The Edit: Santa Fe, New Mexico family vacation guide from a retired Air Force family of four who based themselves in Santa Fe during a Trusted Housesitters house sit, with a points stay at Hyatt Place Santa Fe and a separate stay at Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa near Albuquerque. Covers things to do in Santa Fe with kids: Meow Wolf immersive art (ask for the military discount), Origami in the Garden metal sculptures (free entry), the historic adobe downtown and Santa Fe Plaza, Loretto Chapel and its Miraculous Staircase, the Railyard Arts District and farmers market, Canyon Road galleries, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Museum Hill, the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, the Sky Railway train ride, the Canyon Road Farolito Walk at Christmas and the Santa Fe Opera in summer. Day trips and nearby parks with distances from Santa Fe: Pecos National Historical Park (17 miles), Bandelier National Monument (45 miles), Valles Caldera National Preserve (60 miles), Chaco Culture (130 miles), Aztec Ruins (170 miles), White Sands National Park (225 miles, with its own October hot air balloon festival), Great Sand Dunes (230 miles), Carlsbad Caverns (270 miles) and Roswell. Military members, veterans and people with disabilities qualify for free national park passes. Where to stay: Hyatt Place Santa Fe (free breakfast, sofa bed rooms), Hyatt Regency Tamaya, La Fonda on the Plaza, Inn and Spa at Loretto, Eldorado Hotel and Spa, Drury Plaza, Hotel Santa Fe, Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, The Lodge at Santa Fe and Four Seasons Rancho Encantado. Where to eat: Kakawa Chocolate House (sample before you buy a flight), The Pantry, Sazon for a mole flight on a special night, plus Tune-Up Cafe, Harry’s Roadhouse, Clafoutis, Cowgirl BBQ, Shake Foundation and Dion’s. Practical: 7,200 foot altitude so take day one slow, fly into Albuquerque (ABQ) about an hour away, downtown parking is tight, and October is the best month to visit because it pairs with the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

At a Glance

Santa Fe New Mexico	Details
Destination	Santa Fe, New Mexico (the City Different)
Who this is for	Families with kids, art and history lovers, October balloon fiesta travelers
Our trip	Several days based in Santa Fe during a house sit, family of four, two daughters
Where we stayed	Hyatt Place Santa Fe on points, plus Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa
Do this first	Meow Wolf, then walk the Plaza and Loretto Chapel
Best free stop	Origami in the Garden
Best day trip	White Sands National Park during its October balloon festival
Kid favorite	Meow Wolf
Eat here	Kakawa Chocolate House, The Pantry, Sazon (date night)
Watch out for	7,200 ft altitude, downtown parking, Kakawa chocolate is intense so sample first

If you’re dreaming of a family-friendly destination that’s rich in culture, art, and outdoor exploration, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a great place to be.

In our family travel guide to the “City Different,” we’ll take you on a journey through enchanting art installations, historic streets, mysterious staircases, and beautiful scenery. October is the best time of year to visit Santa Fe especially if you’re already planning a trip to Albuquerque for the hot air balloons. Plus, we’ll dish out some top-notch dining recommendations. Santa Fe New Mexico is a great location for a family vacation with plenty to do and check out.

Things to Do in Santa Fe with Kids

Santa Fe Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf is a perfect place to check out for the whole family. Here you’ll immerse yourself in the surreal and interactive art experience Meow Wolf offers. *If you’re military affiliated don’t forget to ask for the discount.

Origami in the Garden

Explore the beautiful metal origami sculptures at Origami in the Garden, offering nature lovers an interesting was to experience art. It’s free entry and delightful Instagram opportunities with a short walk around the property to see the beautiful views of all the different statues.

Historic Downtown Area

Stroll through the historic downtown area of Santa Fe, featuring many charming adobe buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll love the vibrant colors and beautiful space each artist showcases.

Loretto Chapel and the Miraculous Staircase

Visit the Loretto Chapel to witness the famous “Miraculous Staircase,” a mysterious spiral staircase with no visible means of support is so worth seeing. It’s a short experience but after you can walk the shops of local venders that align the streets.

Santa Fe Railyard Arts District

Visit the Santa Fe Railyard, a cultural hub with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the lively Farmers Market. Also consider doing a 3-Hour Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Plaza

Explore the heart of Santa Fe at the Santa Fe Plaza, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and often hosting events and performances. There is a scenic byway across from here that has an almost secret entrance in the garden. It’s really beautiful and is worth seeing.

