic Byway, which extends for roughly 50 miles alongside Freeway 14. This scenic drive will take you previous previous mining cities of Golden, Madrid and Cerillos.
I’d counsel making a cease in Madrid, which is a unusual artist’s neighborhood that was as soon as a coal mining city and ghost city. This small city is filled with colourful buildings, artwork galleries, cafes and retailers, so it’s the proper spot to cease off for a espresso on the best way to Albuquerque.
The place to Keep For Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
For this Santa Fe itinerary I’d counsel staying as near downtown as attainable. There are less expensive lodges on the outskirts of city however you’ll then must spend cash on Ubers if you wish to drink, otherwise you’ll be in search of parking downtown.
There are tons of cute boutique lodges in downtown Santa Fe, however these are among the finest ones:
The Parador Santa Fe
I stayed at The Parador Santa Fe, which is a cute boutique lodge that’s a couple of 10 minute stroll from the plaza. The lodge has its personal parking zone and there’s a scrumptious a la carte breakfast served day-after-day within the breakfast room. You possibly can learn all concerning the lodge in my Parador overview.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
I at all times discover Rosewood lodges to be very luxurious and this one isn’t any exception. The lodge is located only a stone’s throw from the principle plaza and its interiors pay homage to the world’s native Anasazi tribe. Rooms on the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi function handcrafted furnishings, native artwork work, conventional wood ceilings, and both double or king beds.
Inn & Spa at Loretto
The Inn & Spa at Loretto provides 136 well-appointed suites and visitor rooms, an award-winning spa, a year-round heated backyard pool, and a number of other on-site galleries and boutiques. Plenty of folks go to the lodge’s restaurant, Luminaria, which has a romantic outside patio serving southwestern fare. The lodge is positioned adjoining to the Loretto Chapel and is housed in a big adobe constructing that’s harking back to Taos Pueblo.
The Inn of the 5 Graces
Housed in a standard adobe and stone construction, The Inn of the 5 Graces is a high-end boutique lodge with lovely courtyards, round the clock concierge and a Tibetan-inspired spa. Visitor suites are adorned in vibrant colours with handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind treasures from the Silk Highway that when linked Europe and Asia. All of them have kiva wood-burning fireplaces and a few of them have their very own personal balconies.
Lodge St. Francis
Positioned within the heart of city, Lodge St. Francis is the oldest lodge in Santa Fe. This historic lodge has a stunning foyer and a steakhouse with outside patio known as Market Steer. If you happen to fancy a drink after a day of sightseeing, head to the Secreto Lounge, which serves “Backyard-To-Glass” cocktails utilizing recent fruits, greens and herbs.
Las Palomas
Positioned not removed from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Las Palomas is a boutique lodge with artfully adorned rooms and a bistro serving scrumptious breakfast burritos. The lodge has a comfy, Southwestern atmosphere and every room is totally different. Some function rustic wood décor and hand-woven rugs, whereas others boast mid-century furnishings and spacious dwelling areas.
A Ultimate Phrase…
I hope you take pleasure in this Santa Fe itinerary! A weekend in Santa Fe is certainly one thing you need to contemplate when you like artwork, scrumptious Mexican meals and enjoyable spas. The surroundings in New Mexico is unimaginable and I cherished simply driving across the state!
3 days in Santa Fe will help you see all the key sights, though I’d spend perhaps 4 to five days right here if you wish to go to locations like Taos Pueblo, Bandelier Nationwide Monument and the pure sizzling springs.
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E-book Your Journey
Don’t overlook journey insurance coverage: Heymondo is the very best journey insurance coverage firm and provides inexpensive insurance policies. Safetywing is ideal for long-term vacationers and digital nomads.
E-book your flights: Discover low cost flights utilizing Google Flights or Skyscanner. To get journey offers despatched straight to your inbox, join Going or Jack’s Flight Membership. Obtain the Hopper app for his or her algorithm-powered value predictions.
Reserving your lodging: I exploit Reserving.com to e book all my lodges. Their Genius loyalty program lets you earn reward credit no bookings and 10%-20% off lodge costs. You can too attempt Google Lodges and TripAdvisor to go looking costs throughout quite a lot of websites. Agoda is the very best website for reserving lodges in Asia.
Use your telephone overseas: Buy an Airalo eSIM so you may keep away from hefty knowledge roaming expenses whereas touring.
Journey on a finances: Staying in hostels is a good way to satisfy folks and is finest when you’re on a finances. Yow will discover loads of superior hostels with Hostelworld.
Discover Excursions: For day excursions and multi-day journeys I at all times use GetYourGuide and Viator.
Rental Automobiles: Search the very best rental automobile offers on Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles.
Santa Fe is such a novel vacation spot that’s actually like nowhere else within the United States. With orange pueblo buildings, tons of artwork galleries and enjoyable spas, New Mexico’s capital metropolis is the proper place for a ladies getaway or a calming lengthy weekend. There’s rather a lot to do right here, however 3 days in Santa Fe is simply the correct quantity of time to cowl the whole lot.
Whereas Santa Fe is a metropolis, it feels very very like a small city. The downtown space is compact, so you may simply get round on foot. Based in 1610 as a Spanish colony, the town has quite a few historic sights to see, together with the standard plaza and the Palace of the Governors.
It’s additionally fairly canine pleasant with a number of outside patios and pet-friendly lodges, so I selected to fly there with my Pomeranian, Luna. Her snow white fur bought completely coated in desert mud although, so be warned your pup may find yourself wanting fairly grubby!
There are additionally tons of distinctive and funky issues to do in Santa Fe, together with Meow Wolf – a wacky immersive artwork expertise – and the Sky Railway, a historic prepare that takes guests on a experience by means of New Mexico’s panorama.
I totally loved my time in Santa Fe and would positively suggest you go to! That will help you plan your journey, I’ve put collectively this 3 day Santa Fe itinerary, which covers all the very best sights and locations to eat.
How one can Get to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has its personal airport, Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), nevertheless it’s pretty small and is principally served by personal plane and only a few airways. Airways that fly into Santa Fe embody American, United, Delta and Alaska.
Flights to Santa Fe will be quite costly, so most individuals fly into Albuquerque, which is what we did. Take a look at my information to discovering low cost flights, which is crammed with suggestions for locating the most cost effective airfares.
Albuquerque Worldwide Sunport (ABQ) is about 68 miles south west of Santa Fe and the driving time is roughly 1 hour.
We rented a automobile from Albuquerque airport and the expertise was fairly seamless. I like to recommend utilizing Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles to seek out the very best offers. If you happen to don’t need to lease a automobile, you may e book a shuttle to/from the airport with an organization known as Groome Transportation.
Your different choice is to take a prepare from downtown Albuquerque. If you happen to’re coming from the airport, you can catch an Uber to Albuquerque prepare station. The New Mexico Rail Runner prepare operates between Albuquerque and Santa Fe seven days per week. You’ll get off on the Santa Fe Depot, which is near the farmer’s market and quite a few eateries.
Getting Round On Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
If you happen to plan on sticking simply to the downtown space in your weekend in Santa Fe then you can get round Santa Fe primarily by strolling or taking Uber. Visiting Santa Fe is feasible and not using a automobile, however you’ll need to ensure you’re staying at a downtown lodge and never one which’s on the sting of city.
Santa Fe has a bus service known as the Santa Fe Trails bus, which operates numerous routes round city. You possibly can see the schedules and routes right here. You could possibly additionally get round by renting a motorcycle and biking – try Mellow Velo bike rental, which is positioned within the Historic Downtown space.
Personally I’d suggest you lease a automobile on your 3 days in Santa Fe so you have got the liberty to go wherever you need. Renting a automobile will help you go to different locations in New Mexico, together with Taos Pueblo and Jemez Springs. It’ll additionally make it a lot simpler to get to locations which might be on the sting of Santa Fe too, akin to Ten Thousand Waves, Ojo Santa Fe Spa and Meow Wolf.
Santa Fe Itinerary: 3 Days
Now that we’ve coated learn how to get round Santa Fe, let’s get straight into this Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll spend your first two days discovering the Historic Downtown space and locations akin to Canyon Highway. Your final day shall be spent having a pleasant enjoyable spa day!
Day 1: Historic Downtown & Dinner
Begin your first day of your Santa Fe itinerary by heading downtown and visiting two of the town’s finest artwork museums – the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Artwork. Subsequent, make your approach to the plaza and stroll across the historic heart. Most of Santa Fe’s sights are positioned inside a small radius, so the whole lot is inside strolling distance.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and New Mexico Museum of Artwork
Positioned on Johnson St, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum celebrates the life and works of artist Georgia O’Keeffe, who spent a lot of her time within the southwest. A lot of her works have been impressed by the panorama of New Mexico and he or she was identified for work of flowers, leaves, rocks, shells, bones and landscapes.
The museum homes 3,000 items created by O’Keeffe, together with 140 oil work, 700 drawings and lots of of others created over the course of her profession.
Close by you’ll additionally discover the New Mexico Museum of Artwork, which is devoted to New Mexico artwork and is crammed with work, sculptures, drawings, images and numerous mixed-media works.
