Santa Fe, NM 3 Day Itinerary
Santa Fe, NM had been on my bucket list for a long time, and I can easily see why it is rated as one of the top destinations to visit in the USA. I decided to plan a trip for my 30th birthday, where 9 of my friends and I met from all over the country to meet in beautiful, historic, Santa Fe, NM. I knew this was a perfect destination for us – as there is truly something for everyone in this artistic, vibrant city. I’m sharing with you my 3-day Santa Fe itinerary, with a few other goodies sprinkled in for your planning purposes.
Lodging:
Where I stayed: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/53806962?source_impression_id=p3_1682012507_Efg00C0EsqIppraM
https://www.casadeice.com/property
I have absolutely nothing but good things to say about my stay at Casa De Ice. If you’re considering booking this place..., do it immediately. I have never stayed at an Airbnb that was even more beautiful than the photos; my friend’s and I were completely floored. Although there were 10 of us on the property at a time, we were still able to find our moments of solace throughout the sprawling house and surrounding property. The Ice family was incredibly accommodating, communicative, and welcoming to us and provided the absolute perfect location to spend my 30th birthday. Note that this is not in downtown Santa Fe, but in the Sunlit Hills neighborhood – just a quick 15-minute drive from the plaza. You will enjoy 6 beautiful acres with stunning panoramic views for you, your friends, and/or loved ones.
I have linked other accommodations below; however, I’d personally recommend staying in an Airbnb. You can hop on and easily find so many incredible stays across multiple price points. Airbnb’s are typically more cost effective than hotels, and it’s a great way to support local businesses and families. Santa Fe is known for its uniqueness and captivating art, and many of the properties listed on Airbnb embody the culture of Santa Fe and are truly one of a kind.
Other Lodging Recommendations:
Eco-Friendly Retreat: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/31122463?source_impression_id=p3_1682013525_Gh239dnuuLBsEVOc
Walk to Plaza:
Japanese-Inspired Casita:
Sky-Filled “Studio-Cielito”: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41004122?source_impression_id=p3_1682014161_c4X5zvjB4%2Bl7dMN2
La Fonda on the Plaza: https://www.lafondasantafe.com/
Inn & Spa at Loretto: https://www.hotelloretto.com/
Itinerary:
Day 1:
Leave Denver @ 8:00AM
Get Gas + Breakfast/Snacks
Check in to Airbnb @ 3:00PM
Horseback Riding – Sunset Ride @ 4:30PM
Ask for Russ and you will have the most beautiful ride: https://www.santafewest.com/
Dinner at the Pink Adobe @ 8:00PM
Dragon Room Lounge after Dinner
Day 2:
Breakfast at The Pantry Rio @ 9:00AM
Explore Downtown!
The Plaza
Explore shops, cafes, and markets downtown
Shopping
Do NOT miss a store called “Keshi”
Santa Fe Hat Company (Say hello to JD!)
Nambe Store
Shiprock
Loretto Chapel
The Basilica
Saturday Markets in the Plaza (Vendors on Saturday)
Canyon Road
Art capital of Santa Fe
Georgia O’Keefe Museum
Santa Fe Children’s Museum
Molly’s Birthday Dinner
Mila’s Mesa Birthday Dinner @ 4:00PM-9:00PM
Specializing in Latin fusion, regional Southwestern, and new American cuisine, Mila’s Mesa provides delicious, Instagram-worthy dishes, using the freshest ingredients. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, consider hiring Mila’s Mesa for your next event or catering needs. I was able to create my own 3 course menu, including an additional cocktail hour with my own signature drink and crafted charcuterie board. 10/10 memorable experience for my 30th! https://www.milasmesa.com/
Day 3:
Ten Thousand Waves Hot Springs Spa @ 10:00PM
Rent a private tub on the side of a mountain and/or indulge in spa services!
Meow Wolf @ 3:00PM
Interactive art museum experience!
Dinner at The Shed @ 7:00PM
Day 4:
Checkout @ 10:00AM
Other Food Recommendations:
Pasquals (for Breakfast)
Revolution Gluten Free Bakery
Clafoutis (French Bakery)
Coyote Café Cantina
Apothecary
El Parasol
El Farol
Sazon
Izanami
Ranch De Chimayo (Worth the 35-minute drive!)
La Choza
Tecolote
Cowgirl (Get the green chile cheeseburger and go for karaoke!)
Caffe Greco
Drinks/Coffee:
Secreto Lounge
Gruet Tasting Room
Tonic
Del Charro
The Teahouse
Iconik Coffee
The Living Room
The Coyote (Rooftop!)
Self-Guided Margarita Trial: https://www.santafe.org/visiting-santa-fe/self-guided-tours/santa-fe-margarita-trail/
Other Activities:
Santa Fe Opera
New Mexico Museum of Art
Museum of International Folk Art
Four Seasons Spa
Ojo Caliente Hot Springs & Spa (1 hour from Santa Fe but SO worth it)
Bandelier National Monument (1 hour drive from Santa Fe)
Also check out Tent Rocks National Monument and Santa Fe National Forest if you have time!
Skiing in Santa Fe or Taos
Tsankawi – Hiking around Native American Caves
Ghost Ranch Hiking (1.5 hour drive from Santa Fe)
Sun Mountain Trail (Sunlit Hills)
Dale Balls
Nambe Lake
White Water Rafting: www.santaferafting.com
Puye Cliffs
Fly Fishing in Pecos River: www.perfectlystore.com/wpecosr.html
Hot Air Balloons: www.santafeballoons.com
