Nestled in the heart of the Southwest, Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures that make it a fantastic destination for families. From exploring ancient Pueblo sites to indulging in delicious Southwestern cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the City Different. If you’re planning a family trip to Santa Fe, here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit:
Top Family-Friendly Activities in Santa Fe
Explore Meow Wolf
Step into a fantastical world of immersive art and interactive exhibits at Meow Wolf. Kids will love getting lost in the whimsical installations and secret passages. Don’t miss “The House of Eternal Return,” where every corner holds a surprise.
Visit the Santa Fe Children’s Museum
Let your little ones unleash their creativity and curiosity at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, where hands-on exhibits and educational programs abound. From building structures to exploring nature, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained for hours.
Discover the New Mexico Museum of Art
Introduce your kids to the world of art at the New Mexico Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of works from local and international artists. Look out for family-friendly events and workshops designed to spark creativity in young minds.
Stroll around the Historic Plaza
Take a leisurely walk around Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza, where you’ll find street performers, artisan stalls, and charming adobe architecture. Stop by the Palace of the Governors to learn about the city’s rich history and heritage.
Hike at Bandelier National Monument
Embark on a family-friendly hike amidst ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs at Bandelier National Monument, just a short drive from Santa Fe. The Main Loop Trail is perfect for kids, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Ride the Santa Fe Southern Railway
All aboard! Enjoy a scenic train ride through the picturesque landscapes of Santa Fe aboard the Santa Fe Southern Railway. Choose from themed rides like the “Polar Bear Express” or the “Easter Express” for added family fun.
Attend a Native American Dance Performance
Immerse your family in Native American culture by attending a traditional dance performance at one of Santa Fe’s many cultural centers. Learn about the significance of dance in Native American ceremonies and traditions.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience Santa Fe from a bird’s eye view with a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the city and surrounding countryside. Watch the sunrise or sunset from high above as you float serenely through the sky.
Tour the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Introduce your kids to the iconic works of Georgia O’Keeffe, one of America’s most celebrated artists, at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Engage in family-friendly activities like scavenger hunts and art workshops inspired by O’Keeffe’s paintings.
Go Horseback Riding
Saddle up and explore the scenic beauty of Santa Fe on horseback with guided trail rides suitable for all ages and skill levels. Ride through the rugged terrain of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains or opt for a sunset ride through the desert landscape.
Visit the Santa Fe Railyard
Spend an afternoon at the Santa Fe Railyard, where you’ll find art galleries, shops, and delicious dining options housed in historic train buildings. Don’t miss the chance to snap a family photo in front of the iconic water tower.
Experience Native American Culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Learn about the rich heritage and traditions of New Mexico’s Native American tribes at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in nearby Albuquerque. Engage in hands-on activities like pottery making and traditional storytelling.
Go Skiing at Ski Santa Fe
Hit the slopes and enjoy a day of family-friendly skiing and snowboarding at Ski Santa Fe during the winter months. With trails for all skill levels and stunning mountain views, it’s the perfect winter getaway for families.
Attend a Family-Friendly Festival
Keep an eye out for family-friendly festivals and events happening throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. From the Santa Fe Indian Market to the International Folk Art Market, there’s always something exciting happening in Santa Fe.
Visit the Santa Fe Botanical Garden
Explore the beauty of the desert landscape at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, featuring themed gardens, walking trails, and educational programs for kids. Join a guided tour or participate in a family workshop to learn more about the native plants and wildlife of New Mexico.
Try Traditional New Mexican Cuisine
Treat your taste buds to authentic New Mexican cuisine at family-friendly restaurants like The Shed, where you can sample delicious dishes like green chile stew and sopapillas. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and outdoor seating options.
Go Rock Climbing at Diablo Canyon
Thrill-seeking families can test their skills on the rugged cliffs of Diablo Canyon with guided rock climbing adventures suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Safety equipment and instruction are provided for a fun and memorable outdoor experience.
Take a Cooking Class
Get hands-on in the kitchen and learn how to cook traditional Southwestern dishes with a family-friendly cooking class led by local chefs. From making tamales to crafting homemade salsa, it’s a delicious way to bond with your kids and learn about New Mexican cuisine.
Explore the Santa Fe Farmers Market
Browse through a vibrant array of fresh produce, artisanal products, and local crafts at the Santa Fe Farmers Market, held year-round in the Railyard District. Let your kids pick out their favorite fruits and veggies while enjoying live music and street performances.
