How To See Santa Fe on Route 66Santa Fe is the kind of city that stays with you. From wandering streets full of galleries and historic landmarks to digging into scrumptious tacos and unreal chicken mole enchiladas, every stop has a story. Add in cozy cafés, incredible local art, and a little bit of history, and you’re hooked.AuthorsMacabreMalia
DestinationsSanta FeItinerary

Monday

Santa Fe Plaza
The true historic epicenter of Santa Fe, surrounded by centuries-old landmarks, shops, and delicious restaurants.
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Palace of the Governors at New Mexico History Museum
The oldest public building in the U.S., now a beautifully curated museum with many local artists selling their wares in front
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Vanessie, Santa Fe
A super cozy and quaint boutique hotel just steps away from Santa Fe Plaza and the Railyard District.
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Cross of the Martyrs
If you ever wanted a bird’s-eye view of Santa Fe, this is where you’re going to get it. My suggestion? Come at sunset.
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The Shed
They offer delicious drinks, and you’re able to sit in the bar for snacks and cocktails while you wait for your table, and the queso was to DIE for!
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La Lecheria Railyard
Some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had, with such inventive, fresh ingredients. The Mint Chip was the yummiest one I’ve ever had!
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Tuesday

Iconik Coffee Roasters, Lupe
This became our go-to coffee spot. Amazing lattes.
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Santa Fe Farmers Market
I was overwhelmed by the beautiful artwork made by local artists here. I picked up some amazing pieces and met really great people.
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Loretto Chapel Museum
I visited here once 13 years ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it since. This is the kind of place you need to feel, to understand. No trip to Santa Fe is complete without a stop here.
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Pantry Rio
A no-frills, good local eatery that has killer specials. Their taco salad was among the best I’ve had. I fell in love with Santa Fe Brewing because of this restaurant!
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Museum of Indian Arts & Culture
The most beautiful collection of Indian pottery, definitely worth a stop for a better understanding of the culture.
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Canyon Road
This road is the reason why Santa Fe is known for artists, with art gallery after art gallery along this scenic route. Definitely make a stop.
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Los Poblanos Farm Shop Norte and Bar Norte
The best gin cocktails on the planet, unreal service, beautiful atmosphere. Honestly, this is the place I’ll miss most.
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Geronimo
What can I say? It’s one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life. This is the kind of place that makes you appreciate fine dining. Well-balanced meals with perfect wine pairings. I suggest a seat on the porch!
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Wednesday

Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi
Delicious eggs benny and a really good bourbon selection in the bar if you fancy a drink.
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La Fonda on the Plaza
The most iconic hotel in the city, with a fun, haunting, and gorgeous history to match. This centuries-old hotel is steeped in lore and history, and it’s one of the best places to stay or enjoy a meal.
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Oldest House Museum
As a historian, I definitely lost my cool here. It’s small but mighty, and being the oldest house in the U.S. carries with it A LOT of weight. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged!
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San Miguel Chapel
The oldest church in the U.S.… need I say more? It’s across the street from the oldest house, so it’s a perfect place to check out afterwards!
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Escondido Santa Fe
The mole chicken enchiladas were TO DIE FOR. Get them, get them, get them!
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New Mexico Museum of Art-Vladem Contemporary
I’m so excited that I was here when the Art Nouveau exhibit was up. My favorite artistic style, the history of which I’d never known until my visit here.
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Horno Restaurant
The meatball appetizer is what dreams are made of, and their veggie dumplings? Perfection. There is something here to please everyone.
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Thursday

Bandelier National Monument Visitor Center
To really understand the region, you need to go to Bandelier. Experiencing the cave dwellings and immersing yourself in Native history is so important and so inspiring. Loved our visit here.
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Experiences

Chef-Guided New Mexican Lunch Immersion
Explore Santa Fe’s food scene with a guided lunch tour featuring traditional New Mexican dishes, a side-by-side tasting of Mexican and New Mexican flavors, and margarita pairings with each course. Wrap it up with a local dessert at one of the city’s top craft ice creameries!
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Santa Fe History Night Stroll
Take an evening stroll through Santa Fe with Victor Romero, a gifted storyteller whose family roots run more than 400 years deep in northern New Mexico. Blending history, culture, and humor, he brings the city to life in a fast-paced tour that’s both insightful and entertaining. Keep in mind you’re at 7,000 feet, so water is your friend!”
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Small-Group E-Bike Adventure Tour through Hidden Santa Fe
Hop on an e-bike and discover a different side of Santa Fe. Guided rides lead you through historic neighborhoods, wooded trails, and cultural landmarks that shaped the city. Along the way, your guide shares insights you can only get from a local’s perspective.
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