Santa Fe 3 Day Itinerary
A suggested itinerary to explore Santa Fe, NM
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 1/23/2025
Santa Fe Itinerary: A 3-Day Guide to Exploring New Mexico’s Capital - Click here to Print Itinerary
The following is a suggested itinerary based upon places & ideas that we came up while exploring Santa Fe - note Links are provided to each destination for your convenience;
Day 1: Arrive and Explore the Heart of Santa Fe
- Santa Fe Plaza: Start your day at the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city. Stroll through the plaza, visit local shops, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
- Palace of the Governors: Located on the Plaza, this historic building houses a museum that offers insight into Santa Fe’s history.
- New Mexico Museum of Art: Just a short walk from the Plaza, this museum features a diverse collection of Southwestern art.
- Loretto Chapel: Visit this chapel to see the famous Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of carpentry and engineering.
- Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi: One block east from the plaza, constructed beginning in 1869.
- Dinner at La Plazuela At La Fonda - Picturesque garden-like restaurant in La Fonda Hotel serving sophisticated New Mexican cooking.
Day 2 Morning: Dive into Culture and Nature
- Breakfast at Plaza Cafe Downtown: Retro spot for classic diner fare along with Southwestern comfort food in a family-friendly setting. Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at this beloved Santa Fe institution.
- Georgia O'Keeffe Museum: Start your day at this museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous artist Georgia O’Keeffe. (Be sure to get reservations in advance online).
Day 2 Afternoon:
- Museum Hill: Spend the afternoon visiting the museums on Museum Hill, including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.
Day 2 Evening:
- Santa Fe Opera (Seasonal): If visiting during the summer, attend a performance at the Santa Fe Opera. The open-air theater provides stunning views and world-class performances.
- Or Consider:
- Meow Wolf: Return to Santa Fe and visit the immersive art installation, Meow Wolf. This unique experience is great for all ages. Kids and kids at heart will love it.
Day 3 Day Trip - Morning: Outdoor Adventures, Science, and Relaxation
- Bandelier National Monument: Take a short drive to Bandelier National Monument to explore ancient cliff dwellings and beautiful hiking trails.
- Bradbury Science Museum at Los Alamos: If you love history and military history and science head over to Los Alamos and learn about the Lab’s beginnings during the Manhattan Project and the Lab’s continuing work.
Day 3 Evening
- Relax at Ojo Spa: They offer a serene and rejuvenating escape surrounded by the natural beauty of New Mexico. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and therapeutic geothermal spring pools, Ojo Spa provides a unique wellness experience rooted in the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Optional Activities to Consider
- Railyard District: Explore the Santa Fe Railyard District, home to galleries, shops, and the Santa Fe Farmers Market.
- Nambe Falls: Go for a hike at Nambe Falls. A beautiful waterfall with two hiking trails each only ¼: the lower trail leads to the lowest pool of the waterfalls and the other climbs up the hill ending in a spectacular view of the waterfalls from above. The lower hike can require a bit of hiking in the river or over rocks if the water flow is high.
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