The Ultimate 6-day New Mexico Road Trip

Once you arrive in Santa Fe and are settled into your hotel, head to the Santa Fe Teahouse on Canyon Road for a delightful brunch or light bite. This charming café offers a global selection of teas and a menu of healthy, seasonal dishes perfect for a refreshing start to your trip. With its cozy ambiance and peaceful garden patio, it's an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the local art district atmosphere.

Next, take a leisurely walk along Canyon Road and explore the numerous art galleries, immersing yourself in the vibrant creative scene for which Santa Fe is known. This could take a few hours as you browse local and international art in every medium. Afterward, stroll around downtown and stop by the Apothecary Lounge for unique kava drinks, a relaxing way to recharge after your gallery tour.

End your day with a delicious dinner at Izanami, a Japanese-inspired restaurant offering small plates and an extensive sake list.

On your second day in Santa Fe, start with a scenic 30-minute drive to Pecos National Historical Park. This expansive site offers a glimpse into the region's Native American history, as well as its complicated Spanish colonial past, with well-preserved Pueblo ruins and historic mission churches. You can enjoy a peaceful hike through the park’s trails, which offer breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, while exploring the cultural and historical significance of the area.

After your day of exploration, return to Santa Fe and head to Coyote Rooftop, a popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views. Enjoy sunset drinks as you take in the sweeping vistas of the city and surrounding mountains. To finish off the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at Paloma, a modern Mexican restaurant that offers inventive dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, alongside creative cocktails and a warm, inviting ambiance.

On your third day in Santa Fe, start with a visit to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the life and work of one of America's most iconic artists. The museum showcases an extensive collection of O'Keeffe's paintings, sketches and personal items, offering insight into her deep connection with the New Mexico landscape. Spend your morning exploring her distinctive style and influence on American modernism.

Next, grab lunch at the Shake Foundation, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering green chile cheeseburgers, crispy shoestring fries and refreshing milkshakes.

In the late afternoon, head to the Sun Mountain Trail for a scenic sunset hike. This moderate trail, just a few minutes from downtown, offers sweeping views of Santa Fe, the Rio Grande Valley and the surrounding mountains. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas, making it an ideal place to catch the sunset.

On your fourth day, it's time to hit the road and experience more of New Mexico’s natural beauty. Start your journey north to Taos, but make sure to stop at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs for a rejuvenating break. Purchase a day pass to enjoy their famous natural hot springs, known for their healing properties and beautiful desert surroundings. With a variety of pools, including iron, arsenic and soda springs, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The facility also offers showers, bathrooms and lockers for your convenience, allowing you to refresh before continuing your drive.

After a few hours of blissful relaxation, continue on the scenic drive to Taos. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and settle in before heading into Taos’ charming downtown. For dinner, I recommend dining at The Love Apple, a beloved local restaurant housed in a historic chapel. This farm-to-table gem offers a menu rich with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, featuring delicious New Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

On your fifth day and first full day in Taos, begin by immersing yourself in the rich cultural history of the area with a visit to the Taos Pueblo. This UNESCO World Heritage site, continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years, offers a unique look into Native American life and traditions. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history, architecture and community of the pueblo, and don’t forget to explore the local artisans' shops for authentic handmade crafts. Don't forget to try the fresh and delicious fry bread!

Afterward, make your way to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a stunning marvel of engineering with breathtaking views of the deep canyon carved by the Rio Grande River. Enjoy a peaceful hike along the rim for spectacular vantage points and photo opportunities, while taking in the expansive beauty of the gorge and the surrounding high desert landscape.

In the afternoon, head back into Taos and explore the eclectic shops and galleries in the downtown area. You'll find everything from fine art to quirky souvenirs, perfect for taking home a piece of Taos with you. For a relaxing break, stop by Parcht Wine Bar, where you can sip on a selection of fine wines or craft beers while enjoying live music in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.

Finish your day with dinner at Doc Martin’s, a local favorite located inside the historic Taos Inn. Known for its inventive take on classic New Mexican cuisine, Doc Martin’s offers a delicious menu featuring farm-to-table ingredients and regional flavors, making it the perfect spot to end your day of exploration in Taos.

On your last day of the road trip, embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive north to Abiquiu for a day trip to the iconic Ghost Ranch, former home and inspiration of renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe. The drive itself is a visual treat, with stunning views of the dramatic rock formations and colorful mesas that define northern New Mexico’s landscape.

Upon arriving at Ghost Ranch, take some time to explore the Visitor Center and learn more about O’Keeffe’s life and how the striking surroundings influenced much of her work. Next, lace up your hiking boots for one of the trails on the ranch’s grounds. The Chimney Rock Trail is a popular choice, offering a moderate hike with breathtaking panoramic views of red rock cliffs, desert plateaus and distant mountains. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by the very landscapes O'Keeffe immortalized in her paintings, creating a serene, almost otherworldly experience.

After your hike, take some time to explore the grounds, which offer more insight into the region’s geology, paleontology and cultural history. You can even visit the area where O’Keeffe’s home is located, though the house itself is not open to the public. As your day winds down, enjoy one last look at the rugged beauty of the area before making your way back to Taos.