Sipping Through Santa Fe: A Fun & Flavorful Journey on the Margarita Trail
Santa Fe is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering Southwestern cuisine—but let’s be real: nothing pairs better with a plate of enchiladas than a perfectly crafted margarita. Lucky for you, the Santa Fe Margarita Trail is here to turn your cocktail dreams into reality! Whether you’re a tequila connoisseur or just in it for the fun, this self-guided drinking adventure lets you sip your way through the city one delicious margarita at a time.
What is the Santa Fe Margarita Trail?
Picture this: over 40 bars and restaurants, each offering a unique spin on the classic margarita. Some are spicy, some are smoky, and some are so pretty you’ll be tempted to snap a photo before taking a sip (but trust us, you won’t wait that long).
To make the experience even more interactive, grab a Margarita Trail Passport from a local visitor center or participating bar. Each time you stop for a margarita, you’ll collect a stamp—and if you collect enough, you can earn fun prizes like a Santa Fe Margarita Trail T-shirt (because what better way to remember your tequila-fueled adventure?).
Pro Tips for Conquering the Margarita Trail
Before you dive in, here are a few helpful tips to keep your adventure fun (and headache-free):
• Pace Yourself – With so many margaritas to try, it’s best to spread them out over a few days. Trust us, your liver will thank you.
• Stay Hydrated – Santa Fe’s high altitude means alcohol hits harder. Drink plenty of water between margaritas to stay fresh and keep the fun going!
• Plan Your Route – When tackling the trail, map out your stops to maximize the fun and minimize the walking. Or just hop on the Wander New Mexico tour and let them do the planning for you!
• Pair Your Drinks – Margaritas are even better when paired with authentic SW dishes. Whether it’s tacos, tamales, or a big plate of chile rellenos, don’t skip the food!
Feeling overwhelmed? Hop on the Wander New Mexico Margarita Trail Tour!
Not sure where to start? Let Wander New Mexico guide you! Their Official Margarita Trail Tour takes you to some of the best stops, where you’ll sip expertly crafted margaritas, enjoy delicious small bites, and learn about tequila, margarita-making, and Santa Fe’s vibrant drinking culture.
Even better—you’ll get your Margarita Trail Passport, your first two stamps, and plenty of great local recommendations to keep the adventure going long after the tour ends. It’s the perfect way to kick off your margarita journey without the stress of planning!
Whether you’re a margarita newbie or a seasoned tequila lover, the Wander New Mexico Margarita Trail Tour is the perfect way to sip, snack, and socialize without having to plan your own route.
Margaritas Worth the Detour: Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops
Sure, downtown Santa Fe is packed with iconic margarita spots, but if you’re willing to venture off the beaten path, you’ll find some real hidden gems. These spots might not be in the heart of the Plaza, but they’re totally worth the trip:
• Harry’s Roadhouse (Old Las Vegas Highway) – A quirky, colorful roadhouse with a laid-back vibe and a Ginger Margarita that brings just the right amount of heat. Spicy, zesty, and totally addictive!
• Gabriel’s (Highway 285) – About 15 minutes north of Santa Fe and a perfect stop for sunset en route back to town from Bandolier or Ghost Ranch, Gabriel’s serves up a Sunset Margarita, a layered masterpiece that pairs perfectly with their lengendary tableside guac. Chef’s kiss.
• Rancho de Chimayó (Chimayó) – A 30-minute scenic drive on the High Road to Taos takes you to one of New Mexico’s most legendary restaurants, where you can sip a Chimayó Cocktail, a margarita variation made with apple cider. This historic hacienda serves some of the most authentic New Mexican cuisine to pair with this unique, and dangerously good cocktail!
Time to Sip Your Way Through Santa Fe!
The Santa Fe Margarita Trail isn’t just a bar crawl—it’s a flavor-packed journey through the city’s culture, history, and best tequila creations. Whether you’re collecting stamps, discovering hidden gem bars, or hopping on the Wander New Mexico Margarita Trail Tour, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.