Santa Fe Shopping Guide: Fun Activities to Keep Your Partner Engaged
Save your partner from idle waiting—explore Santa Fe together!
Santa Fe is renowned for its world-class shopping, with gallery-lined streets offering endless retail therapy. For travelers, dedicating time to these boutique-filled areas is essential. But if your partner shares my spouse's limited patience for shopping, fear not. Our vibrant city has plenty of engaging alternatives. Discover these partner-friendly pursuits to ensure everyone enjoys the trip.
Santa Fe's Museums: Perfect Partner Adventures
Santa Fe's premier museums showcase artistic masterpieces, rich history, and New Mexican culture. The New Mexico History Museum features an extensive collection in a modern facility next to the historic Palace of the Governors, dating back over 400 years. Spend hours exploring both sites. Photography enthusiasts will love the Poetics of Light: Pinhole Photography exhibit.
Undated pinhole photo of San Francisco de Asis Church by Dallas Sells, on view at the New Mexico History Museum. (Palace of the Governors Photo Archives)
The Palace of the Governors offers a captivating look at colonial New Mexico. Marvel at the adobe walls, aged floorboards, and courtyard where Spanish gobernadores once stood—worth the admission alone.
Deepen the experience at the New Mexico National Guard Military Museum. Highlights include Kit Carson's Civil War service, New Mexicans with Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders, Navajo Code Talkers in WWII, and the Bataan Death March. With one of the nation's highest per capita veteran populations, this museum brings their stories to life.
Memorabilia from every era at the New Mexico National Guard Military Museum—worth the drive.
While downtown, visit the statue of Santa Fe native Staff Sgt. Leroy Petry, awarded the Medal of Honor for service in Afghanistan.
Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sgt. Leroy Petry at his statue dedication outside City Hall in June 2013. (Photo Credit: NM Watchdog)
Hit the Greens: Golfing in Santa Fe
For outdoor enthusiasts, recommend a round at Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe, a municipal course with stunning mountain views and over 320 sunny days annually. Try the par-3 Baxter Spann course, known as "The Great 28." Follow up with a drink at the Links Bar and Grill.
Tee off to 360-degree views at Marty Sanchez Links. (Photo Credit: Golf New Mexico)
Catch the Game at Local Sports Bars
While you browse the Railyard for vintage finds, your partner can watch pro sports. At Junction, big screens track fantasy leagues alongside burgers and brews. On the southside, Blue Corn Brewery offers craft beer and game-day viewing. Santa Fe Bar and Grill provides a classic spot for locals.
Screens for every game at The Junction!
A Spirited Tasting Adventure
Wrap up shopping at Santa Fe Spirits. Relax in the cozy lounge with mascot Chihuahua Layla. Share your treasures over tastings of local craft liquors like Silver Coyote and Colkegan whiskies, Wheeler's Gin, Expedition Vodka, and Apple Brandy. The distillery tour is a highlight.
Enjoy a locally crafted martini with Layla—she's only after the snacks!
Embrace Santa Fe's Freedom
Book a Santa Fe hotel deal and pursue individual interests. This balanced approach lets everyone discover the city's best—smart travel at its finest!
