72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do
Visiting Santa Fe
We like to think of Santa Fe as a city of many attractions. From the vibrant arts and culture scene, to the spectacular natural environment, to the world-class shopping, to the stellar food and drink, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to make a list of must-see stops. Luckily, Wander New Mexico is here to help! Here are our recommendations for spending 72 hours in the “City Different.”
Visiting Santa Fe? Be sure to check out our walking food tours!
Thursday Night
Welcome to Santa Fe! Whether you’re touching down in Albuquerque’s Sunport, Santa Fe’s regional airport, or are coming by car or train, a spectacular weekend in Santa Fe awaits!
Classic New Mexican Food
After checking in to your room and getting settled, we recommend heading out to try some classic New Mexican food for dinner. Here in Santa Fe, we like our chile hot - and be prepared to say whether you’d like red, green, or Christmas. For classic fare like tacos, burritos, margaritas, and more, we recommend La Choza, a local favorite located in the Railyard District near downtown Santa Fe, and The Shed, a Santa Fe staple located right off the historic Plaza.
Friday
Brunch at Cafe Pasqual’s
Located in the heart of downtown, Cafe Pasqual’s is a Santa Fe favorite serving up food inspired by New Mexico, Old Mexico, the Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine. Breakfast is served from 8am-3pm, with lunch service starting at 11am. We recommend the Smoked Trout Hash and the Huevos Motulenos for an innovative take on classic breakfast dishes.
Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
While Santa Fe has many museums on offer, the Georgia O’Keeffe museum has one of the most stunning collections in the city. The small, intimate rooms of the museum guide visitors through O’Keeffe’s paintings, with a special focus on the landscapes and subject matter of northern New Mexico. One of the most significant artists of the twentieth century, O’Keeffe’s work features creative imagery, innovative abstraction, and a strong focus on the natural world. She drew her inspiration from the scenery of Santa Fe and surrounding areas, particularly Abiquiu.
Take a Tea Class at ArtfulTea
Just a block from the historic Plaza, Santa Fe’s ArtfulTea is a little oases of calm in the heart of the city. if you’re interested in sipping tea from all around the world and learning more about where it’s grown, how it’s made, and how to properly prepare it, stop by for their “Beyond the Tea Bag” class, held every Friday at 2pm. The classes are $20 a person and last an hour, with a limit of five participants per class.
Lunch at Tres Colores
After your tea class, head next door for a bite to eat at the charming Tres Colores. Inspired by the cuisine of southern Mexico but with a unique Santa Fe twist, Tres Colores is beloved by locals and travelers alike. Order tacos and help yourself to their expansive topping bar, or get an enormous hand-held burrito (with chile, of course!) to go.
Take a Walk Down Canyon Road
Santa Fe’s Canyon Road represent a legendary collection of fine art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and more. In part thanks to Canyon Road, Santa Fe’s art scene is one of the best in the country, rivaling much larger cities like LA and New York. Canyon Road stretches for about half a mile, beginning where it intersects with Paseo de Peralta near downtown, and ending in the historic East Side of Santa Fe. If you’re lucky enough to be in Santa Fe on the first Friday of the month from May to October, most shops stay open late until 7pm.
Catch Dinner and a Flamenco Show at El Farol
El Farol has been a Santa Fe staple for over a century, featuring a wide variety of traditional Spanish tapas, paella, steaks, and daily specials. Dinner flamenco shows feature musicians and dancers from the renowned National Institute of Flamenco, with a $30 cover. The delicious food and spectacular performances are a classic Santa Fe experience!
Saturday
Stop by the Santa Fe Farmers Market
For a small city, Santa Fe’s Farmers Market pack a big punch. Every Saturday from 7-1, the Santa Fe Railyard comes alive with shops, stalls, and tents serving up fresh produce, dairy, meat, artisanal goods, and much more. We recommend getting there early for the best selection and to beat the crowds. And be sure to stop by the Farmers Market cafe for a bite of locally grown, seasonal dishes!
Visit Site Santa Fe
After you’ve left the Farmers Market, Site Santa Fe is just across the street! Site Santa Fe is a contemporary arts organization, museum, and exhibition space that focuses on innovative and contemporary visual art. Check out the latest exhibitions of world-renowned artists and emerging local talent. Admission is free from 10am-12pm on Saturdays, making it the perfect stop to round out your morning.
Lunch at Harry’s Roadhouse
Out on the eastern outskirts of Santa Fe, Harry’s Roadhouse is the place to be on a weekend afternoon. Colorful seating, an eclectic and inventive menu, and quirky ambiance all make this spot a popular favorite of locals and tourists alike. For a lighter meal, check out the Roadhouse Hippie Salad, loaded with vegetable goodness and topped with onion rings. For heartier fare, we recommend the buffalo burger, or any of their classic New Mexican dishes.
Hike to Nambe Lake
After lunch, head to the great outdoors to take in the stunning New Mexican scenery and cool mountain trails. The trail to Nambe Lake is a beautiful six mile out-and-back trail beginning at the Santa Fe Ski Basin and ending at a crystal clear alpine lake. Make sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and pace yourself in the high elevation!
Sunset Dinner and Drinks at the Bell Tower Bar
After your hike (and maybe a nap!) head to La Fonda’s Bell Tower Bar for dinner and drinks overlooking downtown Santa Fe, with magnificent views of the sun setting in the west. We recommend the quesadillas if you’re looking for comfort food, or the charcuterie board for a lighter meal. And be sure to reward yourself with a drink or two!
Meow Wolf Concert
After dinner, get ready for a concert at the legendary Meow Wolf. Their permanent exhibit, The House of Eternal Return, attracts hundreds of visitors each day, many traveling to New Mexico just to experience this unique, interactive art environment. Sometimes described as a cross between an art exhibit, a haunted house, and a choose-you-own-adventure story, The House of Eternal Return is a must-see destination. At night, however, the installation turns into a music venue, allowing you to beat the crowds and explore the twisting corridors and psychedelic artwork while also rocking out to live music! Concerts do often sell out, so book tickets in advance if possible.
Sunday Morning
Your last morning in Santa Fe! Don’t worry, though - the “City Different” will always be here for you on your next visit.
Downtown Subscription
After packing up your things, head to Downtown Subscription for coffee and breakfast to go. This charming coffee shop, nestled into the winding side streets of Santa Fe’s historic East Side near Canyon Road, is a hidden gem with a devoted following. With a wide selection of teas, coffee, and pastries on offer, they’re a good first stop to fuel your last few adventures in the city.
Hike Monte Sol
Just a short drive from downtown, Monte Sol, also known as Sun Mountain, is one of the most easily accessible short hikes in the Santa Fe area. The summit offers beautiful views of the city and beyond, and is a relatively short (but steep!) climb. You can ascend Monte Sol from the designated parking area on Old Santa Fe Trail, or you can park at St. John’s College and climb up the less well-marked back way. We recommend getting there early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy the pleasant coolness of a morning in the mountains.
Planning a longer trip to Santa Fe? Check out our recommendations for day trips, food, culture, and more!