The constructing was designed by architects Isaac Hamilton and William Morris Rapp and accomplished in 1917. Its ‘Pueblo Revival’ architectural fashion makes use of trendy building supplies made to appear to be the historic adobe church buildings that may be discovered all through New Mexico.
Santa Fe Plaza
On the coronary heart of the town is Santa Fe Plaza, which is a serious gathering place and Nationwide Historic Landmark. It has the appear and feel of a standard Spanish plaza and options grass, timber and benches to take a seat on. Crimson chile ristras dangle from the timber and a 33 ft (10 m) stone cenotaph known as “The Soldier’s Monument” stands within the heart.
Palace of the Governors
To the north of the plaza is the Palace of the Governors, which is a big adobe construction that dates all the best way again to 1610. Constructed by the Spanish as an administrative constructing, it served because the seat of the New Mexico authorities for hundreds of years. Right this moment, many native artisans promote their wares and handicrafts beneath the lengthy walkway outdoors it.
Lunch at The Shed
Subsequent up in your Santa Fe itinerary – lunch time! Stroll to The Shed, which is a really well-known family-run spot with a cute courtyard patio. The doorway is sort of discreet however you may simply spot it from the colourful wood signal hanging outdoors. The Shed serves New Mexican delicacies and is understood for its pink chile enchiladas and yummy margaritas.
Loretto Chapel
When you’ve crammed your abdomen with tasty Mexican meals, stroll on over to The Loretto Chapel, which was as soon as a Roman Catholic church however now operates as a museum and wedding ceremony venue.
The chapel (commissioned in 1873) is known for its staircase, which has two full 360 diploma turns with no heart pole for structural help. Your complete weight of the staircase rests on the underside stair, which is fairly wonderful when you consider it!
Based on legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a 9 day novena to St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. The architect of the chapel had died earlier than entry to the choir loft was constructed and they also prayed to the saint to assist them clear up the issue.
Supposedly on the ninth day of prayer, a carpenter confirmed up with solely a hammer and carpenter’s sq.. After he constructed the staircase he disappeared and not using a hint and so the sisters of the chapel tried in search of him however couldn’t discover him. Some folks consider he was Saint Joseph himself, whereas others consider he was despatched by Saint Josef.
Initially the staircase didn’t have banisters, however these have been added about 10 years later to make it simpler to climb the steps.
Margaritas at Coyote Rooftop or La Fonda on the Plaza
After a protracted day of sightseeing you’ll in all probability need to chill and calm down. I’d counsel you head to a rooftop so you may have one thing to drink and benefit from the views over Santa Fe.
The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda on the Plaza is arguably the very best rooftop in Santa Fe and is the proper place to observe the sundown. Positioned on the fifth flooring of the lodge, it provides panoramic views over the town.
Alternatively you can go to Coyote Rooftop & Cantina, which has a colourful mural-painted rooftop and serves tasty southwestern delicacies.
Dinner at Sazón
Finish your day with dinner at Sazón – among the finest eating places in Santa Fe. Every little thing on the menu is wonderful and the bar workers are very educated. This upscale restaurant serves Mexican dishes with a up to date twist and provides a nine-course degustation menu with distinctive creations from the restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Chef Olea.
I didn’t attempt the degustation menu however I did attempt a number of dishes from the menu, together with the chef’s signature soup, pan seared tuna with pink cabbage, and the Crepes de Cajeta. The dessert was significantly among the finest desserts I’ve ever tasted, and I don’t even have a lot of a candy tooth.
Day 2: Museum Hill, Ten Thousand Waves, Canyon Highway
Museum Hill
Start your day by visiting Museum Hill, which is positioned 2-miles southeast of Santa Fe’s historic heart. I’m not often a lot of a museum individual so I questioned if this might be price it, but it surely completely was!
Museum Hill is a cluster of museums which might be perched on high of a hill, providing breathtaking views throughout Santa Fe and past. Even when you don’t go inside any of the museums, positively cease up right here to have a drink outdoors Weldon’s Museum Hill Cafe and absorb the unimaginable panorama.
The hill is residence to 4 museums:
- Museum of Spanish Colonial Artwork
- Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
- Museum of Indian Arts & Tradition
- Museum of Worldwide People Artwork
Whereas I didn’t go contained in the museums, I did go to Santa Fe Botanical Backyard, which is a beautiful backyard crammed with cacti and different flaura/fauna which might be native to the New Mexico panorama. Dotted across the backyard you’ll see numerous sculptures and artworks – it’s an excellent enjoyable place that’s positively price your time.
Lunch at Ten Thousand Waves
After visiting Museum Hill, drive on over (or Uber) to Ten Thousand Waves, which is a Japanese-style spa positioned northeast of Santa Fe.
Arriving at Ten Thousand Waves I felt like I’d been teleported straight to Japan. Your complete resort has been modeled within the fashion of a standard Japanese mountain onsen and is extremely peaceable.
We didn’t really soak right here (we selected to go to the Ojo Santa Fe Spa for that), we did have lunch within the resort’s izanami restaurant. This upscale izakaya serves genuine Japanese delicacies, together with seafood that’s flown in straight from Tokyo.
A lot of the restaurant’s pork, rooster and wagyu beef is natural or sustainably raised, and there are many gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan gadgets on the menu. The entire desserts are made in-house and there’s an in depth Japanese sake menu when you like sake!
Every little thing we ate at izanami was scrumptious and it was among the finest meals we had on the journey. We dined outdoors as a result of I had my canine with me, however the restaurant has quite a few seating choices, together with cubicles, desk seating and conventional tatami flooring seating.
Kakawa Chocolate Home
Ensure you depart just a little room for some dessert, since your subsequent cease shall be Kakawa Chocolate Home, which is positioned close to Canyon Highway. This specialty chocolate firm makes numerous historic consuming goodies utilizing recipes that date from the time interval 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.
Along with consuming elixirs, Kakawa additionally sells do-it-yourself ice lotions, truffes, agave caramels and onerous goodies, that are made in small batches. The corporate makes use of recent, seasonal elements and makes use of some distinctive flavors akin to pomegranate, cherry-chili, prickly pear, and mezcal.
Canyon Highway
After sampling goodies at Kakawa, head to Canyon Highway, which is Santa Fe’s well-known artwork road. Santa Fe is residence to lots of of galleries and has the second greatest artwork scene after New York Metropolis.
Canyon Highway is lined with artwork galleries that includes advantageous artwork created by among the finest artists in the US – and the world.
Spend your afternoon looking the artwork after which cease by the Ahmyo Wine Backyard, which serves wine and artisanal meals in a peaceable desert oasis backyard setting. It’s the proper place to relaxation your weary legs after a day of sightseeing!
If you happen to don’t really feel like consuming alcohol you can cease by The Teahouse, which provides an in depth menu of loose-leaf natural teas and distinctive botanicals. The teas are sustainably sourced and imported straight from the growers, then blended in-house by grasp tea blenders.
Dinner at El Farol or Geronimo
For dinner there are a few nice choices on Canyon Highway. El Farol is known for its Flamenco Dinner Present, which takes place each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night time. The present begins at 8pm and features a Pre-Fixe dinner that includes entrees akin to pan-seared salmon, beef medallions and Spanish paella.
Alternatively you can make a reservation for Geronimo, which is a advantageous eating restaurant housed in an adobe residence constructed by Geronimo Lopez in 1756. The restaurant has gained quite a few awards and was voted one of many high eating places within the US. On the menu you’ll discover numerous a la carte dishes in addition to a four-course vegetarian tasting menu, which prices $80 per head.
Day 3: Railyard, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, Meow Wolf
Day 3 of your Santa Fe itinerary shall be a bit extra relaxed, with the chance to wash in a sizzling spring and go to the bizarre Meow Wolf.
Ikonik Espresso Roasters
Begin your day with a espresso from Ikonik Espresso Roasters, which is one among Santa Fe’s finest espresso retailers. Housed in a former college constructing, the espresso store boasts a big ethereal house with classic chandeliers, cozy armchairs and lengthy communal tables for working. If you happen to didn’t have breakfast at your lodge you then’ll discover quite a lot of breakfast gadgets right here, together with breakfast tacos, croque madame waffles, benedicts and Egyptian dukkah.
Railyard Arts District
Subsequent, try the Railyard Arts District, which options seven up to date artwork galleries housed in spacious warehouse fashion buildings. On Saturdays the railyard additionally hosts the Santa Fe Farmers Market, which is crammed with lots of of various distributors promoting all types of agricultural produce.
Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort
Among the finest spas in Santa Fe, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort boasts a number of spring-fed thermal swimming pools and 77 acres of lush gardens. It’s the proper place to appease your physique, coronary heart and thoughts.
The resort’s communal bathing areas overlook a small lake and are surrounded by cottonwood timber and lounge chairs. It’s a extremely lovely setting and I felt so relaxed right here! Spend your afternoon soaking within the mineral-rich waters, then take pleasure in lunch within the resort’s Blue Heron Restaurant.
The restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes made with elements from the Ojo Caliente Farm and native Southwest area. We ordered the The Butcher The Baker & The Farmer grazing platter – it was wonderful!
