​​Often called the cultural heart of Mexico, Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi, tequila, and charrería (Mexican rodeo). It’s deeply traditional yet buzzing with creative energy – think leafy streets, colorful murals, stylish cafés, and trendy boutiques. All right up my alley!

Honestly, Guadalajara wasn’t even on my radar or high on my bucket list. I was just browsing for quick, direct flights from San Francisco and it popped up. I kinda booked it on a whim – and I’m so glad I did. Because over my four days in Guadalajara, I basically ate my way through the city: birria, tacos, churros… at times it felt like I was on a nonstop food tour, haha. My favorite kind of trip!

In this post, I’ll help you plan the perfect Guadalajara itinerary – plus where to eat, stay, and explore. Spoiler alert: you’re gonna fall in love with this place.

Before visiting, I had no idea what to expect. Even though I’d been to coastal favorites like Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, I’d never ventured inland to Guadalajara itself. 

But Guadalajara won me over with its leafy plazas, bustling markets, and effortlessly cool neighborhoods like Tlaquepaque and Colonia Americana (hello, cocktail bars and concept stores!). It reminded me of a smaller, more laid-back Mexico City – a city I absolutely adore and love re-visiting every few years.

As the capital of Jalisco and Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara somehow manages to stay charming, artsy, and very walkable. 

So let’s get to it! Lots of birria, plazas, murals, and mariachi coming right up. Just make sure to pack your appetite – and maybe some stretchy pants – for all these amazing things to do in Guadalajara.

4 Days in Guadalajara Itinerary Logistics

Where is Guadalajara and How to Get There

Guadalajara’s in western Mexico, right in the middle of the state of Jalisco (aka the birthplace of tequila, mariachi, and so many good tacos). Sitting at around 1,700 meters (5,600 feet) above sea level, it’s up on a high plateau, which means the weather stays pretty mild and comfy year-round. No crazy heatwaves or humidity here!

It’s about 350 miles (560 kilometers) northwest of Mexico City, tucked inland on what’s called the Western Mexican Plateau. That might sound a little technical, but it basically means you’ve got mountains, valleys, and lots of gorgeous nature surrounding the city. And all that natural beauty definitely adds to the charm.

Because of where it’s located, Guadalajara makes a great base for exploring western Mexico. It’s way less touristy than the beach spots, but still full of culture, history, and amazing food. And if you do want some beach time, Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita are just a 2-3 hour drive away. So you kinda get the best of both worlds!

Flying Internationally

Thankfully, flying to Guadalajara is super straightforward. The Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) is just about 30 – 40 minutes from the city center and has direct flights from tons of major U.S. and Canadian cities. 

I flew in from San Francisco and couldn’t believe the flight was under 4 hours. It was a really pretty flight since we flew along the coastline the entire time. You’ll also find good connections from Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Denver, Chicago, and Vancouver, among others. Once you land, you can grab an Uber (what I did!) or a pre-booked taxi to your hotel – easy.

Getting from Guadalajara Airport to the City Center

Using a rideshare app is by far the easiest and most cost-effective option, and how I got from the airport to my hotel in the city. Uber and Didi both operate at the airport, and rides into central Guadalajara (25-40 minutes depending on traffic) usually cost around 200-350 MXN (about $10–$20 USD). You’ll need to walk to the designated pickup zone just outside the arrivals area (past Pizza Hut), so keep an eye out for signs or ask an airport staff member.

Psst – At first I thought my initial Uber driver was trying to scam me by having me meet technically outside the airport, but once the next one told me this, I realized it was typical. Whoops!

Coming from Elsewhere in Mexico

If you’re already in Mexico (you lucky duck!), you’ll be pleased to know that Guadalajara is really well connected to other parts of the country by both bus and domestic flights. It’s just a 2-3 hour drive (or a super quick flight) from places like Puerto Vallarta or Sayulita, which makes it a popular add-on if you’re looking to mix beachy vibes with city exploring. 

Tons of travelers do a combo trip – start on the coast with tacos and surf, then head inland for tequila tastings, art galleries, and historic charm. If I had another few days I would have gladly gone to Sayulita (and San Pancho – my favorite) for a bit.

There’s also reliable long-distance buses (like Primera Plus or ETN) from other major cities like Mexico City, León, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato. If you’re not in a rush and want to save money, this is a great way to go. And trust me, these buses are comfy (I’ve taken them plenty, haha).

How to Get Around Guadalajara

Getting around Guadalajara is actually super easy, even if your Spanish is a little rusty (no shame – I’m right there with you!). The city has a mix of modern transportation and walkable neighborhoods so no need to rent a car unless you really, really want to. 

Uber is your best friend here. It’s reliable, affordable, and way easier than trying to flag a taxi or figure out the bus routes. I used Uber to get just about everywhere – short rides within the city often cost less than $3 USD (!!!). You can also use DiDi, another popular rideshare app in Mexico, though I personally stuck with Uber and had zero issues.

If you’re staying in neighborhoods like Centro Histórico or Americana, you can walk to a lot of the major sights, especially if you’re a city walker like me. The tree-lined streets and colorful buildings make strolling around part of the experience.

There’s also a light rail system (SITEUR) that connects some key parts of the city and suburbs. It’s clean, efficient, and costs just a few pesos, but I honestly didn’t use it at all since Uber was so convenient (and cheap). Buses are available too, but they can be confusing and inconsistent if you’re not familiar with the routes.

If you’re planning day trips to places like Lake Chapala or Tequila, tours with transportation included are the way to go – you won’t have to deal with logistics or designated drivers (especially important if you’re sampling tequila, obviously). More on that soon!

When to Plan Your Guadalajara Itinerary 

The best time to plan your Guadalajara itinerary really depends on what kind of vibe you’re going for – but good news: Guadalajara is a year-round destination with pretty mild weather.

Winter (November to February)

This is widely regarded as the best time to visit Guadalajara, and when I visited! The weather is pleasantly warm during the day, with temperatures hovering in the low 70s to mid-80s°F (21-30°C), and cooler, crisp evenings – perfect for strolling through the historic center or dining on an outdoor terrace. Rain is minimal, and the city is lush and vibrant after the summer rains. 

For reference, I visited in mid-February, and had mostly sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures. I didn’t realize when I booked my trip that I’d be there for Guadalajara’s birthday (the city was officially founded on February 14, 1542), so got especially lucky with a bunch of fun events and lots of dancing/performances (including some epic fireworks in the town square).

Thankfully, besides the GDLuz Sound and Light Festival at night, the crowds were manageable and I never felt like I was fighting for space at popular attractions. However this is peak tourism season though so make sure to book your accommodations early.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a wonderful time for those who enjoy a bit more warmth, as temperatures climb into the mid-80s and 90s°F (28-35°C), especially in May. The sunny days and blooming jacaranda trees (those stunning purple blooms) provide a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing. And there’s less tourists here than during fall and winter!

Summer (June to September): Rainy Season

While summer in Guadalajara brings lush greenery, it also means the rainy season is in full swing. Expect afternoon or evening showers, often heavy but short-lived (like what happened to my friends and I when we went to Mexico City in August). 

Temperatures hover between the high 80s and low 90s°F (30-34°C), with high humidity levels. It’s not unbearable, but you’ll need to pack for both rain and heat. The upside to visiting in summer is that the city is less crowded, hotel prices are lower, and everything looks wonderfully green. 

Autumn (September and October)

Autumn sees the last of the rainy season, but the rains start to taper off in September, and by October, there’s clearer skies. Temperatures cool slightly compared to summer, with days in the mid-80s°F (29°C) and nights in the low 60s°F (16-18°C). It’s still a great time to visit with fewer crowds, but always check the forecast as some years, September can still bring heavy rains.

Are 4 days in Guadalajara Enough?

I certainly think so! On a 4-day Guadalajara itinerary you can explore the historic city center, eat your weight in birria and tortas ahogadas, and wander through colorful neighborhoods like Tlaquepaque. And even have time for day trips to Tequila (a must do!), Lake Chapala, and the artisan town of Ajijic. 

I found 4 days in Guadalajara to be the perfect amount of time, and didn’t feel rushed at all. Just note if you wanna watch Lucha Libre (only on Tuesday nights) and/or catch the Jalisco horse races (races take place on Sundays), you’ll need to coordinate your itinerary to fall on those days.

Sure, you can definitely stay longer (it’s Mexico’s second largest city after all), but if I had a few more days, I’d likely go to the beach.

Health and Safety in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is generally safe for travelers, especially in popular neighborhoods like Centro Histórico, Tlaquepaque, and Chapultepec. Like any big city, though, it’s smart to stay alert – always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone late at night. I personally felt very comfortable here and had no issues, but I always took basic precautions (like using Uber at night and not flashing valuables).

Can You Drink the Water in Guadalajara?

Technically, tap water in Guadalajara is treated, but locals and visitors both avoid drinking it. Stick to bottled or filtered water just to be safe – most hotels, Airbnbs, and cafes offer filtered water stations. Also avoid ice from street vendors unless you’re sure it was made from purified water.

Street Food in Guadalajara

Street food is a huge part of the culture here, and honestly, skipping it would be a crime. I ate plenty of tacos, elotes, and tejuino from carts and roadside stands and had no problems. That said, go where locals go, look for vendors with a crowd (it usually means high turnover and fresher food), and trust your gut – literally. If something looks like it’s been sitting out too long in the sun, maybe skip that one.

Other Guadalajara Itinerary FAQs

Language

Spanish is the official language in Guadalajara, and while you’ll definitely find some English speakers (especially at hotels, tourist attractions, and higher-end restaurants), don’t expect fluent English everywhere. 

I was actually surprised how little English was spoken here – not like in Mexico City where you’ll hear English practically everywhere you go for the most part. Most street vendors, taxi drivers, and small shop owners speak little to no English. 

Therefore, I definitely recommend brushing up on your Spanish before going, or at least knowing a bunch of basic phrases. Google Translate is your best friend (just be sure to download the language in advance if you won’t have service every minute of your trip).

Currency

Guadalajara, like the rest of Mexico, uses the Mexican Peso (MXN). And lucky for us in the US, the conversion rate is usually quite favorable for travelers. 

Don’t expect all restaurants and shops in Guadalajara to take credit cards (although most mid-range and upscale restaurants do), so always be prepared with some cash. In addition, you’ll want some cash for tips (see below), at small handicraft shops, and road-side taco stands, as well as for any taxis you may be taking. 

I highly advise you to take out some pesos at an ATM at the airport upon landing (as you’ll get the best conversion rate using an ATM and never at a currency exchange kiosk). I recommend getting a no-fee ATM card if you don’t already have one (we’ve been using Charles Schwab for years and haven’t paid a pesky fee in forever).

At the time of writing (May 2025), the peso is equivalent to 5 cents USD (or 1 USD = ~20 Mexican pesos). I found it easy-ish to convert in my head by thinking of 100 pesos = roughly $5USD (or 200 pesos = ~$10USD). It takes a bit of practice but after a day or two you’ll be able to do the conversion super quickly in your head.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and appreciated in Guadalajara. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard if a service charge isn’t already included. For smaller services (like taxi rides, bag handling, or bathroom attendants), a few pesos or rounding up is perfectly fine. On tours, tipping your guide is a nice gesture if you enjoyed the experience.

Electrical Outlets

Mexico uses the same voltage and outlets as the U.S. (110V, type A/B plugs), so if you’re coming from the U.S. or Canada, you won’t need an adapter. 

Where to Stay in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a sprawling city, but most travelers stick to a few key neighborhoods that are safe, centrally located, and full of charm (plus tacos, always tacos). Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to base yourself:

Centro Histórico (Historic Downtown)

If it’s your first time in Guadalajara and you want to be right in the heart of the action, this is the place to be. You’ll be within walking distance of iconic sites like the Guadalajara Cathedral, Teatro Degollado, and the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres. Expect grand colonial buildings, bustling plazas, and local markets galore. Just note: it can get busy and noisy, especially on weekends. Check out Hotel TÖTEM Guadalajara (a stylish boutique hotel) and Hotel Portobelo (modern amenities and a central location)

Colonia Americana/Chapultepec area (My Favorite!)

Trendy, artsy, and effortlessly cool – this is Guadalajara’s hipster heart. Think colorful street art, tree-lined streets, third-wave coffee shops, and tons of stylish boutique stays. It felt super safe and walkable, and it’s where you’ll find some of the best nightlife and brunch spots. 

For reference, I stayed at Hotel Antre Chapultepec, and had a great stay! It’s a newer hotel in a great location, super clean, and pretty posh! And the hotel is within walking distance to oh so many restaurants, including Tomate Taqueria (where I went twice, haha), Cafe San Pedro, and Postreria GDL. Honestly, if I went back, I’d stay here again in a heartbeat. Doesn’t hurt that I got a great deal and my room cost less than $250 total for 4 nights!

Also check out Demetria Hotel (where I would have stayed if I wasn’t traveling solo) and GALA Hotel Boutique (more boutiquey with lots of personalized service).

Other Areas to Stay in

Guadalajara is way larger than most people realize, but hey, it is Mexico’s second largest city! If you’ve never been to Guadalajara I highly recommend staying in Centro Historico or Colonia Americana, but there’s other options too!

• Tequila: Yes, that Tequila. While most people visit on a day trip, spending a night or two in this colorful Pueblo Mágico is 100% worth it – especially if you’re doing distillery tours and don’t want to rush back. The town is adorable, filled with agave fields, boutique hotels, and (unsurprisingly) more tequila than you can dream of. Check out Hotel Solar de las Ánimas, Tequilera Hacienda La Cofradía (on my bucket list for next time), and Casa Salles Hotel Boutique.

• Tlaquepaque: A charming artisan town that feels like a mini getaway within the city. It’s a great spot for colorful colonial vibes, traditional mariachi music, and shopping for hand-painted ceramics and leather goods. Stay here if you want something different from the usual city experience. Check out Tlaquepaque Pueblito (super colorful and fun) and Aura Hotel Boutique (basic but very spacious rooms).

• Chapalita: Quieter and more residential with great restaurants and leafy parks and close to Expo Guadalajara (great if you’re in town for a conference or event). Just FYI, it’s a bit farther from the historic sights. Check out Hampton Inn by Hilton Guadalajara Expo and Baruk Guadalajara Hotel de Autor.

• Zapopan: Technically its own city within the Guadalajara metro area and a little farther out from the main attractions – but it’s home to some of the fanciest shopping centers and the stunning Basilica of Zapopan. A good option if you want a more upscale, suburban feel. Check out avid hotels – Guadalajara Av Vallarta Pte by IHG.

• Near the Airport: My flight home was at the ungodly hour of 7:25AM (yes, early!), so I decided it’d be best to stay the night beforehand at an airport hotel. I stayed at Hangar Select Aeropuerto Guadalajara, which was super comfy (my room was HUGE), and has a free airport shuttle – just make sure to arrange this at check-in).

What and Where to Eat in Guadalajara

The best part of Guadalajara! If you’re not sure what to do next on your Guadalajara itinerary (or you have a little extra time)… just eat. Seriously. That’s exactly what I did, haha. 

This city is bursting with flavor and EVERYTHING (and I mean EVERYTHING) was absolutely delicious. I had such a hard time deciding where (and what!) to eat because I had so much pinned on my map! 

Should I grab birria on a street corner, sip a fruity cazuela under papel picado, or splurge on a 10-course tasting menu?! All of it, por favor!

The food scene is equal parts traditional and experimental, so you can go from devouring a drenched torta ahogada at a hole-in-the-wall spot (yum) to sampling edible art at one of Latin America’s top restaurants – all in the same day. Let’s just say I ate very, very well during my 4 days in Guadalajara, haha.

Classic Local Favorites

• Tortas Ahogadas Don José: Messy, spicy, and oh so satisfying. Tortas ahogadas are the local specialty, and this no-frills spot is beloved for a reason. Just note they will NOT give you a fork and knife (even if you ask nicely in Spanish, haha, I tried).
• Birrieria Las 9 Esquinas: A go-to for traditional Jalisco-style birria (stewed goat or beef). There’s often live mariachi nearby, especially on weekends! I came here twice; I loved it so much.
• La Chata: A Guadalajara institution serving homestyle Mexican comfort food – great for your first meal in the city.
• Churros La Bombilla: Old-school churro spot with serious history. Think crispy, golden perfection dusted with cinnamon sugar. The best churros in the city and open very late!
• Taco Fish La Paz: Best fish tacos in town. Just go. I devoured mine. (Open from 9am – 4:30pm, so plan accordingly!)

Cool, Trendy Eats

• Piggy Back: This café is known for its chilaquiles – huge portions, bold flavors, and some of the best I had in Mexico. Plus, the whole space is oh so cute and I fell in love with their branding.
• Tomate Taquería: Open late and a solid bet for after-hours tacos. The al pastor hits especially hard post-tequila. I came twice and loved the meat both times.
• Karmele: A trendy, plant-forward bakery perfect for a lighter brunch or lunch option with a local twist. I stumbled upon this little cafe and LOVED their karmelito pastries. A must on your Guadalajara itinerary.
• Postrería GDL: Where dessert gets theatrical! Expect dramatic, multi-layered creations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. They’ve even got a five-course dessert tasting menu (which I would have loved to try if I wasn’t traveling solo).
• Loba Gastropub: Upscale pub-style dining with craft beer from Cerveza Loba, one of Guadalajara’s top microbreweries.

Elevated Dining + Drinks

• Restaurante Alcalde: Ranked among the best restaurants in Latin America. Go for the 10-course tasting menu (around $125 USD), or sample à la carte if you’re not feeling quite that hungry.
• Allium: A creative, locally-driven spot listed in the World’s 50 Best Discovery guide.
• De la O Cantina: A sleek and stylish cocktail bar with an old-meets-new cantina vibe.
• El Gallo Altanero: One of the top bars in Mexico (#48 on World’s 50 Best Bars!). Closed Monday and Tuesday, so plan ahead.

The Best 4 Day Guadalajara Itinerary

But first, a few notes about this Guadalajara itinerary:

• This Guadalajara itinerary assumes you have a full 4 days in Guadalajara. Meaning if you arrive mid-day or late at night, you’ll want an extra day in order to see and do all the things on this itinerary.
• BUT you can easily shorten this itinerary into 2 or 3 full days by simply removing a day trip or two. You’ll notice that 3 out of the 4 days in Guadalajara are actually mostly day trips, haha.
• You can totally rearrange the days if you’d like. Meaning, you can easily do Day 3 on Day 1, and vice-versa.
• This Guadalajara itinerary doesn’t include Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling that only happens on Tuesday nights) and Charreria (Mexico’s national horse-racing sport with competitions taking place on Sunday). If you’d like to see either of these things, make sure you arrange your itinerary accordingly!

Day 1: Explore Downtown Guadalajara (Centro Histórico)

Morning and Early Afternoon: Centro Historico

I started my Guadalajara itinerary with a walking tour – something I always recommend doing on Day 1 in a new destination! It was a deep dive into the city’s historic heart, and honestly, the perfect intro to the culture, history, and energy of Jalisco’s capital. I didn’t realize how much there is to see in Centro Histórico, from towering cathedrals to leafy plazas and grand government buildings covered in bold murals. 

You can certainly explore it all on your own (nothing’s terribly far), but I highly recommend joining a walking tour like I did. My guide gave tons of helpful context and historical background I would’ve totally missed on my own, plus I felt very safe wandering with a small group. And I didn’t have to navigate at all, which is always appreciated when I travel solo!

We started at the iconic Guadalajara Cathedral, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks with its signature yellow spires and blend of architectural styles. From there, we strolled through Plaza de Armas, passed the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, and admired the fountains and statues in Plaza de la Liberación.

One of my favorite stops was Palacio Municipal de Guadalajara, which I hadn’t even heard of before the tour. Inside, we found a jaw-dropping mural by José Clemente Orozco that spans the grand staircase – bold, expressive, and so powerful in person. 

We also popped into the Teatro Degollado, a 19th-century neoclassical theater known for its opulent red velvet interiors and perfectly preserved architecture. Even if you don’t catch a performance, it’s worth visiting just to step inside and take it all in.

Next it was market time! Because no visit to Guadalajara is complete without a market or two, and we covered both ends of the spectrum. 

First was Mercado San Juan de Dios, the largest indoor market in Latin America – a total sensory overload in the best way. We wandered through its maze of stalls, sampling local fruits (some I’d never even seen before!), and eyeing all kinds of snacks, souvenirs, leather goods, and more. FYI – you’ll want cash for the market. I even got to try chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and they were better than I’d imagined (kinda tasted like powdery lime crackers to me).  Although I’m not so sure I’d choose to willingly snack on them, haha.

Don’t miss some jericalla flan, a Jalisco speciality that’s basically a cross between flan and creme brulee. And it’s absolutely delicious. You’ll find lots at the market (but always make sure it’s covered for sanitary reasons).

Later on, we swung by Mercado Corona, a smaller, more traditional covered market. It felt more local and relaxed, with everything from fresh plants and handmade cigars to quirky knick-knacks and religious figurines. It’s the kind of place you could poke around for hours and still stumble on something new.

By the end of the tour, I felt like I’d seen so many layers of the city – from its historic core and artistic heart to its everyday hustle. It was a full but satisfying morning/early afternoon, and the perfect way to kick off my time in Guadalajara!

Evening: Wandering Chapultepec & Colonia Americana

After a full day exploring downtown, I headed to the Chapultepec area in Colonia Americana – easily one of the coolest neighborhoods in Guadalajara. The wide, tree-lined boulevard is buzzing with energy, especially in the evening when locals gather at cafés, bars, and taco joints. Plus, I was staying nearby so I definitely wanted to explore my neighborhood.

It reminded me a bit of La Condesa in Mexico City, with its leafy streets, trendy spots on every corner, and that perfect mix of laid-back and lively energy.

One of the first things I stumbled upon was the massive Frida Kahlo mural, known as Magdalena. Painted by Irish artist Fin DAC, this 150-foot-tall piece is an absolute showstopper and a powerful tribute to Frida’s spirit and style. You really can’t miss it – literally and figuratively (it’s HUGE).

Dessert: Okay, confession: I had dessert before dinner – no regrets there. One of the best parts about solo travel is that I get to make all the rules, wink wink.

I popped into Postrería GDL, which is known for its wildly inventive and artful desserts. The menu changes seasonally, so if you’ve seen something online or on Instagram, there’s no guarantee it’ll still be available. Luckily, the waiter walked me through each dessert in detail so I could make an informed (and delicious) decision. 

I ended up going with a super creative citrus-forward dish inspired by the ocean, with bright flavors like yuzu and other tropical notes. It looked like a work of art and tasted just as good. Honestly, I wanted to try everything on the menu – it was that hard to choose.

Al Pastor Dinner: For dinner, I made my way to Tomate Taquería, a beloved local spot serving over-the-top tacos. Just a heads-up: there was a huge line out front when I arrived, so definitely don’t come starving. But the wait was worth every second. 

I ordered both the tacos al pastor and an al pastor volcano (covered in cheese) – and quickly realized it was way too much food so saved the volcano for breakfast the next morning, haha. Plus, my limonada con frutos rojos drink was HUGE!

If you’re looking for a nightcap, here’s a few suggestions in the Chapultepec/Americana area (although I called it a night after my very long day). 

1. De La O Cantina: Stylish and low-key with craft cocktails focused on Mexican spirits and ingredients. Cozy, creative, and consistently great.
2. El Gallo Altanero: Ranked on the World’s 50 Best Bars list (#48)! Trendy spot known for its expertly crafted cocktails and rooftop vibes. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
3. Cantina La Occidental: A classic Guadalajara cantina with a lively atmosphere, cheap drinks, and a great place to soak up local flavor (both cultural and alcoholic).
4. Gallo Altanero Patio: Same folks as El Gallo Altanero, but this one’s more casual and open-air, perfect for a chill drink under the stars.

Day 2: A Boozy Day Trip to Tequila

No Guadalajara itinerary is complete without a day trip to the colorful, agave-scented town of Tequila. It’s only about an hour away from the city, and whether you’re a diehard tequila fan or more of a curious sipper (hi!), this UNESCO-listed pueblo is packed with flavor, charm, and culture.

I joined a guided group tour (there’s a ton of options so shop around!), and I’m so glad I did. Everything was handled for me – transportation, stops, and of course, lots of tequila tastings. If you’re not planning to spend the night in Tequila or figure out logistics yourself, a tour is by far the easiest (and most fun) way to go. Especially if you’re planning to end the day at Cantaritos El Güero (more on that later).

A few other tours to check out: the premium tequila tour and the classic tequila route!

Stop #1: Agave Fields

Our first stop of the day? The iconic blue agave fields, stretching out toward the hills in every direction. We stopped at a local tequila farm, where I got to wander through the spiky rows and take a few (ok, a ton) of fun pics. 

The scenery was unreal – bright green agave set against a deep blue sky, with mountains in the distance. Truly one of those “wow, I’m really here” kind of travel moments. I loved the little farm we stopped at; the entire setup was so charming and photogenic and the swing overlooking the agave fields was so fun! 

Plus, some people hopped on a horse for even more photos, but I decided to skip out since I was wearing a short dress, haha.

Stop #2: Tequila Tour and Tastings

From there, we headed over to Hacienda Casa González for a tequila production tour and demonstration. The space was absolutely stunning – old-school hacienda vibes with traditional equipment, rustic barrels, and agave hearts waiting to be cooked. 

We learned all about the tequila-making process, from roasting the piñas to fermentation and distillation. The guides were super engaging and passionate about their craft, and I walked away with a whole new appreciation for what goes into a single bottle of tequila.

Then came the tastings… and wow, did they go all out. There were soooo many tequila samples and shots being passed around, I didn’t even try to keep up. 

People were getting tipsy fast – some even drunk before noon. I kept it chill (I’m honestly not a big drinker and can’t handle my liquor anymore), so I just tasted a few of the more unique varieties. My favorites? The coffee-infused tequila and some of the fruit-flavored ones – sweet, smooth, and dangerously sippable.

Stop #3: Tequila Town and Market Lunch

After all that, we finally made our way into the town of Tequila itself. We had free time to stroll around the main square, shop for souvenirs, and snap a few pics with the oversized colorful “TEQUILA” letters. The vibe was festive and lively – mariachi music drifting through the air, colorful flags overhead, and plenty of street vendors and tequila bars if you wanted to keep the party going.

Instead of a sit-down meal, I opted to eat at the local market in Tequila, which was absolutely buzzing with energy. I grabbed a plate of juicy birria tacos (so good!) and some fresh tortillas while listening to a live mariachi band perform right there in the food hall. 

Just know that mariachi isn’t free – if you linger, record a video, or they stop by your table, it’s expected that you’ll leave a small tip. Totally worth it for the ambiance. 

Stop #4: Cantaritos El Güero

To wrap up the day, we made one final stop: Cantaritos El Güero, a roadside bar that was way more of a full-on experience than I expected. Think music blasting (and tons of dancing), bartenders pouring tequila from two feet above your cup, and a party atmosphere like no other. Overwhelming to say the least, especially if you don’t know what to expect.

Everyone comes for the signature drink – the cantarito – a citrusy tequila cocktail made with grapefruit soda, lime, orange, and salt, all served in a massive clay mug. You can choose your cup size (they get beyond huge and wildly expensive), and it’s the kind of drink that feels celebratory from the very first sip. Such a fun and hilarious way to cap off the day.

Thankfully I made friends with everyone on my tour; I don’t think it’s the kind of place you enjoy solo, haha.

Psst — Cantaritos El Güero is between Tequila Town and Guadalajara, so make sure you have a ride back if you’re not going on a tour.

What to Know Before You Go:

• If you want to ride the Jose Cuervo Express tequila train, it’s a super scenic option, but it only runs on Saturdays – and tickets go fast (and they’re expensive).
• Other great distilleries to check out if you go on your own: La Rojeña (Jose Cuervo), Casa Herradura, Cava de Oro, and La Cofradía.
• Bring cash for the market, tips for mariachi, and water – you’ll need it after all that tequila.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat if you plan to wander the fields or town for long.

