With its iconic adobe architecture, world-renowned art scene, and high desert landscapes that seem almost cinematic, Santa Fe has a magnetic personality you cannot really replicate anywhere else. Because of its central location, day trips from Santa Fe have never been easier. Whether you are here for the galleries, the food, the history, or the fresh mountain air, the city has a way of turning a simple vacation into something that sticks with you.
Of course, staying in town is its own adventure because there are plenty of things to do in Santa Fe. You can spend your mornings browsing Canyon Road’s famous art galleries, your afternoons exploring the Santa Fe Plaza and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and your evenings enjoying award-winning New Mexican cuisine with a spicy margarita in hand. The city is packed with personality, from centuries-old landmarks to immersive modern experiences like Meow Wolf.
Still, part of what makes “the city different” so special is how quickly you can step outside the immediate area and discover even more of the state. Adding Santa Fe day trips to your itinerary turns a great getaway into a full New Mexico experience, opening the door to dramatic landscapes and charming mountain towns.
Once you return from your day trip, you’ll be ready to unwind and relax. Our Santa Fe, New Mexico Bed and Breakfast offers an elevated lodging experience just steps from downtown, with beautifully designed rooms featuring Native American, classic, and modern art that gives the entire property a curated, gallery-like atmosphere. Add in thoughtful amenities, and you have the kind of stay that enhances every moment of your trip. Whether you are planning things to do near Santa Fe or mapping out places to visit in New Mexico, our Bed and Breakfast sets the tone for an unforgettable escape. Book your stay today!
The Most Amazing Day Trips From Santa Fe
Santa Fe vibrates with creative energy, deep cultural roots, and a version of the Southwest you won’t find anywhere else. From here, you can access a spectrum of nearby treasures that make for perfect day trips from Santa Fe to some of New Mexico’s most compelling attractions.
Here are the top 9 day trips from Santa Fe, along with the approximate travel time.
Los Alamos- 45 minutes
Los Alamos is one of the most fascinating places to visit in New Mexico, especially if you love science, history, and unexpected stories. Start at the Bradbury Science Museum, where you can learn about the Manhattan Project through interactive exhibits. After that, walk around the historic downtown area and check out the Los Alamos History Museum for more context. For a scenic break, head to White Rock Overlook Park, where the views over the Rio Grande are incredible. If you have time, there are also nearby hiking trails that give you a taste of the region’s rugged beauty.
Bandelier National Monument- 1 hour
One of the most extraordinary New Mexico attractions, Bandelier National Monument, is close enough to make for a relaxed day that leaves some room for other things to do in Santa Fe. The main draw is the ancient cliff dwellings and cavates carved into the canyon walls, which you can explore via ladders and short trails. The Main Loop Trail in Frijoles Canyon is the classic route, and it gives you a strong sense of the area’s history. You will also see petroglyphs, stone foundations, and dramatic canyon scenery throughout the walk.
Jemez Springs and Jemez State Monument- 1 hour 20 minutes
Jemez Springs is one of those day trips from Santa Fe that feels like a total reset. The drive alone is gorgeous, with forest views and striking red rock formations along the way. Once you arrive, you can explore Jemez State Monument, which features Pueblo ruins and the remains of a 1600s Spanish mission. After that, spend time wandering through the village, grabbing lunch, and checking out small shops. If you are in the mood for a relaxing afternoon, the area is known for hot springs and scenic nature spots. This is a great choice for couples who want to take their time during their stay.
Turquoise Trail to Albuquerque- 1 hour 20 minutes
If you love a road trip that is packed with stops, the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is one of the most rewarding day trips from Santa Fe. This scenic drive takes you through historic mining towns like Cerrillos and Madrid, both full of personality and local art. Madrid is especially fun for browsing galleries and grabbing lunch in a funky, offbeat setting. You can also stop at Cerrillos Hills State Park for a short hike with wide open views. Once you reach Albuquerque, Old Town is the perfect place to walk around, shop, and explore local museums. The best part is that the route itself is an attraction.
Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument- 1 hour 30 minutes
Tent Rocks is one of the most unique places to visit in New Mexico, thanks to its surreal cone-shaped rock formations. The hiking trails take you through slot canyon terrain and open desert scenery that looks almost unreal in certain lighting. It is a great trip for anyone who wants dramatic landscapes without a super long drive. The best time to go is early morning, especially in warmer months, because the sun can get intense. Not only is this one of the most perfect day trips from Santa Fe for nature lovers, but it’s also an amazing spot for photos.
Taos- 1 hour 35 minutes
Taos is one of the most well-known Santa Fe day trips, and it earns the hype. The town is full of art galleries, stylish boutiques, and a strong creative energy that’s a little different from Santa Fe. A visit to Taos Pueblo is a must if you want to experience one of the most important cultural landmarks in the region. Afterwards, spend time around Taos Plaza and check out local museums like the Harwood Museum of Art. When you’re almost ready to head back to Santa Fe, drive about 10 minutes further north on US 64 to see the jaw-dropping Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. The views are dramatic, with the river cutting deep through the canyon far below.
Abiquiú and Ghost Ranch- 1 hour 40 minutes
Abiquiú is one of the most popular day trips from Santa Fe, especially for travelers who love art, desert landscapes, and New Mexico history. Many people come here because of Georgia O’Keeffe, and visiting the area helps you understand why she was so inspired by the land. Ghost Ranch is the star of the show, with bold red rock formations and wide open cinematic skies. You can take a scenic drive, hike a trail, or join a guided tour if you want deeper insight into the region. It is a fantastic destination for photographers, especially in the afternoon light.
Valles Caldera National Preserve- 1 hour 50 minutes
Valles Caldera is a dream day trip for couples who like to get outside. The preserve sits inside an ancient volcanic crater, and the landscape is full of open meadows, forested hills, and sweeping mountain views. You can drive through the preserve, hike trails, or simply pull over and enjoy the scenery. Wildlife spotting is a major highlight here, and elk sightings are common in certain seasons. Bring binoculars if you have them, because the views are wide and the wildlife can be far off. This is one of the most peaceful day trips from Santa Fe when you want space and fresh air.
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge- 2 hours
Bosque del Apache is one of the best day trips from Santa Fe if you want to experience New Mexico’s wild side. The refuge is famous for birdwatching, especially in fall and winter when cranes and geese fill the skies. Even if you are not a serious birdwatcher, the scenery is beautiful, and the landscape is expansive and dramatic. You can drive the refuge loop, stop at viewing areas, and take short walking trails through wetlands and cottonwoods. Bring your binoculars and your camera. Early morning is the best time to go, because the light is stunning and the wildlife is most active. This is easily one of the most underrated experiences in the state.
From ancient ruins and mountain towns to dramatic desert landscapes, these destinations highlight the best day trips from Santa Fe. It’s easy to turn one getaway into a full New Mexico adventure.
Stay at the Best Santa Fe, New Mexico Bed and Breakfast
After a full day of exploring the best day trips from Santa Fe, come back to our Santa Fe, New Mexico Bed and Breakfast for a restful evening in one of our six elegant guest suites. Mornings start with a homemade breakfast to help get you ready for the day, whether you are heading out to explore New Mexico attractions or staying in town for gallery hopping and Plaza strolling.
What truly makes our Santa Fe, New Mexico Bed and Breakfast the ultimate getaway is our refreshingly warm and attentive hospitality. We are pet-friendly, so your four-legged travel buddy can be part of the adventure too, and we love helping guests discover the best things to do in New Mexico based on what they actually enjoy. Whether you want restaurant recommendations, hidden gems, or help planning day trips from Santa Fe, we pay attention to the details that make your trip special. Book your getaway today!