Go on a Ghost Tour
Embark on a spine-tingling adventure through Santa Fe’s haunted history with a family-friendly ghost tour led by knowledgeable guides. Hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters and visit historic landmarks rumored to be haunted for an unforgettable evening of spooky fun.
Best Restaurants for Kids in Santa Fe
The Shed
Known for its delicious New Mexican cuisine, The Shed offers a kid-friendly menu with options like enchiladas and tacos, served in a casual and lively atmosphere.
Tomasita’s
This family-owned restaurant serves up classic Northern New Mexican dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Don’t miss the sopapillas for dessert!
Clafoutis
Start your day off right with a visit to Clafoutis, a charming French bakery and cafe known for its mouthwatering pastries and breakfast delights. Kids will love the chocolate croissants!
Santa Fe Bite
Craving a juicy burger? Head to Santa Fe Bite for some of the best burgers in town, served alongside crispy fries and thick milkshakes that will satisfy the whole family.
Cafe Pasqual’s
With its colorful decor and eclectic menu featuring organic and locally sourced ingredients, Cafe Pasqual’s is a hit with families looking for healthy and delicious dining options. Try the blue corn pancakes for a taste of Santa Fe’s culinary heritage.
Best Hotels for Families in Santa Fe
La Fonda on the Plaza
Located just steps from the Historic Plaza, La Fonda on the Plaza offers comfortable accommodations and family-friendly amenities, including an outdoor pool and complimentary cookies for kids. The hotel’s vibrant decor reflects Santa Fe’s rich cultural heritage, and families can enjoy exploring nearby attractions such as the Palace of the Governors and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.
Inn of the Governors
This charming hotel combines Southwestern hospitality with modern comforts, making it a favorite among families visiting Santa Fe. Kids will love the complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea served daily in the cozy lobby. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city’s top attractions, including the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Santa Fe Railyard.
Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Treat your family to a luxurious stay at the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, where spacious rooms and upscale amenities ensure a relaxing getaway for parents and kids alike. Take a dip in the rooftop pool while enjoying panoramic views of the city, or indulge in Southwestern cuisine at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, Eldorado Hotel & Spa. The hotel also offers a convenient shuttle service to nearby attractions, including Meow Wolf and the Santa Fe Children’s Museum.
Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe
Situated in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, the Drury Plaza Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool and hot tub. Kids will love the hotel’s complimentary evening snacks and drinks, as well as the free breakfast served daily. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore attractions such as the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Loretto Chapel.
Eldorado Hotel & Spa
Treat your family to a luxurious stay at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa, where spacious rooms and upscale amenities ensure a relaxing getaway for parents and kids alike. Relax and unwind with a treatment at the hotel’s award-winning spa, or take a dip in the outdoor pool overlooking downtown Santa Fe. The hotel also offers family-friendly dining options at its on-site restaurant, Cava Santa Fe Lounge, serving up delicious Southwestern cuisine in a casual setting.
Best Outdoor Activities for Families
Hiking in the Santa Fe National Forest
Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails in the Santa Fe National Forest, where families can explore scenic landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Popular trails include the Winsor Trail to Nambe Lake and the Aspen Vista Trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Exploring the trails at Tent Rocks National Monument
Discover the otherworldly beauty of Tent Rocks National Monument, where families can hike through narrow slot canyons and marvel at towering rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion. The Cave Loop Trail is perfect for families, offering a moderate hike with opportunities to explore hidden caves and rock shelters along the way.
Rafting on the Rio Grande
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, where families can navigate Class II and III rapids amidst breathtaking scenery. Several outfitters in the Santa Fe area offer guided rafting trips suitable for families, providing all the necessary gear and instruction for a safe and memorable adventure on the water.
Picnicking at Hyde Memorial State Park
Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying the great outdoors at Hyde Memorial State Park, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains just a short drive from Santa Fe. Families can relax in the shade of towering pine trees, explore scenic hiking trails, and even try their hand at fishing in the park’s tranquil ponds.
Mountain biking in the Galisteo Basin Preserve
Saddle up and hit the trails at the Galisteo Basin Preserve, where families can enjoy miles of scenic mountain biking routes suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels. The preserve offers a variety of trails ranging from easy loops to more challenging singletracks, providing plenty of opportunities to explore the rugged beauty of the high desert landscape.
Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, sampling delicious Southwestern cuisine, or embarking on outdoor adventures, Santa Fe offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that are sure to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation in the Land of Enchantment!
