Weekend Adventures: Three Days in and Around Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, Santa Fe, New Mexico should definitely be on your list. Known for its stunning architecture, art galleries, and mouthwatering cuisine, the city is a picturesque destination that boasts of a unique blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American cultures. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and amazing cuisine, this charming southwestern city offers something for everyone. Here's how you can make the most of your three days in Santa Fe.
Getting There
Start your journey to Santa Fe by flying into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), located about 60 miles south of Santa Fe. From there, rent a car (We rented a convertible. No regrets!) and take the scenic Turquoise Trail, a 50-mile drive that winds through the Sandia Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Turquoise Trail takes you through charming historic towns, such as Madrid and Cerrillos, where you can explore art galleries, antique shops, and local eateries. Consider stopping for lunch at The Mine Shaft Tavern in Madrid. (This Texas girl was impressed by their salsa and enchiladas!)
Shadows in Madrid, New Mexico
Madrid, New Mexico
As you make your way along the Turquoise Trail, be sure to take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The Sandia Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, depending on the season.
The view along the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico
Where to Lay Your Head
Look, Santa Fe is gorgeous. The food is great, and there is plenty to do in and around the city. I gotta tell you, though, our B&B was the main reason we loved the trip. Typically, Todd and I stay in hotels, but for this trip, we chose the Inn of the Turquoise Bear, a stunning B&B located in the heart of Santa Fe. This property is now officially one of our favorite places in the world to stay. (The breakfast is sublime!) Check out our review of the property here.
Address: 342 East Buena Vista Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Telephone: 505.983.0798
The exterior grounds of the Inn of the Turquoise Bear
Three-Day Itinerary
There’s absolutely no way to see and do everything that Santa Fe has to offer in three days. I’m sure there are some die-hard Santa Fe fans and experts out there who know every secret spot and restaurant the city offers. This was our first visit to New Mexico, so we did as we always do when we travel to a place that is new to us…we hopped in our rental car and explored.
Day One
If you arrive at the Albuquerque International Sunport and rent a car, you’ll definitely want to drive the Turquoise Trail. The drive is approximately 50 miles long, and you can arrive in Santa Fe quickly, even if you stop for lunch or peruse the shops and galleries that dot the trail.
After arriving in Santa Fe, start your visit by exploring the historic downtown district. The city's Plaza, located in the heart of downtown, is surrounded by historic buildings, art galleries, and unique boutiques. Be sure to check out the Palace of the Governors, a museum that showcases the region's history and culture. From there, head to the nearby Loretto Chapel, known for its miraculous spiral staircase. Finally, visit the San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the United States.
The historic Loretto Chapel
San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the United States
Columns outside the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts in the historic Santa Fe located off the Santa Fe Plaza
If you work up an appetite after all the sightseeing, the Plaza offers an assortment of dining options for all price points. From pizza to traditional New Mexican cuisine, you are sure to find a restaurant to suit your needs. We noticed, however, that every restaurant we passed had a long wait time during the lunch rush. Plan accordingly to avoid anyone in your party getting hot and hangry!
After you have explored all the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Plaza, take a short walk or drive to the Cross of the Martyrs to watch the legendary Santa Fe sunset. It’s free, it’s beautiful, and it’s a perfect way to document your day with the photo opportunities that await you!
Sunset as seen from the Cross of the Martyrs
Day Two
If you happen to be in Santa Fe during a weekend, check out the farmers’ market at The Railyard Santa Fe. You’ll find locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked treats, soap, honey…you get the idea. While you’re there, check out El Museo Cultural de Santa Fe Mercado to find local and international art, jewelry, clothing, and everything in between.
You can pick up picnic supplies at the Farmers’ Market and have a picnic at Railyard Park, a family-friendly park that features a playground, picnic tables, and art installations. If picnicking isn’t your thing, head over to the family-owned La Choza. Try their green chile stew or their carne adovada, a traditional New Mexican dish made from marinated pork.
Enjoying a leisurely Saturday at the Santa Fe Railyard
In the afternoon, visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, which is dedicated to the works of the famous artist who lived and worked in Santa Fe. The museum has an extensive collection of her paintings, sculptures, and photographs, and it's a must-visit for art lovers.
Time permitting, visit the Museum of International Folk Art, which has an impressive collection of over 130,000 objects from around the world. The museum features folk art from various countries, including Mexico, Peru, and India. Make sure to call ahead to confirm their hours, especially during the winter months from November through April.
After a day of admiring the Santa Fe art scene, stop in Tomasita’s for a margarita, enchiladas, and freshly made sopaipillas with homemade honey butter. It’s a perfect way to relax before day three!
Day Three
Day three is all about adventure! Your day begins with a drive on the High Road to Taos, a stunning scenic byway that includes history and dramatic vistas. The trip is around two-and-a-half hours without stopping, but you’ll definitely want to make stops along the way. We suggest getting to bed early the night before and eating a full breakfast before you hit the road.
To get to the High Road out of Santa Fe, head north on US 84 and turn right on NM 503. This is the starting point. From NM 503, go to NM 76 and follow it to Chimayó where tradition abounds.
Camel Rock is one of many sites you’ll see as you make your way to the High Road to Taos.
Landscape along NM 503
Following NM 76, you’ll pass through small towns like Cordova and Truchas where you can see local and traditional art and handiwork. When you arrive at the town of Peñasco, take NM 518 for a stunning drive through the Carson National Forest. Keep following the road until you arrive at Taos.
Apache Canyon Scenic Viewpoint on NM 518 along the High Road to Taos
Since we were visiting during the off-season, we found ample free parking in the public parking lot on Cam de la Placita. From here, the Taos Plaza and Downtown Taos Historic District are easily reached by foot along with bars and restaurants. If you are looking for souvenirs, lunch, a cup of coffee before you hit the road, or a fossil or two, you’ll enjoy this stop before continuing on to Taos Ski Valley.
One stop you’ll want to consider along the way to Taos Ski Valley is the Taos Pueblo. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been inhabited for more than 1000 years. The pueblo is home to around 150 people, and visitors may explore the adobe homes, watch traditional dances, and shop for authentic Native American crafts. Private tours are available. Visitors should confirm that the pueblo is open by visiting the Taos Pueblo link provided above.
From Taos, travelers can reach Taos Ski Valley in about thirty minutes. Be prepared for an exhilarating ride! The drive itself is a feast for the senses, as you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramas set against majestic mountains towering in the background. The winding mountain road that leads directly to Taos Ski Valley is truly a site to behold. We visited during the off-season, so everything was closed, but there was still snow on the ground. It was eerily quiet and beautifully serene.
Along the drive to Taos Ski Valley
Todd in our rented convertible in front of the empty Taos Ski Valley
When you’re ready to drive back to Santa Fe, you’ll want to take the Low Road on NM 68 to enjoy the view along the Rio Grande. This scenic route takes you through the heart of New Mexico’s rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas. No doubt, you’ll want to make many stops along this route to capture this leg of the journey. The landscape along the Low Road stands in stark contrast with the other views of the day.
Rio Grande along the Low Road from Taos to Santa Fe
If you’re looking for a long weekend holiday filled with history, culture, culinary experiences, and natural beauty, consider adding Santa Fe to your bucket list. From the vibrant colors of the adobe buildings to the breathtaking landscapes that surround them, there’s a sense of enchantment in the air that is impossible to resist. Whether you spend your time exploring the rich history and culture of Santa Fe or add a day trip to the charming town of Taos, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this part of the world. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be swept away by the beauty and charm of this unforgettable destination!
Bisous,
Bridget
