A Santa Fe summer is never short on inspiration, and Part 3 of our summer bucket list keeps that Santa Fe magic going. From lively alfresco events to tucked-away treasures that feel like your own discovery, this chapter is bursting with new ways to soak up the culture and joyful spirit of the city.
Embark on a Culinary Adventure
Food isn’t just a meal here; it’s a celebration. Santa Fe brings dishes that dance across farmers’ markets, cafés, and festive dining spots. A Santa Fe food tour offers a chance to dive into red chile, blue corn specialties, and savory tamales all in one afternoon. You’ll meet passionate chefs, hear stories behind every bite, and uncover menu gems locals can’t stop raving about.
Craving a lively night out? Boxcar Bar & Grill is a favorite for a reason. With a full bar, hearty dishes, and live music, it’s an easy 15-minute walk from our inn. For a vibrant vibe right in La Fonda on the Plaza, head to La Fiesta Lounge. It’s just a 15-minute walk where the full bar and regular live performances keep the energy high. If you’re ready for more adventure, El Farol on Canyon Road serves up tapas alongside flamenco dancers and musicians. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Inn. Their dinner during the flamenco shows is a must, by reservation only. If casual barbecue is more your speed, make your way to Cowgirl BBQ at the Railyard. It’s about a 20-minute walk and serves classic fare and toe-tapping tunes.
Wander Through Parks & Gardens
Santa Fe fun isn’t only about museums and markets. Sometimes, the best way to feel the city is to slow down and breathe it in. One of the top must-see gardens is the Santa Fe Botanical Garden at Museum Hill. It has three main sections and a diverse collection of plants from New Mexico and around the world, including native wildflowers, medicinal plants, and a stunning rose collection.
Railyard Park is located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe and features a large open green space, a community garden, and several walking paths and seating areas. The park is a popular spot for outdoor concerts and events, and is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sun. You’ll also find yourself near some of the city’s best breweries.
If you’re ready to stretch your legs a little farther, Hyde Memorial State Park, New Mexico’s first State Park, awaits. Just a 10-minute drive from the Inn of the Turquoise Bear, it offers cool pine forests, picnic-perfect meadows, and trails to explore.
For those who love wide-open spaces, the Santa Fe National Forest is a dream come true. Covering over 1.5 million acres, it invites mountain lovers to hike, picnic, or breathe in the New Mexico air.
Experience More of the Santa Fe Bucket List
No Santa Fe summer is complete without a summer bucket list. The plaza buzzes with local markets, street food, art galleries, and shops that reflect the region’s traditions. These experiences are just a few highlights you might add to your Santa Fe bucket list.
And it’s not just the events that stay with you. It’s how you spend your summer in Santa Fe, which means embracing an exciting and welcoming rhythm.
A Santa Fe summer isn’t just a season. It’s a feeling you’ll carry long after you leave. Adventure waits down every street, around every corner, and in every warm smile. Your next favorite memory is closer than you think — maybe just a short walk away. Book today!
Have you read:
Santa Fe Summer Bucket List | Part 1
Santa Fe Summer Bucket List | Part 2
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