By the time we rolled back into Guadalajara, I was overly exhausted. If you’re planning to drink a lot, I definitely wouldn’t make any plans for tonight, haha. 

Day 3: Day Trip to Tlaquepaque

Up next on this Guadalajara itinerary – Tlaquepaque (pronounced tlah-keh-PAH-keh, you’re welcome, lol)! 

And it couldn’t be easier to get to, as it’s just 15 minutes from central Guadalajara (via Uber for about 150 MXN / ~$7 USD). While many think it’s simply a neighborhood of Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque is actually its own municipality – and one brimming with artistic flair, colonial charm, and mariachi magic.

Expect pedestrian-friendly cobblestone streets, shady plazas, beautifully preserved buildings, and loads of local art. It’s considered the creative and cultural capital of the Guadalajara area for good reason. And it reminded me so much of other small Mexican towns I love, namely Todos Santos, San Miguel de Allende, and even Oaxaca (which I’m dying to get back to sooner than later)!

While you can easily spend all day exploring Tlaquepaque, I found just a few hours was plenty – which gives you time to check out other spots in Guadalajara earlier in the day, which is what I did.

Morning Stop: Casa ITESO Clavigero (in Guadalajara)

Before heading to Tlaquepaque, I made a quick cultural pit stop at Casa ITESO Clavigero, located in the quiet Colonia Americana neighborhood. Before visiting Guadalajara, I didn’t realize that Luis Barragán (a famous architect in Mexico) designed any buildings here. 

I had seen his way-more-popular houses (including Casa Gilardi and Casa Estudio Luis Barragán, both in Mexico City), so was thrilled to learn that one of his early works is tucked away right here in Guadalajara.

Built in the late 1920s, the house is a stunning example of regional Tapatío architecture – full of clean lines, natural light, and minimalist elegance. I will say it didn’t wow me as much as the others in CDMX did, but I was still happy to see it.

Casa ITESO Clavigero was originally the private home of Mexican philosopher and politician Efraín González Luna, and it now serves as a cultural center owned by the Jesuit university ITESO. It’s free to enter and usually hosts rotating art and architecture exhibits, as well as gardens you can stroll through. 

Architecture lovers, don’t skip this – it’s considered a National Artistic Monument. There’s even a cafe inside if you need an early morning coffee.

Late Morning & Afternoon in Tlaquepaque

Hop in an Uber and head straight to the heart of Tlaquepaque. It’s compact and very walkable, so you won’t need to plan much – just wander and enjoy without a real plan. I promise you’ll eventually run into everything, haha. But here’s a few things not to miss!

• Walk Calle Independencia: This is the town’s charming main street (pedestrian-only!), and full of artisan shops, colorful galleries, and whimsical sculptures. Expect handmade ceramics, blown glass, leather goods, and a lot of local color – literally. I loved getting a mango ice cream (mmm my favorite!) and wandering around.

• Try a Tuba: Nope, not the instrument! Tuba is a unique regional drink made from fermented coconut sap, and it’s typically topped with chopped peanuts and fruit candies. It’s sweet, refreshing, and something you won’t find just anywhere. You’ll see locals selling these right on the street!

• Go shopping at Plaza de Artesanías: A small square with a handful of shops to buy local Mexican crafts. I found some super cute keychains here, and loved taking photos of the popular umbrellas hanging overhead.

• Pop into Sergio Bustamante’s Gallery: This surrealist sculptor is famous for his oddball creations, and his flagship gallery here is as whimsical as it is thought-provoking. From wide-eyed papier-mâché children to fantastical creatures, it’s one of the coolest spots in town.

• El Refugio of Tlaquepaque: On normal days, you can tour and photograph the photogenic rooftop of El Refugio of Tlaquepaque. But it just so happened that a special marketplace was happening the day I was there so the rooftop was unfortunately closed.

• Lunch at Restaurante Casa Luna: Come for the food, stay for the setting. The space is a stunner, filled with mosaic tilework, plants, ceiling mobiles, and twinkling lights. There’s often live music, and the menu features upscale takes on traditional Mexican cuisine.

• Visit the Ceramic Markets: Tlaquepaque is a ceramics hub, and even if you don’t plan on buying anything, the markets are worth a browse. You’ll find both contemporary and traditional styles — perfect for a little window shopping or unique souvenirs.

• Wrap up at El Parián: This massive open-air cantina is said to be the biggest bar in Mexico, and it’s more of an experience than a single venue. Dozens of small bars and restaurants circle a central gazebo where live mariachi bands play throughout the day. Don’t leave without trying a cazuela – a giant tequila-based citrus cocktail served in a clay bowl with fruit slices. It’s the town’s signature drink and super refreshing. I have to admit this spot is crazy touristy and it was kinda dead when I visited, so I opted to skip it and just took a quick glance. Although I do think it’d be more fun with friends later on in the day.

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Chapala and Ajijic

On your last day of your Guadalajara itinerary, it’s time to once again, get outta the city, this time for some lakeside charm! No shortage of day trips here, haha. Psst: if you can, I’d recommend visiting on a weekday, as it gets very busy on weekends and understandably so.

Just an hour outside of Guadalajara, this scenic region feels like a totally different world – think colorful colonial towns, peaceful water views, and a pace of life that’s way slower than the city.

This day trip includes a little bit of everything: tequila tastings, boat rides, artisan shopping, and sunset strolls. You’ll get to explore Ajijic, a quirky artist enclave with serious Pueblo Mágico energy, and Chapala, a traditional lakeside town with a great malecón for people-watching and photo ops. It’s one of the most popular and well-rounded excursions from Guadalajara – and after spending a full day exploring the area, I totally get why.

I really recommend taking a guided day tour to this area; having a guide made the whole experience super smooth and stress-free, especially since the towns are spread out and not super easy to navigate on your own without a car.

This is the exact day trip tour to Lake Chapala and Ajijic that I took, and thought it was great value for money! The tour first took us to a tequila factory, had lunch overlooking the lake, then took a boat ride on Lake Chapala, visited the magical town of Ajijic, and finally ended with sunset in Chapala town. A fantastic and very full day!

Stop #1: Tequila Factory Visit

Yes, more tequila! It’s hard to get away from it around here, haha! This one wasn’t quite as flashy as the big-name spots near Tequila, but way more intimate. I loved getting a behind-the-scenes look at the process and chatting with the staff, who clearly knew their stuff (and were very generous with the samples). Definitely a great little bonus before the main events of the day.

Stop #2: Seafood Lunch Overlooking the Lake

The tour took us to a restaurant right on the lake, called Mariscos El Carnal. I typically scoff at restaurants on tours, but this was actually pretty decent! 

We sat upstairs with a lovely view of Chapala Lake, and loved the light breeze. The menu had so much to choose from (it was actually a bit overwhelming), with a big emphasis on seafood (which makes sense considering it’s a seafood restaurant, haha). Lots of shrimp, ceviches, octopus (my favorite!), and shellfish platters.

I wouldn’t necessarily choose to eat there if I wasn’t on a tour, but it was good enough, haha. And the views couldn’t have been better.

Stop #3: Boat Ride on Lake Chapala

Next up was a breezy boat ride on Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. With the Sierra Madre mountains in the background and pelicans flying overhead, it was a peaceful way to take in the views and learn a bit about the local ecosystem. 

Our guide pointed out a few small islands and shared stories about the region’s history – super interesting and not something I would’ve learned on my own. The boat ride was short but felt like it was long enough.

Stop #4: Stroll Through Ajijic, The Artsy Pueblo Mágico by the Lake

From there, we made our way to Ajijic (pronounced ah-hee-HEEK), one of Jalisco’s designated Pueblos Mágicos. This is a title given to towns with special cultural, historical, or natural significance – and it definitely earns its name. 

This lakeside village has become a bit of a haven for artists, creatives, and expats (especially from the U.S. and Canada), but still retains its authentic small-town Mexican charm.

What makes Ajijic stand out is its colorful, creative energy. The streets are covered in murals – seriously, nearly every wall bursts with color and character. The town has a strong art scene, with plenty of little galleries and studios to duck into, as well as artisan markets where you can find everything from handmade textiles to quirky sculptures.

It’s also just incredibly walkable. You can stroll the cobblestone streets at your own pace, pop into cute cafés, and admire the colonial architecture framed by jacaranda trees (especially beautiful in spring when they bloom purple!). The main plaza is often buzzing with live music or small events, and there’s always a relaxed, easygoing vibe.

I can totally see why so many expats live here – there’s year-round spring-like weather and oh so gorgeous setting right on the shores of Lake Chapala, backed by the Sierra del Tigre mountains. Unfortunately this makes the town exceptionally pricey, so don’t plan on buying any souvenirs here as everything is at least triple the price.

Stop #5: Sunset in Chapala Town

Chapala town is the perfect place to end a day trip from Guadalajara – laid-back, scenic, and full of local charm. It’s the largest town on the shores of Lake Chapala (Mexico’s biggest freshwater lake), and it feels way more traditional than Ajijic, with less of the expat/artsy vibe and more of that authentic, everyday Mexico energy.

We got here just in time for sunset along the malecón (lakefront promenade). There were snack stands (don’t miss a refreshing raspados – shaved ice), local families out for a walk, and a golden glow over the water that made for a perfect photo op. It was the kind of spot where you could just sit, sip a cold drink, and soak it all in. And that we did!

Chapala also has a cute main plaza and a handful of shops selling local handicrafts. I also noticed some cool murals scattered around the town. Overall, it’s super walkable and makes for a relaxing, photogenic final stop before heading back to Guadalajara.

All in all, this day trip was super well-paced and a great way to experience another side of Jalisco. If you’ve got the time, I’d definitely recommend adding it to your Guadalajara itinerary!

Hope this helps you plan the perfect Guadalajara itinerary! Are you headed to Mexico anytime soon?!

The post The Perfect Guadalajara Itinerary: 4 Days in Guadalajara appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Close your eyes and think of Hawaii. I bet you’re imagining rugged lava rock meeting crystal-clear waters. Swaying palm trees lining sandy golden beaches. Sea turtles basking on black sand and manta rays gliding effortlessly through the water. And the food? Think shave ice, fresh poke, and some of the best coffee on the planet. A three day Kona itinerary?! Let’s do this!

After exploring Oahu, Maui, and Kauai multiple times, we figured it was finally time to check out Kona over on The Big Island. It was the last major Hawaiian island on our list, and honestly, I have no idea why we waited so long. It’s just a quick and easy flight from San Francisco (where we’re based!), yet somehow, over a decade passed between our first trip to Hawaii in 2013 and finally making it here. Better late than never, right?

After finally visiting, I can confidently say Kona has a completely different vibe from the other islands. It’s raw, rugged, and way less polished – but in the best way possible. Here’s how I’d spend 3 days in Kona and nearby. 

3 Days in Kona Itinerary Logistics

3 Days in Kona At-A-Glance

• Day 1: Downtown Kona, Magic Sands Beach Park, night snorkel with manta rays (whatever you do, don’t miss this! — it’s absolutely EPIC)
• Day 2: Kua Bay and/or Makalawena, Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Village, sea turtles at Kaloko-Honokōhau, sunset drinks 
• Day 3: Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, snorkel at Two Step Beach or join a catamaran tour, tour a Kona coffee farm, soak at Mamalahoa Hot Tubs, and Hawaiian Luau

Where is Kona, HI?

Kona sits on the sun-drenched western coast of Hawai’i Island, better known as the Big Island. This stretch of coastline is part of the larger Kona District, which spans much of the island’s southwest. And it’s just gorgeous!

Geographically, it sits between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Kohala Mountains to the north, with the Mauna Loa volcano to the south. The town of Kailua-Kona, often referred to simply as “Kona,” is the heart of the region and where you’ll find not only tourists but plenty of locals. 

Unlike Hilo, which lies on the rainy, jungle-covered east coast, Kona is all about dry, sunny weather – perfect for snorkeling, diving, and lounging with a mai tai in hand. It’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive between the two, and while Kona is a bit removed from some of the Big Island’s major sights like Mauna Kea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it makes up for it with epic ocean views, world-class coffee farms, and OMG the sunsets.

Kona isn’t Honolulu – there’s no towering skyline, no Waikiki Beach crowds, and definitely no rush-hour traffic. What will you find instead? A laid-back, beachy vibe, charming seaside restaurants, and some of the best snorkeling and manta ray night dives in the world. If you’re looking for a slower-paced, sun-soaked Hawaiian escape, Kona is exactly where you want to be.

Remember – Don’t expect to find the iconic sights of Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, or the Road to Hana here – those are over on Oahu and Maui. Kona has its own kind of magic, with rugged lava fields, crystal-clear snorkeling spots, and a more laid-back, uncrowded vibe.

How to Get to Kona, HI

Getting to Kona is refreshingly easy, whether you’re flying in from the mainland, island-hopping from elsewhere in Hawaii, or even arriving by cruise ship. We’re especially lucky to be only a 5 hour non-stop flight away!

Flying to Kona 

The main gateway to the Big Island is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), located just north of Kailua-Kona. It’s well-connected to major U.S. cities, with nonstop flights from the West Coast, including Los Angeles (5.5 hours), Seattle (6 hours), and San Francisco (5 hours). If you’re coming from the East Coast, expect an 11-12 hour journey with a layover – most likely in Honolulu, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Dallas.

Flying in from another Hawaiian island? Super simple! Interisland flights on Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest connect Kona to Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai in under an hour, making it easy to add Kona to your island-hopping itinerary.

One of the things I love most about living in California is how easy it is to jet off to Hawaii for a long weekend. With multiple daily nonstop flights from San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX), it’s basically a five-hour flight to paradise. And because of that, we’re trying to get to Hawaii as much as humanly possible, because we may not live on the West Coast forever!

Trust me – there’s nothing like stepping off the plane in Hawaii, feeling the warm, salty air and knowing you’ve officially arrived in paradise. And just like in Palm Springs, the entire airport is practically outside and covered in palm trees!

Coming by Cruise Ship

Many longer Hawaiian cruises include a stop in Kona, typically for a day of exploring before continuing to other ports like Hilo or Maui. Since the harbor isn’t deep enough for large ships to dock, passengers take tenders (small boats) from ship to shore, adding a bit of adventure to the arrival!

How to Get Around Kona

Getting around Kona depends on where you’re staying and what you plan to do. Here’s a breakdown of your best options:

• Walking: If you’re staying in downtown Kailua-Kona, you’re in luck – it’s super walkable. Ali‘i Drive, the scenic oceanfront road, is packed with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making it easy to explore on foot. Just keep in mind that once you venture beyond the town center, you’ll need another mode of transport.

• Rental Car: Highly recommended if you want to see more than just the downtown area. While Kona itself is compact, the Big Island is, well, big, and many of the best beaches and attractions aren’t within walking distance. We loved Kua Bay (more on that below), but getting there by Uber would’ve been pricey. And if you’re staying longer than 3 days in Kona, you’ll definitely want a rental car to visit places like Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and Green Sand Beach.

• Public Transit: Kona does have a public bus system, but it’s not the most convenient for tourists. Routes are limited, and buses don’t always run frequently. It’s fine for short trips around town but not ideal for reaching the island’s best spots.

• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft do exist in Kona, but they’re not as widely available as in bigger cities. They work well for short trips (like getting to/from the airport or a night out in town), but if you’re heading to more remote beaches, doing scenic drives, or exploring national parks, you’ll probably save money (and hassle) by renting a car.

• Island Hopping & Cruises: If you’re visiting from another Hawaiian island, inter-island flights are quick and easy, with Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offering frequent service. Also, some major cruise lines stop in Kona on longer Hawaii itineraries, giving visitors a day to explore before sailing on.

When to Visit Kona (Weather & Crowds)

Kona enjoys some of the best weather in Hawaii, thanks to the Kohala Mountains blocking much of the rainfall from the northeast trade winds. This means plenty of sunshine, warm temps in the 80s F year-round, and only about 20 rainy days per year – my dream! But while the weather is pretty consistent, the crowds, prices, and wildlife experiences change depending on when you visit. 

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Winter (December – March): Peak Season & Whale Watching

Winter is one of the busiest times in Kona, with visitors escaping the cold from the mainland. Expect higher prices on flights and hotels, especially around the holidays, and more people at popular beaches and attractions. 

But there’s another reason this season is so popular – it’s humpback whale season! Over 8,000 whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters, and Kona is one of the best places to see them. If whale-watching tours or spotting these gentle giants from the shore sound like your thing, winter is an epic time to visit. 

Spring (April – June): Fewer Crowds, Perfect Weather

Spring is a sweet spot for visiting Kona. The holiday rush is over, spring break crowds taper off by mid-April, and prices start to dip. The weather? Still sunny and warm, with little rain. Plus, you might still catch the tail end of whale season if you visit in early April. This is a great time to visit if you want all the sunshine with fewer people.

Summer (July – Early September): Hot & Bustling

Summer brings warmer temps, slightly more humidity, and an influx of families since schools are out. Crowds are up, but it’s still nowhere near as packed as Oahu or Maui in the summer. 

If you love snorkeling and diving, this is one of the best times for crystal-clear water – waves are calmer, making for incredible underwater visibility. Just book your accommodations early, as prices can rise during peak summer travel.

Fall (Mid-September – November): Best for Tranquility & Deals

If you’re looking for smaller crowds, lower prices, and still-perfect weather, fall is the time to visit Kona. We visited in late September and couldn’t have asked for a better experience – warm, sunny days with minimal rain, and far fewer tourists than we expected. 

Where to Stay in Kona

Kona has a little bit of everything when it comes to accommodations – from oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and even unique vacation rentals. But where you stay depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for of course. 

Do you want to be right in the heart of Kailua-Kona, close to restaurants and shops? Prefer a laid-back beachfront resort with easy access to the ocean? Or maybe you’re after a secluded retreat surrounded by lush nature? 

Let’s break it down:

Best Areas to Stay in Kona

• Kailua-Kona (Downtown Kona) – Perfect if you wanna be within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and shops (like us!). You’ll find mid-range hotels, budget inns, and oceanfront condos here. This is where most of the action happens, so it’s ideal if you want a lively atmosphere. 
• Keauhou – Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this area is home to upscale resorts, golf courses, and the famous manta ray night dives. It’s a great choice for relaxation with easy access to the main town.
• Hualālai / Four Seasons Area – If you’re going all out, this is where you’ll find luxury resorts with private beaches, top-tier dining, and spa experiences. The Four Seasons Hualālai is arguably the best resort in Kona (and comes with a hefty price tag).
• South Kona / Captain Cook – More of a quiet, local vibe with lush landscapes and coffee farms. Great if you want to be near Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and Kealakekua Bay. Accommodations here are mostly vacation rentals and small inns.

Best Hotels & Resorts in Kona

Luxury Stays:

• Four Seasons Resort Hualālai – The ultimate high-end experience with oceanfront bungalows, infinity pools, and a private beach. $$$$$
• Holualoa Inn – A stunning boutique bed & breakfast tucked in the hills above Kona, with incredible ocean views. Peaceful and perfect for couples. $$$$

Mid-Range Resorts & Hotels:

• Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa – Located in Keauhou, this resort has gorgeous ocean views, a huge pool, and is famous for its manta ray viewing deck. $$$
• Royal Kona Resort – Right on the waterfront in downtown Kona, this hotel has an unbeatable location and ocean-facing rooms. The onsite tiki bar is a fun bonus. $$-$$$

Budget-Friendly & Vacation Rentals:

• Kona Tiki Hotel – A small, no-frills oceanfront hotel with a retro Hawaiian vibe. Super affordable, but books up fast! $$
• Vacation Rentals & Airbnbs – Kona has tons of beachfront condos, coffee farm stays, and private houses. Look in Kailua-Kona for convenience, or South Kona for a quieter stay. Prices vary depending on location and amenities.

Where We Stayed in Kona

Since we only booked 2 weeks out (it was a last minute decision to head to Kona), we stayed in a cozy airbnb right in downtown Kailua-Kona – perfect for gorgeous sunset views and easy access to everything in town. 

If you’re only spending 3 days in Kona, I highly recommend staying somewhere central so you can maximize your time. But if you’re planning a longer, more relaxing trip, a resort in Keauhou or a rental in South Kona might be a better fit.

TL;DR? If you want walkability, stay in downtown Kona. If you want a resort vibe, head to Keauhou. If you’re splurging, book the Four Seasons.

Kona vs. Hilo: Which Side of the Big Island is Right for You?

Choosing between Kona and Hilo? It all depends on what kind of experience you’re after. While both are on the Big Island, they couldn’t feel more different – from the weather to the landscapes to the activities available. A little cheat sheet:

• Kona (West Side) = Sunshine, beaches, snorkeling, and great food
• Hilo (East Side) = Rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, and a more local feel

Why Choose Kona?

If you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, epic snorkeling, and sunny days, Kona is the spot for you. The west side of the island is dry and warm year-round, making it ideal for beach hopping, exploring lava rock coastlines, and indulging in some of the best food and coffee Hawaii has to offer. Kona is also where you’ll find resorts, lively nightlife, and world-famous snorkeling and diving (hello, manta rays!).

Best for: Sun lovers, beach bums, coffee enthusiasts, and those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Why Choose Hilo?

On the flip side, Hilo is lush, green, and tropical – think towering waterfalls, dense rainforests, and a more laid-back, local vibe. It gets way more rain than Kona, but that’s what makes it so vibrant. 

If you want to chase waterfalls, go ziplining, or explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo is your best bet. Just don’t expect many sandy beaches – the coastline here is more rugged, with dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches.

Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who don’t mind a little (or a lot of) rain.

So, Which One Should You Pick?

If you have limited time on the Big Island, Kona is the easier and more tourist-friendly choice. But if you want to see the island’s wilder, more tropical side, Hilo is worth a visit. 

Better yet? Do both! It’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive between the two, so you can easily split your time between the sunny beaches of Kona and the waterfalls of Hilo if you’ve got enough time. 

Are 3 Days in Kona Enough?

Absolutely – 3 days in Kona is plenty of time to soak up the sun, snorkel with manta rays, sip world-famous coffee, and explore the stunning coastline. But if you’re thinking about squeezing in a day trip to Hilo or Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you might want to reconsider.

Sure, some people say it’s doable, but here’s the thing: Hilo is over two hours away, and the national park deserves at least a full day to truly experience the lava fields, craters, and epic landscapes. Plus, the weather on the east side is notoriously unpredictable – it rains over 200 days a year, meaning you’ll have zero wiggle room if the weather decides not to cooperate.

If you have extra time (and don’t mind packing up and staying on the other side of the island for a night), then yes, a visit to Hilo and Volcanoes National Park makes sense – especially if you’re into hiking, waterfalls, and volcanoes. But with just three days? Stick to Kona and the west coast. More sunshine, less driving, and way more time to actually enjoy paradise.

Psst – desperately wanna visit the other side of the island from Kona? Best to book a tour like this full day Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day Trip. It includes hotel pick up and drop off, and all the best attractions – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kona Coffee Farm, Waipio Valley Lookout, Akaka and Rainbow Waterfalls, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Literally the perfect tour if you’ve only got one day to dedicate to the east side of the island.

Of course if you’re coming from further than San Francisco, I obviously wouldn’t recommend coming all the way to Hawaii for only a mere 3 days, haha. But 3 days in Kona and nearby is the perfect addition to a longer Hawaiian itinerary. Especially if you’re planning to go to Volcanoes National Park near Hilo. 

What to Pack for Kona 

When packing for your trip, you wanna make sure you’ve got all the right clothing and gear for everything you’ve planned for your Kona itinerary. Think about the activities you’ll be doing, and prepare for those! 

Everyone will need their typical everyday clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc). A few pairs of shoes is a good idea – I recommend bringing a pair of flip flops, sandals, dressy shoes (for a nice dinner out), and sneakers/hiking boots if you’re planning on walking across lava fields (like to Makalawena Beach). I also recommend packing a light jacket or sweater, yes, even for Hawaii! Evenings can be breezy, and it gets chilly during manta ray snorkeling.

Women’s Packing List: You’ll obviously need all your favorite beach attire, including bathing suits (buy a few new ones!), beach cover-ups, loose cotton dresses, a cute sun hat, casual and dressy sandals.

Men’s Packing List: Be cool and casual during the day (my husband loves short sleeve button downs for a more polished look), but be sure to check the dress code for any restaurants you really wanna go to. Men might need pants and dress shoes to enter.

Other Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Your Kona Itinerary

• Polarized sunglasses (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag and/or backpack: make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s: The sun is strong here! I love taking a wide-brimmed sun hat for the beach and a fun trucker hat when hiking.
• Rash guard: Keeps you protected from the sun and adds warmth for night snorkeling with manta rays (although your tour will likely provide you with one).
• If your Kona itinerary includes a bunch of snorkeling around the island (like at Two Step), you’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel.
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading at the beach (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle: better for the environment and a must for hiking!
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SPF lip balm as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel: always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine: This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough!).
• Underwater camera: All my underwater photography tips and gear here. I’d check out an underwater phone case, too.
• Portable battery charger: Charge your phone on the go and never run out of a charge
• Noise-cancelling headphones: Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my AirPods and Noah loves his Bose Quiet Comforts.
• Tote bag: Plastic bags are banned in Hawaii, so bring your own for shopping! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase).

Additional Kona Itinerary Facts

Language

Hawaii’s official languages are English and Hawaiian, though you’ll mostly hear English spoken throughout Kona. You’ll also notice Hawaiian words and phrases used regularly – like “aloha” (hello/goodbye/love), “mahalo” (thank you), and “ohana” (family). 

Street names, towns, and attractions often have Hawaiian names, so it’s helpful to get familiar with the pronunciation (Kailua-Kona, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, Mauna Kea – lots of vowels, I know!).

Culture of Kona 

Kona has a more rugged, down-to-earth vibe compared to the polished resorts of Maui or the urban energy of Honolulu. It feels lived-in – where everyday island life blends with tourism. You’ll see pickup trucks parked outside local poke spots, small mom-and-pop shops alongside beachfront bars, and a mix of both visitors and locals enjoying the coastline. 

While there’s luxury resorts north of town, much of Kona feels refreshingly unpolished, with a strong connection to its Hawaiian roots. It’s a place where culture, history, and real life coexist, making it feel more authentic than overly touristy.

I do want to touch upon the fact that we saw plenty of unhoused individuals in town. Like any big city, Kona has its fair share of issues. Life in Hawaii gets ridiculously over-romanticized, but in reality it’s quite difficult to survive. I’ve heard that other states send homeless people to Hawaii to get them off their soil, but I’m not sure how true this is. 

What to Eat in Kona (Must-Try Hawaiian Foods!)

Hawaii’s food scene is next-level, and Kona is no exception. Some must-eats while you’re here:

• Fresh Poke: Ultra-fresh, marinated raw fish, typically served over rice. Try it at Da Poke Shack (our favorite poke by far) or Umekes.
• Loco Moco: A hearty plate of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and rich brown gravy. Classic Hawaiian comfort food!
• Kona Coffee: Some of the best coffee in the world is grown right here. Visit a coffee farm and go on a tour or grab a cup at Kona Coffee & Tea.
• Shave Ice: Not just any shaved ice – Hawaiian shave ice is ultra-fine, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Try it with tropical flavors like lilikoi (passionfruit) and li hing mui (salty dried plum).
• Huli Huli Chicken: Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor! This Hawaiian-style BBQ chicken is a must. Try it at a roadside stand for the real deal.
• Macadamia Nut Everything: From pancakes to cookies to chocolate-covered mac nuts, you’ll find these everywhere (and they make great souvenirs!).