More things to check out in Northern New Mexico of Santa Fe

Here are a few more attractions worth considering during your stay in Santa Fe. While we were initially interested in the Skyrailway Train ride, having recently experienced the Royal Gorge Train ride in Colorado, we opted to skip the train ride on this visit to Santa Fe. Definitely look into it as they have so many options for a ride and it looks fun!

1. Skyrailway Train Ride: Take a scenic train ride with Skyrailway to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Santa Fe.
2. Georgia O’Keefe Museum: Discover the world of iconic American artist Georgia O’Keeffe at her museum, featuring a remarkable collection of her works.
3. Canyon Road: Explore the Canyon Road Arts District, lined with galleries and studios showcasing the works of local artists.
4. Santa Fe Botanical Garden: Enjoy the natural beauty of the high desert at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, featuring a variety of gardens and walking paths.
5. Museum Hill: Immerse yourself in culture on Museum Hill, home to several museums, including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Wheelwright Museum of Indian Arts.
6. Canyon Road Farolito Walk: If you’re visiting during the holiday season, experience the magical Canyon Road Farolito Walk when thousands of luminarias light up the street.
7. Santa Fe Opera House: If you visit during the summer, catch a performance at the Santa Fe Opera, known for its stunning outdoor stage and world-class productions.
8. New Mexico History Museum: Learn about the rich history of New Mexico at the New Mexico Museum of Art, featuring exhibits and artifacts that tell the state’s story and national historic landmark.
9. A Walking Tour of Santa Fe’s Most Beautiful and Historic Sites: Whether it’s your first time in Santa Fe or you’d like to delve deeper into the city’s history and legends, make the most out of your time on a private walking tour of must-see highlights plus hidden corners. Learn fascinating trivia and stories as you wander cobblestone streets and colorful alleyways that wind through the downtown plaza area and beyond.

Santa Fe offers a blend of art, culture, natural beauty, and now, a scenic train ride with Skyrailway, making it an exciting destination with something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to just drive around the historic neighborhoods too. The doors of the adobe homes are Art in themselves too.

Things to Do in Santa Fe in October

October is the best time of year to visit Santa Fe, and this is how we would spend it. Save a day for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, about an hour south. We have been several times and it never gets old. If you want something smaller and more relaxed, White Sands National Park hosts its own balloon festival in October too. That was one of our day trips from Santa Fe, and the kids can sled down the dunes and run around freely while the balloons go up. Back in town, fall is a great time to do the walking parts of this list: Meow Wolf, the Plaza, the Miraculous Staircase at Loretto Chapel, the Railyard farmers market and the galleries on Canyon Road. Pack layers for the cooler mornings and evenings, since Santa Fe sits at about 7,200 feet.

Take a day trip from Santa Fe

We took 2 Day Trips from Santa Fe. One was to the White Sands National Park to check out their balloon fiesta. We have been to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta several times and had no idea that there was one hosted at White Sands. It was beautiful an we’re glad we went. The sunrises are pretty epic. The second-day trip was to Roswell. We wanted to get our Alien fix because… why not?!

What to See in Santa Fe with Kids

Check out a nearby National Park or National Monument

While there aren’t any national parks directly in Santa Fe, there are several national parks and monuments within a reasonable driving distance.

Bandelier National Monument

Located about 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Santa Fe, this monument features ancient pueblo dwellings, petroglyphs, and beautiful hiking trails. It’s a fascinating archaeological site.

White Sands National Park

Located approximately 225 miles (362 kilometers) from Santa Fe, White Sands boasts stunning gypsum sand dunes, making it a must-see destination for its unique and captivating natural beauty. In october they host their own balloon festival. If you’re interested in checking this out it’s definetly worth is! It’s such a unique opportunity to get to experience compared to the Albuquerque one. The kids can sled down sand dunes and just run around freely and it’s just more intimate!

