Dog Days: How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Visit to Santa Fe
Dogs and humans will enjoy the sunset views from the Frank Ortiz dog park
If you’re thinking of visiting Santa Fe with a canine companion, you’re in luck! The City Different is (in our completely unbiased opinion) one of the best places to travel with a dog (or to be a dog!).
Here are some of our favorite activities and destinations around town that will keep both humans and animals happy.
Stretch Your Legs (And Theirs)
If your pup needs to stretch his or her legs after a day of travel, head to Frank Ortiz dog park. This city-owned gem of a park includes 135 acres of gently rolling pinon and juniper forest paths. Social dogs can get their playtime in, while more solitary pups will enjoy quieter corners of the park. As a bonus, the park’s ridgeline overlooks downtown Santa Fe and is one of the best places in town for sunset viewing.
Luckily for dogs (and humans) that love to hike, Santa Fe has no shortage of great and accessible hiking trails. A good option is the Dale Ball trails, starting at the Sierra del Norte trailhead on Hyde Park Road. The trail network comprises 24 miles of interlocking trails, and frequent trail markers and maps make it easy to “choose your own adventure” – find a one-mile loop or a ten-mile one. You’ll find plenty of other canine hikers, and there are even poop bags available at the trailhead.
Looking for more Santa Fe activities? Join one of our walking food and history tours!
Dog-Friendly Dining
Some of our favorite restaurants in town also happen to be dog friendly!
Vinaigrette has some of the tastiest and most creative salads we’ve ever tried, and your pup can relax with you on their lovely shaded patio.
Sage Bakehouse serves up the city’s best homemade bread, as well as sandwiches, soups, and delicious sweet treats. This is another place with a cute and dog-friendly patio.
Pups love Santa Fe's great vistas!
For a fun evening experience, head to Cowgirl. They offer southwestern classics and pub fare, but the real draw is the outdoor live music and lively atmosphere.
L’Olivier provides a sophisticated but unpretentious French-style dining experience, with classic dishes like escargot and foie gras, as well as locally influenced fare like elk tenderloin. You and your four-legged friend will both feel fancy spending the evening in their charming outdoor dining space.
Pamper Your Pup
If you forgot any dog-related supplies at home, Pooch Pantry is a friendly downtown pet shop with a good selection of food, treats, toys, and more. They also have self-service dog washing stations – perfect for rinsing off after a dusty hike.
Where to Stay
La Fonda on the Plaza is one of Santa Fe’s most historic and most charming hotels. They welcome dogs for a $50 fee – canine guests even get a special welcome package!
The Sage Inn is a great value option, with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the Railyard District. Their pet fee is $15.
Happy trails to you and your furry friends!
Want more Santa Fe travel ideas? Check out our other blog posts
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