To get to Ojo Santa Fe you really want a automobile, because it’s positioned about 15 miles southwest of downtown Santa Fe so that you’ll must drive to get there. Uber is typically out there, however it may be troublesome to snag one.
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is an immersive artwork expertise that began in Santa Fe however has since expanded to Las Vegas and Denver. Santa Fe’s expertise is known as The Home of Everlasting Return and options over 70 rooms of immersive artwork which might be appropriate for adults and youngsters of all ages. It was constructed on the positioning of a former bowling alley and has since develop into a extremely popular Santa Fe attraction.
I had completely no thought what to anticipate after we lined up for it, however I’m so glad I went! It’s so troublesome to clarify, but it surely was form of like stepping right into a Tim Burton film. Suppose Alice in Wonderland meets Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing unit meets…Japanese Kawaii Monster Cafe?
It mainly begins in a home, besides it’s not your regular home. Open the fridge door and also you’ll uncover a tunnel that results in one other dimension. Crawl by means of the hearth and also you’ll end up in a room crammed with bizarre artwork. It’s very interactive and there are all types of secret passageways and issues to climb.
Anticipate to spend about 2 hours at Meow Wolf and attempt to go within the late afternoon when it’s much less busy. That’s why I’d counsel visiting the spa first after which you are able to do this within the afternoon.
The expertise is open until 8pm on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t try to go then!
Dinner at Radish and Rye or Restaurant Martin
My favourite restaurant in Santa Fe was Restaurant Martin – it was so good we ate there twice! One other nice restaurant we tried was Radish and Rye, which serves farm-to-table delicacies.
Issues to Do Close to Santa Fe
When you have greater than 3 days in Santa Fe, lease a automobile so you may see extra of New Mexico. I LOVED the surroundings and driving on empty open roads. Some high day journeys to incorporate in your Santa Fe itinerary embody:
Bandelier Nationwide Monument
This nationwide monument protects over 33,000 acres of land that options proof of the Ancestral Pueblo those who dates again hundreds of years.
Most of Bandelier is simply wilderness, but it surely does include numerous petroglyphs, masonry pueblos and dwellings carved into the cliffs. If you wish to be taught extra concerning the monument, begin on the Customer Heart, which contains a museum, bookstore, 14-minute film, giftshop, snack bar, and picnic space.
From the Customer Heart you may take the Essential Loop Path, which is a brief 1.2 mile loop that leads by means of excavated archeological websites in Frijoles Canyon. One other well-liked hike is the The Tsankawi part of the park, which contains a 1.5 mile mesa-top path with 4 ladders. You’ll get to see petroglyphs, an unexcavated Ancestral Pueblo village, and exquisite vistas alongside the best way.
Jemez Springs/ Spence Springs
One other well-liked day journey from Santa Fe is a visit to Jemez Springs, which is understood for its therapeutic mineral springs and mountain surroundings. The village is positioned on the Jemez Mountain Path Scenic Byway, which is near Valles Caldera Nationwide Park.
Sights right here embody the Jemez State Monument (Jemez Historic Website), which dates again lots of of years, and the sixteenth century San José de Guisewa (Jemez) Church) – one of many largest missions in the US.
If you wish to soak in a pure sizzling spring with unimaginable views, I’d counsel visiting Spence Springs, which is accessible by way of a brief mountaineering path. The new spring is positioned off NM State Freeway 4 and has a small parking space that matches about seven automobiles. The spring contains a small pool with water that sits round physique temperature, so it’s finest to go to throughout the hotter summer season months when it’s not too chilly.
Within the city of Jemez Springs there are a selection of business sizzling springs and bathhouses the place you may soak and revel in numerous spa therapies. Take a look at Jemez Scorching Springs, Jemez Springs Tub Home, Canon del Rio Retreat & Spa, and Adobe Morning Day Spa.
Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Website, positioned about 73 miles (a 1 hour 40 minute drive) from Santa Fe. You possibly can take the scenic Santa Fe to Taos Excessive Highway to get there. The village is about on the base of the gorgeous Sangre de Cristo Mountain vary and consists of many multi-storied adobe buildings which were repeatedly inhabited for over 1000 years.
It’s nonetheless a dwelling Native American neighborhood with a inhabitants of round 4,500 folks, so it’s necessary to be respectful of their privateness and guidelines whenever you go to.
Entry to the pueblo prices $16 for adults and $14 for seniors or college students. Youngsters below 10 go free. The pueblo is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t attempt to go to on lately. Verify the Taos Pueblo web site for up-to-date opening instances.
Madrid and the Turquoise Path
If you happen to’re driving from Santa Fe again to Albuquerque in your rental automobile, you may drive alongside the Turquoise Path Scenic Byway, which extends for roughly 50 miles alongside Freeway 14. This scenic drive will take you previous previous mining cities of Golden, Madrid and Cerillos.
I’d counsel making a cease in Madrid, which is a unusual artist’s neighborhood that was as soon as a coal mining city and ghost city. This small city is filled with colourful buildings, artwork galleries, cafes and retailers, so it’s the proper spot to cease off for a espresso on the best way to Albuquerque.
The place to Keep For Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
For this Santa Fe itinerary I’d counsel staying as near downtown as attainable. There are less expensive lodges on the outskirts of city however you’ll then must spend cash on Ubers if you wish to drink, otherwise you’ll be in search of parking downtown.
There are tons of cute boutique lodges in downtown Santa Fe, however these are among the finest ones:
The Parador Santa Fe
I stayed at The Parador Santa Fe, which is a cute boutique lodge that’s a couple of 10 minute stroll from the plaza. The lodge has its personal parking zone and there’s a scrumptious a la carte breakfast served day-after-day within the breakfast room. You possibly can learn all concerning the lodge in my Parador overview.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
I at all times discover Rosewood lodges to be very luxurious and this one isn’t any exception. The lodge is located only a stone’s throw from the principle plaza and its interiors pay homage to the world’s native Anasazi tribe. Rooms on the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi function handcrafted furnishings, native artwork work, conventional wood ceilings, and both double or king beds.
Inn & Spa at Loretto
The Inn & Spa at Loretto provides 136 well-appointed suites and visitor rooms, an award-winning spa, a year-round heated backyard pool, and a number of other on-site galleries and boutiques. Plenty of folks go to the lodge’s restaurant, Luminaria, which has a romantic outside patio serving southwestern fare. The lodge is positioned adjoining to the Loretto Chapel and is housed in a big adobe constructing that’s harking back to Taos Pueblo.
The Inn of the 5 Graces
Housed in a standard adobe and stone construction, The Inn of the 5 Graces is a high-end boutique lodge with lovely courtyards, round the clock concierge and a Tibetan-inspired spa. Visitor suites are adorned in vibrant colours with handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind treasures from the Silk Highway that when linked Europe and Asia. All of them have kiva wood-burning fireplaces and a few of them have their very own personal balconies.
Lodge St. Francis
Positioned within the heart of city, Lodge St. Francis is the oldest lodge in Santa Fe. This historic lodge has a stunning foyer and a steakhouse with outside patio known as Market Steer. If you happen to fancy a drink after a day of sightseeing, head to the Secreto Lounge, which serves “Backyard-To-Glass” cocktails utilizing recent fruits, greens and herbs.
Las Palomas
Positioned not removed from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Las Palomas is a boutique lodge with artfully adorned rooms and a bistro serving scrumptious breakfast burritos. The lodge has a comfy, Southwestern atmosphere and every room is totally different. Some function rustic wood décor and hand-woven rugs, whereas others boast mid-century furnishings and spacious dwelling areas.
A Ultimate Phrase…
I hope you take pleasure in this Santa Fe itinerary! A weekend in Santa Fe is certainly one thing you need to contemplate when you like artwork, scrumptious Mexican meals and enjoyable spas. The surroundings in New Mexico is unimaginable and I cherished simply driving across the state!
3 days in Santa Fe will help you see all the key sights, though I’d spend perhaps 4 to five days right here if you wish to go to locations like Taos Pueblo, Bandelier Nationwide Monument and the pure sizzling springs.
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E-book Your Journey
Don’t overlook journey insurance coverage: Heymondo is the very best journey insurance coverage firm and provides inexpensive insurance policies. Safetywing is ideal for long-term vacationers and digital nomads.
E-book your flights: Discover low cost flights utilizing Google Flights or Skyscanner. To get journey offers despatched straight to your inbox, join Going or Jack’s Flight Membership. Obtain the Hopper app for his or her algorithm-powered value predictions.
Reserving your lodging: I exploit Reserving.com to e book all my lodges. Their Genius loyalty program lets you earn reward credit no bookings and 10%-20% off lodge costs. You can too attempt Google Lodges and TripAdvisor to go looking costs throughout quite a lot of websites. Agoda is the very best website for reserving lodges in Asia.
Use your telephone overseas: Buy an Airalo eSIM so you may keep away from hefty knowledge roaming expenses whereas touring.
Journey on a finances: Staying in hostels is a good way to satisfy folks and is finest when you’re on a finances. Yow will discover loads of superior hostels with Hostelworld.
Discover Excursions: For day excursions and multi-day journeys I at all times use GetYourGuide and Viator.
Rental Automobiles: Search the very best rental automobile offers on Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles.