Brief History of Kona 

Kona’s history runs deep, from ancient Hawaiian settlements to its role in the arrival of Western explorers. This sunny stretch of coastline was once home to Hawaiian royalty, including King Kamehameha I, who spent his later years in Kailua-Kona. The area was also where the first Christian missionaries arrived in the 19th century, forever shaping the cultural landscape. 

Today, remnants of Kona’s past can still be seen in sacred sites, historic heiau (Hawaiian temples), and the influence of coffee farming – an industry that dates back to the early 1800s when Kona’s volcanic soil proved perfect for growing some of the world’s best beans. 

Other Kona Travel Tips

• Sun Protection is a MUST: Kona gets a lot of sun, so pack reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Renting a Car is Best: Public transportation is limited, and many of the best spots (like Kua Bay and coffee farms) require a drive.
• Island Time is Real: Life moves a little slower here, so relax, enjoy, and don’t expect everything to be rushed or overly punctual.
• Respect the ‘Āina (Land): Hawaii is stunning, and locals take great pride in preserving its beauty. Be mindful of cultural sites, don’t touch sea turtles or coral reefs, and leave no trace when exploring.
• Tipping is Expected: Just like on the mainland, tipping is customary in restaurants, for tours, and even at coffee shops.

Local Etiquette & Sustainability in Kona

Respect for the land (‘āina) and local culture is a big deal in Hawaii, and Kona is no exception. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Aloha Spirit: Hawaiians are known for their warmth and hospitality, but respect goes both ways. A simple aloha (hello/goodbye) or mahalo (thank you) goes a long way!
• Respect Sacred Sites: Places like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau and historic heiau (temples) are deeply significant. Don’t climb on ruins, take rocks or sand, or leave trash behind.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Hawaii has banned sunscreens with harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect its coral reefs. Stick to mineral-based sunscreens.
• Wildlife Etiquette: It’s tempting to get close to sea turtles and manta rays, but Hawaiian law requires you to keep your distance – at least 10 feet from turtles and 50 yards from dolphins. Look, don’t touch!
• Reduce Plastic Use: Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, as Hawaii has strict plastic regulations.
• Support Local: From Kona coffee farms to family-owned eateries, spending your dollars at locally run businesses helps keep the community thriving. Skip the L&L Hawaiian BBQ…

A little mindfulness goes a long way in preserving the beauty and culture of Kona for generations to come!

Now that you’re armed with these extra travel tips, let’s dive into the ultimate 3 days in Kona itinerary!

3 Day Kona Itinerary 

Day 1: Downtown Kona and Nearby

Kick off your Kona adventure with a full day in town – good food, beach time, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience snorkeling with manta rays at night.

Stop 1: Coffee and Breakfast

Start the day Hawaiian-style – with coffee and malasadas (Portuguese donuts)! And nope, calories don’t count on vacation! 

There’s a few spots nearby, but we LOVED Paradise Bakery Hawaii. Just make sure to come early because there’s usually a line out the door and they do sell out, sometimes quite early! There’s lots of filled malasadas to choose from, including guava, ube, chocolate, lilikoi, and strawberry. The perfect pillowy texture!

If you’re still hungry (second breakfast anyone?!), grab an acai bowl at Basik Acai (seriously, so good and light and refreshing). 

And don’t miss some Kona coffee! Head to HiCO – Hawaiian Coffee for a cup of smooth, rich Kona coffee or stop by Ka’u Coffee Mill Café to try another variety of Hawaii’s world-famous brews.

Stop 2: Downtown Kona

Once you’re fueled up, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Kona. Browse the Kona Farmers Market, visit the historic Hulihe’e Palace, and stop by Kailua Pier for some classic waterfront views. 

Right next to the pier, you’ll find Kamakahonu Beach – a tiny but scenic stretch of sand perfect for a quick dip. 

Before leaving downtown, don’t forget to grab a shave ice from Gecko Girlz or Scandinavian Shave Ice – because let’s be real, you can’t come to Hawaii and not indulge in some shave ice! We love getting some condensed milk on top for extra creaminess!

Stop 3: Fresh Poke for Lunch

Once you get hungry, head on over to Da Poke Shack – this was some of the best poke we’ve ever had in Hawaii, and we’ve eaten a lot of poke across the islands. Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. If poke isn’t your thing (first of all, why?!), Shaka Tacoz is a great alternative, serving up tacos with an island twist.

Stop 4: Magic Sands Beach Park

Finally some lazy beach time! I recommend heading to Magic Sands Beach Park, which we LOVED so much we actually went twice during our 3 days in Kona. It’s got soft white sand, bright blue water, and waves that are so fun (always be careful in the ocean, waves can sneak up on you).

The beach is perfect for sunbathing (and people watching) too. I could’ve stayed in the water for HOURS (basking in the Hawaiian sun is my fave thing ever), but lunch was calling!

Stop 5: Dinner at Aloha Vibes

After a day in the sun, wind down with dinner at Aloha Vibes, a spot we fell in love with for its live music and absolutely delicious coconut shrimp dish. I was too eager to eat my food that I didn’t even take a picture (which is SUPER unlike me, haha).

And the best part? Oneo Bay is right nearby, making it the perfect place to catch a killer sunset!

Stop 6: Snorkeling with Manta Rays

But the night isn’t over yet – because it’s time for one of the coolest, most surreal experiences on this Kona itinerary: snorkeling with manta rays in the dark! This is probably the most popular excursion on the Big Island, so promise me you won’t miss it and make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season!

There’s plenty of manta ray snorkeling tours, but I highly recommend THIS ONE. It’s the exact one we booked, and I felt super safe with them during the entire experience (plus they gave out tons of snacks, haha). Just make sure to book the snorkeling add-on so you can actually get in the water with them of course.

Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t worry. You literally hold onto the side of a makeshift raft and dangle your legs over a pool noodle! Hard to explain, but you’ll see what I mean. 

We got insanely lucky on our tour and saw over two dozen manta rays (apparently, the normal is just a handful?!). At first, it was kinda nerve-wracking since they got super close (they even touched us on occasion!), but after the initial adrenaline rush, it was pure magic watching these massive creatures glide effortlessly through the water. My videos are absolutely INSANE – they really put on a show for us!

Heads up: It gets pretty chilly out there since it’s pitch black and there’s no sun, but our tour provider provided a wetsuit top (not sure what it’s actually called, but it helped!) to keep warm. Totally worth it for an experience this exhilarating!

Day 2: North of Kona – Stunning Beaches, Turtles, & Sunset Drinks

Day 2 is all about exploring the breathtaking beaches north of Kona, indulging in fresh island flavors, and soaking in one seriously memorable sunset. It’s probably my favorite day on this Kona itinerary!

Stop 1: Breakfast in Downtown Koan

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at Fish Hopper Kona (oceanfront views + incredible omelets) or 808 Grindz Café (super affordable, and their macadamia nut pancakes are chef’s kiss).

Stop 2: Beach Hopping

Once you’re all fueled up (and slathered on the sunscreen), it’s time to hit the beaches! And trust me, these are some of the best on the island:

• Kua Bay (Manini‘owali Beach): One of our favorite beaches in all of Hawaii! And that’s saying a lot since we’ve been to dozens! There’s nothing better than soft white sand and crystal-clear water! While parking can be a little tricky (the lot is teeny tiny so practically everyone parks on the street), it’s absolutely worth it. Since we found a spot about a 10 minute walk away, we had to lug our stuff (beach chairs and such), so be mindful of what you’re bringing and don’t forget anything in your car!

• Makalawena Beach: If you’re up for a little adventure, this one’s for you. Getting here requires a hike through a lava field (yes, a lava field!), but the reward? A remote, stunning beach with powdery white sand and way fewer crowds. Pack plenty of water and good shoes for the walk!

Stop 3: Lunch at Lava Lava Beach Club

For lunch, grab a table at Lava Lava Beach Club – this place is right on the sand, with a laid-back island vibe and killer mai tais. Try the coconut shrimp or the fresh catch of the day! After eating, take a leisurely walk down ‘Anaeho‘omalu Beach, which is just steps away.

Stop 4: Shopping and Shave Ice

Next, take a break from the sun (your skin will thank you) and stroll through the Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Village. It’s a small but cute shopping area, perfect for picking up souvenirs, checking out local boutiques, or just wandering around for a bit. It’s way more upscale than downtown Kona, and feels a world away. 

And, of course, no Hawaiian afternoon is complete without shave ice! Stop by Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. for a sweet and refreshing treat. The line will probably be out the door, but there’s nothing better than some shave ice on a hot day. 

Stop 5: Turtles and Volcanic Lava 

For the best way to wrap up the day, head to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, just north of the airport. We absolutely loved this spot – it’s not only a beautiful coastal area with ancient Hawaiian fishponds and petroglyphs and mile-high palm trees, but there’s SEA TURTLES! And oh so many of them! Please view them from a distance and NEVER feed, chase, or even think about touching them.

Psst – enter and park via the marina side if you don’t wanna walk a mile to the ocean. Google Maps takes you to the actual entrance of the park, which is quite far from the beach. There is the Petroglyph Boardwalk Trail if it’s not too hot and you wanna get some steps though! Follow directions to aptly named “Sea Turtle Beach” and you’ll only have a 5 minute walk to the shore.

Stop 6: Sunset Drinks and Dinner at a Luxe Resort

As the sun starts to set, treat yourself to a fancy dinner and some drinks at the Fairmont Orchid (one of the most beautiful resorts on the island). For an extra-special splurge, book a table at Brown’s Beach House or CanoeHouse – both are upscale, oceanfront, and absolutely worth it if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience. A cocktail at sunset with waves crashing in the background? Yes, please.

Day 3: South of Kona – History, Snorkeling, & Coffee Farms

The final day on this Kona itinerary takes you south to Captain Cook, where you’ll find ancient Hawaiian history, some of the best snorkeling on the island, and world-famous Kona coffee farms.

Stop 1: Hawaiian History at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau

Start the day at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site that once served as a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot with reconstructed temples, wooden carvings, and lava rock pathways. Spend some time wandering through the park and learning about Hawaiian history before heading to your next stop – one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.

Stop 2: Snorkeling at Two Step or Catamaran Cruise

No Kona itinerary is complete without some snorkeling! Right next door, you’ll find Two Step Beach, famous for its crystal-clear water and thriving coral reefs. We made the rookie mistake of assuming we could rent snorkel gear nearby – nope! Bring your own gear because there’s nowhere close to rent or buy it. Once you’re in the water, though, you’ll be surrounded by colorful fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins or sea turtles!

Not sure how to snorkel? I recommend taking a snorkeling cruise instead. The staff will walk you through everything step-by-step and make sure you feel comfortable in the water. Of course with scenic views of the Kona coast and tropical fruit included! This guided catamaran snorkeling tour goes from Keauhou Bay to Captain Cook’s Monument, with multiple snorkel spots included. You may even spot whales and/or dolphins if you’re lucky (my favorite!).

OR take an underwater submarine adventure if you don’t wanna get wet or feel nervous snorkeling. When was the last time you’ve been in a submarine?!

Stop 3: Local Lunch at Kaaloa’s Super J’s

After all that swimming, you’ll be starving, and Ka’aloa’s Super J’s is the perfect place to refuel. It’s a no-frills, straightforward family-run spot known for their authentic Hawaiian plate lunches. Their laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves) is legendary (probably the best on the island), and you’ll be eating alongside locals, which is always a good sign.

We shared a few things and LOVED IT! Plus, the lady serving us was so helpful since we had no idea what to get. Don’t miss the sweet potato haupia pie if they’ve got it!

Stop 4: Coffee Farm Tour

Next, you can’t come to Kona and not visit a coffee farm – this is where some of the best coffee in the world is grown! I’m sure you’ve heard of Kona coffee! There’s plenty of farms to choose from, but Hala Tree Coffee and Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm Tours both offer great tastings and gorgeous views. Learn about the growing and roasting process, sip on some fresh brews, and maybe even bring a bag (or three) home.

We decided to make a quick stop at Hala Tree Coffee, and loved that they gave out as many free samples as we wanted!

Stop 5: Extras

If you’re up for a little extra relaxation, consider booking some time at Mamalahoa Hot Tubs, a hidden gem where you can soak in warm, private outdoor tubs surrounded by lush greenery.

On your way back toward Kona, take a quick peek at Keauhou Bay, a calm and scenic bay with cultural significance – it’s where King Kamehameha III was born!

And if you’re like me and just can’t get enough of Magic Sands Beach, this is the perfect time to go back. We loved it so much we went twice during our 3 days in Kona – the soft sand, crashing waves, and golden sunset just hit differently. And more sea turtles! Plus, it’s super close to downtown Kona, making it the perfect last stop before your Hawaiian luau!

Stop 6: Traditional Hawaiian Luau Dinner

Finally, if you’ve never been to a Hawaiian luau before, add one to your Kona itinerary! It’s the perfect place to experience one – and trust me, it’s so much more than just dinner and a show. Think: traditional Hawaiian music, colorful hula dancing, and a jaw-dropping Samoan fire knife performance, all under the stars right on the shores of Kailua Bay. The energy is electric, the setting is magical, and the Mai Tais? Let’s just say you won’t be going thirsty. 

The all-you-can-eat buffet is packed with local favorites – everything from kalua-style pork and freshly caught fish to coconut rolls, teriyaki beef, and even Waipio Valley poi. Don’t skip the sweet potato-mac salad or the haupia pudding for dessert. It’s a full-on feast of island flavors, and the whole night feels like one big celebration of Polynesian culture. If you’re in Kona for a few nights, definitely carve out an evening for this – it’s one of those unforgettable “only in Hawaii” experiences. Book your Hawaiian luau here (and yes, they do get booked up!).

So there ya have it – my perfect 3 days in Kona itinerary! Are you headed to the islands soon?!

The post The Best Kona Itinerary: 3 Days in Kona, Hawaii appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

There’s a reason Santa Barbara is dubbed the American Riviera – I mean, have you seen it?! The whole area is downright gorgeous – you’ll find long sandy beaches, Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, rugged cliffs above sparkling blue waters, and a truly relaxed atmosphere. 

A weekend in Santa Barbara really is the epitome of the laid-back California lifestyle, and I’m all for it! Who can say no to sipping cocktails in year-round sunshine and palm-lined beaches with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a dramatic backdrop?! Definitely not me!

After moving to San Francisco almost a decade ago (whoa, where does the time go?!), we’ve spent countless weekends in Santa Barbara. It’s honestly one of our favorite places on the entire California coast, and if we’re being truthful, the place we’d choose to move next (if only it had a major international airport – the one thing it’s lacking!). This sun-kissed California beach town is pretty much paradise, and you’ll never wanna leave. Just you wait, haha.

At first glance, Santa Barbara reminds us of San Clemente down the coast in Orange County. And surprise, surprise, we absolutely LOVE San Clemente and its chic Mediterranean feel! So it’s no coincidence that we absolutely adore Santa Barbara as well. Plus, Santa Barbara kinda reminds me of cities we love in the French Riviera (like Nice, Cannes, and Menton – with their sophisticated lifestyle, Mediterranean climate, and beautiful beaches). All so swoonworthy!

Santa Barbara is no hidden gem by any means, but since it’s further from a large airport, I’d say most people visiting are either local Californians, or those coming from out of state on a much-longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

I’m sharing an extensive guide to help you plan out your best Santa Barbara weekend trip possible. And since we have some local friends in the area, we always get the best recommendations — which I’m sharing with all of you of course! Let’s go!

Santa Barbara Weekend Getaway Logistics

Where is Santa Barbara and How to Get There

Santa Barbara is located on the central coast of California, about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles. It’s situated along the Pacific Ocean, between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the coastline (meaning great views all around!). 

It sits almost directly between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo (about an hour or so from each, although with traffic, definitely longer, haha.) Because of its location, it’s a great place to stop if you’re visiting both cities on a larger California trip, such as when you’re driving down the Pacific Coast Highway!

East of Santa Barbara you’ll find the Los Padres National Forest, with Santa Ynez River Recreation Area, Figueroa Mountain, and the Ojai Valley being popular spots in the forest (perfect for hiking and camping). And to the west you’ll find the wild Channel Islands National Park (high on my California bucket list).

How to Get to Santa Barbara

Because of Santa Barbara’s awesome location pretty much equidistant between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, it’s pretty easy to get to Santa Barbara. A few options below: 

Driving to Santa Barbara: If you’re coming from elsewhere in California (like us!), you can totally drive! Santa Barbara is right off Highway 101 (which runs north-south along the CA coast), so super accessible and not terribly, terribly far from most popular places in California.

Here’s some driving distances from popular spots in California (and nearby) to give you a sense of the time required (just make sure to account for some inevitable traffic of course, especially around LA):

• From Los Angeles: 1 ½ hours, 95 miles
• From San Luis Opisbo: 1 ½ hours, 95 miles
• From Orange County: 2 hours, 130 miles
• From Palm Springs: 3 hours, 200 miles
• From San Diego: 3 ½ hours, 230 miles
• From Big Sur: 4 ½ hours, 270 miles
• From San Francisco: 5 hours, 325 miles
• From Yosemite National Park: 5 ½ hours, 300 miles
• From Las Vegas (Nevada): 5 ½ hours, 345 miles
• From Lake Tahoe: 8 hours, 480 miles

→ Visiting Santa Barbara on a much longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip?! Check out all my favorite PCH stops right here!

Flying to Santa Barbara: Yes, there’s an airport right here in Santa Barbara (well, 15 minutes west in Goleta but close enough)! The aptly named Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), haha. 

It’s not the hugest airport by any means (it’s actually quite small with only 1 terminal), but does have flights from major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Denver, and Seattle. And it’s super close to downtown Santa Barbara (only 7 miles away), so you really can’t beat that! 

The airport serves as a gateway to the Central Coast of California, so perfect if you’re planning to visit Santa Barbara (obviously), but also Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, and Paso Robles.

Public Transit to Santa Barbara

Already in SoCal/Central Coast and looking for public transit to Santa Barbara? There’s the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train! I highly recommend taking the train (instead of driving) especially if you need to drive through LA/OC (as there’ll probably be lots of traffic).

The train is super easy to use, not crazy expensive (around $30 from LA), and I have friends that swear by it! I’d probably use it myself if I lived along the train route. Plus, the Santa Barbara train station is located right downright, so super convenient.

It actually runs from San Luis Obispo all the way down to San Diego, so if you’re coming from further afield and don’t feel like driving, that’s a great option for ya! It’d be super fun to plan out a week-long train trip or something like that.

If you’re coming from up north (Northern California, Oregon, and even Washington), consider taking Amtrak’s Coast Starlight Train. It passes right through Santa Barbara on its daily route between Los Angeles and Seattle (yes, the full journey takes 35 hours!).

There’s also the Santa Barbara MTD (with plenty of bus routes from neighboring communities) and Greyhound (for those coming from further afield), as well as the Santa Barbara Airbus directly from LAX! The Santa Barbara Transit Center is the central hub for local and regional bus services, so if you’re planning to take the bus, expect to get off there.

How to Get Around Santa Barbara

On Foot: Due to Santa Barbara’s compact downtown area,  it’s thankfully very walkable! State Street serves as the main street lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, although its way longer than most people realize so I wouldn’t attempt to walk the entire length in one go unless you have a while. And the beaches and harbor are only steps away from downtown!

Driving in Santa Barbara: You can totally get by on foot if you just stay downtown, but if you wanna explore further afield (other beaches, gardens, foodie spots), it’s best to have a car. 

Since we live in the SF Bay Area and typically drive down to Santa Barbara, we always have our car. And we seem to use it way more than we always think we will, haha. Some of our fave spots are a little distance away from State Street, like Butterfly Beach (come for sunset!), Old Mission Santa Barbara, Bettina (drool worthy pizza), and Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. You can of course always Uber to those though (no need to rent a car).

Parking: Of course, if you’re planning on driving around during your weekend in Santa Barbara, you’ll need to worry about parking. And it can definitely be challenging in some areas, especially downtown. 

There’s plenty of parking lots both downtown and along the waterfront (that don’t break the bank), as well as street parking, but they do fill up. We’ve thankfully never had too much trouble finding parking, but always check the street signs carefully!

Biking: Santa Barbara is a super bike-friendly city, and you’ll see plenty of bike lanes and paths no problem. There’s a fair amount of bike rental shops as well as the city’s bike-share program (if your hotel doesn’t offer complimentary bikes). And there’s even two fully enclosed bicycle parking facilities – so you know this town is legit about its biking, haha.

We love strolling down the Cabrillo Bike Path right on the waterfront, but most people bike, haha. 

Public Transit: Within Santa Barbara, you’ll find the SB Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) that operates a network of bus routes throughout the city. The Downtown Transit Center serves as the central hub for MTD buses, making it easy to transfer between routes. The buses are super affordable and convenient, and make stops at all of the popular touristy areas.

Rideshares: When all else fails, there’s always Uber and Lyft!

When to Plan your Weekend Trip to Santa Barbara 

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, (sometimes wet) winters and warm, dry summers. Is there really a bad time for a Santa Barbara weekend getaway? I think not, haha! With ~300 days of sun (rivaling that of San Diego and Albuquerque, NM), it’s almost perfect weather year round. 

But the absolute best time to visit? During the shoulder season – early fall – since the weather’s practically perfect, but there’s fewer crowds and accommodations cost less. Plus, winter is cooler and can be a bit rainy unfortunately, and you probably won’t be able to go swimming without a wetsuit. 

This coincides with our favorite time to visit SB – during the spring (late March to May) and the fall (September to late October). 

BUT (of course there’s a but, haha), like other parts of the California coast (San Diego, Half Moon Bay, Big Sur, etc), Santa Barbara experiences what us Californians refer to as “May Gray, June Gloom”. And it’s exactly as it sounds – gray and gloomy with mostly overcast skies. The marine layer usually burns off by afternoon, but know you may have cloudy mornings May through June.

However, if you’re looking for that classic California beach vacation, you’ll wanna visit in the warm summer months of July and August (when days are long and the water is at its warmest). Do note that this is considered high season, and hotel prices and crowds will be higher than usual. Plus, the occasional heatwave, but there’s the ocean to cool off in!

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara really has it all. From luxurious beachfront resorts with private bungalows and breakfast in bed, to charming boutique hotels and “budget-friendly” trendy motels. 

In all honesty, we typically choose to stay in Lompoc (an hour north) or Galeta (15 minutes west) when we spend a weekend in Santa Barbara. I find the hotels in SB to be kinda crazy expensive (even more so on holiday weekends), especially since we don’t usually spend much time in the hotel itself. However, on our last few visits, we stayed in downtown Santa Barbara, and really enjoyed it… 

With that being said, there’s some REALLY nice hotels in Santa Barbara, so if you’re celebrating something special, I say splurge a bit! And if it’s your first visit to the area but don’t wanna break the bank, there’s thankfully quite a few budget-ish options.

“Budget”/Value Hotels in SB:

• Motel 6: We stayed here last summer and ended up LOVING it! It’s not your typical Motel 6 and felt more like a trendy boutique. It’s just steps from the beach and kinda retro in the best way possible.
• The Franciscan Hotel: A few blocks from the beach and State Street, with complimentary cookies everyday and a super dog friendly property. Kona especially loved all the treats of course!
• Castillo Inn: Simple place to stay just steps from the harbor, with large Italian-style rooms in a great location
• Inn by the Harbor: Very manicured with lots of colorful plants and flowers, plus a pool and spacious rooms
• Hotel Milo: Right off the beach with stylish rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and complimentary bike rentals
• The Wayfarer: Located in the Funk Zone, this hostel-style hotel has both dorm-style beds and private rooms, along with communal spaces and bike rentals.

A few hotels on my wish list:

• El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel: After brunching at the Belmond one morning, we were able to quickly check out the property (including the lux infinity pool), and OMG it’s absolutely gorgeous. I’ve heard the rooms, suites, and boutique spa are all kinds of luxury.
• Palihouse Santa Barbara: An upscale Mediterranean-style boutique hotel that’s super stylish and fun; with a complimentary cocktail hour and diptyque toiletries (a brand I love)
• Rosewood Miramar Beach: A 5* hotel over in nearby Montecito with panoramic Pacific Ocean views and lots of sophisticated luxury! Expect airy rooms on the beach and elegant dining, plus a spa and 2 outdoor pools! 
• Kimpton Canary Hotel: A super-stylish boutique hotel located right in downtown Santa Barbara with a rooftop pool, cool bar, and vibrant atmosphere. We even saw Andy Buckley (from The Office!) here last year!
• Hotel Californian: A super chic hotel right in the heart of Santa Barbara’s waterfront district, with luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and Spanish-inspired architecture. 
• San Ysidro Ranch: The definition of luxury – luxe suites and private cottages on a chic ranch with flawlessly beautiful grounds complete with multiple restaurants and a spa. The ultimate dream. I’d love to go for their signature afternoon tea!

Hotels in Nearby Neighborhoods

If you’re trying to save on accommodation (hey, I get it, SB can be expensive!), consider finding a hotel in a nearby neighborhood instead. You have to really think if this is practical or not, as driving back and forth kinda cuts into the whole easy-breezy carefree-beach scene, haha.

Goleta: This little city is where you’ll find the Santa Barbara Airport and UC Santa Barbara, and only 15 minutes west of downtown SB or so. The Ritz Carlton Bacara is over here, a GORGEOUS oceanfront property with multiple pools, a luxury spa, and even access to a private beach. If you’re looking for something a bit more standard, check out the Hilton Garden Inn Goleta, Hampton Inn Goleta, and The Steward, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

Lompoc: Located an hour or so north, so I wouldn’t stay here if you’re spending a true weekend in Santa Barbara. It’s fine for a night if you’re driving down the California coast and planning to drive to SB the next morning for a day of exploring before getting on the road again. But it’s too far to be going back and forth to each and every day. The Embassy Suites Lompoc, Holiday Inn Express Lompoc, and Lompoc Valley Inn & Suites are all decent options.

Other Important FAQs for your Santa Barbara Itinerary

• Why is Santa Barbara known as the American Riviera? I mean, have you seen the photos?! SB’s got a Mediterranean climate, beautiful coastline, and upscale lifestyle, which are reminiscent of the French and Italian Riviera regions (think Nice, Antibes, and Cinque Terre!). Plus, there’s also a wine country, particularly the Santa Ynez Valley, similar to the vineyards found in the Riviera regions of France and Italy! 

• Is a weekend in Santa Barbara really enough?! To be quite honest, every time we visit Santa Barbara we never wanna leave (kinda like when we visit Maui). There’s just something about the palm-lined beaches and laid-back California lifestyle that we could totally get used to. BUT you can really see the main highlights of the city with just 2 or 3 days in Santa Barbara. Including a wander down State Street, sunset at Butterfly Beach, wine tasting in the Funk Zone, sunbathing at the beach, and of course indulging in a cone at McConnells!

• Is Santa Barbara considered Southern California? It really depends who you ask, haha! Everyone associates it with SoCal because of its near-perfect climate and coastal lifestyle. But other people consider it to be located on the Central Coast. So either it’s the northernmost point of Southern California, or the last city on the Central Coast – honestly, it’s hard to say!

• Is Santa Barbara dog friendly? Yes – for the most part (besides the popular beaches). We’ve brought Kona on plenty of Santa Barbara weekend getaways and never felt limited as to what we could do. Sure, of course there’s some spots where dogs are not allowed, but for the most part we’re able to bring him almost everywhere (including plenty of restaurants).

• Are dogs allowed on the beach in Santa Barbara? With that being said, unfortunately most beaches don’t allow dogs on the beaches, no matter the time of year. But head to Arroyo Burro Beach/Hendry’s Beach (one of the only dog-friendly beaches in the area) and you’ll see tons of furry friends running around.

• Is Santa Barbara expensive? Yup, for visitors and locals alike. There’s no denying that Santa Barbara is one of the most expensive towns on the California coast. Hotels are expensive, food can be expensive (there’s lots of upscale spots here), and boutique shops are spendy. Bring your wallet, haha. But don’t worry, there’s loads of free activities (hello beach!) and even strolling down State Street is fun!

