Discover the Perfect Day Trip in Santa Fe

Only have time for a day trip in Santa Fe? Not to worry, Inn of the Turquoise Bear is right in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, serving as a private oasis in the midst of all the hustle and bustle. It is the perfect way to see the city’s soul without wasting time on a lengthy commute to popular destinations.

We’re excited to share one of our favorite ways to spend a day in this vibrant city — a day trip themed around the joys of shopping and sipping! Whether you’re a shopaholic, a coffee connoisseur, or a lover of local brews and spirits, Santa Fe offers an array of experiences that will delight your senses.

Keep reading to discover the ideal day trip in Santa Fe — shops and sips galore!

MORNING: Shopping & Coffee (Java, as we call it)

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at the Inn, where we feature locally sourced ingredients and creative recipes that will energize you for a day of exploration. Once you’re fueled up, head out to the Santa Fe Plaza and Railyard District, the heart of the city’s shopping district. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of unique boutiques, art galleries, and local crafts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of New Mexico.

Here is a list of some of our must-stop shops within walking distance of the Inn:

Native American Vendors Program at the Palace of the Governors — The most authentic New Mexican shopping experience you will find. Every day, dozens of Native American artists from around Santa Fe sell their original handcrafted jewelry, sand art, pottery, and other authentic traditional art under the long portal that fronts the Palace of the Governors.
KESHi – The Zuni Collection — The place to go in Santa Fe for Zuni handcrafts with over 500 Pueblo artists showcasing and selling their work. Shop for fetishes (carvings of animals, primarily made from stone), fetish necklaces, contemporary pottery, paintings and Katsina dolls.
Rainbow Man — This shop features authentic Native American, Spanish Colonial, and Hispanic arts and crafts. It is packed with antique, vintage and contemporary jewelry, vintage photography, and textiles. Still, it is mainly known for its Pendleton blankets, antique and vintage tribal jewelry, and gold-tone Native American photos from photographer Edward Curtis.
Doodlet’s — This old-time gift shop is crammed full of unusual gifts that will make any recipient smile! Filled with fun and whimsy, you’ll get lost in the campy, retro, irreverent, and fun merchandise they stock. Psst! This shop is a Turquoise Bear family favorite.
Seret & Sons — This warehouse-style emporium feels like you’ve entered an Asian or Arabian Bazaar. It is filled with art and sculpture, gorgeous Afghan rugs, Tibetan furniture, mirrors, pillows, and large architectural pieces.

As you meander through the charming streets, take your time exploring the handcrafted jewelry, vibrant textiles, and stunning pottery that make Santa Fe’s shopping scene so distinctive. When you’re ready for a break, stop by one of the city’s many cozy cafés for a mid-morning java fix. Whether you prefer a classic latte or a rich espresso, Santa Fe’s coffee culture is sure to impress.

Try these local favorites to sip on a perfect pick-me-up:

Collected Works Bookstore and Coffeehouse — Santa Fe’s favorite independent bookstore is a great place to take a break from your shopping, enjoy a delicious java, and maybe even pick up a new book to read.
Just a short drive from the Inn, it is worth stopping by Java Joes or Iconik Coffee Roasters if you are a coffee connoisseur (or just want a taste of the local beans).
Inn of the Turquoise Bear — Return to the Inn to refresh and recharge with a steaming cup of house-made java.

AFTERNOON: More Shopping, Breweries, & Wineries

With your shopping bags in hand, it’s time to continue your retail therapy into the afternoon. There are many more spots to shop in Santa Fe, just a short drive from the Inn. While in the area, why not take a break and indulge in some of Santa Fe’s finest local brews?

Here is a list of some of our must-stop shops just a short drive from the Inn:

Casa Nova — This colorful world market is incredibly unique, showcasing rich African art as well as other global goods, such as bedding, ceramics, tableware, furniture, decorative cushions, wild and fabulous home accessories, and jewelry.
Teca Tu — This is a must-stop shop for any pet lover, winning the Best of Santa Fe Top 3 award every year since 2004! Your pets will look spiffy in a silver concho collar, hand-knit alpaca sweater, or Vestido coat or vest — all part of their signature line of designer wear.
Museum of International Folk Art — Find folk art from around the world in this unique museum that features accomplished artists from impoverished communities. Shop for colorful pottery, wall art, whimsical figurines, children’s toys, nesting dolls, religious art, and clothing and textiles from around the globe. Plus, the art on exhibit is often made from recycled and found materials!

Colleen Cloney Duncan Museum Shop at the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture — One of the best places in town to buy southwestern gifts and top-quality Native American arts, this museum shop is a must-stop! It features a wide array of contemporary Native arts such as ceramics, sculpture, textiles, stunning hand-crafted jewelry, kachina dolls, works on paper, baskets, and scholarly books on Native cultures.

There are many ways to spend the afternoon in Santa Fe. The city boasts an impressive array of breweries and wineries that offer a taste of the region’s unique flavors. These spots are perfect for relaxing and reflecting on your shopping finds while enjoying the local vibe.

Breweries with a patio view and good food:

More sips of Santa Fe:

Are you looking to have multiple unique sips between each shop? Be sure to explore the famous Santa Fe Margarita Trail for unique sips along 45 different stops throughout the city. You can learn more and purchase your Margarita Trail Passport.

For more information on these unique shopping locations, visit our blog on must-stop shops in Santa Fe.

EVENING: The City at Night & Unwinding Delight

After a day trip in Santa Fe, shopping and sipping, return to Inn of the Turquoise Bear to relax and unwind. Enjoy a glass of wine on our patio, take in the stunning sunset, and reminisce about the day’s adventures. If you’re still in the mood for more, the Inn’s surrounding streets come alive at night with music, dining, and more shopping opportunities.

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a more extended stay, Santa Fe’s unique blend of shopping and sipping is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you to the Turquoise Bear and helping you plan the perfect day trip to experience all that this magical city has to offer.

Cheers to a day well spent in Santa Fe! Book now.