Santa Fe, NM, USA

Albuquerque, NM, USA

Abiquiu, NM, USA

4-day New Mexico Road Trip

What to do, see, and eat in Santa Fe, Albuquerque & Taos, New Mexico. 

In this guide I include all of the highlights of New Mexico along with some hidden gems!

I include my favorite boutique hotels & amazing airbnbs along with the best restaurants & attractions throughout this magical state! 



A Week in Santa Fe, Albuquerque & Taos

Our series, Late Checkout, chronicles many of the most alluring, design-forward, off-the-beaten-path destinations around the world. These are the hotels pulled from those recommendations. Tap into each hotel to read the full review on TQE.

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This is the Companion Map to The Late Checkout: A Perfect New Mexico Weekend by Julia Harter.

A Perfect New Mexico Weekend | Late Checkout

When many people visit Santa Fe, they stay in the city and explore the many restaurants, galleries, and high-end stores in this rich cultural center. Don't get me wrong these are all lovely and definitely a must-see or a great weekend trip. However, I tend to venture down a road less traveled. If you are visiting Santa Fe, I definitely recommend a day or two on the high road to Taos. This is not the quickest route to Taos but is the most picturesque. It goes from Nambe, thru Chimayo to Taos, winding through several small towns and communities at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Trampas

Chimayo

Santa Fe

Peñasco

Taos

Nambe Pueblo

Truchas

Ranchos de Taos

The High Road to Taos

There are so many reasons to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico! This beautiful city is rich in history, culture, art, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for travelers. 

Key reasons this guide might be the match for you:  
- You have high standards and don't like wasting a moment of time not soaking in the culture, art, history and food in a new place. 
- You want key tips like when certain institutions are open/closed and whether reservations are needed. 

If you haven't committed to a flight/drive/visit just yet, here are some broad and compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Santa Fe:

Rich Cultural Heritage: Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States, dating back to 1610. Its history is deeply rooted in Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures, creating a unique blend of traditions and customs. You'll find fascinating historical sites, adobe architecture, and museums that showcase the city's diverse heritage.

Art and Galleries: Santa Fe is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. The city boasts numerous art galleries, studios, and museums, making it a hub for artists and art enthusiasts. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, the New Mexico Museum of Art, and the Canyon Road arts district are must-visit places for art lovers.

Santa Fe Opera: If you're a fan of performing arts, the Santa Fe Opera is a world-class venue that offers breathtaking opera performances amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Stunning Landscapes: Nestled in the high desert, Santa Fe is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The landscape is characterized by picturesque sunsets, rolling hills, and nearby mountains that provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing.

Unique Architecture: Santa Fe's distinctive adobe-style architecture is an integral part of its charm. The city has strict building codes that maintain the traditional pueblo-style look, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Santa Fe Plaza: The heart of the city is the historic Santa Fe Plaza, a central gathering place surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It's a great spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in the local atmosphere.

Culinary Delights: Santa Fe has a rich culinary scene, known for its unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican flavors. From traditional New Mexican cuisine to upscale dining options, foodies will find a wide range of delicious dishes to savor.

Santa Fe Farmers' Market: The city hosts one of the oldest and most vibrant farmers' markets in the country. Visitors can explore a wide variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products.

Healing and Wellness: Santa Fe has long been associated with healing and wellness practices. The city is home to various spas, wellness centers, and spiritual retreats that offer relaxation and rejuvenation.

Santa Fe Festivals: Throughout the year, Santa Fe hosts a range of cultural festivals celebrating everything from music and dance to arts and crafts. The city's lively festival scene adds another layer of excitement to your visit.

Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply immersing yourself in a unique and vibrant culture, Santa Fe offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. 

This guide separated by category will give you options in and around Santa Fe to maximize your time there and give you a taste of it all! 

White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA

Taos, NM, USA

Santa Fe, NM: Best of It All 🌶

This quintessential Southwest town is an underrated destination. Enjoy the local art scene, unique and historic pueblo-style arcitecture, chili-infused food, and mindfully explore the variety of outdoor spaces.

Santa Fe is about a 1 hour drive from Alberqueue with proxity to Southern Colorado, White Sands National Park as well as other spectacular mountainous and lake views.

City Guide: Santa Fe, NM

El Rey Court

Just down Cerrillos Road in Santa Fe — that is, old Route 66 — lies El Rey Court, an iconic adobe roadside motor court originally built in 1936.

Re-imagined + renovated, El Rey provides an inspiring 86 room oasis for the modern traveler. Set on five acres of sprawling old growth gardens, El Rey is a laid back come-as-you-are type of place where everyone is a friend. 

Originally built as a roadside motel in 1936, it’s recently been remodeled into an 86-room hotel and grounds that include a hot tub and pool.

An iconic & stylish adobe roadside motor court perfect for exploring Santa Fe, a budget friendly option! 

A great place to stay in Santa Fe.  Has a little bar and is close to downtown.

El Rey Court

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