Santa Fe is such a novel vacation spot that’s actually like nowhere else within the United States. With orange pueblo buildings, tons of artwork galleries and enjoyable spas, New Mexico’s capital metropolis is the proper place for a ladies getaway or a calming lengthy weekend. There’s rather a lot to do right here, however 3 days in Santa Fe is simply the correct quantity of time to cowl the whole lot.
Whereas Santa Fe is a metropolis, it feels very very like a small city. The downtown space is compact, so you may simply get round on foot. Based in 1610 as a Spanish colony, the town has quite a few historic sights to see, together with the standard plaza and the Palace of the Governors.
It’s additionally fairly canine pleasant with a number of outside patios and pet-friendly lodges, so I selected to fly there with my Pomeranian, Luna. Her snow white fur bought completely coated in desert mud although, so be warned your pup may find yourself wanting fairly grubby!
There are additionally tons of distinctive and funky issues to do in Santa Fe, together with Meow Wolf – a wacky immersive artwork expertise – and the Sky Railway, a historic prepare that takes guests on a experience by means of New Mexico’s panorama.
I totally loved my time in Santa Fe and would positively suggest you go to! That will help you plan your journey, I’ve put collectively this 3 day Santa Fe itinerary, which covers all the very best sights and locations to eat.
How one can Get to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has its personal airport, Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), nevertheless it’s pretty small and is principally served by personal plane and only a few airways. Airways that fly into Santa Fe embody American, United, Delta and Alaska.
Flights to Santa Fe will be quite costly, so most individuals fly into Albuquerque, which is what we did. Take a look at my information to discovering low cost flights, which is crammed with suggestions for locating the most cost effective airfares.
Albuquerque Worldwide Sunport (ABQ) is about 68 miles south west of Santa Fe and the driving time is roughly 1 hour.
We rented a automobile from Albuquerque airport and the expertise was fairly seamless. I like to recommend utilizing Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles to seek out the very best offers. If you happen to don’t need to lease a automobile, you may e book a shuttle to/from the airport with an organization known as Groome Transportation.
Your different choice is to take a prepare from downtown Albuquerque. If you happen to’re coming from the airport, you can catch an Uber to Albuquerque prepare station. The New Mexico Rail Runner prepare operates between Albuquerque and Santa Fe seven days per week. You’ll get off on the Santa Fe Depot, which is near the farmer’s market and quite a few eateries.
Getting Round On Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
If you happen to plan on sticking simply to the downtown space in your weekend in Santa Fe then you can get round Santa Fe primarily by strolling or taking Uber. Visiting Santa Fe is feasible and not using a automobile, however you’ll need to ensure you’re staying at a downtown lodge and never one which’s on the sting of city.
Santa Fe has a bus service known as the Santa Fe Trails bus, which operates numerous routes round city. You possibly can see the schedules and routes right here. You could possibly additionally get round by renting a motorcycle and biking – try Mellow Velo bike rental, which is positioned within the Historic Downtown space.
Personally I’d suggest you lease a automobile on your 3 days in Santa Fe so you have got the liberty to go wherever you need. Renting a automobile will help you go to different locations in New Mexico, together with Taos Pueblo and Jemez Springs. It’ll additionally make it a lot simpler to get to locations which might be on the sting of Santa Fe too, akin to Ten Thousand Waves, Ojo Santa Fe Spa and Meow Wolf.
Santa Fe Itinerary: 3 Days
Now that we’ve coated learn how to get round Santa Fe, let’s get straight into this Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll spend your first two days discovering the Historic Downtown space and locations akin to Canyon Highway. Your final day shall be spent having a pleasant enjoyable spa day!
Day 1: Historic Downtown & Dinner
Begin your first day of your Santa Fe itinerary by heading downtown and visiting two of the town’s finest artwork museums – the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Artwork. Subsequent, make your approach to the plaza and stroll across the historic heart. Most of Santa Fe’s sights are positioned inside a small radius, so the whole lot is inside strolling distance.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and New Mexico Museum of Artwork
Positioned on Johnson St, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum celebrates the life and works of artist Georgia O’Keeffe, who spent a lot of her time within the southwest. A lot of her works have been impressed by the panorama of New Mexico and he or she was identified for work of flowers, leaves, rocks, shells, bones and landscapes.
The museum homes 3,000 items created by O’Keeffe, together with 140 oil work, 700 drawings and lots of of others created over the course of her profession.
Close by you’ll additionally discover the New Mexico Museum of Artwork, which is devoted to New Mexico artwork and is crammed with work, sculptures, drawings, images and numerous mixed-media works.
The constructing was designed by architects Isaac Hamilton and William Morris Rapp and accomplished in 1917. Its ‘Pueblo Revival’ architectural fashion makes use of trendy building supplies made to appear to be the historic adobe church buildings that may be discovered all through New Mexico.
Santa Fe Plaza
On the coronary heart of the town is Santa Fe Plaza, which is a serious gathering place and Nationwide Historic Landmark. It has the appear and feel of a standard Spanish plaza and options grass, timber and benches to take a seat on. Crimson chile ristras dangle from the timber and a 33 ft (10 m) stone cenotaph known as “The Soldier’s Monument” stands within the heart.
Palace of the Governors
To the north of the plaza is the Palace of the Governors, which is a big adobe construction that dates all the best way again to 1610. Constructed by the Spanish as an administrative constructing, it served because the seat of the New Mexico authorities for hundreds of years. Right this moment, many native artisans promote their wares and handicrafts beneath the lengthy walkway outdoors it.
Lunch at The Shed
Subsequent up in your Santa Fe itinerary – lunch time! Stroll to The Shed, which is a really well-known family-run spot with a cute courtyard patio. The doorway is sort of discreet however you may simply spot it from the colourful wood signal hanging outdoors. The Shed serves New Mexican delicacies and is understood for its pink chile enchiladas and yummy margaritas.
Loretto Chapel
When you’ve crammed your abdomen with tasty Mexican meals, stroll on over to The Loretto Chapel, which was as soon as a Roman Catholic church however now operates as a museum and wedding ceremony venue.
The chapel (commissioned in 1873) is known for its staircase, which has two full 360 diploma turns with no heart pole for structural help. Your complete weight of the staircase rests on the underside stair, which is fairly wonderful when you consider it!
Based on legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a 9 day novena to St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. The architect of the chapel had died earlier than entry to the choir loft was constructed and they also prayed to the saint to assist them clear up the issue.
Supposedly on the ninth day of prayer, a carpenter confirmed up with solely a hammer and carpenter’s sq.. After he constructed the staircase he disappeared and not using a hint and so the sisters of the chapel tried in search of him however couldn’t discover him. Some folks consider he was Saint Joseph himself, whereas others consider he was despatched by Saint Josef.
Initially the staircase didn’t have banisters, however these have been added about 10 years later to make it simpler to climb the steps.
Margaritas at Coyote Rooftop or La Fonda on the Plaza
After a protracted day of sightseeing you’ll in all probability need to chill and calm down. I’d counsel you head to a rooftop so you may have one thing to drink and benefit from the views over Santa Fe.
The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda on the Plaza is arguably the very best rooftop in Santa Fe and is the proper place to observe the sundown. Positioned on the fifth flooring of the lodge, it provides panoramic views over the town.
Alternatively you can go to Coyote Rooftop & Cantina, which has a colourful mural-painted rooftop and serves tasty southwestern delicacies.
Dinner at Sazón
Finish your day with dinner at Sazón – among the finest eating places in Santa Fe. Every little thing on the menu is wonderful and the bar workers are very educated. This upscale restaurant serves Mexican dishes with a up to date twist and provides a nine-course degustation menu with distinctive creations from the restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Chef Olea.
I didn’t attempt the degustation menu however I did attempt a number of dishes from the menu, together with the chef’s signature soup, pan seared tuna with pink cabbage, and the Crepes de Cajeta. The dessert was significantly among the finest desserts I’ve ever tasted, and I don’t even have a lot of a candy tooth.
Day 2: Museum Hill, Ten Thousand Waves, Canyon Highway
Museum Hill
Start your day by visiting Museum Hill, which is positioned 2-miles southeast of Santa Fe’s historic heart. I’m not often a lot of a museum individual so I questioned if this might be price it, but it surely completely was!
Museum Hill is a cluster of museums which might be perched on high of a hill, providing breathtaking views throughout Santa Fe and past. Even when you don’t go inside any of the museums, positively cease up right here to have a drink outdoors Weldon’s Museum Hill Cafe and absorb the unimaginable panorama.
The hill is residence to 4 museums:
- Museum of Spanish Colonial Artwork
- Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
- Museum of Indian Arts & Tradition
- Museum of Worldwide People Artwork
Whereas I didn’t go contained in the museums, I did go to Santa Fe Botanical Backyard, which is a beautiful backyard crammed with cacti and different flaura/fauna which might be native to the New Mexico panorama. Dotted across the backyard you’ll see numerous sculptures and artworks – it’s an excellent enjoyable place that’s positively price your time.
Lunch at Ten Thousand Waves
After visiting Museum Hill, drive on over (or Uber) to Ten Thousand Waves, which is a Japanese-style spa positioned northeast of Santa Fe.
