3 day itinerary for Santa Fe, New Mexico

Itinerary

Santa Fe is such a charming city with a rich blend of history, art, and culture. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Santa Fe has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Historic Plaza and Art Scene

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Pasqual’s: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite. Their huevos rancheros are a must-try!
• Santa Fe Plaza: After breakfast, stroll over to the historic Plaza. This is the heart of Santa Fe, surrounded by beautiful adobe buildings. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Midday:

• Palace of the Governors: Check out this historic building, which is the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S. You can often find local artisans selling their crafts right outside.
• Lunch at The Shed: Just a short walk from the Plaza, this restaurant is famous for its New Mexican cuisine. Try the red chile enchiladas!

Afternoon:

• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Dive into the world of one of America’s most iconic artists. The museum showcases her stunning works and offers insight into her life.
• Canyon Road Art District: Spend the afternoon wandering down Canyon Road, where you’ll find numerous galleries showcasing everything from traditional to contemporary art. Pop into a few and maybe even chat with some artists!

Evening:

• Dinner at La Casa Sena: Enjoy a lovely dinner in a beautiful courtyard setting. Their menu features a mix of traditional and contemporary Southwestern dishes.
• Evening Stroll: If you’re up for it, take a leisurely walk around the Plaza again. The ambiance at night is magical!

## Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Pantry: This local diner is known for its delicious breakfast options. Try the green chile omelet!
• Bandelier National Monument: After breakfast, take a short drive (about 45 minutes) to Bandelier. Explore the ancient cliff dwellings and hike the trails. The scenery is breathtaking!

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab some sandwiches from a local deli before heading into the park. Enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature!

Afternoon:

• Return to Santa Fe: Head back to the city and visit the Museum of International Folk Art. The collections here are fascinating and showcase crafts from around the world.
• Santa Fe Botanical Garden: If time allows, take a peaceful stroll through the botanical garden. It’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of local flora.

Evening:

• Dinner at Geronimo: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at this renowned restaurant located in a historic adobe home. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is exquisite!
• Live Music: Check out local venues for live music. The Santa Fe Plaza often has events, or you can find a cozy bar with live performances.

## Day 3: Local Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Tia Sophia’s: This is another local gem known for its breakfast burritos. You can’t go wrong here!
• Loretto Chapel: After breakfast, visit this stunning chapel famous for its miraculous staircase. The architecture is simply captivating!

Midday:

• Museum Hill: Spend your midday exploring the museums on Museum Hill. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art are both fantastic options.
• Lunch at the Museum Hill Café: Enjoy a light lunch with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Afternoon:

• Santa Fe Railyard: Head to the Railyard area, which is a vibrant hub of art, food, and culture. Check out the local shops and perhaps visit the Railyard Park.
• Shopping: Spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs. Look for local crafts, jewelry, and art pieces to take home!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Compound: For your final dinner, indulge in a meal at this upscale restaurant known for its creative Southwestern cuisine. The ambiance is perfect for a memorable last night.
• Sunset at the Cross of the Martyrs: End your trip with a short hike up to this viewpoint. The sunset over Santa Fe is a sight you won’t forget!

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary in Santa Fe that balances art, culture, and nature. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌄✨