An Insider's Guide to “The City Different”

My favorite things to do in Santa Fe

• Immerse yourself in the Santa Fe Plaza & surrounding streets: This is the beating heart of the city. While seemingly obvious, the true insider move is to explore the side streets, like San Francisco Street and Lincoln Avenue, for unique boutiques, historic buildings, and unexpected courtyards. It’s also often alive with local musicians playing Native American flutes, Spanish guitar, or folk music, adding an incredibly atmospheric soundtrack to your stroll. It’s the perfect place to absorb the city’s pulse and find something new each time.

• Explore Canyon Road: This mile-long stretch is a world-renowned art destination, home to over a hundred galleries, studios, and sculpture gardens nestled in historic adobe buildings. My favorite way to experience it is to take your time, pop into galleries that catch your eye, and definitely explore the hidden courtyards—that’s where some of the real treasures and serene moments are found.

• Hike in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (e.g., Dale Ball Trails or Atalaya Mountain): Just minutes from downtown, you can be immersed in stunning high-desert and mountain landscapes. The Dale Ball Trails offer a fantastic network for all skill levels, while the Atalaya Mountain trail provides a more challenging ascent with incredible panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys. It’s my go-to for clearing my head and connecting with nature.

• Discover the Railyard District: This revitalized area is a vibrant hub combining contemporary art, delicious food, and community spaces. I love visiting the Santa Fe Farmers Market (especially on Saturdays) for local produce and artisan goods, browsing the galleries at SITE Santa Fe, and catching a film at the Violet Crown Cinema, often followed by a meal at one of the fantastic restaurants there.

• Visit Museum Hill: This cluster of world-class museums offers a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Beyond the more prominent ones, exploring the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture or the Museum of International Folk Art provides a unique understanding of New Mexico’s diverse heritage. The views from the hill itself are also spectacular.

• Experience a sunset from a rooftop bar or overlook: Santa Fe sunsets are legendary, painting the sky with an incredible palette of colors against the mountains. My favorite spots include the rooftop bar at the Drury Plaza Hotel for a city view, or simply finding a good vantage point just outside of town. It’s a quintessential Santa Fe experience that always feels magical.

• Indulge in New Mexican cuisine (and don’t forget the chile!): You can’t come to Santa Fe without experiencing its unique culinary heritage. Go beyond the well-known spots and try some of the local favorites, like a humble roadside cafe for breakfast burritos smothered in chile. Explore places specializing in blue corn enchiladas. Always ask “red or green?”—and try both!

Okay, this is one of my favorite topics: Santa Fe’s incredible food and drink scene! Having lived there for so long, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling everything from classic New Mexican comfort food to sophisticated culinary experiences.

Here are eight of my absolute favorite places to eat and drink in Santa Fe, offering a mix of iconic spots and true insider gems:

• The Shed: A Santa Fe institution located just off the Plaza. Known for its vibrant red chile that’s legendary, this is my go-to for classic New Mexican dishes like blue corn enchiladas and burritos, often served in a bustling, colorful adobe setting. Don’t go without trying their famous chile!

Insider tip: Expect a wait, especially for lunch. It’s worth it.

• Cafe Pasqual’s: This is truly a Santa Fe experience, known for its vibrant folk art, communal tables, and incredible organic Southwestern and Mexican breakfasts and lunches. The chile rellenos and breakfast burritos are sublime. Dinner (reservations essential) offers a more intimate, fine-dining experience.

Insider tip: Arrive early for breakfast or lunch to snag a table, as they don’t take reservations during those times.

• Tune-Up Cafe: A true local's spot, tucked away off the main tourist paths. It’s a charming, unpretentious place offering an eclectic mix of delicious Salvadoran and New Mexican comfort food. Their pupusas are a must-try, and their green chile cheeseburger is outstanding.

Insider tip: Great for a relaxed breakfast or lunch, and their coffee is excellent.

• Geronimo: For a special occasion or an exquisite fine-dining experience, Geronimo on Canyon Road is unparalleled. Housed in a beautifully restored 1700s adobe, their “Global Eclectic” cuisine uses local ingredients to create artful and delicious dishes. The atmosphere is sophisticated but still warm.

Insider tip: Reservations are highly recommended, often weeks in advance for prime times.

• Palacio Cafe: Tucked away on Palace Avenue, this spot is a quiet gem for authentic, no-frills New Mexican comfort food, especially for breakfast and lunch. It’s a favorite among locals for its reliable, delicious, and generously portioned classics in a cozy setting.

Insider tip: Their tamales and huevos rancheros are fantastic. A great alternative to the more crowded Plaza spots.

• The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda on the Plaza: While known for its drinks, this is my absolute favorite place for a quintessential Santa Fe sunset experience. Perched on the top of La Fonda, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the city, and the magnificent sunsets. The margaritas are good, but the view is the real star.

Insider tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour before sunset to secure a good spot.

• Horseman’s Haven Cafe: This is a no-frills, cash-only diner that many locals swear by for its incredibly potent and flavorful chile. If you like your New Mexican food authentically spicy, this is the place. It’s an unpretentious, beloved local joint for breakfast and lunch.

Insider tip: Their green chile is exceptionally hot. You’ve been warned (in the best way)!

• Radish & Rye: Specializing in “Farm to Fork Fiesta,” this restaurant offers a fresh, modern American menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a strong emphasis on bourbon and whiskey. The menu is creative and changes seasonally, offering a more contemporary dining experience in a beautiful setting.

Insider tip: Excellent for a more modern take on Southwestern flavors and a great cocktail program.