Arriving at Ten Thousand Waves I felt like I’d been teleported straight to Japan. Your complete resort has been modeled within the fashion of a standard Japanese mountain onsen and is extremely peaceable.
We didn’t really soak right here (we selected to go to the Ojo Santa Fe Spa for that), we did have lunch within the resort’s izanami restaurant. This upscale izakaya serves genuine Japanese delicacies, together with seafood that’s flown in straight from Tokyo.
A lot of the restaurant’s pork, rooster and wagyu beef is natural or sustainably raised, and there are many gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan gadgets on the menu. The entire desserts are made in-house and there’s an in depth Japanese sake menu when you like sake!
Every little thing we ate at izanami was scrumptious and it was among the finest meals we had on the journey. We dined outdoors as a result of I had my canine with me, however the restaurant has quite a few seating choices, together with cubicles, desk seating and conventional tatami flooring seating.
Kakawa Chocolate Home
Ensure you depart just a little room for some dessert, since your subsequent cease shall be Kakawa Chocolate Home, which is positioned close to Canyon Highway. This specialty chocolate firm makes numerous historic consuming goodies utilizing recipes that date from the time interval 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.
Along with consuming elixirs, Kakawa additionally sells do-it-yourself ice lotions, truffes, agave caramels and onerous goodies, that are made in small batches. The corporate makes use of recent, seasonal elements and makes use of some distinctive flavors akin to pomegranate, cherry-chili, prickly pear, and mezcal.
Canyon Highway
After sampling goodies at Kakawa, head to Canyon Highway, which is Santa Fe’s well-known artwork road. Santa Fe is residence to lots of of galleries and has the second greatest artwork scene after New York Metropolis.
Canyon Highway is lined with artwork galleries that includes advantageous artwork created by among the finest artists in the US – and the world.
Spend your afternoon looking the artwork after which cease by the Ahmyo Wine Backyard, which serves wine and artisanal meals in a peaceable desert oasis backyard setting. It’s the proper place to relaxation your weary legs after a day of sightseeing!
If you happen to don’t really feel like consuming alcohol you can cease by The Teahouse, which provides an in depth menu of loose-leaf natural teas and distinctive botanicals. The teas are sustainably sourced and imported straight from the growers, then blended in-house by grasp tea blenders.
Dinner at El Farol or Geronimo
For dinner there are a few nice choices on Canyon Highway. El Farol is known for its Flamenco Dinner Present, which takes place each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night time. The present begins at 8pm and features a Pre-Fixe dinner that includes entrees akin to pan-seared salmon, beef medallions and Spanish paella.
Alternatively you can make a reservation for Geronimo, which is a advantageous eating restaurant housed in an adobe residence constructed by Geronimo Lopez in 1756. The restaurant has gained quite a few awards and was voted one of many high eating places within the US. On the menu you’ll discover numerous a la carte dishes in addition to a four-course vegetarian tasting menu, which prices $80 per head.
Day 3: Railyard, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, Meow Wolf
Day 3 of your Santa Fe itinerary shall be a bit extra relaxed, with the chance to wash in a sizzling spring and go to the bizarre Meow Wolf.
Ikonik Espresso Roasters
Begin your day with a espresso from Ikonik Espresso Roasters, which is one among Santa Fe’s finest espresso retailers. Housed in a former college constructing, the espresso store boasts a big ethereal house with classic chandeliers, cozy armchairs and lengthy communal tables for working. If you happen to didn’t have breakfast at your lodge you then’ll discover quite a lot of breakfast gadgets right here, together with breakfast tacos, croque madame waffles, benedicts and Egyptian dukkah.
Railyard Arts District
Subsequent, try the Railyard Arts District, which options seven up to date artwork galleries housed in spacious warehouse fashion buildings. On Saturdays the railyard additionally hosts the Santa Fe Farmers Market, which is crammed with lots of of various distributors promoting all types of agricultural produce.
Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort
Among the finest spas in Santa Fe, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort boasts a number of spring-fed thermal swimming pools and 77 acres of lush gardens. It’s the proper place to appease your physique, coronary heart and thoughts.
The resort’s communal bathing areas overlook a small lake and are surrounded by cottonwood timber and lounge chairs. It’s a extremely lovely setting and I felt so relaxed right here! Spend your afternoon soaking within the mineral-rich waters, then take pleasure in lunch within the resort’s Blue Heron Restaurant.
The restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes made with elements from the Ojo Caliente Farm and native Southwest area. We ordered the The Butcher The Baker & The Farmer grazing platter – it was wonderful!
To get to Ojo Santa Fe you really want a automobile, because it’s positioned about 15 miles southwest of downtown Santa Fe so that you’ll must drive to get there. Uber is typically out there, however it may be troublesome to snag one.
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is an immersive artwork expertise that began in Santa Fe however has since expanded to Las Vegas and Denver. Santa Fe’s expertise is known as The Home of Everlasting Return and options over 70 rooms of immersive artwork which might be appropriate for adults and youngsters of all ages. It was constructed on the positioning of a former bowling alley and has since develop into a extremely popular Santa Fe attraction.
I had completely no thought what to anticipate after we lined up for it, however I’m so glad I went! It’s so troublesome to clarify, but it surely was form of like stepping right into a Tim Burton film. Suppose Alice in Wonderland meets Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing unit meets…Japanese Kawaii Monster Cafe?
It mainly begins in a home, besides it’s not your regular home. Open the fridge door and also you’ll uncover a tunnel that results in one other dimension. Crawl by means of the hearth and also you’ll end up in a room crammed with bizarre artwork. It’s very interactive and there are all types of secret passageways and issues to climb.
Anticipate to spend about 2 hours at Meow Wolf and attempt to go within the late afternoon when it’s much less busy. That’s why I’d counsel visiting the spa first after which you are able to do this within the afternoon.
The expertise is open until 8pm on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t try to go then!
Dinner at Radish and Rye or Restaurant Martin
My favourite restaurant in Santa Fe was Restaurant Martin – it was so good we ate there twice! One other nice restaurant we tried was Radish and Rye, which serves farm-to-table delicacies.
Issues to Do Close to Santa Fe
When you have greater than 3 days in Santa Fe, lease a automobile so you may see extra of New Mexico. I LOVED the surroundings and driving on empty open roads. Some high day journeys to incorporate in your Santa Fe itinerary embody:
Bandelier Nationwide Monument
This nationwide monument protects over 33,000 acres of land that options proof of the Ancestral Pueblo those who dates again hundreds of years.
Most of Bandelier is simply wilderness, but it surely does include numerous petroglyphs, masonry pueblos and dwellings carved into the cliffs. If you wish to be taught extra concerning the monument, begin on the Customer Heart, which contains a museum, bookstore, 14-minute film, giftshop, snack bar, and picnic space.
From the Customer Heart you may take the Essential Loop Path, which is a brief 1.2 mile loop that leads by means of excavated archeological websites in Frijoles Canyon. One other well-liked hike is the The Tsankawi part of the park, which contains a 1.5 mile mesa-top path with 4 ladders. You’ll get to see petroglyphs, an unexcavated Ancestral Pueblo village, and exquisite vistas alongside the best way.
Jemez Springs/ Spence Springs
One other well-liked day journey from Santa Fe is a visit to Jemez Springs, which is understood for its therapeutic mineral springs and mountain surroundings. The village is positioned on the Jemez Mountain Path Scenic Byway, which is near Valles Caldera Nationwide Park.
Sights right here embody the Jemez State Monument (Jemez Historic Website), which dates again lots of of years, and the sixteenth century San José de Guisewa (Jemez) Church) – one of many largest missions in the US.
If you wish to soak in a pure sizzling spring with unimaginable views, I’d counsel visiting Spence Springs, which is accessible by way of a brief mountaineering path. The new spring is positioned off NM State Freeway 4 and has a small parking space that matches about seven automobiles. The spring contains a small pool with water that sits round physique temperature, so it’s finest to go to throughout the hotter summer season months when it’s not too chilly.
Within the city of Jemez Springs there are a selection of business sizzling springs and bathhouses the place you may soak and revel in numerous spa therapies. Take a look at Jemez Scorching Springs, Jemez Springs Tub Home, Canon del Rio Retreat & Spa, and Adobe Morning Day Spa.
Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Website, positioned about 73 miles (a 1 hour 40 minute drive) from Santa Fe. You possibly can take the scenic Santa Fe to Taos Excessive Highway to get there. The village is about on the base of the gorgeous Sangre de Cristo Mountain vary and consists of many multi-storied adobe buildings which were repeatedly inhabited for over 1000 years.
It’s nonetheless a dwelling Native American neighborhood with a inhabitants of round 4,500 folks, so it’s necessary to be respectful of their privateness and guidelines whenever you go to.
Entry to the pueblo prices $16 for adults and $14 for seniors or college students. Youngsters below 10 go free. The pueblo is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t attempt to go to on lately. Verify the Taos Pueblo web site for up-to-date opening instances.
Madrid and the Turquoise Path
If you happen to’re driving from Santa Fe again to Albuquerque in your rental automobile, you may drive alongside the Turquoise Path Scenic Byway, which extends for roughly 50 miles alongside Freeway 14. This scenic drive will take you previous previous mining cities of Golden, Madrid and Cerillos.
I’d counsel making a cease in Madrid, which is a unusual artist’s neighborhood that was as soon as a coal mining city and ghost city. This small city is filled with colourful buildings, artwork galleries, cafes and retailers, so it’s the proper spot to cease off for a espresso on the best way to Albuquerque.
The place to Keep For Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
For this Santa Fe itinerary I’d counsel staying as near downtown as attainable. There are less expensive lodges on the outskirts of city however you’ll then must spend cash on Ubers if you wish to drink, otherwise you’ll be in search of parking downtown.
There are tons of cute boutique lodges in downtown Santa Fe, however these are among the finest ones:
The Parador Santa Fe
I stayed at The Parador Santa Fe, which is a cute boutique lodge that’s a couple of 10 minute stroll from the plaza. The lodge has its personal parking zone and there’s a scrumptious a la carte breakfast served day-after-day within the breakfast room. You possibly can learn all concerning the lodge in my Parador overview.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
I at all times discover Rosewood lodges to be very luxurious and this one isn’t any exception. The lodge is located only a stone’s throw from the principle plaza and its interiors pay homage to the world’s native Anasazi tribe. Rooms on the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi function handcrafted furnishings, native artwork work, conventional wood ceilings, and both double or king beds.
Inn & Spa at Loretto
The Inn & Spa at Loretto provides 136 well-appointed suites and visitor rooms, an award-winning spa, a year-round heated backyard pool, and a number of other on-site galleries and boutiques. Plenty of folks go to the lodge’s restaurant, Luminaria, which has a romantic outside patio serving southwestern fare. The lodge is positioned adjoining to the Loretto Chapel and is housed in a big adobe constructing that’s harking back to Taos Pueblo.
The Inn of the 5 Graces
Housed in a standard adobe and stone construction, The Inn of the 5 Graces is a high-end boutique lodge with lovely courtyards, round the clock concierge and a Tibetan-inspired spa. Visitor suites are adorned in vibrant colours with handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind treasures from the Silk Highway that when linked Europe and Asia. All of them have kiva wood-burning fireplaces and a few of them have their very own personal balconies.
Lodge St. Francis
Positioned within the heart of city, Lodge St. Francis is the oldest lodge in Santa Fe. This historic lodge has a stunning foyer and a steakhouse with outside patio known as Market Steer. If you happen to fancy a drink after a day of sightseeing, head to the Secreto Lounge, which serves “Backyard-To-Glass” cocktails utilizing recent fruits, greens and herbs.
Las Palomas
Positioned not removed from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Las Palomas is a boutique lodge with artfully adorned rooms and a bistro serving scrumptious breakfast burritos. The lodge has a comfy, Southwestern atmosphere and every room is totally different. Some function rustic wood décor and hand-woven rugs, whereas others boast mid-century furnishings and spacious dwelling areas.
A Ultimate Phrase…
I hope you take pleasure in this Santa Fe itinerary! A weekend in Santa Fe is certainly one thing you need to contemplate when you like artwork, scrumptious Mexican meals and enjoyable spas. The surroundings in New Mexico is unimaginable and I cherished simply driving across the state!
3 days in Santa Fe will help you see all the key sights, though I’d spend perhaps 4 to five days right here if you wish to go to locations like Taos Pueblo, Bandelier Nationwide Monument and the pure sizzling springs.
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E-book Your Journey
Don’t overlook journey insurance coverage: Heymondo is the very best journey insurance coverage firm and provides inexpensive insurance policies. Safetywing is ideal for long-term vacationers and digital nomads.
E-book your flights: Discover low cost flights utilizing Google Flights or Skyscanner. To get journey offers despatched straight to your inbox, join Going or Jack’s Flight Membership. Obtain the Hopper app for his or her algorithm-powered value predictions.
Reserving your lodging: I exploit Reserving.com to e book all my lodges. Their Genius loyalty program lets you earn reward credit no bookings and 10%-20% off lodge costs. You can too attempt Google Lodges and TripAdvisor to go looking costs throughout quite a lot of websites. Agoda is the very best website for reserving lodges in Asia.
Use your telephone overseas: Buy an Airalo eSIM so you may keep away from hefty knowledge roaming expenses whereas touring.
Journey on a finances: Staying in hostels is a good way to satisfy folks and is finest when you’re on a finances. Yow will discover loads of superior hostels with Hostelworld.
Discover Excursions: For day excursions and multi-day journeys I at all times use GetYourGuide and Viator.
Rental Automobiles: Search the very best rental automobile offers on Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles.
Santa Fe is such a novel vacation spot that’s actually like nowhere else within the United States. With orange pueblo buildings, tons of artwork galleries and enjoyable spas, New Mexico’s capital metropolis is the proper place for a ladies getaway or a calming lengthy weekend. There’s rather a lot to do right here, however 3 days in Santa Fe is simply the correct quantity of time to cowl the whole lot.
Whereas Santa Fe is a metropolis, it feels very very like a small city. The downtown space is compact, so you may simply get round on foot. Based in 1610 as a Spanish colony, the town has quite a few historic sights to see, together with the standard plaza and the Palace of the Governors.
It’s additionally fairly canine pleasant with a number of outside patios and pet-friendly lodges, so I selected to fly there with my Pomeranian, Luna. Her snow white fur bought completely coated in desert mud although, so be warned your pup may find yourself wanting fairly grubby!
There are additionally tons of distinctive and funky issues to do in Santa Fe, together with Meow Wolf – a wacky immersive artwork expertise – and the Sky Railway, a historic prepare that takes guests on a experience by means of New Mexico’s panorama.
I totally loved my time in Santa Fe and would positively suggest you go to! That will help you plan your journey, I’ve put collectively this 3 day Santa Fe itinerary, which covers all the very best sights and locations to eat.
How one can Get to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has its personal airport, Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), nevertheless it’s pretty small and is principally served by personal plane and only a few airways. Airways that fly into Santa Fe embody American, United, Delta and Alaska.
Flights to Santa Fe will be quite costly, so most individuals fly into Albuquerque, which is what we did. Take a look at my information to discovering low cost flights, which is crammed with suggestions for locating the most cost effective airfares.
Albuquerque Worldwide Sunport (ABQ) is about 68 miles south west of Santa Fe and the driving time is roughly 1 hour.
We rented a automobile from Albuquerque airport and the expertise was fairly seamless. I like to recommend utilizing Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles to seek out the very best offers. If you happen to don’t need to lease a automobile, you may e book a shuttle to/from the airport with an organization known as Groome Transportation.
Your different choice is to take a prepare from downtown Albuquerque. If you happen to’re coming from the airport, you can catch an Uber to Albuquerque prepare station. The New Mexico Rail Runner prepare operates between Albuquerque and Santa Fe seven days per week. You’ll get off on the Santa Fe Depot, which is near the farmer’s market and quite a few eateries.
Getting Round On Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
If you happen to plan on sticking simply to the downtown space in your weekend in Santa Fe then you can get round Santa Fe primarily by strolling or taking Uber. Visiting Santa Fe is feasible and not using a automobile, however you’ll need to ensure you’re staying at a downtown lodge and never one which’s on the sting of city.
Santa Fe has a bus service known as the Santa Fe Trails bus, which operates numerous routes round city. You possibly can see the schedules and routes right here. You could possibly additionally get round by renting a motorcycle and biking – try Mellow Velo bike rental, which is positioned within the Historic Downtown space.
Personally I’d suggest you lease a automobile on your 3 days in Santa Fe so you have got the liberty to go wherever you need. Renting a automobile will help you go to different locations in New Mexico, together with Taos Pueblo and Jemez Springs. It’ll additionally make it a lot simpler to get to locations which might be on the sting of Santa Fe too, akin to Ten Thousand Waves, Ojo Santa Fe Spa and Meow Wolf.
Santa Fe Itinerary: 3 Days
Now that we’ve coated learn how to get round Santa Fe, let’s get straight into this Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll spend your first two days discovering the Historic Downtown space and locations akin to Canyon Highway. Your final day shall be spent having a pleasant enjoyable spa day!
Day 1: Historic Downtown & Dinner
Begin your first day of your Santa Fe itinerary by heading downtown and visiting two of the town’s finest artwork museums – the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Artwork. Subsequent, make your approach to the plaza and stroll across the historic heart. Most of Santa Fe’s sights are positioned inside a small radius, so the whole lot is inside strolling distance.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and New Mexico Museum of Artwork
Positioned on Johnson St, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum celebrates the life and works of artist Georgia O’Keeffe, who spent a lot of her time within the southwest. A lot of her works have been impressed by the panorama of New Mexico and he or she was identified for work of flowers, leaves, rocks, shells, bones and landscapes.
The museum homes 3,000 items created by O’Keeffe, together with 140 oil work, 700 drawings and lots of of others created over the course of her profession.
Close by you’ll additionally discover the New Mexico Museum of Artwork, which is devoted to New Mexico artwork and is crammed with work, sculptures, drawings, images and numerous mixed-media works.
The constructing was designed by architects Isaac Hamilton and William Morris Rapp and accomplished in 1917. Its ‘Pueblo Revival’ architectural fashion makes use of trendy building supplies made to appear to be the historic adobe church buildings that may be discovered all through New Mexico.
Santa Fe Plaza
On the coronary heart of the town is Santa Fe Plaza, which is a serious gathering place and Nationwide Historic Landmark. It has the appear and feel of a standard Spanish plaza and options grass, timber and benches to take a seat on. Crimson chile ristras dangle from the timber and a 33 ft (10 m) stone cenotaph known as “The Soldier’s Monument” stands within the heart.
Palace of the Governors
To the north of the plaza is the Palace of the Governors, which is a big adobe construction that dates all the best way again to 1610. Constructed by the Spanish as an administrative constructing, it served because the seat of the New Mexico authorities for hundreds of years. Right this moment, many native artisans promote their wares and handicrafts beneath the lengthy walkway outdoors it.
Lunch at The Shed
Subsequent up in your Santa Fe itinerary – lunch time! Stroll to The Shed, which is a really well-known family-run spot with a cute courtyard patio. The doorway is sort of discreet however you may simply spot it from the colourful wood signal hanging outdoors. The Shed serves New Mexican delicacies and is understood for its pink chile enchiladas and yummy margaritas.
Loretto Chapel
When you’ve crammed your abdomen with tasty Mexican meals, stroll on over to The Loretto Chapel, which was as soon as a Roman Catholic church however now operates as a museum and wedding ceremony venue.
The chapel (commissioned in 1873) is known for its staircase, which has two full 360 diploma turns with no heart pole for structural help. Your complete weight of the staircase rests on the underside stair, which is fairly wonderful when you consider it!
Based on legend, the Sisters of Loretto prayed a 9 day novena to St. Joseph, Patron Saint of Carpenters. The architect of the chapel had died earlier than entry to the choir loft was constructed and they also prayed to the saint to assist them clear up the issue.
Supposedly on the ninth day of prayer, a carpenter confirmed up with solely a hammer and carpenter’s sq.. After he constructed the staircase he disappeared and not using a hint and so the sisters of the chapel tried in search of him however couldn’t discover him. Some folks consider he was Saint Joseph himself, whereas others consider he was despatched by Saint Josef.
Initially the staircase didn’t have banisters, however these have been added about 10 years later to make it simpler to climb the steps.
Margaritas at Coyote Rooftop or La Fonda on the Plaza
After a protracted day of sightseeing you’ll in all probability need to chill and calm down. I’d counsel you head to a rooftop so you may have one thing to drink and benefit from the views over Santa Fe.
The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda on the Plaza is arguably the very best rooftop in Santa Fe and is the proper place to observe the sundown. Positioned on the fifth flooring of the lodge, it provides panoramic views over the town.
Alternatively you can go to Coyote Rooftop & Cantina, which has a colourful mural-painted rooftop and serves tasty southwestern delicacies.
Dinner at Sazón
Finish your day with dinner at Sazón – among the finest eating places in Santa Fe. Every little thing on the menu is wonderful and the bar workers are very educated. This upscale restaurant serves Mexican dishes with a up to date twist and provides a nine-course degustation menu with distinctive creations from the restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Chef Olea.
I didn’t attempt the degustation menu however I did attempt a number of dishes from the menu, together with the chef’s signature soup, pan seared tuna with pink cabbage, and the Crepes de Cajeta. The dessert was significantly among the finest desserts I’ve ever tasted, and I don’t even have a lot of a candy tooth.
Day 2: Museum Hill, Ten Thousand Waves, Canyon Highway
Museum Hill
Start your day by visiting Museum Hill, which is positioned 2-miles southeast of Santa Fe’s historic heart. I’m not often a lot of a museum individual so I questioned if this might be price it, but it surely completely was!
Museum Hill is a cluster of museums which might be perched on high of a hill, providing breathtaking views throughout Santa Fe and past. Even when you don’t go inside any of the museums, positively cease up right here to have a drink outdoors Weldon’s Museum Hill Cafe and absorb the unimaginable panorama.
The hill is residence to 4 museums:
- Museum of Spanish Colonial Artwork
- Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
- Museum of Indian Arts & Tradition
- Museum of Worldwide People Artwork
Whereas I didn’t go contained in the museums, I did go to Santa Fe Botanical Backyard, which is a beautiful backyard crammed with cacti and different flaura/fauna which might be native to the New Mexico panorama. Dotted across the backyard you’ll see numerous sculptures and artworks – it’s an excellent enjoyable place that’s positively price your time.
Lunch at Ten Thousand Waves
After visiting Museum Hill, drive on over (or Uber) to Ten Thousand Waves, which is a Japanese-style spa positioned northeast of Santa Fe.
Arriving at Ten Thousand Waves I felt like I’d been teleported straight to Japan. Your complete resort has been modeled within the fashion of a standard Japanese mountain onsen and is extremely peaceable.
We didn’t really soak right here (we selected to go to the Ojo Santa Fe Spa for that), we did have lunch within the resort’s izanami restaurant. This upscale izakaya serves genuine Japanese delicacies, together with seafood that’s flown in straight from Tokyo.
A lot of the restaurant’s pork, rooster and wagyu beef is natural or sustainably raised, and there are many gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan gadgets on the menu. The entire desserts are made in-house and there’s an in depth Japanese sake menu when you like sake!
Every little thing we ate at izanami was scrumptious and it was among the finest meals we had on the journey. We dined outdoors as a result of I had my canine with me, however the restaurant has quite a few seating choices, together with cubicles, desk seating and conventional tatami flooring seating.
Kakawa Chocolate Home
Ensure you depart just a little room for some dessert, since your subsequent cease shall be Kakawa Chocolate Home, which is positioned close to Canyon Highway. This specialty chocolate firm makes numerous historic consuming goodies utilizing recipes that date from the time interval 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.
Along with consuming elixirs, Kakawa additionally sells do-it-yourself ice lotions, truffes, agave caramels and onerous goodies, that are made in small batches. The corporate makes use of recent, seasonal elements and makes use of some distinctive flavors akin to pomegranate, cherry-chili, prickly pear, and mezcal.
Canyon Highway
After sampling goodies at Kakawa, head to Canyon Highway, which is Santa Fe’s well-known artwork road. Santa Fe is residence to lots of of galleries and has the second greatest artwork scene after New York Metropolis.
Canyon Highway is lined with artwork galleries that includes advantageous artwork created by among the finest artists in the US – and the world.
Spend your afternoon looking the artwork after which cease by the Ahmyo Wine Backyard, which serves wine and artisanal meals in a peaceable desert oasis backyard setting. It’s the proper place to relaxation your weary legs after a day of sightseeing!
If you happen to don’t really feel like consuming alcohol you can cease by The Teahouse, which provides an in depth menu of loose-leaf natural teas and distinctive botanicals. The teas are sustainably sourced and imported straight from the growers, then blended in-house by grasp tea blenders.
Dinner at El Farol or Geronimo
For dinner there are a few nice choices on Canyon Highway. El Farol is known for its Flamenco Dinner Present, which takes place each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night time. The present begins at 8pm and features a Pre-Fixe dinner that includes entrees akin to pan-seared salmon, beef medallions and Spanish paella.
Alternatively you can make a reservation for Geronimo, which is a advantageous eating restaurant housed in an adobe residence constructed by Geronimo Lopez in 1756. The restaurant has gained quite a few awards and was voted one of many high eating places within the US. On the menu you’ll discover numerous a la carte dishes in addition to a four-course vegetarian tasting menu, which prices $80 per head.
Day 3: Railyard, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, Meow Wolf
Day 3 of your Santa Fe itinerary shall be a bit extra relaxed, with the chance to wash in a sizzling spring and go to the bizarre Meow Wolf.
Ikonik Espresso Roasters
Begin your day with a espresso from Ikonik Espresso Roasters, which is one among Santa Fe’s finest espresso retailers. Housed in a former college constructing, the espresso store boasts a big ethereal house with classic chandeliers, cozy armchairs and lengthy communal tables for working. If you happen to didn’t have breakfast at your lodge you then’ll discover quite a lot of breakfast gadgets right here, together with breakfast tacos, croque madame waffles, benedicts and Egyptian dukkah.
Railyard Arts District
Subsequent, try the Railyard Arts District, which options seven up to date artwork galleries housed in spacious warehouse fashion buildings. On Saturdays the railyard additionally hosts the Santa Fe Farmers Market, which is crammed with lots of of various distributors promoting all types of agricultural produce.
Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort
Among the finest spas in Santa Fe, Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort boasts a number of spring-fed thermal swimming pools and 77 acres of lush gardens. It’s the proper place to appease your physique, coronary heart and thoughts.
The resort’s communal bathing areas overlook a small lake and are surrounded by cottonwood timber and lounge chairs. It’s a extremely lovely setting and I felt so relaxed right here! Spend your afternoon soaking within the mineral-rich waters, then take pleasure in lunch within the resort’s Blue Heron Restaurant.
The restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes made with elements from the Ojo Caliente Farm and native Southwest area. We ordered the The Butcher The Baker & The Farmer grazing platter – it was wonderful!
To get to Ojo Santa Fe you really want a automobile, because it’s positioned about 15 miles southwest of downtown Santa Fe so that you’ll must drive to get there. Uber is typically out there, however it may be troublesome to snag one.
