Santa Fe is one of our favorite places in the world—full of incredible art, beautiful views, and amazing food. If you have time while you’re in town, here are some of our favorite spots to explore.
The historic Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city and a great place to wander. You’ll find galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants all within a few blocks.
A must-visit museum dedicated to the iconic artist who made northern New Mexico famous through her paintings of the region’s landscapes and colors. https://www.okeeffemuseum.org
A beautiful Pueblo Revival–style museum featuring historic and contemporary Southwestern art. https://nmartmuseum.org
An unforgettable immersive art experience created by a collective of New Mexico artists. House of Eternal Return is part art installation, part mystery, and full of hidden rooms and surreal spaces to explore. https://meowwolf.com/visit/santa-fe
One of Santa Fe’s most iconic streets, lined with dozens of galleries, sculpture gardens, and studios set in historic adobe buildings. Even if you’re just strolling, it’s one of the most beautiful walks in town.
A beautiful complex of museums just outside downtown with sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Highlights include the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, both offering fascinating insight into global and regional cultures. https://www.santafemuseums.org/museum-hill
The IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA) is the country’s leading museum for exhibiting, collecting, and interpreting the most progressive work of contemporary Indigenous artists. Located in downtown Santa Fe at 108 Cathedral Place. https://iaia.edu/mocna/
Voted one of the “Top Ten Farmers’ Markets” by Sunset Magazine, the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest, largest, and most successful growers’ markets in the country. Open Tuesday and Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm. https://santafefarmersmarket.com/farmers-markets/
A short, scenic trail in the foothills just outside town with great views of Santa Fe and the surrounding mountains—perfect for a quick nature break.
A multi-mile trail (starting at 10,000 feet) that takes you all the way up to the ski area if you are so inclined.
This trail is a steady uphill hike that winds up a series of switchbacks to reach the 360-degree view at Picacho Peak. There is a mix of sun and shade along the way, and it is suggested to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
Natural mineral hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Ojo Santa Fe is closer to town, while Ojo Caliente (about an hour away) is a beautiful historic spa in the desert. https://ojosparesorts.com/
A Japanese-inspired mountain spa tucked into the forest about 10 minutes above downtown Santa Fe. You can also book dinner at the excellent onsite Japanese izakaya, Izanami. https://tenthousandwaves.com
Dramatic red rock cliffs and desert scenery that inspired many of Georgia O’Keeffe’s most famous paintings.
A charming mountain town about 1.5 hours north of Santa Fe. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers incredible views into the canyon below.
A stunning hike through narrow slot canyons and unique cone-shaped rock formations, ending with sweeping desert views.
Ancient cliff dwellings carved into volcanic rock by Ancestral Pueblo people. You can climb ladders and walk through the caves along the main trail.
A scenic train ride from Santa Fe to the small historic town of Lamy, often with sunset views, live music, or themed rides. https://skyrailway.com
A Santa Fe institution on the plaza – a great casual stop for classic New Mexican dishes. Try enchiladas with red chile, green chile, or Christmas. https://plazacafesantafe.com
A Santa Fe classic serving traditional Northern New Mexican cuisine in a beautiful historic adobe courtyard.
The sister restaurant to The Shed and a local favorite for red chile enchiladas and margaritas.
A colorful and beloved breakfast and brunch spot near the plaza.
Second Street Brewery serves award-winning beer and food at two locations: one in the Railyard and the Rufina Taproom near Meow Wolf.
Sourdough wood-fired pizza in Midtown.
Local favorites serving authentic New Mexican food. There is likely to be a wait on weekends, but it’s worth it for their frogs (frozen margaritas).
One of our favorite coffee spots in town with great espresso and cozy patios.
Good margaritas and bar food. Open until midnight.
One of the only other bars in Santa Fe open past 9 PM. Live music and cash only!