• Architecture in Santa Barbara: I don’t usually touch upon architecture in my weekend itineraries, but so much of SB’s appeal lies in its Spanish colonial heritage. You’ll find whitewashed adobe walls, red tiled roofs, gorgeous wrought-iron details, painted tiles, and arched doorways. I could spend all day just photographing the area. Even the street names have history in Spain! 

• Where should I go after Santa Barbara? Ohh – good question! There’s SO much around this area, so you’ve got tons of options before/after your weekend in Santa Barbara. Not far is Solvang, the cutest little Danish town (with the best apple donuts), and a bit further is Pismo Beach, Paso Robles, Morro Bay, and San Luis Obispo (some of our faves on the Central Coast). Cambria is about 2 hours north, while you’ll find Ojai, Malibu, and eventually Santa Monica and Los Angeles (plus Universal Studios!) 1 ½ hours south.

• Can I take a day trip to Santa Barbara from LA or OC? Totally! Since Santa Barbara’s less than 2 hours from LA, you can really do so much with just a day if you leave early enough. If you’re driving, be sure to factor in traffic (as there’s typically lots up the 101), and know that the train takes about 2 ½ – 3 hours. I truly think if you’re not local, you’ll love a weekend in Santa Barbara way more than a day trip from another area, just FYI.

• WEAR SUNSCREEN! I repeat, slather on that sunscreen until you feel you’ve overdone it and then some. And yes, even when it’s cloudy. The sun here is strong – you’ll want to protect yourself better than I did (whoops). The lobster look doesn’t look good on anybody, I promise.

Santa Barbara Weekend Itinerary

Let’s get to it – the ultimate weekend in Santa Barbara itinerary coming right up! 

Weekend in Santa Barbara Day 1

Day 1 of this Santa Barbara itinerary is fully walkable (unless you venture over to Hendry’s Beach with your dog)! That being said, definitely wear comfy shoes – we always get tons and tons of steps in SB!

Stop 1: Breakfast  

Let’s start off this Santa Barbara itinerary at one of the best breakfast spots in town! There’s quite a lot to choose from (too many), but here’s my favorites:

• Scarlett Begonia: Cal-American breakfast with fantastic cinnamon rolls and blueberry pancakes. Lots of comfort food with a creative twist – eat on the outdoor patio!
• Alessia Patisserie: A French-style bakery with delicious croissants (the raspberry chocolate is my fave), plus a delicious banana french toast I could eat every damn day.
• Oakberry: I first had these acai bowls in Sydney, Australia, and once I realized there’s a location in SB, you know I added this to my Santa Barbara itinerary straight away.

• Belmond El Encanto: Looking for a bougie breakfast overlooking the beach? Make a reservation at the Belmond, a stunning property with a GORGEOUS infinity pool! You’ll need to drive over here, but promise it’s worth it!
• Helena Avenue Bakery: House-baked breads and pastries plus breakfast sandwiches, salads, and soups. Don’t miss the avocado toast with cucumbers! Expect a long line but it moves fast!
• Jeannine’s: A few locations in downtown SB (one on State Street and one near Stearns Wharf) with excellent pastries, scones, and french toast. Plus a great eggs benedict.

Stop 2: Hang at the Beach 

You’re spending the weekend in Santa Barbara – of course you need to soak up some Vitamin D and hang at the beach! I mean, it’s really hard to ignore the sun-drenched sandy coastline. There’s swimming, sunbathing (my favorite, haha), volleyball, and other beach activities. You can even take a surfing lesson, rent a kayak, or go stand up paddling!

East Beach

East Beach is by far Santa Barbara’s most popular beach, and for a reason. It’s spacious, bordered by a grassy park lined with palm trees, and has gorgeous views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. I love sunbathing over here and going for long walks in Chase Palm Park, although you can totally go swimming and play some volleyball too. 

Over by East Beach you’ll find two of my favorite spots: 

• Chromatic Gate in Cabrillo Park: By far the best IG spot in all of SB, and built in 1991 by Herbert Bayer, an Austrian-born artist who lived in the area for 10 years! It’s located on the other side of Cabrillo Blvd so keep an eye out for it, but trust me, that super fun rainbow structure is hard to miss. I’ve taken pics here half a dozen times, haha.

• Chase Palm Park: A park located right on the waterfront bordering the beach, with SO many palm trees on the promenade! You’ve got to put this on your Santa Barbara itinerary. A great spot for a walk or bike ride!

West Beach

On the other side of the wharf, you’ll find West Beach, another one of the most popular beaches in Santa Barbara. It’s not too far from the Santa Barbara Harbor, with gentle waves and soft sand. There’s also volleyball nets if that’s your thing. 

Pop into Brophy Bros overlooking the beach for some oysters or clam chowder if you’re getting hungry! Always a super popular place.

Leadbetter Beach

Walk past the harbor and you’ll see Leadbetter Beach, a great spot if you wanna learn how to surf (SB surf camp is held over here!). It’s a wide beach with some grills nearby – perfect for that beach bbq! Or you can always head over to Shoreline Cafe for a snack which is right over here.

Before or after getting all sandy, head up to Shoreline Park (dogs allowed on-leash!) for great views of the beach and plenty of walking paths. I saw an outdoor beachfront yoga class here on my last visit!

Hendry’s Beach (Arroyo Burro Beach)

If you brought your pup with you, you’ll 100% wanna come here (it’s the only beach where dogs are technically allowed off leash). We’ve come here plenty of times with Kona, and we all have tons of fun!

Note that Hendry’s Beach is about a 10 minute drive from downtown SB, so factor this into your Santa Barbara itinerary. The Boathouse Restaurant is right here, so… may as well head there for lunch!

Stop 3: Shopping and Lunch on State Street 

Do any research on a weekend in Santa Barbara and you’ll definitely come across State Street – it’s SB’s most famous avenue afterall.

State Street is synonymous with Santa Barbara – it’s where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and of course the famous McConnell’s ice cream! It’s a consumer paradise that runs from Sola Street (northern end of State Street) down to Cabrillo Boulevard (southern end of State Street) and eventually to Stearns Wharf.

A few spots not to miss on State Street:

• Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center: An open-air shopping center with a mix of national retailers, local boutiques, and specialty stores. Plus, I love taking pictures on the tiled steps, haha. The whole area is super stylish.
• Santa Barbara Museum of Art: Worth a stop to see the diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from various periods and cultures.
• Santa Barbara Public Market: Here you’ll find a curated selection of artisanal food and drink vendors – think gourmet eateries, wine bars, and specialty food shops. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat if you’re getting hangry before lunch.

• The Granada Theatre: Take a quick look from the street – I love the elegant architecture of this historic performing arts venue! It’s got such a rich history and is really a landmark in downtown Santa Barbara. 
• LOKUM: Some of the best baklava I’ve ever had! Plus Turkish delights, herbal teas, and Turkish coffee. I love the space – it’s so beautifully decorated with tons of lanterns!
• McConnell’s Ice Cream: This wouldn’t be a complete Santa Barbara itinerary if I didn’t include McConnells! It’s only the most popular ice cream shop in the entire city. And yes, it’s delish and worth the wait (the line moves fast).

Travel Tip: State Street is really long – it’s over 1 ½ miles. With that being said, make sure you’re planning out your Santa Barbara itinerary carefully so you’re not running back and forth. That’d be super brutal in the heat!

Also, note that State Street isn’t the only street where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and tourist activities downtown. Anacapa Street, State Street, and Chapala Street all run parallel to each other, so veer off State Street a bit!

Stop 4: DIY Walking Tour of Jeff Shelton Architecture

Visiting Jeff Shelton houses aren’t something I typically see on a Santa Barbara itinerary. But if you’re even the least bit interested in architecture, do not miss visiting at least one or two. I repeat, DO NOT MISS THE JEFF SHELTON HOUSES! 

So, so unique, and I love all his whimsical and colorful designs. I mean, just look at those tiles – can you blame me?! And that use of bougainvillea!

But wait – who’s Jeff Shelton anyways? He’s a well-known architect in Santa Barbara with buildings famous for their bold colors, intricate details, and unique style. Here’s a few of my favorite ones within walking distance from State Street:

• The Chapel (1330 State Street)
• El Andaluz (325 West Haley Street)
• Villa Sueno Azul (118 Chapala Street)
• The Cota Street Studios (812 East Cota Street)
• El Zapato (819 Bath Street)

Stop 5: Drinks in the Funk Zone 

Walk west towards the water under the underpass and you’ll happen upon the Funk Zone, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in downtown Santa Barbara. It’s known for its artsy vibe, colorful murals and boutiques, trendy eateries, and plenty of wine tasting rooms and craft breweries (like Validation Ale and Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co). 

I refer to it as SB’s arts district, and we always find ourselves over here (a few times!) on every visit to Santa Barbara.

Don’t feel like trekking all the way to Santa Ynez for some wine? Okay fine, it’s not that far (about 45 minutes or so), BUT you could totally stay in Santa Barbara and not have to worry about (drinking and) driving. 

Check out the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail – a whole slew of tasting rooms (over 20!) right in downtown SB and all totally walkable from each other. Don’t miss Pali Wine Co. Wine Garden, Santa Barbara Winery, and Margerum (with quite possibly the best charcuterie board in all of SB) – all from local Santa Barbara county wineries on the other side of the hill.

Wine not your thing? Don’t fret – we love Test Pilot for handcrafted tiki-inspired cocktails, and I heard Pearl Social is perfect for cozy vibes and live music.

Pop into The Blue Door (an eclectic vintage shop with tons of interesting pieces) and SB mid mod (all highly curated and super unique) while you’re over here!

Stop 6: Dinner in Downtown Santa Barbara

There’s SO many restaurants to choose from (I swear, SB really has the best food), so you can’t go wrong. Here’s a few of our favorites:

• The Lucky Penny: Wood-oven artisan pizza and frozen rose! The perfect combo in a shaded outdoor space.
• Brophy Bros: Seafood dinner right on the water with lots to choose from – clam chowder, fish n chips, calamari, oysters rockefeller, seafood linguine, and more
• Sama Sama: a cool farm-to-fork spot with Southeast Asian plates with unique drinks, the best vibe, and a courtyard with string lights
• Secret Bao: Don’t even look at the menu – get the KFC bao, sweet potato dumplings, and kalbi. Plus the mango sticky rice bingsu is all kinds of heavenly.

• Santa Barbara FisHouse: A great seafood spot with a sunny patio and palm tree views – the coconut shrimp is our absolute fave
• Zaytoon: Lebanese and Middle Eastern food with romantic fairy garden vibes. Plus an outdoor fire pit, string lights, and tons of greenery.
• Flor de Maiz: Classic Mexican dishes with Oaxacan flavors – my mole enchiladas were *chefs kiss*. 

Stop 7: Sunset from Stearns Wharf

After dinner (or before, depending on what time of year you visit!), head over to Stearns Wharf for sunset. It’s a historic pier, which, fun fact, is actually the oldest operating pier on the West Coast of the US, dating back to 1872!

We LOVE the views from the wharf – there’s not only the stunning Santa Barbara coastline, but also the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez Mountains. 

I love coming here for sunset – the way the light hits the water is really something else! California wins in my book (there’s a reason we moved here after all… wink wink).

Santa Barbara Itinerary Day 2

Today will be easiest with a car, but you can totally use Uber to get around.

Stop 1: Crazy Coffees at Caje 

Start off your day (like any other day!) with some much-needed caffeine! Sure, there’s tons of coffee in Santa Barbara (think Handlebar, Dart Coffee, Dune Coffee, etc), but I’ve never seen anything like the crazy coffee concoctions at CAJE!

They’re crazy expensive, at over $10 a pop, but easily the most delicious coffee drinks I’ve ever had. Note that there’s a few locations in the city, but they don’t all serve the same drinks. We love the options at Caje Coffee over on Haley Street, although it’s a tad outta the way.

Stop 2: Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Once you’re all coffee-d up, make your way over to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. It’s an iconic Santa Barbara historical landmark (and architectural gem!), with impressive greenery and even more impressive views. 

Santa Barbara is known for its Spanish-Colonial architecture, and the SB County Courthouse is a great example of it. Think red-tiled roofs, white stucco walls, decorative tilework, wrought iron details, and so many colorful murals! There’s a grand central tower, elegant arched passageways, a tiled dome, grand open hallways, and a bunch of gorgeous courtyards and sunken gardens.

Imagine getting married here – wow (those pictures must be stunning).

And if the building isn’t spectacular enough, the incredible 360 degree views of Santa Barbara and beyond certainly are! We love climbing to the top of the 85-foot-tall clock tower (for free!) for panoramic views of downtown Santa Barbara, the Santa Ynez Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. I love a good view – just ask my husband, haha. If there’s one thing you take away from this Santa Barbara itinerary – make it this. 

Just note you’re visiting when the courthouse is actually open – you can’t climb up when it’s closed! Entrance is through the arched passageway – it’s impossible to miss. There’s a parking lot across the street on Anacapa – and the first 75 minutes are free.

Stop 3: Old Mission Santa Barbara

Up next on your Santa Barbara itinerary — the “Queen of the Missions”! A worthy nickname given its exceptional beauty!

The Old Mission Santa Barbara is an iconic Spanish mission that needs to be included on any weekend in Santa Barbara. The grounds are huge (15 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean!), with the beautiful Mission Church, historic cemetery and mausoleum, a museum filled with historical artwork and artifacts, plus a few lush gardens. 

You can either do a self-guided audio tour of the grounds, a one-hour guided tour on select weekends, or simply wander for a bit yourself (what we typically do).

If you’re not feeling tacos (our next stop), bring a picnic lunch to the mission and lay out on the grass near the rose garden!

Stop 4: Lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria

Before leaving downtown for the day, make a pit stop for lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria, a super casual authentic Mexican joint on Milpas Street. 

And get this – it’s Julia Child’s favorite restaurant (oh, the irony!), and where she would eat in Santa Barbara when she lived here! The taqueria’s known for its long and slow lines (yes, the same line Julia Child stood in!), but the handmade corn tortillas are legit and all kinds of amazing (and worth the wait).

Our faves are the spicy bean gordita, sandia agua fresca, and al pastor taco. But I promise you’ll love anything in their fresh tortillas – they’re far superior than others I’ve had in the states, and even on par with those in Mexico.

Bring enough cash to try a few things – this old-school spot still doesn’t take credit cards, haha.

Stop 5: Outdoor Activities

Once you’re nice and full from fresh tortillas and agua frescas, it’s time for some adventuring! With only a weekend in Santa Barbara you unfortunately can’t do it all, so pick and choose your favorite activity.

Hiking: There’s plenty of trails in Santa Barbara County, and really something for everyone (from easy, flat paths through manicured gardens to difficult climbs high above the Pacific). Here’s a few popular hikes:

• Inspiration Point: A moderate 3.75-mile round trip trail to reach stunning panoramic views about 1,800 feet above Santa Barbara. That quintessential Santa Barbara hike with the best vistas!
• Seven Falls: A dog friendly hike (3.2 miles out and back) with some rock scrambling and a little climbing (so wear sturdy shoes). Bring a bathing suit to take a dip in the falls!
• La Cumbre Vista Point: Expect beautiful views of the Santa Barbara coastline, and even the Channel Islands on a clear day. Sunrise is especially epic at this super short hike (only .3 miles out and back) and it’s even dog friendly!

Gardens: Strolling around lush greenery more your thing? Thankfully there’s a few good spots for that:

• Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: A gorgeous space filled with native California plants (including a small redwood forest, a Japanese tea garden, and cactus garden) and seasonal exhibits and other creative spaces. And plus, dogs are welcomed, so we’re able to bring little Kona with us!
• Lotusland: Here you’ll find multiple gardens within a gorgeous estate – we’ve never been, but it’s high on my list for next time (although a little pricey in my opinion at $60/person). Make sure to reserve your spot well in advance; this place gets booked up fast!

On the water: Prefer to head out on the water? Thankfully SB’s got tons of that being right on the coast and all:

• Sailing: SB Sailing Center has catamaran coastal cruises as well as catalina yachts, sailing lessons, and even whale watching at certain times of year!
• Kayaking: Interested in seeing some marine wildlife (dolphins anyone?!)? Sign up for a guided kayaking tour of the coast, with spectacular views of the city and sandy beaches.
• Stand-up paddling: Want a relaxing paddle on the water? Rent a stand up paddleboard and look out for sea lions, seals, and dolphins!

Day trip to Solvang

Solvang has got to be one of the cutest little areas in all of California, and it’s only 45 minutes away from SB, so definitely possible as a day trip! Spend the afternoon wandering traditional Danish streets, popping into authentic Danish bakeries, and admiring the windmills and gabled roofs. It’s tiny and only a few streets, so not a huge time commitment if you wanna do other things as well.

Don’t leave without snacking on some mouth-watering aebleskiver (danish fried donut balls with raspberry jam – yum).

Stop 6: Dinner at Bettina 

You’re probably hungry and ready for some dinner at this point, so while you can totally choose another of my favorite restaurants from the list above on Day 1, I highly recommend Bettina. It’s a SB staple, so you’ll definitely wanna make a reservation.

Bettina’s the perfect spot if you’re craving some pizza (our pepperoni pie with honey was divine). Something about that sourdough crust just really hits the spot. The table next to us ordered meatballs and arancini and boy did those look and smell amazing, haha. Don’t miss the caesar salad if you want some greens – so, so fresh and the little breadcrumbs really made the dish!

Yes, it’s a 10-minute drive from downtown SB in nearby Montecito, but it’s super close to our sunset spot (up next).

Stop by Rori’s Artisanal Creamery for some ice cream afterwards (we LOVE the peanut butter candy flavor) – it’s right next door! 

Stop 7: Sunset from Butterfly Beach

The last stop on our weekend in Santa Barbara itinerary is a good one – sunset at Butterfly Beach, arguably the best beach in all of SB. It’s only a few minutes from Bettina, located in the upscale neighborhood of Montecito, just south of SB. 

Quintessential California, and it’s hardly ever crowded (guess the masses don’t know about this spot just yet!).

This is always our favorite thing we do during long weekends in Santa Barbara, and it’s easy to see why. Look how gorgeous the views are! We love walking on the paved trail/bike bath above the beach, and I of course love taking photos of the flowers. Plus, street parking isn’t too difficult, which is much appreciated, haha.

Hope this helps you plan the ultimate Santa Barbara weekend itinerary! Are you headed to the American Riviera soon?!

The post The Best Santa Barbara Weekend Getaway: My 2-Day Santa Barbara Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Welcome to the magical world of Universal Studios Hollywood, where blockbuster movies come to life and adventures await around every corner! 

I just returned home from a super fun two days in the park, and of course now have all the Universal Studios tips to share! To be honest, I kinda forgot how much fun theme parks are (yes, even as an adult), and wanna start incorporating them more into my California adventures. I mean, SoCal is only a drive away from us anyways… 

We totally felt like kids again – wandering Hogsmeade while sipping on frozen butterbeers (my new favorite), screaming on thrill rides in the Lower Lot (don’t miss The Mummy ride!), seeing the backlot of The Good Place on the iconic Studio Tour, and of course taking photos with all our favorite characters (hi Shrek!). Oh – and collecting coins, eating themed foods at Toadstool Cafe, and riding Mario Kart at Super Mario World! Such a fun weekend down in Hollywood!

Here’s everything you need to know to have the best possible weekend at Universal Studios Hollywood!

Important Info and Universal Studio Tips

Where is Universal Studios Hollywood and How to Get There 

Hollywood, baby! Yes, for real! Universal Studios Hollywood is located in Universal City in Southern California. It’s situated in the San Fernando Valley, just north of the city of Los Angeles (so thankfully you’ll miss most of that horrid LA traffic if you’re coming from up north, haha). 

The park is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, meaning tons of scenic views! You’ll see the surrounding mountains from plenty of places within the park, but we loved the views on the escalators between the Upper and Lower Lots the most (and of course took some cute pics). 

Flying: Since the park is oh so close to downtown Los Angeles, there’s plenty of nearby airports (LA is one of the most populous cities in the US after all!).

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Since LAX is a major international airport, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding non-stop flights from other large airports. It’s about 25 miles southeast of the park, so not terribly far (although LAX is definitely not my preferred airport of choice in SoCal – it’s HUGE and the traffic nearby is just awful!). But it has the most nonstop flights by far… so sometimes the most convenient depending where you’re coming from. 
• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): The closest airport to the park, at only 6 miles away! BUR is a smaller airport primarily only serving domestic flights, so if you’re coming from further away, you’ll most likely need to connect.

• Long Beach Airport (LGB): Another of the smaller airports in SoCal, and about 35 miles south of Universal Studios Hollywood. 

• John Wayne Airport (SNA): Yes, another option, although a bit further south around 45 miles away (but perfect if you wanna visit Disneyland and Orange County as well).

Driving to Universal: If you’re coming from elsewhere in California (like us!), you can totally drive! 

Coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, we tend to prefer driving to SoCal instead of flying. Although flights are relatively cheap (usually under $200 roundtrip), we find total travel time is roughly the same driving vs. flying (considering the time getting to the airport, waiting at the gate, actual flying time, getting out of LAX, etc).

• Local Tip: If you’re driving from Northern California and aren’t planning on making any stops, take the I-5; it’s way faster than the 101! Unless you’re doing a PCH road trip – that’s a different story!

Here’s some example driving distances from the other popular spots in California (and nearby) to give you a sense of the time required:

• From Los Angeles: 20 minutes, 10 miles
• From Orange County: 1 hour, 50 miles
• From Santa Barbara: 1 ½ hours, 90 miles
• From Palm Springs: 2 hours, 120 miles
• From San Diego: 2 hours, 130 miles
• From Las Vegas (Nevada): 4 ½ hours, 275 miles
• From Yosemite National Park: 4 ½ hours, 270 miles
• From Big Sur: 5 ½ hours, 340 miles
• From San Francisco: 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Sacramento: 6 hours, 375 miles
• From Phoenix (Arizona): 6 hours, 385 miles
• From Lake Tahoe: 7 ½ hours, 435 miles

If you’re not from around here, I HIGHLY recommend combining a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood with other spots in SoCal. My favorites are Palm Springs (perfect for a winter visit), San Clemente, and Santa Barbara – plus a weekend in San Diego never hurt anyone, haha. 

→ Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood on a much longer Pacific Coast Highway road trip?! Check out all my favorite PCH stops right here!

Parking at Universal Studios Hollywood: Just remember if you’re driving you’ll need to deal with (and pay for overpriced) parking. General parking is over $30 per day, and front gate parking is upwards of $70 – kinda wild (and that’s on top of ticket prices). Because of that, we left the car at our hotel (The Garland), and took the free hotel shuttle to the park. 

BUT there’s lots of parking at Universal if that works out better for you (maybe you’ve got lots of stuff and some wiggly kids). Note that there’s no free parking at Universal Studios Hollywood with a standard ticket. Only annual Gold pass ticket holders get free parking. 

If you wanna park for $3 (yes, THREE DOLLARS for all day parking), you can park at Universal City’s Park and Ride Lot and simply take the shuttle over.

Public Transportation to Universal

• Metro: The Metro Red Line has a stop right at Universal City Station, which is within walking distance to Universal Studios Hollywood. You’ll find the Red Line from a bunch of spots throughout LA, including downtown LA and Hollywood. An easy and cost effective option if you’re staying near a metro stop!

• Bus: There’s also a few bus routes operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) that service Universal City. 

Shuttle Services: Before booking any transportation, always check to see if your hotel offers shuttle services to Universal Studios (one of the best Universal Studios tips). Sometimes they’re even free… yes, all the way from downtown LA. 

And if not, if you aren’t interested in relying on public transit (I get it, especially after a long, tiring day in the park), there’s plenty of tourist shuttles (i.e. tour companies) that offer shuttle transportation to Universal Studios Hollywood. Some of these are part of package tours, but there’s also standalone transport services. We saw tons of these huge coach buses in the lot!

Rideshares: Of course there’s always Uber/Lyft to get you to/from the park! Universal has a dedicated rideshare pick up/drop off, inside the Frankenstein parking area, just FYI, which is a 2 minute walk to the park, so super, super easy and convenient! Don’t Uber from downtown LA though – it’s gonna be hella expensive! Our hotel was less than a 10 minute drive and only an $8 Uber in the early AM.

And if you’re staying at the Sheraton Universal or Hilton Universal City, you can easily walk to the park in less than 10 minutes!

When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood 

In terms of weather, there isn’t a horrible time to visit Universal. Winters are mild (and sometimes a bit wet), while summers are typically hot and dry. It’s the crowds you gotta worry about. 

For the least crowds, you’ll wanna avoid the weeks around Spring Break (typically mid-April), all of summer vacation, and Christmas holiday season at all costs. Of course the park will be way busier on weekends vs. weekdays, but I get weekends work best for most people (including us). 

For reference, we visited the first weekend of May and didn’t find the crowds to be horrible, although we don’t have much to compare it to, haha. I will say we had Early Access one morning and were able to ride every single ride in the park with wait times less than 30 minutes. We did spend 2 days at Universal Studios Hollywood so that definitely made a difference as well (since we didn’t feel stressed to pack everything in and could wait out long lines by getting a snack or taking pics with characters).

Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Hollywood 

There’s TONS of hotels in Los Angeles – honestly so, so, so many. If you wanna get to the park for rope drop or have Early Access to Super Nintendo World, I recommend staying nearby in Universal City. 

My top pick? The Garland: Only an 8-minute drive to Universal, you really can’t beat the location. This is where we stayed and I cannot say enough good things about it! From the quirky retro touches, poolside sunset movies, a street taco cart (which I can totally vouch for), and delicious brunch at The Front Yard, we absolutely loved it. 

Plus, there’s a FREE shuttle to Universal (and back) every single day on the hour starting at 8am (we did have to Uber one morning to get to the park earlier for Early Access, just FYI).

El Royale Hotel and The Tangerine are great options as well (and less than 10 minutes away), and there’s always the Sheraton Universal and Hilton Universal City which are both located within walking distance to the park.

Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Tricks

Even after only a few days in the park, I came away with tons of Universal Studios tips and tricks. And sometimes just a few tweaks to your Universal itinerary can really make the trip just that much better. 

My biggest piece of advice – if you wanna see and do and eat everything, DON’T WING IT. Have a plan and *follow that plan*! 

Other (just as important) Universal tips here:

Download the app: The Universal Studios Hollywood App is honestly a HUGE help. There’s an interactive map right in the app that shows your exact location in the park, estimated wait times for all rides, park hours (they change all the time), restaurant menus, and even virtual line ques. 

I was super overwhelmed at first (the park seems huge if you’ve never been), but the app was invaluable. And it’s free, so there’s no reason not to download it! 

Get early access to Super Mario World: On that note, if Super Nintendo World is super important to you (and you don’t wanna wait on crazy long lines for Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge), early access is more than worth it. Early access gives you entry to Super Nintendo World a whole hour before the park even opens, meaning way fewer crowds and way less wait time. 

Do note that once they allow early access guests in, park staff walk all visitors straight to Super Nintendo World. You’re not allowed in other areas of the park (understandably so, and plus everything else is still closed). 

Also – don’t bother taking the stairs thinking you’ll bypass all the escalator people (you’ll see what I mean…) — park staff lead everyone and stay in front. Meaning you may as well take the escalators… it’s gonna be a long day — don’t wanna tire yourself out straight from the get go!

Arrive at the park for rope drop: If you’re not planning on getting early access, I highly recommend getting to the park early and even before actual opening hours. They’ll scan your ticket before park hours, then put everyone in a waiting hold, and then drop the rope and you’re free to go as you please! 

Make sure you prioritize heading to the popular rides first so you can get on before the huge lines start to form.

Make reservations for Toadstool Cafe: If you wanna eat at Toadstool Cafe (the themed restaurant inside Super Nintendo World), you’ll need to make a reservation. These often sell out early in the day (and can only be made the day of), so in order to get your desired time, make your reservation as soon as you visit Super Nintendo World in the AM upon park opening. 

The only way is to scan the QR code outside the restaurant – not even in the app. If you miss reservations, they sometimes do walk-ups, and make sure to check the QR code link throughout the day – sometimes reservations become available later on.

Don’t miss the studio tour: This is the bread and butter of Universal Studios Hollywood, and what really sets it apart from Universal Orlando! I mean, Universal Studios Hollywood remains a working studio (!!!) where movies, television shows, commercials, and music videos are still filmed. 

You can even catch glimpses of active production sets if you’re lucky. Plus, there’s some really cool “rides” on it too – like the King Kong 360 3-D, Fast & Furious – Supercharged, and of course you’ll get to see the Jaws replica!

Figure out your breakfast situation ahead of time: If you’re planning to rush to the rides (which you should if you don’t wanna wait on horrendous lines), you either need to eat breakfast before entering the park (or a quick one while waiting for rope drop), or wait it out until you’re satisfied with your morning. Looking back I’d bring some snacks for the AM since we didn’t end up eating until almost 1pm on our first day, whoops (not the smartest idea).

Take advantage of mobile food ordering: Perfect if the food lines are long and you’re getting hangry, haha. If you know what you want you can simply order on the app and essentially skip the line! 

Some rides offer free lockers for two hours: While most rides allow you to carry on backpacks and such, two rides (Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Revenge of the Mummy) provide free lockers to keep your stuff in. 

These lockers are good for up to two hours, so if the line’s short and you don’t feel like carrying around your stuff for a bit, well, you’ve got up to two hours for free (take advantage – nothing’s free at theme parks… ever)! One of my best Universal Studios tips by far.

Buy your tickets in advance: Not only will you save time (who wants to wait on yet another unnecessary line when you’ll be on lines all day, haha), but you actually save a few bucks buying on the website.

Stay hydrated: You’re in SoCal – it’ll probably be hot and sunny. There’s plenty of bathrooms located around the park, so no excuse not to drink lots of water and stay hydrated (and no, a Duff’s Beer doesn’t count, haha). 

While we’re on that note, don’t forget about the sunscreen!

Check showtimes: Since shows are only scheduled a few times each day, if you really wanna see a show (I highly recommend WaterWorld), plan it into your day. Rides run continuously during park opening hours, so you can hop on those anytime.

Take pics with characters when you see them: I was surprised that lines close to take pictures with the characters, but it makes sense since they need breaks from the costumes! Get on line early so you don’t miss out on the popular characters (namely Mario and Luigi and Shrek and Fiona). You’ll see some characters roaming around (we loved seeing Frankenstein out and about), but most are there to pose for photos. 

My favorites were the minions, Bart and Lisa, the train conductor in Hogsmeade Village (such a character), and the Jurassic Park dinosaurs – so, so epic! And OMG, you need to see Donkey – so interactive and fun! 

Other FAQs about Universal Studios Hollywood 

What is the closest airport to Universal Studios? Nope, it’s not LAX! The closest airport to Universal Studios Hollywood is actually Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), also known as Bob Hope Airport. Being only ~6 miles northeast of the park, it’s easily the most convenient airport for visitors in terms of proximity to Universal.

Are Universal Studios Hollywood and Hollywood Studios the same thing? I was super confused about this at first too, and I’m here to report they are very much NOT the same thing! 

Universal Studios is a film studio and theme park located in Universal City, California (what this entire blog post is about!), while Hollywood Studios (officially known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios) is a theme park located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Hollywood Studios is operated by The Walt Disney Company and is inspired by Disney films and the entertainment industry.

Universal Studios Hollywood vs Universal Studios Orlando: Which one should you visit?! It’s hard to say – although they’re on opposite sides of the country so that may very well be the deciding factor, haha. 

Here’s a few key differences about them –

• Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Located in Universal City, California
  • Features Super Nintendo World, the Studio Tour, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and plenty of movie-themed attractions
  • Divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot
  • The park is smaller in size compared to Universal Studios Orlando but offers unique experiences such as the Studio Tour and is very much doable in only one day

• Universal Studios Orlando
  • Located in Orlando, Florida
  • Comprises two theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (with way more action and thrill rides)
  • Offers a wider range of attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in both parks, The Simpsons Ride, and more.
  • Universal Studios Orlando is larger and is hard to see in only one day 

So basically, if you’re in California, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, and if you’re on the East Coast, visit Universal Studios Orlando, haha. BUT remember, Super Nintendo World is ONLY at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Should I get the Universal Express Pass? That depends on a few different factors. It’s more expensive (obviously), but you get to skip the regular lines at most attractions within the park. Perfect if you’re visiting on a very crowded day and really wanna maximize your time. 

You definitely don’t need the Express Pass if you’re spending two days at Universal Studios as long as you have a well-planned out few days of course (my suggested Universal Studios itinerary below!). We got Early Access to Super Nintendo World and skipped on the Express Pass.

What’s the VIP Experience? An even more exclusive and personalized visit to Universal Studios Hollywood! It’s essentially a VIP guided tour of the park that provides behind-the-scenes access, priority access to attractions, and special perks like gourmet dining. 

Not necessary for the regular visitor, but perfect if you’re a huge movie buff and really wanna learn about and gain insider info about the studio’s history, famous productions, and the movie-making process.

Can I bring food and water into the park? Yes, you’re allowed snacks, sandwiches, fruits/veggies, and other non-perishable items (no glass containers understandably). Even small coolers and picnic baskets are allowed, although they must fit within the park’s size restrictions. 

Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at water fountains throughout the park (although it seems kinda annoying to hold all day if I’m being honest if you’re just carrying a belt bag like I did…). Note that outside alcohol (including drinks purchased in CityWalk) is not allowed in the park. 

What else to do near Universal Studios Hollywood? There’s TONS of things to do near the park – I mean LA is right there! Some popular spots are Hollywood Boulevard, the Griffith Observatory, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, CityWalk (literally a walk away), and so much more. 

Most visitors combine their one or two days in Universal with other things in SoCal! Might as well hang around SoCal for a bit if you’re not from around there!

Should I spend 1 or 2 days in Universal Studios?

That’s entirely up to you of course! I will say that most people only spend one day at Universal, but we really enjoyed having two days at the park! 

We had tons of time to explore the park at a leisurely pace, got to ride popular rides multiple times (often with very little wait time – I see you Mario Kart, The Mummy, and Transformers), and were able to take lots of snack breaks without fear of missing attractions/shows/characters.

If you buy early access to Super Nintendo World, you can most likely see and do everything in one day. Just make sure to prioritize your must-do activities and plan your day strategically. The park isn’t huge by any means – it’s way smaller than Disneyland/California Adventure nearby and Universal Studios Florida/Islands of Adventure in Orlando. So very doable with just one day.

It really depends on how long you’ve got, and if you’re trying to hit up other Southern California hotspots on your trip. Coming from the SF Bay Area, we’ve been to SoCal dozens of times, so this trip was primarily about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood since we’d never been. 

Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood 

And now onto the good part – all the rides at Universal! I was kinda surprised that there weren’t more rides at the park (there’s only about a dozen or so), but that just meant we re-rode our favorites a bunch!

Universal Studios Hollywood is divided into two main areas: the Upper Lot and the Lower Lot. There’s a series of escalators between the two, although they take quite a while to get between (there’s four long escalators!), so I’d recommend checking off everything in one before heading to the other so you’re not bouncing between the two all day.

I’ll go over the rides in more detail, but here’s a general overview of the lots.

• The Upper Lot is where you’ll find the main entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and where many of the family-friendly attractions are located (think Kung Fu Panda, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Simpsons Ride, and Secret Life of Pets). There’s also The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (my favorite!), the Studio Tour, and The Simpsons Springfield (don’t miss the giant pink donut) over here.

• The Lower Lot is where the more adventurous and thrilling rides are, including Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic World, and Transformers. Plus Super Nintendo World (!!!) with the crazy-popular Mario Kart ride, themed dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at 1-UP Factory.

Upper Lot 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 

Welcome to the magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter, full of frozen butterbeers, wand and owl shops in Hogsmeade Village, cobblestoned streets leading to Hogwarts Castle, and Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor Beans. 

I think we wandered through half a dozen times, and I never got over just how detailed and authentic everything was! A must visit for witches, wizards, and Muggles alike. There’s two rides here, and a third attraction which is more like a mini-show:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: We LOVED this ride and went on it 5 times during our 2 days at Universal Studios, haha. Get ready to soar through iconic Harry Potter scenes, including the Forbidden Forest, the Quidditch pitch, and the Chamber of Secrets. Definitely one of the most popular rides in the park.

• Flight of the Hippogryph: This is the park’s only outdoor rollercoaster, and you fly around Hagrid’s hut and past Hagrid’s magical creatures. Honestly, it’s not worth waiting if the lines over 20 minutes long – the ride is literally a 20 second mini roller coaster and is over in a flash (womp, womp). It definitely has great potential but was very (very) meh to us and kinda a dud.

• Ollivanders Wand Shop: A magical experience where guests can watch a wand-choosing ceremony conducted by a wandkeeper. It’s more of a mini show than an actual ride, and was cute but not a must-do in my opinion unless you’re a huge fan of HP. The lines are never very long for this, so may as well check it out. Then you can purchase your very own wand afterwards to cast spells and make magical things happen in the park (yes, really!).

Springfield

So, so colorful, and so, so fun! Especially with a giant pink donut in hand! I was floored by how meticulously themed Springfield was. The whole area really recreates the look and feel of the fictional town from The Simpsons. From the colorful buildings to the humorous signage and themed props, it really captures the charm and humor from the long-lasting TV show (with over 30 seasons, wow!).

Don’t miss classic American burgers, fries, and milkshakes at Krusty Burger, a Flaming Moe from Moe’s Tavern, oversized, pink-frosted donuts from Lard Lad Donuts (just like Homer!), and some Duff Beer from the brewery!

• The Simpsons Ride: Get read for a hilarious adventure through Krustyland, an amusement park created by Krusty the Clown. Riders board a simulator vehicle shaped like a roller coaster car and experience 3D animation, motion simulation, and special effects along the way. We thought it was super fun!

Studio Tour

One of the main attractions of Universal Studios Hollywood is the Studio Tour! So, naturally, one of my biggest tips for Universal Studios is to not miss it (especially since it’s not offered at the location in Orlando).

What is it exactly? A tram ride that takes guests behind the scenes of real working movie studios and offers a glimpse into the magic of filmmaking. One of the defining features of the park, actually!  

There’s movie sets, soundstages, and other things in the working backlot to see, where famous blockbuster movies and TV shows have been filmed over the years. Think Desperate Housewives, Jaws, Back to the Future, The Good Place (with the exact yogurt spot), Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”, and so many more.

Besides all the filmmaking fun, there’s also two main “rides”/special effect demonstrations on the Studio Tour – Fast & Furious – Supercharged and King Kong 360 3-D, both of which were utterly fascinating and really cool. The Studio Tour does get busy at times (staff told us wait times can be two hours!), so if you see a short wait time, go for it!

Other rides and attractions in the Upper Lot

• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!: Pretend you’re a pet navigating the wild streets of NYC – the ride was cute and all but once was enough, haha.

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: We loved this 3D motion-simulator ride featuring Gru, his daughters, and the Minions. Real talk – I almost teared up at the end! Don’t miss the minion dance party afterwards. Safe to say we went on this multiple times.

• Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest: A 4D theater experience with 3D glasses and special effects! Clearly it wasn’t too memorable for me because I don’t remember riding it, although I know for a fact we did!

• Super Silly Fun Land: A cute play area for kids inspired by the Despicable Me movies. There’s the Silly Swirly Fun Ride (a spinning ride), Super Silly Space Killer (a water play area), and more. 

• WaterWorld: Also in the Upper Lot you’ll find the park’s only live-action stunt show. It’s based on the 1995 film “Waterworld”, and we loved the thrilling stunts, pyrotechnics (so much fire!), and even a seaplane crash. Crazy what special effects can be performed on the water – kinda wind! 

Lower Lot 

Super Nintendo World

Walk through the life-sized green pipe (with rainbow sparkly lights of course) and you’ll find Bowser’s Castle, Princess Peach’s Castle, angry thwomps, and Mt. Beanpole. Even biting Piranha Plants, rotating coins, and ? blocks to punch. A truly immersive world and complete deja vu (that is, if you played the video games as a kid like I did!).

I could not believe just how much thought went into designing the space – we really felt like we were in Super Nintendo World! It was designed to resemble the vibrant and colorful world of Nintendo games after all – particularly the Mushroom Kingdom from the Super Mario series!

Besides the ridiculously popular ride (which sees wait times of an hour+ after 9:30am), there’s the themed Toadstool Cafe with fun desserts and lunch items, shopping at the 1 Up Shop, and of course the Power Up Band Key Challenges to collect virtual coins (you’ll wanna buy a Power-Up Band to compete in these). 

• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: This ride was SO fun – and even better that we had early access and didn’t have to wait on a two hour line, haha (it was more like 5 minutes for us). As soon as we got off we quickly got back on line to ride again (definitely only possible with early access!). I won’t spoil it for ya, but just know you’ll be putting on a Mario visor and special VR goggles and will be steering through different levels and versions of the Mario Kart game! Technology is wild y’all! 

Other rides and attractions in the Lower Lot

• Jurassic World: Ohhh another one we loved! It kinda felt like going on a river adventure through prehistoric landscapes complete with MASSIVE state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs (and super realistic). It’s the only water ride in Universal… so you may very well get a bit wet! Some people wore ponchos, but that seemed like overkill to me, haha (especially on a hot day).

• The Mummy: Easily our favorite ride in the entire park – and probably the most thrilling (which is definitely why we loved it oh so much). At first it’s very deceiving, but then BAM – you’re off! It’s actually an indoor roller coaster totally inspired by The Mummy film franchise – expect mummies, scarab beetles, and other dangers.

• Transformers: The Ride 3D: Get ready to battle between the Autobots and Decepticons (think Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, and more)! This was another of our favorite rides in the park, and we went on multiple times during our two days at Universal! 

Food/snacks at Universal Studios Hollywood 

We were more-than pleasantly surprised with the snack situation at Universal Studios. After visiting Disneyland last year, I didn’t think Universal would be on par, but boy was I wrong. We ate SO good and there were SO many fun themed foods and drinks. That was another benefit of spending two days at Universal – we got to try almost everything we wanted (hence this very long list of foods, haha)!

• Frozen butterbeer: 10/10 (super iconic, super refreshing, and super delicious – and no, it’s not beer and is actually nonalcoholic)
• Minion cookie: 7/10 (not terrible, but not the best cookie I’ve had either)
• Minion Nutella banana pudding: 8/10 (that nutella at the bottom really kicks it up a notch)
• Classic salted pretzel: 8/10 (perfectly fluffy and salted and always theme park favorite of mine)
• ? Up box tiramisu: 7/10 (super cute decorations and tasted pretty good)
• Flaming Moe: 5/10 (get solely for the presentation – it’s just orange soda with dry ice)
• Giant pink donut: 10/10 (I’d go back to Universal just for this – thought it’d be just for show and a fun pic, but wow oh wow was that donut orgasmic)

• Cheesy mushroom garlic knots: 9/10 (SO CHEESY and yummy and great dipped in the marinara sauce, don’t miss these at Toadstool Cafe)
• Butterbeer soft ice cream: 5/10 (didn’t taste the butterbeer flavor too much, but the vanilla was yummy and the texture was perfect, haha)
• Mushroom calzone: 4/10 (photo op in my opinion)
• Krusty burger: 6/10 (fun and nostalgic space, but regular American food)
• Toadstool cafe: 6/10 – The food was more like a 8/10, but the entire place kinda lacks organization and we didn’t start eating until after 1:15pm when our reservation was at noon. Definitely dedicate at least an hour and a half for this regardless if you have a reservation.

Suggested 1 and 2 Day Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary 

1 Day Universal Studios Hollywood Itinerary

You can totally do Universal Studios Hollywood in just one day – the park isn’t all that big honestly! BUT it will be a very rushed and hectic day if you wanna go on all the rides, and definitely expect to wait in a few lines!

• 8-9am: Early access to Mario world 
  • Ride Mario Kart
  • Make reservation for Toadstool Cafe for early lunch
  • Games and challenges
  • Character photos
• 9am-11am(ish): Other rides in Lower lot 
  • Mummy
  • Transformers 
  • Jurassic World 
• 11:15-12:45ish: Toadstool Cafe 
• 1-2:30pm: Studio Tour 
• 3pm onwards: Upper Lot rides (including Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and WaterWorld show

2 Days in Universal Studios Hollywood 

As noted earlier, we spent 2 days in Universal Studios. And because of that, we didn’t wait longer than 25 minutes for any ride since we had two mornings and were able to knock out all the busy rides in the AM. We had a super relaxing two days in the park, and loved being able to stop for photos with characters and indulge in all the themed snacks without feeling like we’d be missing out on rides.

AND were able to go on the super popular rides multiple times (including twice on Mario Kart, 5x on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – no, it didn’t get old, a whole bunch of times on both The Mummy and Transformers, and whatever other rides we wanted to do again).

Day 1 in Universal

Morning

• Early access to Mario World
• Other rides in Lower lot 
• Lunch at Toadstool Cafe

Afternoon 

• Spend the afternoon enjoying more attractions and shows, including The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash!, Kung Fu Panda Adventure, and hanging out in Springfield with a few Duff beers!

Night

• CityWalk

Day 2 Universal Itinerary

Morning

• Arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood for park opening.
• Start your day with popular attractions in The Upper Lot with typically long wait times, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (we went twice back to back on Day 2), Flight of the Hippograph, and The Simpsons Ride.

Afternoon and Night

• Studio Tour
• WaterWorld
• Wander around the park, taking pics with characters, going on your favorite rides AGAIN, sipping more frozen butterbeers, eating that gigantic pink donut, etc!

Hope all these Universal Studios tips and tricks help you plan the most perfect trip! Have a butterbeer (or two!) for me!

The post Universal Studios Hollywood Tips and Suggested 1 and 2 Day Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Towering Teton mountains blanketed in snow. Majestic moose and photogenic elk. Riding snowmobiles to steamy turquoise hot springs. World-class skiing and snowboarding. Indulging in waffles at 4,139 feet. Hot chocolates loaded with mini marshmallows by the fire. And so much western flair!

If that sounds like your idea of a good time, then you’ll just love visiting Jackson Hole in the winter. This cozy mountain town in Wyoming really is powder paradise! Plus, who doesn’t love breathing in that crisp mountain air?! It’s kinda a fun mix between Park City, Utah and Santa Fe, New Mexico (two places we’d love to revisit).

I’d honestly never considered visiting Jackson Hole in winter. I always assumed it was more of a summer destination, being so close to the national parks and all (with Yellowstone and Grand Teton only a few miles away). But once I started chatting with one of my favorite childhood friends who lives right in Jackson (hey Li!), she quickly reassured me that Jackson Hole is downright glorious in the winter – and possibly even better than summer!

And just like that, my winter trip to Jackson Hole was born. We booked flights that very night, secured a gorgeous hotel right off the main square, and started researching activities ASAP. It was actually super easy to put together!  Finally some snow (since we hardly get a real winter living in the San Francisco Bay Area).

Psst – looking for other snowy weekend winter wonderland destinations? Check out Bend (Oregon), Banff (Canada), Park City (Utah), and Yosemite (California)!

Quick Travel Guide to Jackson Hole in Winter

• Best Time to Go: November through April (however, go January through March if you want to be in town for the best snowfall)
• Visit For: 3 to 5 Days – depending if you’re skiing or not
• Getting Around: Walk, guided tours, Uber
• Where to Stay: Hotel Jackson, Hotel Terra Jackson Hole, Anvil Hotel
• What to Do: Dog sledding, soaking in hot springs, snowmobiling, explore town of Jackson, drinks at Cowboy Bar, wildlife tour, ski/snowboard, snowshoeing 
• Eat/drink: Local, Teton Tiger, Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, Persephone Bakery,  Cowboy Coffee

Before we get into all the fun things to do in Jackson Hole in winter, I’m sharing some additional information to help make your trip planning as easy as possible!

Logistics of Visiting Jackson in Winter

Jackson Hole vs. Jackson

First things first, is it Jackson Hole, or Jackson, or both?! Don’t worry, I was super confused at first too, and if you’ve never visited before, I assume you are too (no worries)! Both terms are often used interchangeably, but actually refer to different aspects of the same region.

I told a few friends I was going to Jackson, and they were like, “uh, you mean Jackson Hole”, and another friend totally thought I was headed off to Mississippi. HA! Time to settle this once and for all.

Jackson Hole is a MUCH larger geographical area. It’s a valley (about 80 miles long and 15 miles wide) between the Teton Range and the Gros Ventre Range. The term “hole” was a word used by early mountain men to describe a high mountain valley, and it stuck! 

So, Jackson Hole is the actual valley (or hole) itself. Within Jackson Hole you’ll find the Teton Mountains, the Snake River, and tons and tons of wildlife! And not to make it even more confusing, but Grand Teton National Park is within Jackson Hole too.

Jackson is a town located in the Jackson Hole Valley (and the largest one in the area). It serves as a gateway of sorts to all the awesome things to do in Jackson Hole in winter and beyond.

So basically, Jackson Hole is a large valley, and Jackson is the major town within the valley. Easy peasy! When people talk about visiting Jackson Hole (myself included!), they’re often referring to experiencing both the town of Jackson and the surrounding natural beauty of the valley.

Where is Jackson Hole, Wyoming 

Jackson is a small mountain town located in the northwest corner of the state of Wyoming. And get this – it’s only 15 miles from the border of Idaho (perfect if you’re trying to visit all 50 states like I am, although I made two separate trips to see Wyoming and Idaho).

Wyoming is part of the Mountain West subregion of the Western US – bordered by Montana to the north, South Dakota and Nebraska to the east, Idaho to the west, and Utah and Colorado to the south. Kinda sandwiched in between so many others. Before visiting, I honestly don’t think I could have pointed Wyoming out on the map, and not entirely sure I can now, haha!

Specifically, Jackson is situated in Teton County in the Jackson Hole Valley. And its surrounding by the *stunning* Teton Range (of the Rocky Mountains), AND is not far from both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Meaning, there’s tons of scenic beauty basically anywhere and everywhere you look. 

How to get to Jackson Hole

Flying to Jackson Hole

When you fly into Jackson Hole, you’ll be heading to Jackson Hole Airport (airport code JAC) – they really couldn’t have made the name any easier, haha. And the airport is super easy flying into and out of since there’s only a single terminal (it’s a pretty small airport if you haven’t picked up on this). 

The airport, albeit tiny, is served by major airlines, although some are seasonal so always check on this before planning your trip.

AND get this – JAC serves complimentary MIMOSAS at the airport! Like what?! Look for the little stand once you get off the plane. I’ve never seen a Chamber of Commerce do that before – you know we started our trip off in style. Talk about a bougie airport. You even walk through an antler arch after landing (so cool!). The whole airport is beautiful and modern and charming — I mean there’s a fireplace right at the gate (don’t think I’ve ever said that before…).

We’re lucky that we have nonstop flights directly from SFO to Jackson Hole (in under 2 hours no less!), but if you’re not coming from a major city, you’ll probably need to connect. All part of traveling!

Whatever you do, look out the window for some fantastic mountain views upon arrival. JAC is the *only* airport in the US that’s located within a national park (Grand Teton National Park), so don’t miss those Teton views. I took way too many photos, haha.

Note you can technically fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) as well, a much-larger airport with way more domestic flights and even some international ones.

BUT THEN you’ll need to make the (possibly super-snowy) 5-hour, 300-mile drive through the mountains. Sure, you may find nonstop flights to Salt Lake City, but then you’ll undoubtedly need to rent a car and potentially drive through a scary snowstorm. No thanks! 

Honestly, it’s just safer and downright easier to fly right into Jackson, even if that means a connection and a higher flight price. Plus, free mimosas! 

Getting from the airport to downtown

Once you’ve had your fair share of mimosas (seriously, I saw some thirsty people down a few – no judgements, it’s vacation!), it’s time to make your way into town! And thankfully, it’s super easy no matter where you’re staying.

It’s a quick drive to the town of Jackson (about 20 minutes), or slightly farther to Teton Village (more like 40 minutes). 

Uber/Lyft/Taxi: We took an Uber to our hotel right off the main square in downtown Jackson, and it cost us about $30. It felt kinda expensive, but again, this ain’t a cheap area! There’s also plenty of taxis around if you’d rather go that route.

START Airport Shuttle: There’s currently a pilot program underway (winter 2023/2024), that’s gauging demand for public transit from the airport to the town of Jackson. The bus picks up from the airport every hour between 5:40am and 9:40pm for $10 a person. Not tons of savings if you’ve got 2 or more people. If you’re solo this is good way to get to town for cheap!

Hotel Shuttle: A few hotels provide complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. I was super surprised that ours (Hotel Jackson) did not, and feel this is something that should be required from a 5-star hotel! But check if yours does!

Driving to Jackson

Personally, unless you’re super comfortable and experienced with driving in winter weather, I recommend flying straight to Jackson. BUT if you’ve got experience, know how to put tire chains on and/or have snow tires, have a vehicle with 4WD, and aren’t coming from crazy far away, it may make more sense to drive.

Here’s driving distances from other popular spots nearby-ish:

• Grand Teton National Park (Moose, WY): 20 minutes, 12 miles
• Idaho Falls, Idaho: 2 hours, 90 miles
• Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance): 2 ½ hours, 125 miles
• Bozeman, Montana: 4 ½ hours, 225 miles
• Salt Lake City, Utah: 4 ½ hours, 275 miles
• Cody, Wyoming: 5 hours, 300 miles
• Denver, Colorado: 8 ½ hours, 550 miles

How to get around Jackson in the winter

Rental car: If you feel comfortable driving in snow and have the appropriate winter gear (snow tires, tire chains, etc), you may enjoy the flexibility of having your own rental car. Just ensure your hotel has overnight parking available as public parking garages seem to have some stipulations. 

With a rental you can drive up to Yellowstone (bison!), around Grand Teton National Park sans tour, and to Amangani and Teton Village yourself.

Walking: Once you’re in town or Teton Village, you can walk everywhere! Downtown Jackson really is tiny, and you can walk to anywhere in 10 minutes or less – no joke, our hotel was basically a 4 minute walk from everywhere we wanted to go in town, haha.

Guided tours: If you’re itching to go snowmobiling, dog sledding, and/or explore the nearby parks, there’s tours for that! Plenty pick you up from your hotel or right in town, so you don’t need a car for those. We enjoyed having someone else do the driving for sure, haha!

Complimentary hotel cars: If you’re staying in a bougie place, ask your hotel if they offer this. Our hotel (Hotel Jackson) offered free rides anywhere within a 2-mile radius!

Public Bus: In town (and the surrounding areas), the local START bus is your best option for public transit – between Jackson, Teton Village, Teton Valley, and Star Valley. Exact change is required – cash only (fares here) because drivers can’t give change. It’s only $3 from town to the village, so super affordable!

The city even provides free shuttles around the Town of Jackson with their START on-demand service – can’t beat that!

Weather in Jackson Hole in Winter (and when to visit)

I hate to break it to ya, but Jackson Hole winter temperatures are a bit harsh. However, if you’ve stumbled upon this Jackson blog post, there’s a good chance you already realize that Jackson Hole in winter is drastically different than during the summer season.

Surprisingly, winter in Jackson was a bit more crowded than I imagined, although I can’t even imagine the swarms of people come summer (apparently summer sees 7-8x more tourists!).

Jackson Hole is known for its bone-chilling winters with significant snowfall during the winter months. I mean, the area averages about 400-500 inches of snow per year, so you can expect some snow on the ground when you visit, haha. But you probably already knew that. 

Snowstorms are frequent, with daytime temps typically below freezing highs (ranging from the teens to the 30s °F and -9 to 4 °C). Expect temps to drop well below freezing at night (think sub-zero temperatures to the teens F, and -18 to -9 °C), so come prepared with all your winter gear for sure.

Winter officially starts in Jackson in late November, and continues all the way through early April. A pretty long season! However, if you’re looking for guaranteed snow (and fresh powder for skiing), visit from late December through March!

Obviously it all depends on the year and month you visit (can’t control nature after all!), but here’s a quick breakdown. However, weather around the world’s been pretty wacky (hello global warming), so who really knows what you’ll end up getting!

• November: Winter starts and snow begins to accumulate (although not as heavy as in the peak winter months.) Jackson Hole Mountain Resort typically has its opening day in late November.

• December: A super fun time to visit with the Winterfest celebration and tree lighting ceremony, but it’s wildly crowded. The colder temps really start, and there’s an increase in snowfall – marking the beginning of the prime skiing and snowboarding season.

• January: A typically slow month (that post-holiday lull’s in full effect), and one of the coldest months of the season. Expect heavy snowfall and excellent conditions on the mountain! Typically such a pretty time to visit!

• February: Beyond packed for ski and presidents week, with more snowfall and prime conditions for skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities.

• March: The temps start getting a tad warmer (although still very cold and snowfall continues!), the days become longer, and there’s a gradual transition toward milder conditions. But it still feels like true winter. There’s also some fun events like the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest and the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb.

• April: Spring starts to make an appearance, daytime highs are well above freezing (30-50°F), and the snow starts to melt. It’s a great time for wildlife viewing and spring skiing.

For reference, we visited Jackson at the very end of January. Apparently we visited during an unseasonably warm winter, because instead of single digits, it was around 25-35°F for the duration of our stay! Which my friend who lives there and all the hotel staff said is not normal at all.

The town did get some snow when we were there (and it was downright magical), but everyone was still waiting for the first huge snowstorm of the year. Thankfully this didn’t affect us much since we’re not skiers, but we heard conditions weren’t the absolute best on the mountain just yet.

Where to Stay in Jackson Hole

You’ve essentially got two options for location in Jackson: the town of Jackson itself, and Teton Village at the base of the ski mountain. 

Of course there’s pros and cons to both, but I HIGHLY recommend basing yourself in the Jackson Town Square area, not Teton Village. Why? Because all the best restaurants/bars/shops are in town, and honestly, once you’re in Teton Village, you’re kinda stuck there (there’s really only hotels and a few restaurants there). Sure, it’s only a 20 minute drive away, but so annoying in my opinion.

Unless you’re planning to ski/snowboard every day of your trip, I’d stick to the town of Jackson instead. We stayed in town, and made our way over to Teton Village one morning for some dog sledding and took the tram up for those famous waffles at Corbet’s Cabin.

Just FYI – hotels in both Jackson and Teton Village ain’t cheap. Sure, there’s some less expensive spots nearby, but don’t expect to be walking distance to much. If you can visit midweek you’ll get far better pricing.

The Town of Jackson

Hotel Jackson: We splurged and got a room at Hotel Jackson, and wow, just wow. Talk about mountain chic! Besides the service being absolutely phenomenal (honestly, probably on par with the hospitality in both Bali and Thailand), we had a wood-burning fireplace in our room, warm cookies and a DIY hot chocolate bar every afternoon, and a rooftop whirlpool with views of the snowy mountains. 

There’s also in-room Nespresso machines, a gorgeous library where my husband did some work one afternoon, a ski shuttle, and ski butlers! 

The hotel’s located right in town so all the shops and restaurants we wanted to go were less than a 10 minute walk away. Sure, we paid up, but like I said, it was my birthday, so well-worth it!

If you’re looking for luxury hotels in town, check out The Cloudveil (NEW and stunning!), Amangani (ultimate luxury, a quick 10-minute ride from town), and of course Hotel Jackson (where we stayed).

For more mid-range and budget accommodation, check out The Wort Hotel ($$), The White Buffalo Club ($$), Anvil Hotel ($$), Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa ($), Miller Park Lodge ($), Antler Inn ($), and Mountain Modern Inn ($).

There’s also some hotels near the Albertsons on Hwy 191 not far from town (like the Virginian Lodge, The Lodge at Jackson Hole, and the Cowboy Village Resort), but I’d stay within walking distance to the town square unless you’ve got a car.

Teton Village 

Teton Village is a small town in Jackson Hole at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. It’s kinda like a mini Aspen, and kinda a no-brainer for skiers and snowboarders visiting Jackson in the winter. 

BUT, pretty inconvenient if you’re not a skier (like myself!) or only planning a few runs on the mountain. It sure is beautiful though! 

Here you’ll find the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole ($$$$ with direct ski-in ski-out access to the mountain), Snake River Lodge & Spa, Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, and Hotel Terra Jackson Hole.

What to Pack for Jackson in Winter 

Visiting Jackson Hole in the winter isn’t for the faint of heart – that is unless you know how to bundle up properly! You’ll need to dress in layers and be prepared for extreme winter conditions. The weather is no joke here!

How to dress: Wear multiple layers on both top and bottom. HOWEVER, not all layers are created equal. You’ll want to layer up on breathable fabrics and waterproof bottoms. I learned on the trip that it’s actually the space between the layers that adds warmth (I don’t actually understand all that, but science schmience, amIright?).

Here’s my winter weather recommendations for what to pack for Jackson in the winter:

• Warm Winter Coat: For those frigid winter days, you’ll really wanna invest in an insulated parka. I’ve got my eye on this North Face parka (I currently wear one from 10+ years ago – it’s about time for a new jacket). Looking for one a bit less expensive? This one’s crazy popular on social media, and with the length and sherpa-lined hood, I can totally see why. However note that it’s only water resistant, not waterproof, so not the best choice for those crazy snowy days.

• Packable Puffer Jacket: I wear this one – it’s lightweight and water resistant, plus comes in a bunch of fun colors and the pockets are super deep (perfect for storing your phone). It packs down to almost nothing in the little included pouch – perfect for travel! 

• Fleece Zip-Up: On those absolutely frigid days when you need a little something between your sweater and warm winter coat, a fleece zip-up (like this Columbia full-zip) will come in handy. There’s a reason it’s got 45k positive reviews!

• Base Layers: I’ve been wearing heat tech long sleeve tees ever since I went to Banff a few years back, and they’ve saved me from those frigid temps! They’re super lightweight and perfect to wear under a sweater, and leave you feeling dry and warm without the bulk!

• Fleece-lined leggings: I used to layer two pairs of regular leggings, but now that fleece-lined leggings are a thing, I only wear those! They’re just as comfy as regular leggings, but keep your legs staying warm and toasty. I’ve worn these pairs a few times and they’ve been great, and come in a bunch of fun colors! If you’re looking for something to wear under jeans or snow pants, these come highly recommended (although too thin to wear on their own; more like a base layer).

• Chapstick: Cold and dry air make your lips susceptible to chapping super easily. Ugh, the worst! I’m low-key obsessed with this cocoa butter swivel stick – it makes your lips so super soft and it smells a tad like chocolate! My favorite! It also works wonders on dry, chapped skin. You’ll wanna reapply multiple times throughout the day. 

• Power Bank: Batteries die out faster in the cold, so come prepared with a power bank to recharge your stuff on the go. This compact power bank gives up to 10 full charges! I always throw this tiny one in my bag also, just in case, as a backup. My phone is my life-line (especially when traveling solo), so I like to be extra prepared!

• Beanies: I’ve got this fleece-lined beanie (pom pom included) in a few colors, and always bring a thick headband along too for when I want to put my hair up.

• Warm Gloves: I like to take a few pairs of gloves with me – loving these wool-blend mittens and this pair that’s super lightweight and waterproof (good enough to go skiing in). Trust me, cheapie cotton gloves just ain’t good enough – my snowmobile guide practically laughed in my face when I showed him mine… then let me borrow a spare pair he had.

• Scarves: I tend to bring a few, since they’re so easy to accessorize with! This blanket scarf is one of my faves (a great neutral option that matches everything), and chunky-knit infinity scarves are oh so cozy!

• Waterproof Snow Boots: Gotta keep your feet warm and dry! And THESE Sorel waterproof boots are easily the best ones out there – they’re 100% waterproof, seam-sealed, and actually look pretty cute (unlike most snow boots out there).

• Polarized sunglasses: Since the sun reflects off the snow, you’ll need some polarized sunglasses – I’ve been wearing these exact ones for years and I just love ‘em!

• Bathing suit: If you’re planning to soak in some hot springs — gotta bring a bathing suit! Not what you typically think of for a winter trip, so don’t forget it as nudity isn’t allowed in the springs.

Packing advice #1: Invest in warm and waterproof snow boots with a proper grip. When ordering, opt for a size slightly larger than normal, as you want to allow for thick boot socks and toe warmers. If your boots are too tight (and your toes are crammed together), your feet will never stay warm enough… and they’ll just hurt all day, no thanks!

Packing advice #2: HOT HANDS. Enough said. But in all honesty, hot hands saved our frosty fingers on more than one occasion. What are they, you ask? They’re these magical dry packets filled with iron (among other scientific things) that intensify in heat once activated. Basically – super technological hand warmers that stay warm for up to 10 hours. And they are a godsend. You’ll want at least 1 pair a day. Buy on amazon here.

Other FAQs and Info about Jackson in the Winter

• Make dinner reservations in advance. I was legit so surprised, but dinner reservations were 100% needed for most of the restaurants – yes even in winter! And there’s *so much* good food. We didn’t make reservations until about a week before our trip, and thankfully found some tables still available (although not many to be honest!). We did have to eat a bit late some nights since almost everything was booked up already. If you know your dates, just make some ressies now; you can always cancel them.

• Jackson is not a cheap trip by any means. I mean, it’s called the Millionaires Playground for a reason! It was definitely one of our most expensive domestic trips I think EVER (possibly even more so than Hawaii, but we aim to live like locals there), but well worth it for those snowy mountain views. You can definitely choose a less expensive hotel and be picky about activities, but we went for my birthday so felt okay splurging a bit!

• Can I visit Grand Teton National Park from Jackson in the winter? Yup! The Moose Entrance of Grand Teton National Park is only about a 10-minute drive north of Jackson Hole! The park’s home to massive mountains, pristine lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife (think moose, elk, bison, wolves, and trumpeter swans). Visiting in winter is a very different experience than in summer (for starters it’s way less crowded), but just know that road access within the park is limited. You can even snowshoe or cross-country ski around Jenny Lake in the park!

• What about a visit to Yellowstone National Park? Visiting Yellowstone in the winter from Jackson is a bit more difficult, as the south entrance to the park is closed in winter to regular vehicular traffic. Meaning you’ll need to either take a snowmobile or snowcoach to access the park – not horrible by any means! 

• How long to stay in Jackson? I think it depends on how much skiing/snowboarding you’re planning to do – give yourself a few days on the mountain and then an extra day or two to explore town and go snowmobiling and/or dog sledding. If you’re not a skier/snowboarder, I think three days is sufficient! For reference, we stayed 4 nights and honestly felt it was a tad too long since we don’t ski (at all!).

• The area is VERY touristy. Not that I was super surprised or anything, but the entire town is practically powered by tourism. There’s no real “local” spots, and hardly anyone is from Jackson itself. Even my friend who lives there is originally from New York, although she’s lived there for over 10 years so I guess I’d consider her a local at this point! 

• Lots of staff aren’t even from Jackson themselves. Hotel chains and companies employ thousands of people on J1 visas for seasonal work and Exchange Visitor Programs (many from Eastern Europe)  – meaning the town is super transient. It’s not necessarily a bad thing per say, but just realize all staff probably don’t have the greatest knowledge about Jackson and the area as a whole.

• Days will be relatively short, with approximately 8-10 hours or so of daylight during the winter. In late-January when we visited, the sun rose at around 7:45 am and set just before 5:30 pm, giving us about 10 hours to fill up our days with all the Jackson Hole winter activities we could handle.

• Hydration is key. Due to Jackson’s chilly temps and resulting dry air, you’ll need to make sure to drink lots of water. Our hotel kept us fully stocked on water bottles, and we took them around wherever we went (just make sure to drink them before they freeze!). 

A Word on Wildlife in Jackson and Nearby

One of the best things about visiting Jackson Hole in the winter is the abundance of wildlife! I mean, we saw a few moose just hanging out in the snow literally 5 minutes after leaving the airport!  Elk, moose, bison, coyotes, wolves, and bears (although typically in hibernation during the winter months) can be found here!

But remember – whether you’re out on your own or with a guided tour, please oh please respect the wildlife. 

Observe from a distance (binoculars and scopes work wonders here), NEVER approach or feed wildlife (this can lead to dependency on human food, alter their behavior, and even be harmful to their health), and always stay on designated trails (when skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing) to avoid disturbing nesting areas, feeding grounds, and their natural behaviors.

Remember this is their home – animal sightings are rare and special! They’re generally not aggressive, but I wouldn’t wanna be around if they feel threatened. I mean, have you seen a bison – they’re hella large and powerful animals!

Our Winter in Jackson Hole Itinerary 

Here’s what we got up to on our Jackson winter trip! Granted we don’t ski, so if that’s on your bucket list, swap out an activity or two and head up the mountain!

• Day 1: arrive in Jackson midday, wander town, dinner at Local Restaurant
• Day 2: Dog sledding in Teton Village, tram up the mountain, waffles at Corbet’s Cabin, apres ski at Mangy Moose, dinner at Glorietta Trattoria
• Day 3: snowmobiling to Granite Hot Springs, lunch at Jackson Drug, shops in town, dinner at Collette
• Day 4: Wildlife tour in Grand Teton National Park, lunch at Silver Dollar Bar, check out Amangani, dinner at Teton Tiger
• Day 5: relax in town, breakfast at Persephone Bakery, off to the airport to head home!

So let’s get to it – fun things to do in Jackson Hole in the winter, coming right up!

Things to do in Jackson Hole in Winter

There’s a whole slew of things to do in Jackson Hole in winter, but let’s be real… I was most excited to see a moose, haha. Crossed that one off the bucket list a few times!

Winter in Jackson is an entirely different experience than during the crowded summer months, but it’s IMPERATIVE to book activities in advance. Some even sell out MONTHS ahead of time (yeah, this area’s popular!). Once you have your dates set in stone, I’d reserve tours ASAP to ensure you get a spot. 

And trust me – if you’re not skiing, you really need to plan a few activities (the town is tiny and takes less than half a day to fully explore). Plus, get out there in the wilderness at least once – soooo much scenic beauty all around.

Dog Sledding 

One of the activities we were most excited for during our long weekend in Jackson was dog sledding! We’re huge dog lovers, and couldn’t wait to learn how to mush and watch the energetic dogs in action. Plus give them all the belly rubs of course (they deserve it)!

After dog sledding in Banff in winter a few years ago, I’ve been itching to go again and show my husband what all the hype’s about! 

And what an experience it was – we bundled up in the sled and were whisked away on snow-covered meadows with views of the mountains. But I gotta be honest, I was most focused on the dogs, haha.

There is some question about whether dog sledding is an ethical activity or not. The breeds typically used (Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and other northern breeds – a few of ours were from Greenland!) actually require a ton of stimulation and need to get rid of their energy. 

We made sure to choose a tour operator who greatly prioritizes the well-being and care of their sled dogs. After visiting it was apparent the dogs are well-fed, properly housed, given adequate rest (some only do 1-2 rides a day), and receive regular veterinary care. It really was such a wholesome experience learning about the dogs as well as the company’s mission and values.

We had ample time for all the dog cuddles before and after the ride – they were so friendly and loved all the attention (some even rolled over for belly rubs).

There’s a few different options (sledding to hot springs, within Grand Teton itself, a shorter 1-hour ride, etc). We originally wanted to do a full-day dog sled ride to some nearby hot springs, but that was sold out (months before) so thankfully found a different company (highly recommend Call of the Wyld).

I’ll admit, the experience is a bit pricey for a one-hour sled ride. But once you factor in all the expenses (high-quality food for the dogs, caring and training and medical attention for the dogs, adoption efforts for those who don’t fit, and paying the staff a living wage), it doesn’t seem wildly overpriced anymore. We were happy to support.

Snowmobile Tour

Out of all the things to do in Jackson Hole in winter, we by far loved snowmobiling the most. We cut through fresh powder in open meadows, dense forests and past waterfalls all through the gorgeous wilderness of Bridger-Teton National Forest. Such a frigid winter wonderland dream (and yes, it was beyond freezing). 

I have to be honest – I was a bit nervous at first (and I didn’t even drive – my husband did). But after a few minutes I got super comfy on the back of the snowmobile and OMG it was so much fun. He said it’s kinda like playing a video game (taking his word), and way easier than driving a jet-ski (which we did in Bora Bora many moons ago). 

Note that you’ll *really* need to bundle up – and when I say bundle up, I mean it. Staying warm, dry, and comfortable is super important, as you’ll ruin your experience if you’re shivering cold. If you’ve never been on a snowmobile it’s hard to imagine just how cold it really is – that wind is something else. Thankfully the snowmobile handles are heated!

Our rental package included all safety gear (such as helmets), waterproof and windproof snow pants and jackets, warm insulated gloves, and even insulated boots. You’ll probably wanna bring along a few hot hands just to be on the safe side (one girl stuck one in her boots 3 minutes after starting, haha).

Overall, it was super exhilarating and something I’d love to do again. If you choose one activity during your time in Jackson, make it snowmobiling.

There’s quite a few different tours, with some focused on wildlife at Bridger-Teton National Park, to Granite Springs (the tour we chose), through Grand Teton National Park, and even to Old Faithful in Yellowstone!

Soak in some Hot Springs

This was the Jackson Hole winter activity I was most excited for!

Imagine soaking in the steamy warmth of hot springs with icicles and snow piled up high surrounding you in the middle of the Teton Mountains! A true winter wonderland, and super different from the hot springs we soaked in in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.

Included on our snowmobile tour was a relaxing soak in the natural waters of Granite Hot Springs – and it was totally one of the highlights of our trip to Jackson in the winter! Yes, it’s a man made pool (built back in the 1930s), but considering its location – under huge fir pines along Granite Greek right in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, it still feels quite special. And the water is a scalding 112°F, so feels amazing after shivering in the cold in your bathing suit, haha.

Pro-tip: sit near the rocks bordering the thermal springs – it’s the hottest over here!

In the winter months you can only access Granite Hot Springs via dog sled, snowmobile, or a long cross-country ski trail, so it’s never crazy crowded. Especially if you get there early. We had the springs completely to ourselves for about 15 minutes until the next group showed up, then promptly 5 more haha.

Be exceptionally careful walking down the steps from the changing rooms to the hot spring – it gets icy! And make sure to bring your own stuff (towels, clothes, bathing suit, etc); there’s literally nothing else besides a changing room, a bathroom, and the pool!

Psst – bathing suits are required at local hot springs in Jackson Hole, so this ain’t the place for nudity!

While Granite Hot Springs is by far the most popular of the thermal springs in Jackson, there’s also Astoria Hot Springs (with five different man-made pools to soak in, all different temps) and Kelly Warm Springs (cooler than most hot springs averaging about 80°F, so better for soaking in the warm summer months).

Wildlife Tour in Grand Teton National Park

After going on safari in Tanzania this past summer, we’re all about ethical wildlife activities! So as soon as I heard about wildlife tours in Grand Teton, I knew it was something we’d love – and that we did! We ventured around the park in a heated (thank goodness) 4×4 safari style vehicle, keeping our eyes peeled for the thousands of animals that take refuge in the Jackson Hole valley.  

On our tour, we saw hundreds of elk, a half dozen MOOSE, wolves, mule deer, so many bighorn sheep (high up in the mountains), two bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and even a whole bunch of bison. Note that you won’t see any bears (black or grizzly) because they’re all hibernating!

You can typically either choose a tour at dawn or dusk, because this is when the animals are most active! Any tour that departs smack in the middle of the day is a big no-no.

Take Photos at the Famous Antler Arches

On the corners of Jackson Town Square you’ll find the historic elk antler arches – perfect for photos! I mean, did you really visit Jackson if you didn’t snap a few pics under the antler arches? (Nope). Don’t be shy – they’re popular for a reason!

And get this – they’re built *entirely* from local elk antlers, about 2,000 antlers each. You won’t believe it but the arches are held together mostly by friction and gravity, so don’t be pulling any out!

Where do the antlers come from? Every spring, elk naturally shed their antlers, and local Boy Scout troops gather them up from the National Elk Refuge.

Ride the Aerial Tram for Waffles with a View 

Before our trip I kept hearing about these famous world-renowned waffles, so I knew we needed to find them. And guess what – you need to ride the Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to get there! Yes, all the way to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain (which is a staggering 4,139 feet up)! 

Once up there, there’s 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole, the Snake River Valley, and Grand Teton National Park. Unfortunately the weather was kinda iffy at the top when we visited (that’s mountain weather for ya), but we saw glimpses here and there of the view.

Be sure to bundle up – it’s absolutely frigid up there. 

As soon as you make it up, you’ll see Corbet’s Cabin – literally a cabin on top of the mountain serving freshly made waffles! It’s super casual and packed with skiers (thankfully the line moves fast), with a few options to choose from – we went with the peanut butter bacon (an interesting combo to say the least), and the Belgium with speculoos (my favorite, especially after visiting Bruges a few months ago).

If you’re not skiing, this is probably the most expensive waffle you’ll ever have. Was it worth the $50 roundtrip tram ticket (per person!) to get up there, plus another $15 or so for a waffle and hot cocoa? Probably not, but hey, when in Jackson Hole!

Explore Downtown Jackson 

No visit to Jackson Hole is complete without a stroll through downtown Jackson’s famous Town Square! This is where you’ll find the iconic elk antler arches, famous Million Dollar Cowboy bar, and plenty and plenty of western shops.

It’s basically the historic heart of Jackson Hole, and there’s mountain views everywhere. Being super tiny, you can easily explore in a morning or afternoon before/after other activities. Since our hotel was right in town, I had tons of time for leisurely wandering around and popping into all the shops and art galleries.

Don’t be surprised by all the animals hanging on the wall (and yes, they’re all real…) – this is cowboy country we’re talking about!

During our winter weekend in Jackson I think I went into almost every single shop in town (it’s a great way to stay warm, haha). So many good ones, but my faves were: MADE, Habits, Encounter Hat Co, and Beaver Creek Hats & Leather. Whatever you do, don’t miss Kemo Sabe – SUCH a good spot where you can make your own custom hats!

Ski and Snowboard

Jackson Hole is paradise for those looking to hit the slopes. The area is famous for its perfect deep powder conditions and challenging terrain (although don’t worry, there’s a few gentler runs for all you less advanced skiers and snowboarders).

And with all this snow, you can bet Jackson’s a pretty reliable ski destination!

There’s three popular resorts in the Jackson Hole area:

• Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: This is by far the most popular area to ski, nestled at the base of the breathtaking Teton Mountains in Teton Village. Here you’ll find two mountains – Apres Vous and Rendezvous. The Aerial Tram (known locally as Big Red) up to Rendezvous Mountain is super popular (and where you’ll find the famous waffles). It’s actually the largest continuous vertical rise in the country at a staggering 4,139 vertical feet (way higher than the gondola we took during our weekend in Albuquerque!)

• Snow King Ski Area & Mountain Resort: Commonly known as “the town hill” and “Snow King”, this is Jackson’s in-town mountain and the very first ski area in all of Wyoming! It’s super convenient (just six blocks from the Jackson Town Square), and boasts other fun activities on the mountain, like a scenic gondola ride, snow tubing, and even a cowboy coaster! Plus lighted trails for night skiing!

• Grand Targhee Resort: This one’s a bit further away from Jackson (about 45 miles), but with more than 500 inches of pristine powder every year and stunning views of the Tetons, you can’t go wrong! Especially if you want a change of scenery. 

Mangy Moose for Apres Ski 

What’s better than skiing? Apres ski of course! Mangy Moose has been around since 1967 and is a Jackson Hole classic. It’s one of the more popular spots to grab a beer and nachos at the base of the mountain, and there’s even live music most afternoons. 

Have a drink at Amangani

Ohhh the minute I saw a picture of the stunning Aman property in Jackson, I instantly wanted to go check it out. We made the mistake of going too early in the day (before the bar was open, whoops), so we just wandered around and pretended we were staying there! 

That pool overlooking the mountains looks heavenly… too bad the view was covered from all the clouds.

Ride a Sleigh in the National Elk Refuge

Finally an activity that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg at less than $40 (hey, I told you Jackson Hole’s expensive)! And a sleigh ride into the National Elk Refuge is by far one of the best things to do in Jackson in winter!

Why? Because winter is the peak season for elk migration to the refuge (late December to early April). Thousands of elk make their way down from the surrounding mountains to the lower elevations where the refuge provides essential food and shelter. There’s just not enough food for them high in the mountains once the harsh winter months and snow come along. 

On a horse-drawn sleigh you’re taken right into the heart of the elk herd – getting to see these magnificent creatures up close! If it’s exceptionally cold, bring along some blankets.

We actually decided to skip out on this after our wildlife tour of Grand Teton, and I honestly kinda regret it! Although we did see the elk from afar on our 4×4 safari vehicle, so I’m not beating myself up too much, haha. Because of the light snow so far in the season, there were only a few hundred elk instead of thousands, so it’ll all depend on when you visit!

If you’re visiting over the holidays/ski week, I highly recommend getting tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot – it’s a popular activity!

Where to Eat in Jackson Hole

I could not believe just how much of a foodie spot Jackson was. Despite being such a tiny town (I expected town to be larger for some reason), there’s such a wide variety of cuisines, many using local ingredients. 

Some restaurants you really do need a reservation for (especially on the weekend), so make those ressies in advance!

• Jackson Drug: Burgers, milkshakes, and build our own grilled cheeses in a cute retro atmosphere! Such a great spot for lunch.

• Persephone Bakery: One of the most popular spots for a French-inspired breakfast/brunch, and yes, it lives up to the hype. Super trendy with delicious bakery items, artisan breads, and the best brioche french toast.

• Hatch Taqueria & Tequilas: Great margs and Mexican food with a twist (try the tortilla soup on a cold day) and great happy hour deals.

• Local (reservation needed): One of the fancier spots we went to serving locally ranched meats (think elk, bison, etc) and phenomenal truffle fries. Share the M&M plate if you’re with a group to try all the meats and sides! 

• Cowboy Coffee: The go-to spot for coffees in the AM with the cutest cowboy cups (and FWIW their sandwiches are amazing too). A MUST STOP IN JACKSON for sure. We went like 3-4x, haha.

• Million Dollar Cowboy Bar: A local favorite in downtown Jackson, with saddles for bar stools and lots of live music. Plus billiards and a funky gift shop! 

• Glorietta Trattoria (reservation needed): An upscale Italian trattoria with great flavors but the pasta portions were admittedly kinda small, especially for the price.

• Teton Tiger (reservation needed): Delicious noodles, curries, and other pan-Asian cuisine in a funky atmosphere. Literally everything we ordered was SO good, and such a nice change from all the American food we’d been eating.

• Silver Dollar Bar: A fun Western-themed bar & grill at the historic Wort Hotel. Great spot to grab a quick burger for lunch or later for live music.

• Collette (reservation needed): Traditional western fare with global touches and lots of local ingredients! A super cozy space with the best cocktails. Perfect for date night.

• Hand Fire Pizza: Super creative wood-fired pizza using fresh, local ingredients – the crust is amazing.

• FIGS: A rustic-chic Lebanese restaurant right in Hotel Jackson, with homemade hummus and lots of craft cocktails. If we had another day we would’ve eaten here!

So there have it – a whole slew of things to do in Jackson Hole in winter! Are you headed to the mountains soon?!

The post My Snowy Winter Trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming (All My Favorites) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Truth or Consequences is a funky desert town in New Mexico known for its natural, mineral-rich hot springs. And quite honestly, the town kinda feels like a time capsule – there’s evidence of the wild, wild west over in these parts, with a laid back hippy/cowboy vibe. And so many vintage buildings from the 1950s! 

We visited “T or C” (what the locals call it!) on our week-long New Mexico road trip. I desperately wanted to spend a day visiting White Sands National Park (have you seen the photos?!), and Truth or Consequences ended up being a perfect half-way point between Albuquerque and the park! 

It was great for a night, plus we got to soak away all our stresses for a few hours (ya know, life is hard when you’re on vacation…, ha!). 

I didn’t really know what to expect, as I couldn’t find much info online, but we found a town in a revitalization stage of sorts, with plenty of colorful buildings and art galleries lining the downtown streets. Apparently artists are *loving* the temperate climate and low cost of living, and many are actually moving there! 

The town isn’t as sleepy and abandoned as it once was (due to a past struggling economy), and there’s new restaurants and renovated bathhouses popping up all the time. 

To be completely honest, one of the main reasons I wanted to visit T or C was because of its super quirky name, haha. Sure, it might sound silly to visit a town simply for its name, but I mean, c’mon! It’s called Truth or Consequences – I can’t be the only one who finds this utterly fascinating, ha!

Before visiting, I had a tough time finding information about things to do in Truth or Consequences, so I decided to write this guide for you all! Hope it helps with planning!

Get ready for a night in New Mexico’s funky desert town of T or C!

FAQs about Truth or Consequences, NM

Where is Truth or Consequences and How to Get There

Truth or Consequences is located in southwest New Mexico, in Sierra County right on the Rio Grande River (the fourth longest river system in the United States!) in the Chihuahuan Desert (not far from Elephant Butte Reservoir). It sits at an elevation of about 4,250 feet above sea level.

You’ll find it between Albuquerque and Las Cruces, New Mexico’s two largest cities, meaning, it’s a great place to stop on a longer New Mexico road trip!

Flying to Truth or Consequences

There’s no commercial airport in T or C, only a smaller municipal airport (so unless you fly yourself, don’t expect to fly to Truth or Consequences, haha).

The closest major airport is El Paso International Airport (ELP) at around 125 miles away (2 hours), and of course Albuquerque International Sunport at around 150 miles away (just over a 2 hour drive).

Las Cruces Airport (LRU) is about 60 miles away from Truth or Consequences, with some shuttle services from Albuquerque with Advanced Air. But honestly, I’d just drive if you’re coming from Albuquerque – it’s less than 2 ½ hours away from ABQ. 

Driving to Truth or Consequences

Most people visit Truth or Consequences as part of a longer New Mexico road trip, which is exactly what we did! We drove to T or C straight from Albuquerque, and had no problems at all making the almost 3 hour drive. The tiny town is right off I-25, so perfect for a quick stop en route to Las Cruces for White Sands National Park if you don’t have much time.

If you wanna break up the driving, you can stop at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, which we sadly didn’t have time for. It’s a great place to view sandhill cranes (sometimes thousands!), snow geese, and other waterfowl – bring binoculars for close-up looks!

Here’s some distances from popular destinations nearby:

• From Las Cruces: 1 ½ hours, 75 miles
• From White Sands National Park: 2 hours, ~120 miles
• From El Paso, Texas: 2 hours, ~120 miles
• From Albuquerque: 2 ½ hours, ~150 miles
• From Santa Fe: 3 hours, ~215 miles
• From Bandelier National Monument: 4 hours, ~250 miles
• From Taos: 4 ½ hours, ~280 miles
• From Phoenix, Arizona: 6 ½ hours, ~400 miles

How to Get Around Truth or Consequences

Walking is by far the best way to get around. This town is exceptionally tiny, and the downtown area only has about 2 major streets, haha. Meaning, nothing is more than a 10 minute walk, even most of the hot springs, including the popular one, Riverbend!

We parked our car in town once, wandered around for a bit, then drove about 2 minutes to keep our car at Riverbend Hot Springs for our soaking sessions. Doesn’t get easier than that!

Weather in Truth or Consequences

Truth or Consequences experiences a cool desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. And get this – the sun shines more than 80% of the day and normal humidity is only 10-15% (which is perfect for this gal with super thick hair)!

It gets hot pretty early on in the year, and then once monsoon season is over (more about that soon…), temps get chilly rather fast. 

There’s technically really only 3 main seasons here:

• Summer Season (April to June): Oof – summer is rough in these parts, as it’s very, very dry and generally exceptionally hot. Summer days average in the mid 80s°F, and more times than not creep up into the 90s. Not great weather to be sitting around in a hot spring, haha.

• Monsoon Season (June to mid-September): And then we get to monsoon season, which still remains very hot, but with tons of thunderstorms and rainfall and harsh humidity, centered roughly on the Rio Grande Valley – exactly where T or C is, haha (not to be confused with the region in Texas, the Lower Rio Grande Valley). So, suffice it to say it’s not the absolute best time to plan a trip during this time. If you are visiting now, plan to do all your activities in the early morning as storms are worst in the late afternoon and early evening.

• Winter Season (October to March): Don’t let the winter season deter you from visiting – it’s actually pretty pleasant, with mild temps (40-50s °F), gloriously sunny days, and very little rainfall! Nights do get exceptionally chilly (although it hardly ever snows due to the lack of precipitation), but most activities (like hot springs soaking!) take place during the daylight anyways. We curled up in our hotel room after dinner — I’m a sucker for crisp hotel sheets!

For reference, we visited the hot springs in Truth or Consequences towards the end of November, and had gloriously sunny weather. It was a tad chilly at times, but nothing a light sweater couldn’t fix. Also, we found it to be the perfect temps for chilling and hanging out in the hot springs. 

If you wanna relax in the hot springs and take total advantage, I’d recommend visiting when it ain’t so hot out! This means April to October is outta the question. Plan a visit from November to March for optimal hot springs weather!

Where to Stay in Truth or Consequences

You really have two options for location – either directly in the town of T or C itself, or along I-25 exit 79, which is where we stayed. 

To be completely honest, since we only stayed one night en route to White Sands National Park, we kinda just chose what I call a “whatever hotel” – your clean, typical, boring budget name-brand hotel in a convenient and safe location. Gets the job done but isn’t memorable by any means. 

We stayed right off the highway at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Truth or Consequences, and it was perfect for a simple, one-night stay.

In town, there’s some charmingly-restored spas/hotels, including Blackstone Hotsprings, Pelican Spa, and of course Riverbend Hot Springs. We would have loved to stay at Riverbend, but there was a strict 2-night minimum when we were visiting, and simply didn’t have enough time during our week in New Mexico. There’s also some fun campsites and RV parks, like Hot Springs Glamp Camp with a luxury yurt and remodeled vintage RVs!

Right off the highway (near Walmart) you’ll find Holiday Inn Express & Suites Truth or Consequences, Comfort Inn & Suites, and a few others (like a Motel 6 and a Travelodge – which aren’t really my cup of tea, haha). 

Brief History of T or C

Of course Truth or Consequences has an interesting history – I mean, with a name like that, of course it does! T or C, originally known as Hot Springs, has a history rooted in geothermal springs and its indigenous communities. Native American groups, like the Apache and the Sierra Blanca Apache loved and appreciated the magic of these mineral-rich hot springs. If you look closely, you’ll see references to them around town.

People from around the states started visiting the town to soak and relax in the hot springs. It was actually known as the “Health Capital of the Southwest” at one point in time!

And then in 1950, the town gained even greater national attention when it changed its name to Truth or Consequences, after winning a radio contest!

It’s a truly fascinating corner of New Mexico, blending its natural hot springs, historical roots, and the unexpected twist of a crazy name change. Truth or Consequences really does feel like a time capsule of sorts – sure, the towns been modernized and rejuvenated a bit, but you can still experience the hot springs that the Native Americans once soaked in! 

Other Important Info about Truth or Consequences

What’s up with its quirky name?! Right?! Ain’t it kinda wild? The town actually got its name thanks to a radio show contest. Yup, a radio contest! It’s had a few names over the years – originally being called Ojo Caliente de Las Paloma by The Spanish, then the cowboys renamed it to Palomas Hot Springs (then got lazy and simply called it Hot Springs). 

And THEN in 1950 it got changed once AGAIN as part of a publicity scheme to celebrate the 10th anniversary of a hugely successful game show on NBC radio – and yes, that game show was called Truth or Consequences! The TV program was canceled decades ago, but it lives on due to the town name.

Is it worth visiting Truth or Consequences? To be completely honest, unless you’re planning to venture south to White Sands National Park, I don’t think I’d make the trek down to T or C. There really isn’t tons and tons to do here, and there’s actually other cute spas/hot springs closer to Santa Fe. 

With that being said, if you’re headed to the stunning white gypsum sand dunes, Truth or Consequences is a great spot to spend the night as it breaks up the drive from Santa Fe or Albuquerque. Just don’t plan on doing too much besides soaking in town!

How long to spend in T or C? I really only think you need an afternoon here: an hour or less to walk the town (really, it’s teeny tiny), an hour to grab a bite to eat in a nearby cafe/grab a beer at the local brewery, and a few hours at a hot spring. 

I’d recommend no more than one night if you’re not taking advantage of the hiking in Elephant Butte Lake State Park or kayaking the Rio Grande (seasonal) nearby. We arrived around noon, wandered a bit and hung out until our soak at 3, and left early the next morning.

Where to Eat in Truth or Consequences: The town is pretty tiny, and therefore there’s not too many restaurants to choose from. But definitely enough for a 1-night stay for sure. Don’t expect any michelin-style meals, haha – food is simple but good! 

There’s El Faro (Mexican food), Outer Edge Pizzeria, The Giddy Up Cafe (American breakfast), Pacific Grill, A & B Drive In (hamburgers), Further Bistro (salads and wraps), and a few others. There’s also plenty of fast-food options right off I-25 which we gladly indulged in.

What’s so special about the hot springs here? Unlike many other hot springs, there’s no sulfur smell! Thank goodness – if you’ve smelled sulfur before you know it smells like rotten eggs and is super unpleasant. 

Plus, the hot springs in Truth or Consequences have trace elements of THIRTY EIGHT different minerals, including magnesium, lithium, and silica (which are heavenly for the skin). Making them some of the most heavily mineralized waters in the United States!

Things to do in Truth or Consequences

There’s not too many things to do in Truth or Consequences, making it the perfect pit stop on a longer New Mexico road trip. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a quick visit! We were visiting the day after Thanksgiving, meaning a lot of the town was closed and pretty sleepy – I reckon it’d be much livelier on a typical weekend!

Soak at Riverbend Hot Springs

One of the most popular things to do in Truth or Consequences?! Soak in a hot spring! Hey, you’re in a town that was once known as Hot Springs afterall! It’s known as America’s most affordable spa town (and really, soaks are not at all expensive), so I highly encourage you to book yourself a soak or two! Hot spring temps range from 95-110°F (sometimes depending on the day), It’s just one of those things you gotta do while in town! 

There’s lots to say about the hot springs in T or C, so check out the section below dedicated entirely to hot springs – what to bring, hot springs etiquette, a list of hot springs spas, and so much more.

Wander the tiny town

Yes, the town may be small (with a year-round population of around 8,000), but it’s big on art and charm. You’ll see so many murals, some metalwork, and various art installations on the streets. 

There’s a cute main street with fabulous cafes, a second hand book store, thrift stores, and a ton of other places I would have loved to check out. But alas, many were closed because of the Thanksgiving holiday.

There’s vintage buildings from the 1950s, creative working spaces, and a handful of art galleries. And of course what the town is known for – naturally occurring hot springs! And omg – the town is oh so colorful; I couldn’t put my camera down. Just ask my husband, haha! 

Kayaking/tubing the Rio Grande River

Visiting T or C in the summer?! Add kayaking and/or tubing The Rio to your list of things to do in Truth or Consequences! You can either kayak or tube freely with your own equipment, or check out Rio Grande River Trips if you need to rent some. And I don’t care what you say – always wear a life jacket!

The Rio Grande has sections with different levels of difficulty, so always ask the outfitter you rent from if you’re not familiar with the area.

Since we visited in late November, we sadly didn’t get to float down the river (and we missed it in Boise, Idaho too, argh!). Thankfully I’ve got the Russian River (in Sonoma County) not too far from me in California!

Geronimo Springs Museum

Located right in town, the Geronimo Springs Museum is a must, especially if you’re interested in learning about Southwest New Mexico history. 

Definitely worth a quick peek; there’s exhibits on pottery (including a world-class ancient Mimbres pottery collection), fossils (plus a real-life Woolly Mammoth skull!), and plenty of Hispanic and Apache artifacts (like arrowhead displays and an authentic Miner’s Cabin).

The museum’s a lot larger than it looks from the outside – expect to spend at least an hour or so here!

Truth or Consequences Brewing Co.

T or C Brewing Company is one of the most popular spots in town – perfect for a midday break if you’re getting a little thirsty. The atmosphere is on point and the beer is solid with a great selection – don’t miss the blood orange cider, squeeze the sun, a seasonal beer (or two), or if you’re feeling frisky, a flight of 6! Lots to choose from!

Come on the weekend for some live music and sit in the backyard beer garden; it’s lively and so fun. While they don’t serve any food, there’s a few spots nearby that deliver straight to the brewery (green chile cheeseburgers, anyone?!).

Second Saturday Art Hop

Truth or Consequences has become an art hot spot as of recently, with many artists moving here and plenty of galleries opening up. 

If you’re visiting on the second Saturday of the month, don’t miss the Art Hop – when all of the art galleries open for the evening (typically from 6-9pm) and there’s fun events around town. Check out the Second Saturday Art Hop facebook page for info on shows, openings, and event pop ups (although it doesn’t seem like it’s updated all too often, ha).

Elephant Butte Lake State Park 

A few miles north of T or C you’ll find Elephant Butte, one of the most popular state parks in all of New Mexico (that’s butte – not butt… okay, I’ll stop – I’m a child, haha). It’s actually the state’s largest body of water, at over 36,000 acres! 

Here you’ll find tons of lakeside views, opportunities for fishing (including white bass, black bass, catfish, walleye, crappie, and stripers, oh my!), hiking, and lots of boating fun! Plus watersports and sandy beaches (ya know, for tanning and swimming) – it’s kinda like New Mexico’s answer to the ocean on a hot summer day. 

If you wanna spend time at Elephant Butte, I’d dedicate at least a half-day for it, as it’s quite large and scenic. Or spend a few days camping – people love it (plus the stargazing opportunities are just amazing). Just note there’s hardly any shade here (practically nonexistent), so plan to bring your own and/or slather on that sunscreen!

Spaceport America

Okay, this is something I SO wished I had heard about before we visited Truth or Consequences. I mean, it’s Spaceport America (!!!), and only 30 miles away from town.

What is it exactly? The world’s first purpose-built commercial spaceport! Yes, that means a place for launching rockets, satellites, and spaceplanes! How cool!

While the facility is strictly designed for commercial users, they offer tours to the general public on occasion. Just make sure to book a tour well in advance – it gets busy! The Spaceport is *technically* an airport, so security won’t let you on the property for any other reason than being on the guided tour. While we didn’t do the tour ourselves (a big whoops on my part), I heard it’s really well done and super hands on and interactive.

Okay, fine, after making this list I guess there’s quite a few things to do in Truth or Consequences, haha. If you really wanna take advantage of all the outdoor activities, I’d opt for an early fall trip, and stay a full day or two.

Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences

And of course there’s all the hot springs! How could we forget about those?! I mean, it is the main draw of the town – and the primary reason why tourists come to town. Easily the #1 thing to do in Truth or Consequences. 

Get this – the entire downtown area is located over a huge body of odorless hot mineral water…, that actually bubbles to the surface. Nature is wild, isn’t it?!

Hot springs have been synonymous with T or C for years and years and years (with the first bathhouse built way back when in the 1880s). At one point, the town had as many as 40 spas offering soaks! 

There’s not as many now (understandably), but still quite a few to choose from. Some even offer healing treatments to go along with your soak, like massages, reflexology, mud wraps, reiki, and more. I so wish I had time for a mud wrap, haha!

What’s so special about the water anyways? The water is heated by geothermal activity underground the Earth’s surface! Kinda cool, right?! It then flows out of a rift (a crack in the Earth’s crust) that appeared more than 50 million years ago along the Rio Grande River. So basically, the water you’re soaking in is coming from a crack in the Earth that’s FIFTY MILLION years old. Wild.

The Earth produces pristine waters, with temperatures ranging from 98 to 115 degrees. Perfect bath water!

Most spas are open from morning until early evening, and if you can time it correctly, I highly recommend planning your soak for around sunset time! We loved using our soaks as kinda a wind-down from the day, and left feeling so refreshed and relaxed. I’d hate to do a soak in the morning and then have a full day’s worth of activities planned – but, you do you!

Many of the hot spring pools are part of hotels and lodges – meaning if you stay at one you’ll probably have either free and/or unlimited access to them. Plenty are available for non-staying guests (although not all), and you’ll need to make a reservation in advance. Some facilities only have 2-3 pools in total (private), so don’t expect to show up and get one the same day.

However, they’re not all created equally, with only five actually getting the water from free-flowing springs. And only ONE right on the banks of the Rio Grande River with panoramic views of the river and mountains while soaking! 

Because of that, we chose to visit the most popular of all the hot springs in Truth or Consequences – Riverbend Hot Springs, a laid-back spa hotel offering public and private soaks to outside guests. 

Imagine soaking in 105°F mineral water while staring out at the river and lush vegetation ahead of you. It was just heavenly!

What to Know About Riverbend Hot Springs

• Being the most popular of all the hot springs in T or C (it’s the only hot spring directly on the banks of the Rio Grande), you’ll most definitely need to make a reservation in advance.

• You can choose between a private soak in a private pool, or a public soak in the communal hot springs pools, or both! We chose to make reservations for both – just make sure to time them correctly (back to back) or you’ll be waiting around with literally nothing to do in between.

• Prices are super affordable, at $25-35 per hour for 2 people for a property pass (yes, that’s the price for TWO people – super great value in my opinion!). Private soaks are a tad more expensive, at $35-50 per hour for 2 people for a private pool, but still a really good value!

• You can totally reserve a few hours at a time if you’d like, but we found an hour at the private soaking tub and then an hour in the common pools were enough for us.

• This isn’t a glamorous bougie spa with overpriced spa treatments or even an enclosed waiting area. It’s a bit more rustic and bare-boned, but still very comfy and fun. 

• Riverbend Hot Springs is actually a hotel, so you can stay the night! Unfortunately there was a 2-night minimum stay when we were visiting, so we chose to stay elsewhere. 

• There is no alcohol, no glass/breakables, or food near the pools. And no smoking of any kind. Respect their rules! 

Other Things to Know about the Hot Springs in T or C

What to bring for a soak at the hot springs: 

• Bathing suit of course, especially if you’re soaking in a public tub!
• Towel (most hot spring spas have towels for rent, but some charge up to $10, so it’s a good idea to just bring your own)
• sandals/water shoes (especially if you’re visiting any natural ones as there may be stones on the ground)
• Reusable water bottle (gotta stay hydrated!)
• robe/cover up 
• Waterproof bag (if visiting hot springs in nature)

While soaking, remember to stay hydrated! And we’re talking about water here – not alcohol! Save that for later at dinner once you’re out of the steamy springs.

Etiquette at hot springs:

• Shower before entering (this is to maintain cleanliness)
• Respect the peaceful atmosphere (keep voices down and no music)
• No glass containers
• No jumping or diving 
• Wear a bathing suit in public spaces!
• No alcohol or drugs

There’s actually tons of benefits of soaking in hot springs, a few being:

• Relaxation! Go on, friend, relax! Let the hot springs soothe those aching muscles. 
• Improved circulation – the warm water helps dilate blood vessels helping blood circulation in the body
• Glowing skin – all the minerals in hot springs help promote a healthy complexion
• Stress relief – helps with stress reduction and improved mental well-being
• Pain relief – yup, hot springs are great for alleviating joint pain, arthritis, and muscle soreness
• Detoxification – if you sweat in the warm water, it may help with the removal of toxins from the body (but always monitor this; if you’re getting exceptionally hot and sweaty, GET OUT!)
• Improved sleep – relaxing can contribute to better sleep quality!

There’s a reason why the Native Americans soaked all those years ago! 

There’s other hot springs spas to consider if Riverbend is unfortunately sold out, or you wanna support a smaller lodge. Crazy to think that most of these historic spas still operating today date back from the 1930s!

• Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa: a hot springs hotel in a rustic Southwestern style with indoor and outdoor garden tubs for soaking
• La Paloma Hot Springs & Spa: the oldest hot spring baths in town (!!!), with two historic bath houses (built in 1919 and 1925) and outdoor pools (available only to lodging guests)
• Blackstone Hot Springs: a kitschy hotel with four private hot springs baths (one with a geothermal steam room and waterfall!)
• Hoosier Hot Springs: 1-hour hot mineral water soaks in 4 private areas, plus 3 outdoor pools and the original indoor pool, circa 1937 – and it’s dog-friendly!
• Pelican Spa: guests have unlimited access to five concrete tubs, all indoors – walk-ins welcome!
• Hot Springs Glamp Camp: a quirky and fun glamping spot offering thermal spring soaks in their trendy cowboy tubs

…and about a dozen or so more, haha. Too many to list!

Note that all hot springs are wildly different in terms of their availability to outside guests, locations and views, and public/private offerings. Do your research to see what’s the best fit for you!

Hope that gives you a sense of what T or C is all about! Are you planning to head to the steamy hot springs of Truth of Consequences anytime soon?!

The post Truth or Consequences: New Mexico’s Hippy Funky Desert Town appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

I had been wanting to visit New Mexico for quite some time, and was overblown by the beauty of the state. After some consideration (and realizing there was honestly so much I wanted to see), I ultimately decided on a week-long New Mexico road trip! It was the perfect decision – we got to see oh so much, and the drive was relatively easy (says my husband, haha).

New Mexico is known for a whole slew of spectacular things. The striking white gypsum sand dunes of White Sands National Park. The famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. The development of the first atomic bomb (yes, true story). Tons of Native American art, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Vast underground caves and formations in Carlsbad Caverns. The oldest capital city in the United States (Santa Fe)!

I mean, the state’s nickname is the “Land of Enchantment” afterall! 

Even American artist Georgia O’Keeffe made New Mexico her home and got tons of inspiration from its scenic landscapes. Oh, and you can’t forget about that green chile stew and those blue-corn enchiladas. And all that traditional Pueblo architecture and adobe buildings.

It’s unlike anywhere else in the Southwest, and so, so different from Texas! Even the iconic Route 66 passes through New Mexico. The state really has so much going for it, and yet, most people head straight to Arizona or Utah (completely forgetting about New Mexico altogether). What a shame! I bet this week in New Mexico itinerary will totally change your mind, wink wink.

There’s even lava fields, volcanoes, and badlands. Bet you had no idea New Mexico was this diverse! We won’t be able to see everything on our New Mexico road trip, but you’ll definitely see a lot! Okay, I’ll stop gushing…  but if you’ve never tried fry bread or a sopapilla drizzled with honey, book your flight right now. Promise you won’t regret it.

Overview and Logistics of this New Mexico Road Trip

• Day 1: Albuquerque
• Day 2: Santa Fe
• Day 3: Santa Fe
• Day 4: Taos or Day Spa 
• Day 5: Bandelier National Monument
• Day 6: Truth or Consequences
• Day 7: White Sands National Park

Estimated Driving Time: +/- 15 hours (1000+ miles)

This New Mexico road trip basically follows Interstate 25 — a major north-south highway traversing basically the entire length of the state. Meaning you’re gonna see a whole lot!

Where is New Mexico

New Mexico is located in the southwestern region of the US, and bordered by Colorado, Oklahoma (a teensy tiny sliver!), Texas, and Arizona. Plus my favorite – the country of Mexico to the south! 

The state is entirely landlocked (meaning no coastline or ocean/sea), but I promise, you won’t be missing the water as there’s so many other views to admire! Lots of high mountain peaks, expansive deserts, and even sand dunes.

It’s one of the four states that make up the Four Corners Monument, although we won’t be headed that far northwest on this New Mexico itinerary (it’s a few extra hours of driving if you’re so inclined)! 

And something I really had no clue about until I started researching – at 121,590 square miles, New Mexico is the fifth-largest state in the U.S. (behind Alaska, Texas, California, and Montana). 

And there’s so much natural beauty! The Northern part of New Mexico is home to parts of the Rocky Mountains (yes, really) and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Rio Grande is one of the major rivers in New Mexico, while you’ll find the Jemez Mountains to the northwest of Santa Fe. And then there’s the Sandia Mountains, rising dramatically from the Rio Grande Valley east of Albuquerque.

Where to Start Your New Mexico Road Trip

Where you start this New Mexico road trip really depends on what airport you decide to fly into! 

Most people fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (airport code ABQ), the largest and busiest airport in New Mexico. Because of that, I’m writing this New Mexico road trip starting in Albuquerque!  But you can also fly into Santa Fe or even El Paso, Texas which I’ll get into a bit below.

Coming from San Francisco, we couldn’t find many nonstop flights to ABQ, so had to connect in Salt Lake City. And since we were traveling over a busy holiday weekend (Thanksgiving!), flights were more pricey than normal. Was it worth it to spend a week in New Mexico? 100%!

Note that you can also fly into Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF), but the airport is TINY, and only serves regional flights. Meaning there’s a super limited number of direct flights available (only from Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix at this time). If you’re coming from one of those cities, definitely check into flying straight to Santa Fe as it’ll decrease the overall drive time of this New Mexico road trip a tad!

And then there’s ALSO El Paso International Airport (ELP) – which, yes, is in Texas, but a great idea if you’re starting your New Mexico road trip in the southern part of the state. It’s only about an hour (50 miles) from Las Cruces, which is a great place to base yourself for visiting White Sands National Park. Do this road trip in reverse if you’re flying into El Paso!

So basically, if you’re visiting central or northern New Mexico first, it’s best to fly into Albuquerque, and if you wanna start your week in New Mexico in the southern part of the state, El Paso may make more sense.

Round Trip Road Trip or One Way?

You can do this New Mexico road trip one of two ways:

1. Starting and ending in Santa Fe/Albuquerque
2. Flying into Santa Fe/Albuquerque and flying out of El Paso (or vice versa)

There’s pros and cons to both, but we ultimately decided to fly in and out of Albuquerque, so naturally headed back to ABQ at the end of our trip.

• Roundtrip: No one-way car rental fee, an extra 3-4 hours of driving, airfares will probably be more cost-effective
• One-way: Extra car rental fees, less driving, but possibly higher airfares

My recommendation? Look into car rental rates and airfares before you make your final decision!

Renting a Car in New Mexico

Since this is in fact a road trip, you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this New Mexico itinerary! I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

There’s plenty of car rental agencies right at the ABQ airport, and I recommend renting one for pickup as soon as you land. The top sites in Albuquerque are kinda spread out, so you’ll definitely want the flexibility of your own car starting from Day 1.

Many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind if you’re planning to head home from a different airport.

Note: We didn’t pay any tolls on our New Mexico road trip, and if you follow this itinerary, you won’t either! That’s because there’s NO toll roads in New Mexico at all! ZERO! You can drive from Santa Fe all the way south to White Sands National Park without having to worry about paying tolls or getting an EZPass/Fast Track or other toll booth pass provider.

Also, all the roads and main highways we drove on (I-25) were completely paved and easy to drive without any major potholes. 

When to Take this New Mexico Road Trip

This post assumes you’ll be driving during the spring, summer, or fall, roughly between April and November. Note that snow is common in higher altitudes in New Mexico (Taos, Santa Fe, etc), so always be prepared for that (yes, even in April/May and October/November). 