Here’s a list of national parks and monuments near Santa Fe, New Mexico, that you might also be interested in wanting to visit:

1. Pecos National Historical Park: Just a short drive (about 17 miles or 27 kilometers) from Santa Fe, this park preserves the ruins of Pecos Pueblo and the Spanish mission church. It offers a glimpse into the history of Native American and Spanish cultures.
2. Valles Caldera National Preserve: Approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) from Santa Fe, this unique preserve is situated within a massive volcanic caldera. It’s known for its scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities.
3. Aztec Ruins National Monument: While a bit farther away (about 170 miles or 274 kilometers), this monument in Aztec, New Mexico, showcases well-preserved ancestral Pueblo structures, including a large great house.
4. Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Located about 130 miles (209 kilometers) from Santa Fe, Chaco Canyon is famous for its ancient Puebloan ruins and is renowned as an International Dark Sky Park, making it ideal for stargazing.
5. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: A bit of a longer drive (about 230 miles or 370 kilometers), this park is located in Colorado. It’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and offers opportunities for sand sledding and hiking.
6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park: While it’s a more extensive road trip (around 270 miles or 435 kilometers), Carlsbad Caverns is known for its stunning underground caves and is well worth the visit.

Pro Tip: If you’re affiliated with the Military (Active Duty, Retired or a Veteran) or if you have a disability consider looking into the free park passes. You’ll save a good amount of money.

Santa Fe Hotels to Stay at on your family vacation

Hyatt Place Santa Fe

We arrived in Santa Fe a day ahead of our house-sitting assignment with Trusted House Sitters and opted to stay at the Hyatt Place Santa Fe, courtesy of our credit card points that covered our stay. Our Santa Fe – Stay experience here was great as usual. Hyatt Place accommodations typically provide ample space for our family, featuring options like a pull-out sofa bed with two queens or a king-sized bed. With the added perk of breakfast included, Hyatt Place usually gives us the best value for our point redemptions when available in the area. This hotel offers cozy rooms and is particularly well-suited for families.

The Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

While the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa is not located in Santa Fe it is close enough if you’re planning a day visit here. The resort shows of it’s beauty in the land of enchantment. Our stay was a delightful blend of poolside fun, outdoor adventures, and cozy evenings by the firepit making s’mores. And their onsite restaurant is pretty good too. It’s a resort that combines relaxation and excitement effortlessly, making it perfect for a family stay. Read more about our stay HERE.

Here’s a list of some more of the top family and kid-friendly hotels to consider when staying in Santa Fe:

1. La Fonda on the Plaza: This historic hotel, located right on the Santa Fe Plaza, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families. Kids will love the unique Southwestern decor and the central location for exploring the city.
2. Inn and Spa at Loretto: Nestled in the heart of Santa Fe, this charming hotel offers family-friendly accommodations and is within walking distance of many attractions. The outdoor pool and beautiful surroundings make it a great choice for families.
3. Eldorado Hotel & Spa: With its spacious rooms and convenient location, the Eldorado is a great pick for families. The hotel also has a rooftop pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
4. Drury Plaza Hotel: Known for its complimentary hot breakfast and evening snacks, this hotel is a hit with families. The rooftop pool and hot tub provide fantastic views of Santa Fe.
5. Hotel Santa Fe: Embrace the Southwestern charm at this family-friendly hotel. They offer family suites and are located near the Railyard Arts District, perfect for exploring with kids.
6. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Fe: A reliable choice for families, the Courtyard offers spacious rooms and an outdoor patio with a fire pit. It’s a great spot for relaxation.
7. Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza: Situated just a block from the Santa Fe Plaza, this Hilton hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is within walking distance of many attractions.
8. The Lodge at Santa Fe: With its cozy, lodge-inspired decor, this hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere. The outdoor pool and easy access to hiking trails make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe: If you’re looking for a luxury family retreat, this Four Seasons property delivers. They offer family-friendly amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

These family and kid-friendly hotels in Santa Fe provide a range of options, from historic charm to modern comfort, ensuring that your family has a pleasant and enjoyable stay in the city.

Santa Fe Restaurants to Eat at in Santa Fe

Kakawa Chocolate House

When we rolled into Santa Fe, Kakawa Chocolate House was high on our local must-try list, especially with the girls & their friends. I was just about to go all-in on a hot cocoa flight for everyone, but I’m super glad we didn’t do that!! Their chocolate is seriously decadent, packing a flavor punch that’ll wake up your taste buds. Turns out, we all had a soft spot for the good ol’ American option. The cool part here is that they hook you up with a sample before you buy, so my tip is to definitely sample first before you go cocoa crazy – trust me on this one! ??‍?‍?‍?☕

The Pantry Rio Restaurant

A Santa Fe institution. The Pantry serves up hearty New Mexican cuisine, including breakfast all day, and offers a welcoming atmosphere for families.

