A Long Weekend in Santa Fe: 3-day Itinerary

Written By Cassandra

Experience the Ultimate Southwestern Escape in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is the perfect destination for a long weekend filled with art, culture, relaxation, and adventure. As the oldest capital city in the U.S., Santa Fe invites you to explore its rich past, from the iconic adobe buildings to the lively Plaza that has been the heart of the city since the 1600s. Beyond its history, you’ll find a thriving creative scene—wander through the world-class galleries on Canyon Road, get lost in the immersive art of Meow Wolf, or savor the bold flavors of authentic Southwestern cuisine (you can’t leave without trying something smothered in green chile!). Whether you’re hiking the stunning trails of Bandelier National Monument, unwinding at the serene Ojo Santa Fe spa, or toasting with a margarita under a dreamy desert sunset, you’ll experience the ultimate blend of adventure, relaxation, and artistic inspiration in Santa Fe. The perfect long weekend here balances history, indulgence, and outdoor beauty while giving you time to soak in the enchanting atmosphere of The City Different.

Getting There & Transportation

The Most Convenient: Fly into Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) – a small airport with limited service

Recommended: Fly Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) – about an hour’s drive from Santa Fe

Rental Car: We recommend you rent a car regardless of your choice of airport to really explore the city, but rideshare services are available

Thursday: Arrival & Sunset Cocktails

Afternoon

  • Arrive at Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) or drive in from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

  • Pick up your rental car and head to your hotel to check in

Recommended Hotels

  1. Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort – A luxurious wellness retreat with natural hot spring pools and serene accommodations ($200+ Average Nightly Rate)

  2. Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi – A chic, Southwestern-inspired hotel steps from the Plaza ($400+ Average Nightly Rate)

  3. Inn of the Five Graces – An opulent boutique hotel with eclectic, handcrafted decor in the heart of downtown ($700+ Average Nightly Rate)

Evening

  • Sunset Cocktails at La Reina – A stylish mezcal and tequila bar at El Rey Court

  • Dinner at Geronimo – One of Santa Fe’s most iconic fine dining spots, located in a 1756 adobe house on Canyon Road (try the elk tenderloin!); Reservation recommended

Friday: Art, History & the Santa Fe Sky Railway

Morning

  • Breakfast at Dolina Café & Bakery – A charming spot with Slovak-inspired pastries and excellent coffee

  • Explore Canyon Road – Stroll through over 100 art galleries featuring Southwestern, contemporary, and Native American art

  • Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum – See works by the legendary artist inspired by New Mexico’s landscapes

Afternoon

  • Lunch at The Shed – Famous for its blue corn enchiladas and red chile sauce

  • Relaxation or Shopping – Browse Santa Fe Plaza’s boutiques, including Native American jewelry at Santa Fe Indian Market stalls

  • Santa Fe Sky Railway Experience – Board the vintage train for a scenic ride through the high desert, often with live music and themed events

Evening

  • Casual Drinks at La Boca – A lively tapas bar with great wines and Spanish-inspired small plates

  • Dinner at Coyote Café – A contemporary twist on Southwestern cuisine with a rooftop cantina option; Reservations recommended

Saturday: Adventure & Spa Day

Morning

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride – Float over the breathtaking New Mexico landscape with a sunrise flight

  • Breakfast at The Pantry – A local institution serving classic New Mexican breakfasts

Afternoon

  • Relax at Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort – This spa is a must-visit, and welcomes non-resort guests. Soak in thermal pools, get a spa treatment, or lounge in nature.

  • Light Lunch at the Spa – Enjoy a fresh, nourishing meal at the on-site Blue Heron Restaurant

Evening

  • Dinner at Sazón – Upscale Mexican cuisine featuring house-made mole and an intimate atmosphere

  • Nightcap at Secreto Lounge – A craft cocktail bar known for its smoked sage margaritas

Sunday: Brunch & Departure

Morning

  • Brunch at Café Pasqual’s – A beloved Santa Fe spot for organic, locally inspired dishes (reservations recommended!)

  • Visit the Loretto Chapel – Home of the famous "miraculous staircase" with a mysterious origin

  • Last-Minute Shopping – Stop by the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market or browse local artisan shops

Afternoon

  • Drive Back to Albuquerque or Depart from Santa Fe

Know Before You Go

Weather

Cassandra