Top 10 Things to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Written and Photographed by Randy and Caly Behymer
Known as The City Different, Santa Fe blends centuries of history with a vibrant, artistic spirit. In the heart of downtown, adobe buildings and centuries-old plazas invite you to stroll, shop for Native American crafts beneath the Palace of the Governors, or browse one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries tucked along winding streets. With its rich mix of Spanish, Native, and American heritage, world-class dining, and a lively cultural scene, Santa Fe offers visitors an unforgettable blend of old-world charm and modern adventure.
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10. Take a Day Trip to Los Alamos – Step back into the world of the Manhattan Project at the Bradbury Science Museum, where atomic history comes to life through exhibits and interactive displays. Drive the once top-secret Route 501, winding past Los Alamos National Lab, and imagine the hush-hush energy of the 1940s. Round out your day with a homestead tour, boutique shopping, and a bite at one of Los Alamos’s locally loved restaurants.
9. Dip into a Hot Spring – Nestled in the red-rock canyons, Jemez Springs offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Soak in naturally heated pools surrounded by mountain beauty, then wander into the charming village for galleries and cafes. If you’re up for more activity, nearby trails lead to waterfalls, pine forests, and striking geothermal landscapes.
8. Hit the Margarita Trail – Santa Fe’s Margarita Trail is more than just drinks—it’s a cultural tasting tour with a twist of lime. Each stop along the way serves up its own signature margarita, showcasing flavors from smoky mezcal blends to spicy chile-infused creations. Collect stamps, sip responsibly, and enjoy exploring downtown’s vibrant mix of historic bars, trendy lounges, and local restaurants.
7. Experience Meow Wolf – Step into Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, where 70+ immersive rooms blend art, light, sound, and story into a one-of-a-kind adventure. Crawl through secret passages, open glowing refrigerators that lead to other worlds, and marvel at massive installations that defy explanation. It’s part art exhibit, part interactive playground, and 100% unforgettable.
6. Explore Bandelier National Monument – Journey into the past at Bandelier National Monument, where ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs reveal the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Trails wind through canyons and mesas, and adventurous visitors can climb wooden ladders up to the Alcove House. Don’t miss the sweeping views from the Tyuonyi Overlook Trail, where history and nature collide in stunning fashion.
5. Dine at The Shed – Housed in a hacienda dating back to 1692, The Shed is a Santa Fe institution beloved for its authentic New Mexican cuisine. The star of the menu? Blue corn enchiladas smothered in the restaurant’s legendary red and green chile. Pair your meal with a margarita, and soak up the historic charm of its colorful, cozy dining rooms.
4. Ride the Sky Railway and Railyard District – All aboard the Sky Railway, a dragon-painted train curated by George R.R. Martin that turns a scenic ride into an adventure. Themed excursions—from jazz nights to wild west rides—wind through sweeping desert and mountain landscapes. Before or after your trip, explore the bustling Railyard District, filled with galleries, local shops, dining, and a lively farmer’s market.
3. Visit Iconic Landmarks – Santa Fe is rich with historic marvels, starting with the Loretto Chapel’s Miracle Staircase, an architectural wonder that still baffles engineers. Just steps away, see San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the United States, and the equally mysterious “Oldest House.” Together, these landmarks offer a glimpse into Santa Fe’s layered history and enduring sense of wonder.
2. Take a Guided Walking Tour – Stroll through Santa Fe’s centuries of history with a guided walking tour led by Santa Fe Discovery Walking Tours. Starting at the landmark La Fonda Hotel, you’ll follow routes that once carried settlers and traders along the Old Santa Fe Trail and Route 66. Along the way, guides weave together stories of Native, Spanish, and American cultures that shaped the city.
1. Explore Historic Downtown Santa Fe – Santa Fe’s historic heart is best experienced on foot, winding through narrow streets lined with centuries-old adobe buildings. Shop for authentic Native American crafts under the shady portals of the Palace of the Governors, then explore art galleries, museums, and cafes tucked into historic corners. The vibrant downtown pulses with Spanish, Native, and American heritage, offering a cultural experience unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
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