These family-friendly restaurants in Santa Fe provide a range of cuisine options and welcoming atmospheres to ensure a great dining experience for you and your kids during your visit. ???

1. Tune-Up Cafe: A local favorite, Tune-Up Cafe serves up delicious and diverse dishes with a kid-friendly menu that includes classics like quesadillas and burgers.
2. Harry’s Roadhouse: This colorful and eclectic spot offers a wide range of comfort food options, including breakfast favorites, making it a hit with families.
3. Clafoutis: Known for its delectable pastries and breakfast items, Clafoutis is a charming French bakery and cafe where both kids and adults can enjoy a sweet treat.
4. Bumble Bee’s Baja Grill: If your family loves Mexican and Southwestern flavors, Bumble Bee’s offers tasty tacos and burritos in a casual setting.
5. Casa Chimayo Restaurante: This family-friendly restaurant serves up authentic New Mexican dishes, and they even have a dedicated kids’ menu.
6. Santa Fe Bite: Known for their green chile cheeseburgers, Santa Fe Bite is a laid-back spot that offers a selection of tasty burgers and sandwiches for both parents and kids.
7. Cowgirl BBQ: With a Western vibe and a kids’ menu, Cowgirl BBQ offers barbecue classics and live music on certain nights, creating a fun atmosphere for families.
8. Shake Foundation: For a quick and satisfying meal, Shake Foundation offers delicious burgers and shakes, perfect for kids and adults alike.
9. Back Road Pizza: Pizza is always a hit with families, and Back Road Pizza offers a variety of pies, including options for dietary preferences.
10. Dion’s Pizza: with its tasty pies and family-friendly vibe, is a top choice for a delicious and kid-approved meal in Santa Fe. Try the 505 if you’re into green chili & don’t forget the ranch.

Sazón: New world Cuisine – Mezcaleria – Tequileria

We decided to indulge in a special dinner at Sazón restaurant to mark our anniversary. We had heard rave reviews about their exquisite New Mexican Mole dishes, and although it’s a bit pricey, we were thoroughly impressed with their cocktails, appetizers, and soups. What made the dining experience even more unique was their “flight of Moles” concept, where you get to sample various Mole sauces paired with the main dishes you choose. It was a memorable and distinct culinary adventure that added to the charm of Santa Fe.

What to Know

Santa Fe vibes are like a retirement hotspot – you’ll spot lots of seasoned folks around here. ??? but besides that here’s some other information that may help you prepare for your trip:

1. Currency: The currency used in Santa Fe, and throughout the United States, is the United States Dollar (USD). Be sure to have some cash on hand, although credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Language: English is the primary language spoken in Santa Fe. However, you’ll also find that many people are bilingual, with Spanish being a common second language.
3. Altitude: Santa Fe sits at a high altitude of about 7,200 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level. It’s a good idea to take it easy on the first day to acclimate, especially if you’re traveling with young children.
4. Weather: Santa Fe experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Check the weather forecast before packing to ensure you’re prepared for the conditions during your visit.
5. Transportation: Santa Fe has a relatively small airport, Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF), but most travelers arrive via Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about an hour’s drive away. Consider renting a car for easy access to attractions.
6. Parking: Be aware that parking can be challenging in the downtown area, especially during peak tourist seasons. Plan ahead and consider using public transportation or parking garages.
7. Sales Tax: Santa Fe has a combined sales tax rate that can vary, so keep in mind that the prices you see on items may not include taxes. It’s common to add around 8% to your purchase total.
8. Time Zone: Santa Fe follows Mountain Standard Time (MST) during most of the year. However, it observes Daylight Saving Time, so be sure to adjust your clocks accordingly.
9. Reservations: If you plan to dine at popular restaurants or visit popular attractions, making reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is a good idea to avoid long wait times.
10. Local Customs: Santa Fe has a rich cultural heritage, including Native American and Hispanic influences. Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural sensitivity when visiting museums or sacred sites.

These practical tips should help your family have a smooth and enjoyable visit to Santa Fe, New Mexico. If you’re already planning a trip to New Mexico in October to see the Albuquerque balloon fiesta you’ll want to at least reserve a day to visit Santa Fe.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Fe New Mexico

Love this post? Pin it!