Santa Fe: One City, Four Tailored Itineraries for Food, Art, Shopping, and Adventure
Disclosure: This article was written by Sarah Osman for Matador Network in a paid partnership with Tourism Santa Fe.
Santa Fe, known as "The City Different," lives up to its name as the nation's oldest capital city. Rich in history, world-class art, acclaimed museums, and exceptional cuisine, it also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures at 7,000 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains foothills.
With countless attractions and limited time, planning your visit can feel overwhelming. We've curated four distinct Santa Fe itineraries to simplify your trip—just pick one and dive in.
Itinerary #1: Foodie Odyssey
Photo: Tourism Santa Fe
For culinary enthusiasts craving innovative fusion and local flavors, Santa Fe delivers from dawn till dusk.
Breakfast
Start early at The Pantry, a 10-minute drive from Santa Fe Plaza. Savor legendary breakfast burritos and discover the iconic red vs. green chile (or opt for both—"Christmas" style).
Lunch
Head to Horseman’s Haven on the outskirts. Don't let the unassuming exterior deter you—inside awaits cowboy charm and top-tier green chile cheeseburgers. Daredevils, try level two heat.
Dinner
End at staple Tomasita’s for authentic New Mexican fare and legendary margaritas on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail. Follow with Del Charro's Santa Fe Trail Margarita.
Other Options
For variety, try Harry’s Roadhouse for buffalo burgers, pizza, or the vegetarian Buddha Bowl. Overwhelmed? Join guided tours like Food Tour New Mexico or Wander New Mexico (2-5 hours) exploring districts such as the Plaza or Railyard.
Itinerary #2: Arts & Culture Adventure
Photo: Tourism Santa Fe
As one of the nation's largest art markets, Santa Fe brims with galleries, museums, and street markets—especially in summer. Follow this path for the highlights.
Stop #1
Kick off at Meow Wolf, an immersive art collective's multilevel "House of Eternal Return" with portals and mysteries—its Santa Fe origins make it essential.
Stop #2
Visit Santa Fe Plaza, a historic adobe masterpiece surrounded by galleries.
Stop #3
Nearby, explore the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (the nation's only one) and the 135-year-old Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.
Stop #4
Stroll Canyon Road for 100+ galleries. Tip: Book a Santa Fe Art Tour for a curated experience.
Stop #5
Dedicate a day to Museum Hill: Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, Museum of International Folk Art, Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, and Museum of Indian Arts & Culture. Use the free Santa Fe Pickup Shuttle from the Plaza; enjoy Museum Hill Cafe views.
Bonus
Around Labor Day, witness the iconic Burning of Zozobra, a 50-foot puppet bonfire launching Fiestas de Santa Fe.
Itinerary #3: Shopping Spree
Photo: Tourism Santa Fe
Santa Fe's shopping rivals its food and art scenes, with unique souvenirs clustered downtown and beyond.
Jewelry
Malouf on the Plaza features local and Native American artists' authentic pieces, weavings, and clothing. Shiprock offers exquisite jewelry, pottery, baskets, and Navajo rugs.
Consumables
Chocolate fans: Art of Chocolate/Cacao Santa Fe with unique flavors, tours, and workshops. Chefs: Santa Fe Olive Oil & Balsamic Co. for tastings. All: Santa Fe Farmers Market (Saturdays in Railyard) for chiles and more.
For Kids
Doodlet’s delights with toys, folk art, and ornaments.
Everything Else
Jackalope: Eclectic homewares, pottery, rugs, and quirky gifts—a must-browse.
Itinerary #4: Outdoor Rush
Photo: Tourism Santa Fe
With 300 sunny days and four seasons, Santa Fe beckons year-round adventurers.
Snow Sports
Ski Santa Fe (30 minutes away) offers powder from December to mid-March.
Hiking
Spring at Puye Cliff Dwellings (guided tours). Closer: Santa Fe National Forest and Dale Ball Trails—fall aspens peak.
City Parks
Railyard Park for art and events; Cross of the Martyrs Park for panoramic sunsets (20-minute hike).
Relax
Rejuvenate at Sunrise Springs Spa Resort with natural springs, trails, and more.
Article courtesy of Matador Network
