laura

We're planning to drive to Santa Fe, spend some time there and then see the pueblos around Bandelier. Is there enough stuff to keep us busy here for 2 days? Afterwards we plan to spend a day in Taos. What are the road conditions in mid-december? In Santa Fe, is it worth the money to try to stay near the Plaza? Or is a motel a couiple of miles away just as accessible to everything? What about Albuquerque? I keep hearing we should just drive through...
thanks!

J T Kirk

Personally, I think you neeed to spend more than 2 says in Santa Fe. Bandelier takes a day. Taos takes a day (I wouldn't stay overnight in Taos -- not if you're staying in Santa Fe.) To me the great thing about Taos is the DRIVE there and back (not to belittle Taos). But the sights you'll see - wow!!! There are some other cliff dwellings outside of Santa Fe which warrant a visit - Puye Cliff. Then, you need time to take in Santa Fe - the art galleries, shops, restaurants.
Albuquerque has some great areas and better prices than Santa Fe, but frankly, Santa Fe is the BEST place to focus your time and money. I like staying outside of town, at either the Bishop's Lodge or Rancho Encantado. But it's all a matter of preference and how much money you're willing to spend on accomodations.
Also, the drive to Santa Fe requires some time if you take the Turquoise Trail - some great places to stop to eat and shop.
Have fun.
If you have any more specific questions, ask away.

ronnie

i was in new mexico a couple of decembers ago. all three of these towns are close enough, i would do it all. go hike into bandelier state park. also, there is a really cool mountain town outside of santa fe called madrid that's worth a stop. personally , taos was my favorite, make sure you take the mountain route from santa fe to taos, not the highway.

Arabella

I agree with those who suggested that you just drive through Albuquerque -- not much there of interest. Have a great trip!

Jan

ABQ is lacking in culture, is aesthetically disappointing and pales in comparison to SF and Taos as a travel destination.
SF is expensive, no doubt.
If you don't require 4-5 star lodging, though, affordable options do exist beyond the Plaza area.

J T Kirk

I failed to answer one of your questions:
Road Conditions.
I've been there twice in the last few years in late December (Christmas to be exact). Both times there was snow on the ground, but the roads were clear. One time, though, it started snowing one night fairly heavily, and it took 'em awhile to clear the roads the next day. So, I'd say it's possible to have bad conditions, but I think it's more likely you'll have good road conditions. Obviously, that changes the higher up you go!

cindy

I'd recommend the St. Francis Hotel in Santa Fe. It's very near the Plaza and the rates are quite reasonable. They have a website (not sure of the address). It's a smallish hotel, but lovely, and the staff are wonderful. I also agree with the poster who suggested you visit Madrid, on the Turquoise Trail - it's a great spot. If you can, go to see Acoma Pueblo (closer to Albuquerque than Santa Fe, if memory serves).