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is an immersive artwork expertise that began in Santa Fe however has since expanded to Las Vegas and Denver. Santa Fe’s expertise is known as The Home of Everlasting Return and options over 70 rooms of immersive artwork which might be appropriate for adults and youngsters of all ages. It was constructed on the positioning of a former bowling alley and has since develop into a extremely popular Santa Fe attraction.
I had completely no thought what to anticipate after we lined up for it, however I’m so glad I went! It’s so troublesome to clarify, but it surely was form of like stepping right into a Tim Burton film. Suppose Alice in Wonderland meets Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing unit meets…Japanese Kawaii Monster Cafe?
It mainly begins in a home, besides it’s not your regular home. Open the fridge door and also you’ll uncover a tunnel that results in one other dimension. Crawl by means of the hearth and also you’ll end up in a room crammed with bizarre artwork. It’s very interactive and there are all types of secret passageways and issues to climb.
Anticipate to spend about 2 hours at Meow Wolf and attempt to go within the late afternoon when it’s much less busy. That’s why I’d counsel visiting the spa first after which you are able to do this within the afternoon.
The expertise is open until 8pm on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t try to go then!
Dinner at Radish and Rye or Restaurant Martin
My favourite restaurant in Santa Fe was Restaurant Martin – it was so good we ate there twice! One other nice restaurant we tried was Radish and Rye, which serves farm-to-table delicacies.
Issues to Do Close to Santa Fe
When you have greater than 3 days in Santa Fe, lease a automobile so you may see extra of New Mexico. I LOVED the surroundings and driving on empty open roads. Some high day journeys to incorporate in your Santa Fe itinerary embody:
Bandelier Nationwide Monument
This nationwide monument protects over 33,000 acres of land that options proof of the Ancestral Pueblo those who dates again hundreds of years.
Most of Bandelier is simply wilderness, but it surely does include numerous petroglyphs, masonry pueblos and dwellings carved into the cliffs. If you wish to be taught extra concerning the monument, begin on the Customer Heart, which contains a museum, bookstore, 14-minute film, giftshop, snack bar, and picnic space.
From the Customer Heart you may take the Essential Loop Path, which is a brief 1.2 mile loop that leads by means of excavated archeological websites in Frijoles Canyon. One other well-liked hike is the The Tsankawi part of the park, which contains a 1.5 mile mesa-top path with 4 ladders. You’ll get to see petroglyphs, an unexcavated Ancestral Pueblo village, and exquisite vistas alongside the best way.
Jemez Springs/ Spence Springs
One other well-liked day journey from Santa Fe is a visit to Jemez Springs, which is understood for its therapeutic mineral springs and mountain surroundings. The village is positioned on the Jemez Mountain Path Scenic Byway, which is near Valles Caldera Nationwide Park.
Sights right here embody the Jemez State Monument (Jemez Historic Website), which dates again lots of of years, and the sixteenth century San José de Guisewa (Jemez) Church) – one of many largest missions in the US.
If you wish to soak in a pure sizzling spring with unimaginable views, I’d counsel visiting Spence Springs, which is accessible by way of a brief mountaineering path. The new spring is positioned off NM State Freeway 4 and has a small parking space that matches about seven automobiles. The spring contains a small pool with water that sits round physique temperature, so it’s finest to go to throughout the hotter summer season months when it’s not too chilly.
Within the city of Jemez Springs there are a selection of business sizzling springs and bathhouses the place you may soak and revel in numerous spa therapies. Take a look at Jemez Scorching Springs, Jemez Springs Tub Home, Canon del Rio Retreat & Spa, and Adobe Morning Day Spa.
Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Website, positioned about 73 miles (a 1 hour 40 minute drive) from Santa Fe. You possibly can take the scenic Santa Fe to Taos Excessive Highway to get there. The village is about on the base of the gorgeous Sangre de Cristo Mountain vary and consists of many multi-storied adobe buildings which were repeatedly inhabited for over 1000 years.
It’s nonetheless a dwelling Native American neighborhood with a inhabitants of round 4,500 folks, so it’s necessary to be respectful of their privateness and guidelines whenever you go to.
Entry to the pueblo prices $16 for adults and $14 for seniors or college students. Youngsters below 10 go free. The pueblo is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so don’t attempt to go to on lately. Verify the Taos Pueblo web site for up-to-date opening instances.
Madrid and the Turquoise Path
If you happen to’re driving from Santa Fe again to Albuquerque in your rental automobile, you may drive alongside the Turquoise Path Scenic Byway, which extends for roughly 50 miles alongside Freeway 14. This scenic drive will take you previous previous mining cities of Golden, Madrid and Cerillos.
I’d counsel making a cease in Madrid, which is a unusual artist’s neighborhood that was as soon as a coal mining city and ghost city. This small city is filled with colourful buildings, artwork galleries, cafes and retailers, so it’s the proper spot to cease off for a espresso on the best way to Albuquerque.
The place to Keep For Your 3 Days in Santa Fe
For this Santa Fe itinerary I’d counsel staying as near downtown as attainable. There are less expensive lodges on the outskirts of city however you’ll then must spend cash on Ubers if you wish to drink, otherwise you’ll be in search of parking downtown.
There are tons of cute boutique lodges in downtown Santa Fe, however these are among the finest ones:
The Parador Santa Fe
I stayed at The Parador Santa Fe, which is a cute boutique lodge that’s a couple of 10 minute stroll from the plaza. The lodge has its personal parking zone and there’s a scrumptious a la carte breakfast served day-after-day within the breakfast room. You possibly can learn all concerning the lodge in my Parador overview.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
I at all times discover Rosewood lodges to be very luxurious and this one isn’t any exception. The lodge is located only a stone’s throw from the principle plaza and its interiors pay homage to the world’s native Anasazi tribe. Rooms on the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi function handcrafted furnishings, native artwork work, conventional wood ceilings, and both double or king beds.
Inn & Spa at Loretto
The Inn & Spa at Loretto provides 136 well-appointed suites and visitor rooms, an award-winning spa, a year-round heated backyard pool, and a number of other on-site galleries and boutiques. Plenty of folks go to the lodge’s restaurant, Luminaria, which has a romantic outside patio serving southwestern fare. The lodge is positioned adjoining to the Loretto Chapel and is housed in a big adobe constructing that’s harking back to Taos Pueblo.
The Inn of the 5 Graces
Housed in a standard adobe and stone construction, The Inn of the 5 Graces is a high-end boutique lodge with lovely courtyards, round the clock concierge and a Tibetan-inspired spa. Visitor suites are adorned in vibrant colours with handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind treasures from the Silk Highway that when linked Europe and Asia. All of them have kiva wood-burning fireplaces and a few of them have their very own personal balconies.
Lodge St. Francis
Positioned within the heart of city, Lodge St. Francis is the oldest lodge in Santa Fe. This historic lodge has a stunning foyer and a steakhouse with outside patio known as Market Steer. If you happen to fancy a drink after a day of sightseeing, head to the Secreto Lounge, which serves “Backyard-To-Glass” cocktails utilizing recent fruits, greens and herbs.
Las Palomas
Positioned not removed from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Las Palomas is a boutique lodge with artfully adorned rooms and a bistro serving scrumptious breakfast burritos. The lodge has a comfy, Southwestern atmosphere and every room is totally different. Some function rustic wood décor and hand-woven rugs, whereas others boast mid-century furnishings and spacious dwelling areas.
A Ultimate Phrase…
I hope you take pleasure in this Santa Fe itinerary! A weekend in Santa Fe is certainly one thing you need to contemplate when you like artwork, scrumptious Mexican meals and enjoyable spas. The surroundings in New Mexico is unimaginable and I cherished simply driving across the state!
3 days in Santa Fe will help you see all the key sights, though I’d spend perhaps 4 to five days right here if you wish to go to locations like Taos Pueblo, Bandelier Nationwide Monument and the pure sizzling springs.
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E-book Your Journey
Don’t overlook journey insurance coverage: Heymondo is the very best journey insurance coverage firm and provides inexpensive insurance policies. Safetywing is ideal for long-term vacationers and digital nomads.
E-book your flights: Discover low cost flights utilizing Google Flights or Skyscanner. To get journey offers despatched straight to your inbox, join Going or Jack’s Flight Membership. Obtain the Hopper app for his or her algorithm-powered value predictions.
Reserving your lodging: I exploit Reserving.com to e book all my lodges. Their Genius loyalty program lets you earn reward credit no bookings and 10%-20% off lodge costs. You can too attempt Google Lodges and TripAdvisor to go looking costs throughout quite a lot of websites. Agoda is the very best website for reserving lodges in Asia.
Use your telephone overseas: Buy an Airalo eSIM so you may keep away from hefty knowledge roaming expenses whereas touring.
Journey on a finances: Staying in hostels is a good way to satisfy folks and is finest when you’re on a finances. Yow will discover loads of superior hostels with Hostelworld.
Discover Excursions: For day excursions and multi-day journeys I at all times use GetYourGuide and Viator.
Rental Automobiles: Search the very best rental automobile offers on Rentalcars.com or Uncover Automobiles.
