New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle:
A Santa Fe-Based 7-Day Itinerary
Experience the magic of Northern New Mexico with this weeklong adventure exploring the Enchanted Circle’s breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and cultural gems – all while staying in Santa Fe, the City Different.
Day 1
Welcome to Santa Fe – Art, Culture & Cuisine
- Morning: Arrive in Santa Fe and check into your Two Casitas vacation rental near the Plaza. Start your journey at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to admire works inspired by the New Mexico landscape.
- Afternoon: Wander through the Santa Fe Plaza, stopping at historic sites like the Palace of the Governors and browsing local artisan shops. Grab lunch at The Shed for award-winning New Mexican cuisine.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset stroll along Canyon Road, home to over 100 art galleries. End with dinner at Geronimo, a fine-dining favorite in an adobe-style hacienda.
Day 2
Taos via the High Road – Art & Adobe
- Morning: Take the scenic High Road to Taos, stopping in the charming villages of Chimayó (visit the historic Santuario de Chimayó) and Truchas for local art.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Taos and visit the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Grab lunch at Doc Martin’s inside the Taos Inn.
- Evening: Explore the Taos Plaza, then take the Low Road back to Santa Fe along the Rio Grande. Enjoy dinner at Coyote Café.
Day 3
The Enchanted Circle – Mountains & Mining
- Morning: Depart early for a scenic drive around the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. First stop: Angel Fire, where you can visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial or take a short hike.
- Afternoon: Continue to Eagle Nest, a quaint mountain town to have lunch before driving to Red River, a charming ski town with Old West vibes. Enjoy a chairlift ride for panoramic views.
- Evening: Head to Questa, then back to Taos for dinner at Lambert’s of Taos before returning to Santa Fe.
Day 4
Bandelier & Los Alamos – Ancient Cliffs & Science
- Morning: Drive to Bandelier National Monument, where you can hike through Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.
- Afternoon: Visit Los Alamos, the birthplace of the atomic bomb, and tour the Bradbury Science Museum. Stop for lunch at Blue Window Bistro.
- Evening: Return to Santa Fe and relax with a spa session at Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-inspired retreat.
Day 5
Ojo Caliente & Abiquiú – Hot Springs & O’Keeffe Country
- Morning: Head to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs for a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs.
- Afternoon: Drive to Abiquiú, where Georgia O’Keeffe lived. Tour Ghost Ranch, the stunning landscape featured in her paintings. Have lunch at Café Abiquiú.
- Evening: Return to Santa Fe for a laid-back dinner at La Choza for authentic New Mexican fare.
Day 6
Santa Fe Outdoor Adventures & Culture
- Morning: Take a hiking adventure at Dale Ball Trails or go rafting on the Rio Grande.
- Afternoon: Visit Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, an immersive art experience. Lunch at Cowgirl BBQ for a fun, casual vibe.
- Evening: Experience the Santa Fe Opera (seasonal) or a live flamenco show at El Farol
Day 7
Spa, Shopping & Departure
- Morning: Relax at Sunrise Springs Spa or browse The Railyard Arts District for last-minute souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell brunch at Modern General before departing.
As your journey through New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle ends, you’ll leave with lasting memories of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From Santa Fe’s art scene to mountain adventures and ancient pueblos, this trip captures the magic of the Southwest. Until next time, may New Mexico’s enchantment stay with you!
