MNtraveler

Greeting, Fodorites. My husband and I will be in Santa Fe September 4-8. We already have our dinner reservations set: Paul's, Santa Cafe, La Casa Sena, and The Shed. Do you have advice on activities while we're in Santa Fe? We're interested in recommendations in two areas: (1) galleries or museums in Santa Fe; (2)areas near Santa Fe for hiking. We are both physically active, so the hiking trail could be challenging. We're not in Santa Fe for long, so we would prefer not to spend much time driving. If there were trails within an hour drive, that would be great. Thanks for your input!

annieladd

Oh, you'll just miss the burning of Zozobro, I think it's September 9, it's quite a sight. I hope you'll consider having lunch or dinner at Geronimo's it really is quite wonderful. Most of the major museums are near the Plaza, but for something a little different on the museum front, you might try the International Folk Art Museum, just a few minutes from the center of town.

Jayne11159

It's hardly a gallery, but the outdoor market just below the opera house has a little bit of everything including Southwestern art. We really enjoyed spending a morning there.

Jayne1973

For hiking, consider Bandalier National Monument. It's an easy drive north of Santa Fe and you can see some great examples of cliff dwellings. Should be beautiful at that time.
Have fun...I am jealous!

obxgirl

I think the best cluster of galleries, maybe 75 or more of the, is up and down Canyon Rd. which is walkable from the Plaza. Stop at Cafe des Artistes for a latte and a pastry for sustenance.

I'll second the motion for the Museum of International Folk Art. If that's your style/interest (it's mine), this place is wonderful.

There are plenty of hiking opportunities within an hour of SF. Bandelier National Monument (45 min away) and Tent Rocks (25 min) are great places. Both are easy hikes terrain wise.

Santa Fe Baldy is another option tho a much more strenuous one. Total distance is (I'm hazy on this) 10 or 12 miles round trip. The views are phenomenal, really spectacular. It's definitely a workout.

BeachGirl247

Hi MNtraveler,
I would walk Canyon Road to visit the many galleries and I second the idea for Geronimo -- its one of our favorites.

Have fun. Its a special place.

MNtraveler

Thanks to all of you for the great advice. I appreciate the input. I think I'll have to try to fit Geronimo into the schedule somewhere - it seems to be on the favorites list for many people! We're looking forward to the trip. Thanks again!