Ranked the Number 1 Best Small City in America by Condé Nast Traveler this summer, Santa Fe is gaining recognition as a destination city. Sure, there’s plenty to do here in Sante Fe, but what about those who want to get out and see what else is out there? At first glance, distances in the Southwest can seem daunting, but there’s plenty to see just on Santa Fe’s doorstep! Here are the top 10 day trips from Santa Fe:
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Ojo Caliente – One of the oldest spa resorts in the US, this luxury getaway offers an escape like none other. With an array of amenities and services, including 4 different mineral baths, biking trails, traditional spa treatments and on-site dining, you may never want to leave! Distance from Santa Fe: 50 miles
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High Road to Taos – Getting its name from cutting through the mountains, the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos is a driving tour through some of the best of what New Mexico has to offer. Passing through sites like the Sanctuario de Chimayo and ending in the city of Taos, plan for more time to traverse this scenic byway so you can stop and enjoy the sites along the way! Distance from Santa Fe: 56 Miles
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Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks – Meaning “White Cliffs” in the traditional Keresan language of the pueblo, the tent rocks, or “hoodoos,” were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Now a national monument, the site is full of these geological wonders! Enjoy your day walking on the miles of trails and keep an eye out for variety of birds that call Kasha-Katuwe home. Distance from Santa Fe: 41 miles
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Turquoise Trail – Take a detour onto this nationally recognized Scenic Byway between Santa Fe and Albuquerque and enjoy the 50+ miles of arts, crafts, museums and restaurants. The trail is named after the gemstone mined in this area for over a thousand years. From breathtaking views from the Sandia Crest and through historic mining towns, a day spent on the Turquoise Trail will surely inspire you with the best of New Mexico. Distance from Santa Fe: 62 miles
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Bandelier National Monument – Experience some of New Mexico’s oldest history at Bandelier National Monument, a park with over 33,000 acres of canyon and mesa landscape. Home to several sites of human history spanning over 10,000 years, the ancient Puebloan people permanently settled here by forming cave dwellings in the soft rock cliffs. Bring your bikes to see more of the site and the gorgeous views of the Rio Grande. Distance from Santa Fe: 44 miles
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Ghost Ranch – Part retreat, part education center, part museum, Ghost Ranch is an escape for the brain and the body. A favorite place of Georgia O’Keefe, she spent many summers exploring and painting the landscapes around Ghost Ranch. Visit both of their history museums of Paleontology or Anthropology. With different activities each day of the week, your day pass grants you access to a variety of activities from archery to rock climbing to day hikes and history tours. Distance from Santa Fe: 62 miles
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Los Alamos – Visit one of the most storied cities in American history. Not just the center of the Manhattan Project, Los Alamos is home to lots of New Mexico History. The city has created a walking tour to showcase the architectural highlights of downtown Los Alamos. Starting at the Los Alamos Historical Museum and getting an introduction to the history of the area, you will traverse the city and the decades and learn more about some of the more recent history of New Mexico. Distance from Santa Fe: 34 miles
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Nambé Pueblo & Falls – Located on the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Nambé Pueblo is one of the “Eight Northern Pueblos” of New Mexico and is home to Nambé Falls, known to be one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area. While visiting the Pueblo is restricted during certain times of the year, as it is still an active Pueblo community, the falls and 20,000 acres of high desert landscape are open year-round. Distance From Santa Fe: 25 miles
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Pecos National Park – Bring your family to visit the ruins of this ancient Pueblo. With easy walking trails and activities for children, this national park caters to families. Enjoy the vistors; center with historical displays and rangers to answer your questions then venture out into the park and through a civil war battlefield. A great place to bring kids to learn about nature and history! Distance from Santa Fe: 31 miles
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Taos – While it’s worth more than a day trip, the city of Taos is a must-see if you’re in Santa Fe, no matter the season. Famous for its artists, heritage and skiing in the winter, Taos also offers many year-round attractions. One of the best ways to see the city, however, is with a walking tour. Learn more about the “Wild West” on the city’s Hauntings, Hangings, Murders and Mayhem Tour – particularly appropriate for this time of year! Distance from Santa Fe: 70 miles