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Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different

Traveling to and around Santa Fe has never been easier. Nonstop flights from Phoenix, Dallas, and Denver arrive directly at Santa Fe Regional Airport, delighting visitors. Explore this comprehensive guide to transportation options for a seamless, memorable trip to The City Different.

*Note: Originally published in March 2017 and updated with current details.

Fly into Santa Fe

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
The Santa Fe Regional Airport welcomes private aircraft and two airlines, located on the southwest side of the city. (Photo courtesy of the City of Santa Fe)

The Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) provides nonstop flights from Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix—perfect for an effortless escape. American Airlines offers daily nonstop service from Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. United Airlines provides daily nonstop flights from Denver. For details, visit Fly Santa Fe.

Upon arrival, rent a car from on-site agencies Avis or Hertz, or choose from several companies in Santa Fe. The terminal features a full-service restaurant, self-service kiosks, rental counters, and an independent airport shuttle service. New Mexico Black Car taxi service offers one-way trips to downtown. Advance bookings available with Santa Fe Valet.

Hit the Rails

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
Amtrak service to Santa Fe stops in Lamy, New Mexico. (Photo courtesy AllenS)

Arrive by Amtrak train, which stops in Lamy, 18.5 miles from Santa Fe. RoadRunner Shuttle and Charter provides transport for $40 per adult one-way.

Local Rides in The City Different

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
The New Mexico Rail Runner crossing La Bajada Hill. (Photo courtesy of Jerry Huddleston)

From Albuquerque, ride the New Mexico Rail Runner to Santa Fe Depot in the vibrant Railyard district, featuring markets, dining, and shops. Connect to the free Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle for downtown, Museum Hill, and Canyon Road. It runs every 30 minutes, twice daily, starting at Jean Cocteau Cinema.

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
Santa Fe Trails offers safe, efficient bus service. (Photo courtesy of City of Santa Fe)

Santa Fe Trails buses run every 15 minutes from convenient stops, reaching top attractions and events on the Plaza. From Sheridan Avenue Transit Center, Route “M” accesses Canyon Road and Museum Hill. Free service during major events like Spanish Market, Indian Market, Zozobra, and Canyon Road Farolito Walk. Schedules and maps: Santa Fe Trails.

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
Uber and Lyft provide convenient rideshares. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)

For quick trips to the Plaza or restaurants, use Uber or Lyft apps for cashless, on-demand rides with friendly drivers.

Other Transportation Options

Bike rentals: Mellow Velo in Historic Downtown offers bikes from $30/day with route advice. Eco Motive Bikes in the Railyard rents e-bikes from $40/day. Enjoy paths and trails while reducing traffic and parking hassles.

Park and Stroll

Getting Around Santa Fe: Essential Transportation Guide to The City Different
The City of Santa Fe manages parking within a three-mile radius of the Historic Downtown Plaza. (Photo courtesy of the City of Santa Fe)

If driving, use six parking lots and garages: $1 first hour, $2 each additional. Meters: $2/hour, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon–Sat, excluding holidays.

With these options—from direct flights to free shuttles—navigating Santa Fe is effortless. Plan your visit: order the 2018 Santa Fe Travel Guide and check deals and specials.

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