New Mexico experiences a huge variety of climates, ranging from arid and semi-arid in the south to a more alpine climate in the northern mountains. Plus, the state’s got a lot of big elevation changes, which definitely contributes to variations in temperature. When you go will drastically affect your trip, so read below!

Spring (March to May)

Ohhh – spring is an excellent time for a New Mexico road trip! Temps will be mild (ranging from 50°F to 70°F), with lots of blooming flowers and green landscapes. 

Do note that snowfall is still possible in early spring at higher elevations (particularly in mountainous areas), so just be aware of that. Thunderstorms are also possible (usually in the afternoon and evenings), but mornings are typically dry.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in New Mexico gets hot, hot, hot, with temps ranging from 80°F to 95°F in lower elevations. Thankfully, higher elevations are cooler and more moderate. This is when it’s most crowded, so make sure to grab all your accommodations and even restaurant reservations well in advance!

And if you look towards the highest mountain peaks, you just maybe will be able to see some lingering snow! So, so beautiful!

Important note: Summer is MONSOON season, with afternoon and evening thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. You don’t wanna be outside this part of day. Flash foods do and can happen, although mostly in arroyos (dry stream beds). 

If you’re exploring remote parts of the state or desert areas, always be cautious of flash foods; they can happen pretty quickly! It’s crucial to stay away from low-lying areas, dry washes, and arroyos during or after heavy rainfall. Not sure what those are? Look them up! Be safe, always – never take any chances with your life.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in New Mexico is absolutely beautiful! It’s a super pleasant season with cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and tons of cultural events. And a much less chance of thunderstorms than summer (thank goodness!). Plus the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta falls every October (!!!). 

My top choice for this week-long New Mexico road trip, although I wish we went a few weeks earlier than we did!

Expect crisp and comfortable weather (typically 50°F to 70°F) and beautiful fall foliage. Aspen trees turn golden yellow and cottonwoods get all red and orangey – gorgeous! If you’re looking for the best foliage, head to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and other higher elevations.

While snow typically doesn’t fall until winter, you may catch the first snowfall in late fall at higher elevations!

For reference, we completed this New Mexico itinerary in mid-late November, and it was *so* much colder than expected, haha. I’m not really sure why I thought it’d be a little warm… probably because it’s in the southwest and I associate that part of the country with scorching hot temps. 

Alas, don’t be me, and take along a true winter jacket if you’re visiting in late fall and especially the dead of winter.

Winter (December to February)

New Mexico in winter is kinda tricky – there’ll still be plenty of blue sky days (winters are known to be crisp and clear), but it’s gonna be COLD. And since elevation changes so much depending on where in the state you are, the weather can vary drastically from one area to the next. 

Expect cities/towns in low elevation (like Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Carlsbad) to have highs ranging from 30°F to 50°F (so really, not terrible!), but temps in higher elevations (especially mountainous areas like Taos and Santa Fe) will be much colder – think 30°F to 40°F during the day and dropping below 10°F at night.

Come during winter if you’re planning to ski or snowboard! Taos and even Santa Fe have some great ski resorts for both – and yes, tons of snow. It may snow at lower elevations but not super likely, and will probably melt pretty quickly.

Experience with driving in snow is a big plus – you never know when there’ll be a major snowstorm, especially in the mountains. This New-York-turned-California girl will not be driving during winter in New Mexico anytime soon, haha.

Where to Stay Along the Drive

Whenever I travel, I try to minimize the number of times I need to switch hotels. It’s just so annoying to pack up every single day and move your stuff (in my opinion). Therefore, I attempted to do this for our New Mexico road trip, only staying in 4 different hotels during our week-long trip. Sure, it’s still quite a few but better than 6 different hotels!

Here’s what we did and I recommend you do as well:

• Albuquerque: 1 night at the beginning of the trip (Hotel Chaco)
• Santa Fe: 3 nights (Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi and/or Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe)
• Truth or Consequences: 1 night (Holiday Inn Express & Suites Truth or Consequences)
• Las Cruces or Alamogordo: 1 night (Holiday Inn Express Hotel Las Cruces)
• Albuquerque: 1 night at the end of the trip (Hotel Chaco)

You’ll notice we stayed in Santa Fe for 3 nights, which seems kinda overkill for a fast-moving road trip, dontcha think?! Fear not, you can easily do day trips to both Bandelier National Monument and Taos from Santa Fe, both in under an hour and a half.

If you’d really like, you can stay in Taos for a night, but I honestly don’t think it’s worth changing hotels unless you wanna stay there for more than a day.

Other Important Things to Know for this New Mexico Itinerary

• Gas is inexpensive. We paid about $2.50 a gallon, which, compared to the $5+ we typically pay in California, seemed exceptionally cheap to us. And for a road trip, we didn’t even fill up that many times (I think twice over the course of our week in New Mexico if I remember correctly). Not bad!

• On that note, there’s not much gas between Las Cruces and Albuquerque, so fill up ahead of time and don’t let your tank get too low. If you’re even half full and see a station, I’d fill up just to be on the safe side.

• A lot of New Mexico is at high elevation (including Santa Fe, Taos, Los Alamos, Jemez Springs, etc). If you plan to visit mountainous areas, stay hydrated and take breaks. You don’t wanna fall victim to altitude sickness!

• New Mexico gets lots of sunny days (yay!), so slather on that sunscreen and wear sunglasses and a hat. That high-altitude sun is no joke!

• If you follow this New Mexico road trip, you’ll be traveling on one main highway — Highway I-25, which runs north to south. You’ll encounter border patrol checkpoints as you get to the southern part of the state – because our last stop, Las Cruces, is only about 50 miles from Mexico! We had no problems with these (just wanted you to be aware).

• Have your camera ready at all times, as we saw stunning landscapes on the drives. But be careful and only stop at designated turn offs (especially on mountain roads!). 

• New Mexico was popularized by the hit tv shows Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul (we’re huge fans!). You can even take a tour of the filming locations in Albuquerque.

• There’s no way you can see all of New Mexico in a week. If you’ve got more time, consider adding Roswell, the Bisti Badlands, and/or Carlsbad Caverns to your New Mexico itinerary! On my list for next time.

The Complete New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary 

Finally, what you came here for — the perfect week in New Mexico! I know I’m exceptionally wordy, but hey, all that info above is important! 

Note: This New Mexico itinerary assumes you have a full week in the state. You’ll wanna get to ABQ the night before in order to see and do everything on this road trip, unless you cut a few things out or spend less time at each spot. 

But don’t fret – there’s ways around it if you’ve only got 5 or 6 full days. I recommend combining Days 4 and 5 by doing a short hike in Bandelier in the morning, and then spending the afternoon/early evening at the spa. OR you can try and squeeze everything you wanna do in Santa Fe into one day instead of two! You’ve definitely got options!

Day 1: Albuquerque 

Welcome to ABQ! Time to get this New Mexico road trip underway! Get ready – it’s gonna be an exhilarating week, filled with tons of scenic beauty, tons of Native American crafts, and too many blue corn enchiladas.

But first – a full day in Albuquerque! It’s got Adobe-style architecture and vibrant marketplaces full of history and heritage. Green chile cheeseburgers, sweet honey-drizzled sopapillas, and authentic fry bread. Exhilarating heights with gorgeous sunset views at the Sandia Peak Tramway. Oh, and you can’t forget about all the kitschy and eclectic Route 66 relics! Plus all the Breaking Bad paraphernalia. 

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico, so there’s lots to do! Thankfully, with even only one day you can see plenty of highlights (I recommend spending a full weekend here to really see it all though). 

For some reason, most people skip Albuquerque entirely and head straight to Santa Fe. I get it – Santa Fe is super charming with an artistic ambiance, offers hot springs nearby, and boasts way more upscale restaurants. 

BUT don’t sleep on Albuquerque! It’s the perfect starting off point for a longer New Mexico road trip. I mean, you’re probably flying into ABQ anyways, so may as well explore for a day or so.

And remember, you’ll definitely want a car in Albuquerque, so rent one straight away from the airport!

Here’s how you should spend your first day in New Mexico:

Morning/Early Afternoon: Old Town

Old Town is the heart of Albuquerque, and a perfect first stop. Plus, you can grab some coffee here (I recommend Blackbird Coffee House and/or the Flying Roadrunner Bakery) and do lots of window shopping. 

Historic Old Town is full of century-old adobe buildings, vibrant marketplaces, charming shops, quirky museums, and cultural attractions. It’s a great introduction to Albuquerque, and really gives you a feel for the city’s past. 

I’d allocate at least 2-3 hours for a leisurely visit, plus additional time for breakfast and museum exploring. You can totally get by with less time, but we loved going into all the shops (there’s tons of tiny artisan shops and marketplaces here) and really taking it all in. Especially since it was our first time to New Mexico! 

Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. There’s tons of unique Southwestern crafts, beautiful Native American turquoise jewelry (although some is touristy crap, haha), handwoven rugs, ceramic ristras, the softest blankets known to man, and handcrafted local pottery (which I kind of regret not buying). 

Besides shopping, don’t miss the San Felipe de Neri Church, The Portal Market, a museum or two (there’s even a Rattlesnake Museum!), and The Breaking Bad Store (a must for any fans of the TV show).

Mid-Afternoon: Late Lunch at Indian Pueblo Kitchen

Who’s hungry?! Your first real meal (besides breakfast of course) needs to be some authentic New Mexican food – and yes, it’s way different than Mexican food, haha.

New Mexican cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors, vibrant colors, and literally chile peppers in everything. Influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo culinary traditions, New Mexican food really has its own unique identity. 

Menu standouts are easily the blue corn-crusted onion rings (get the full stack, trust me) and the blue corn enchiladas smothered in green and red chile (which locals call christmas style!). I tried the Indian fry bread taco, and it was SO much larger than expected – come hungry! 

Once you’re nice and full (seriously, wear your stretchy pants), check out the attached Indian Pueblo Cultural Center! The museum highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Native American Pueblo tribes, and showcases their art, history, jewelry, and traditions. 

Sunset: Sandia Peak Tramway

Riding the Sandia Peak Tramway is an absolute must on any week in New Mexico itinerary. It’s one of the longest aerial tramways in the world, with the journey taking about 15 minutes each way (meaning lots of time for photos and views). 

And once you’re at the top – wow, just wow! Spectacular vistas of not only the city, but a panoramic view of the entire Rio Grande Valley and the vast expanse of the New Mexico landscape. 

While you can totally visit any time of day, I highly recommend heading up the mountain for sunset! Why? Because it’s absolutely spectacular, especially on a super clear day like we had. Sunsets are always so stunning in the desert. New Mexico included.

Psst – It’s cold and windy at the top! Dress appropriately, especially if you’re visiting for sunset in late fall/winter. We wore our warmest stuff and I still almost froze. Bring gloves; I had none and totally regretted it.

Dinner at Los Poblanos (fancy) or Sawmill Market (casual)

I’m giving you two options here, one fancy and one way more casual. Note you’ll need to book a reservation for Los Poblanos ahead of time, so get on that like yesterday if you already know your dates.

Looking for a romantic spot? Campo at Los Poblanos Historic Inn is it! They pride themselves on their farm to table food, and it shows; everything is made from scratch. And most of the ingredients either come from their farm or are locally sourced.

Standouts are the lemon Za’atar salad, the duck, the lamb Birria, and the housemade cavatelli. Oh, and don’t miss the breadboard – don’t blame me if you dream about that green chile sourdough for a while.

Los Poblanos requires reservations WEEKS in advance, so don’t fret if you’re kinda last-minute and don’t get a rez. If you didn’t fill up at TEN 3 atop the Sandia Peak Tramway, head over to the Sawmill Market for some dinner!

We loved this trendy warehouse – it has an eclectic collection of bars and foodie spots, and some of the best fresh pasta we’ve ever had (and yes, we’ve eaten our fair share in Italy!). There’s also poke, tacos, Mediterranean, pizza, salads, New Mexican (obviously!), and tons more.

Where to Stay in Albuquerque: Albuquerque has plenty to choose from in terms of accommodation, from cozy adobe bed and breakfasts to downtown high-rise hotels, and everything in between. 

If it’s your first trip to Albuquerque, my top pick would be to stay in Old Town! Check out Hotel Chaco (luxury hotel with a classy modern design), Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town (upscale hotel influenced by Native American decor), and Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn.

Where to Eat in Albuquerque: 66 Diner, Blackbird Coffee House, Sawmill Market, Java Joes, Golden Crown Panaderia, Indian Pueblo Kitchen, Campo at Los Poblanos, TEN 3 at Sandia Peak Tramway

Day 2: Santa Fe 

Total Drive Time: 1 hour; ~65 miles (Albuquerque to Santa Fe)

Next up – Santa Fe, also known as “The City Different”, and the state capital of New Mexico. Get out early and make the short drive over from Albuquerque.

Note that there are THREE different routes you can take between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, yes three!

1. Interstate-25 is the quickest and most direct route, right on the main highway
2. The Turquoise Trail takes about 1 ½ hours, a 50-mile stretch through mining towns with gorgeous views along the way – make sure to fill up your gas tank before starting the drive!
3. Driving through the Jemez Mountains takes about 3 hours, plus however long for stops (which goes through Bandelier National Monument and Jemez Springs)

Since we only had 2 full days in Santa Fe on our New Mexico road trip, we didn’t wanna waste any time so simply took I-25. 

BUT if you want you can totally do a hike or two at Bandelier today and rearrange Day 2 and 4! Your call! Although Albuquerque and Bandelier are about 2 hours away, so you’d need to leave early early if you wanna get there before 9am (which is highly recommended so you don’t need to take the mandatory shuttle bus…). 

Once you make it to Santa Fe, plan to spend the day around the famous Santa Fe Plaza in Old Town! This is Santa Fe’s famous historic district, a culturally rich neighborhood with distinctive adobe-style architecture, art-filled streets, and a vibrant plaza! You can easily spend all day here, and that’s exactly what we did!

It’s super chill but there’s actually quite a bit to see. If you wanna have a leisurely day and still see everything on this list and eat, I’d stick to only one museum visit.

A few things not to miss:

• Santa Fe Plaza: This is the central hub of Old Town, and a must for anyone visiting for the first time! You’ll see tons of people out and about, enjoying the park with their families and children.

• Palace of the Governors: Directly north of the Plaza you’ll find vendors selling tons of handcrafted items at the Palace of the Governors. This is the Native American Artisans Program, and the artists sell and showcase pottery, textiles, and jewelry made of traditional materials like turquoise, coral, and silver. 

• IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts: A super colorful spot for some great photos, plus over 10,000 Contemporary Indigenous artworks inside!

• Shopping at The Plaza: You’ll find plenty of Native American jewelry, clothing, boots, pottery, and more. There’s so many artisan shops and boutiques, but here’s my favorites: O’Farrell Hat Company, The Rainbow Man, Parts Unknown, Shiprock Santa Fe, Back at the Ranch, and Original Trading Post.

• Admire the Santa Fe churches: Don’t miss the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, San Miguel Chapel, and the famous staircase at the Loretto Chapel.

• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: You can’t visit Santa Fe and not visit this museum. I mean, New Mexico is the place that inspired a lot of her artwork afterall! You definitely need to purchase a timed ticket in advance on the website (they sell out quickly).

• Sunset at Cross of the Martyrs: The #1 spot in Santa Fe to watch the sunset, panoramic views and all! I loved it so much I came twice!

Where to Stay in Santa Fe: If it’s your first time in Santa Fe, I highly recommend staying in either the Historic District (Old Town) or the nearby Railyard District (up-and-coming trendy area). We stayed in both the Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi (smack dab in the heart of Old Town) and Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe (a block over from the Railyard District) and had only great experiences!

Where to Eat in Santa Fe: This city is such a foodie spot, and there’s SO much good food. That’s another reason I recommend making Santa Fe one of your bases and doing some day trips – so you can try more restaurants of course! 

I could write a whole post on this, but our favorites were: Tia Sophias (get the breakfast burrito, Christmas style), Coyote Cafe, La Choza (mmm those sopapillas), El Chile Toreado (the best pork adobada burrito in the city), Whoo’s Donuts (blue corn!), Paloma (the best menu), and Paper Dosa (worth the wait, I promise!).  

Day 3: Santa Fe 

Total Drive Time: Not much! You could even park your car for the entire day and not use it once!

Morning: The Railyard Arts District 

The Railyard Arts District is a vibrant and evolving area that’s undergone a huge revitalization lately. It’s got a way more contemporary and urban feel compared to Old Town, and feels kinda trendy in a sense. You’ll still find a mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants here, but more modern and eclectic. 

After fueling up with some caffeine (stop by CrashMurderBusiness for a creative coffee or Iconik for your standard breakfast menu), swing by the Santa Fe Farmers Market! Every Tuesday and Saturday you’ll find tons of fresh produce, handmade goods, locally grown spices, eggs, dried beans, honey, and much more. Honestly, it’s one of the best markets I’ve been to (on par with those in Guatemala and Mexico).

Once you’ve had enough (don’t miss a blue corn pupusa), stroll along Guadalupe Street for some shopping. There’s a whole slew of shops, but I especially loved form & concept (actually an airy art gallery), Double Take, Rio Bravo Trading Co, Array, and Kowboyz.

Afternoon: Canyon Road and Kakawa Chocolates

Next up — an afternoon of art! Head over to Canyon Road for a few hours, and start strolling! 

Here you’ll find an eclectic assortment of art galleries in historic adobe homes and sidewalks lined with coyote fences and plenty of trees. The whole area is undeniably charming, with hidden sculpture gardens and patios serving up wine and margaritas. 

Plus tons of art everyone! Where else can you see classic black-on-black pottery, contemporary mixed-media, exquisite Navajo weavings, and vibrant lithographs all on the same block?! 

There’s over 80 art galleries here (so many!), but here’s a few galleries we popped into that I especially loved:

• Gerald Peters Contemporary
• Luca Decor
• Prescott Sculpture Gallery
• Freeman Gallery
• Adobe Gallery

But before you start your walk, pop into Kakawa Chocolate House for some chocolate elixirs and truffles!  Everything is oh so good, and we loved hanging out in such a cozy space. Note that it does get busy, so prepare to wait in line for a tad (line moved fast though).

Where to Stay: Santa Fe (preferably the same place as last night!)

Day 4: Bandelier National Monument and Los Alamos

Total Drive Time: 2 hours (90 miles roundtrip) – Santa Fe to Bandelier National Monument and back

Time to get your hike on! Bandelier National Monument is one of the best places near Santa Fe to get yourself out into nature and learn about the lives of the region’s indigenous peoples. Imagine well-preserved ancestral cliff dwellings, stunning scenery (full of canyons, mesas, and the Frijoles Creek), and even ancient petroglyphs. 

Plus ladders to climb, cavates to explore, and tarantulas to watch out for – yes, we saw one!

And nope, you don’t need to go all the way to Mexico, Greece, Italy, or Guatemala to see remains of ancient civilizations. They’re right here in New Mexico!

Bandelier is a must-visit if you’re interested in soaking up the stories and rich heritage of the American Southwest, plus lots of natural beauty. And getting some cool pictures too!

I recommend waking up early, grabbing a quick breakfast, and making your way to Bandelier (it’s only about an hour from Santa Fe, so really not that bad). The park does get busy though (understandably!), so the earlier you arrive, the better. 

Plus, if you’re visiting in summer you’ll wanna ensure you get a spot in the parking lot so you aren’t forced to take the shuttle (mandatory after 9am from mid-June to mid-October).

You can really see so much of the park in just a day, although I highly recommend prioritizing the Main Pueblo Loop Trail. This is the most popular hike in the park, and in only 1.4 miles (roundtrip), you’ll see multiple archeological sites within the canyon and even use the ladders to crawl into a few cliff dwellings. 

And petroglyphs!  We saw a whole bunch – it’s wild to think just how long ago these were carved. If you look (really) closely at the photos (try squinting, haha), you’ll see a ram’s head, a bird/chicken, a fish with legs, and a duck — I think!

It’s a really fun short hike that almost anyone can do!  The beginning of the trail is relatively flat, and is accessible by wheelchair and stroller. The second portion of the hike is where you’ll find the steep, winding steps; some spots were pretty tight with only enough room for one-way access.

If you’re looking for a longer hike and don’t mind climbing up some rocky ladders, make your way to the Alcove House! Just note you’ll be climbing 140 feet up above the canyon floor – so definitely not for the faint of heart. And yes, the ladders are much steeper than they look from afar. 

Don’t leave the park without stuffing your face with some fry bread (covered in sugar) from the park’s semi-famous restaurant, Sirphey. The perfect after-hiking treat!

A few things to note:

• Bandelier National Monument is part of the National Parks Service (NPS), meaning all visitors MUST have an entrance pass. Private vehicles are $25, or you can of course use your America the Beautiful Pass.

• If you’re planning this New Mexico road trip in the cold and sometimes snowy winter months, check the website ahead of time to make sure the park is open!

• Leave no trace! Do your part to protect the park and all its culturally significant remains and the natural flora and fauna found here! This means staying away from wildlife, no mutilating or defacing any natural/cultural objects, and packing out whatever you bring in.

Once you’re done exploring Bandelier National Monument, you can either hang around the area or head back to Santa Fe. We decided to check out the Bradbury Science Museum, a free museum all about the Manhattan Project. I didn’t really know much about it beforehand, and learned tons about the development of the atomic bomb which I found especially interesting. 

You can also visit Jemez Springs (about an hour west) – a charming little village known for its natural hot springs (with multiple pools with different temps) and the Jemez Historic Site (which preserves the remnants of a 17th-century Spanish mission).

Where to Stay: Los Alamos or Santa Fe

Like many national parks and monuments, there’s no lodging within Bandelier itself. Spending the night in Los Alamos or back in Santa Fe is your best option.

Personally, I recommend heading back to Santa Fe and staying where you did last night.  There’s way more restaurant options there and with only a few days in the area, you’ll want a few days/nights to eat your way through the city. Plus, if you wanna head to Taos the next day, you aren’t really saving much driving time by staying in Los Alamos anyways. But your choice of course! 

Los Alamos: It’s only a short drive southeast of Bandelier National Monument, at around 25 minutes away. The town is known for its association with the Manhattan Project during World War II – yes, the development of the atomic bomb! Expect to find mostly basic hotels here, including Holiday Inn Express and Suites Los Alamos and Pueblo Canyon Inn. 

Day 5: Taos or Spa Day 

On Day 5 of our New Mexico road trip itinerary you’ve got options! You can either head north to Taos, or have a super chill day at the spa. We chose the spa, surprise, surprise, haha. BUT either are great choices, just depends what you’re in the mood for!

Option 1: The High Road to Taos

Total Drive Time: ~4 hours (Santa Fe to Taos on the High Road, then back to Santa Fe on the Low Road)

Taos is a special place in the high desert of northern New Mexico. There’s tons of adobe buildings surrounded by the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the town is so artsy and fun. Traditions run deep over here, as people have lived in Taos Pueblo for centuries and centuries.

There’s two main ways to get to Taos from Santa Fe:

• High Road: This is the most scenic way to get from Santa Fe to Taos, driving through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s longer, at around 2 ½ hours with no stops, but there’s plenty to see along the way (with lots of small villages like Chimayo, Truchas, and Ranchos de Taos). Plus beautiful views of hoodoos in the Badlands, mountains in the distance, and Carson National Forest all around!

• Low Road: This is the more direct route between the two cities, although not as incredibly scenic as the High Road. Because of this, I recommend taking the Low Road back to Santa Fe once you’re done exploring in Taos (it’s much quicker).

I have to be completely honest with you – we decided to skip Taos on our New Mexico road trip. I had originally planned to visit, but we just weren’t feeling it that day. Thankfully I had already done all the research for you fine folks!

Visiting in winter? You can totally spend a whole day on the mountain – Taos offers world-class skiing and snowboarding! Plus, tons of après-ski opportunities (my favorite).

If I were to day trip from Santa Fe to Taos, here’s exactly how I’d do it:

Morning: Leave Santa Fe pretty early (around 8ish or so), then onto the High Road it is (NM-503 then following signs for the High Road to Taos). Make a stop at the historic Santuario de Chimayo, and explore the chapel and its surroundings (the “Holy Dirt” is known to have healing properties)! 

Grab some New Mexican food at Rancho de Chimayo, a really popular spot with the best sopapillas drizzled with honey butter. Make a quick stop in the artistic village of Truchas to appreciate the adobe architecture!

Afternoon: Make your way to Taos, and head straight away to Taos Pueblo. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site afterall, and you can get a quick tour of this centuries-old Native American community by someone who lives there. Yes, people have lived right here in the pueblo for over 1,000 years, and still do! No wonder why there’s SO much cultural history here! 

Head over to the Taos Plaza (the heart of the town!) and check out the shops, galleries, and historic buildings, plus the Kit Carson Home.

Evening: Before heading back to Santa Fe, make a pit stop at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge – there’s lots of breathtaking views over here (don’t forget your camera).  

You can even walk across the bridge to get a feel for the true depth of the gorge (a whopping 800 feet deep). Finally, drive the Low Road back to Santa Fe – it’s a long and tiring day but well worth it!

Option 2: Hot Springs!

Total Drive Time: 1 hour (roundtrip to Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort)

Not feeling another long day trip? I feel you – we actually had planned to head to Taos, BUT we were feeling kinda lazy and wanted a day to reset and relax. 

Thankfully there’s a few highly-rated spas/resorts in the near vicinity. Just know that Day 6 will be more hot springs, so decide for yourself if two soaking sessions in two days is your jam. Never enough hot springs for me though!

We opted to visit Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, only 20 minutes or so from the city.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to purchase a day pass (good for as many hours as you wish – they don’t take reservations), and optional robe and slippers. It’s a tad expensive (at $45 during the week and $65 on weekends and holidays), but if you stay a few hours, I feel it’s more than worth it.

The whole resort is gorgeous – with multiple soaking areas, plenty of spring-fed thermal pools, comfy hammocks, a duck pond, a full-service spa, a bunch of walking trails, and even a first class restaurant on-site. You can also book yourself a private pool ahead of time if you want more privacy.

It looks especially beautiful in the fall when all the leaves change color (we visited in late fall/early winter and most of the leaves had sadly already fallen off). And once you’re done soaking, it’s only a 20-minute drive back to Santa Fe! Unless you wanna stay overnight, but I honestly don’t recommend it since it’s kinda isolated from the rest of the city.

Note: There’s also Ten Thousand Waves (a Japanese-style spa hotel with views of the mountains) about 10 minutes north of Santa Fe. BUT you can’t just walk on in, so prepare to make a reservation for one of their public communal pools or private soaking tubs a few weeks in advance.

Where to Stay: Taos or Santa Fe

Note: Tomorrow we’ll be driving a few hours south to Truth or Consequences, so staying in Santa Fe tonight will save you about 1 ½ hours of driving. I personally don’t see the benefit of staying in Taos tonight.

Day 6: Truth or Consequences and Riverbend Hot Springs 

Total Drive Time: ~3 hours (Santa Fe to Truth or Consequences)

This New Mexico road trip itinerary is almost over, but not without spending a few hours soaking your stresses away in a hot spring at Riverbend!

Truth or Consequences is a super quirky little town that’s known for its wellness tourism and natural hot springs. And quite honestly, the town kinda feels like a time capsule – there’s evidence of the wild, wild west over in these parts, and it’s got a quiet, laid back feeling with a hippy/cowboy vibe. And so many vintage buildings from the 1950s!

The town is in a revitalization stage of sorts, with plenty of colorful buildings and art galleries lining the downtown streets. Artists are *loving* the temperate climate and low cost of living, and many are actually moving there!

It’s America’s most affordable spa town, and I highly encourage you to book yourself a soak or two! The natural waters are packed with some of the richest minerals in the country, so you can be sure your body will be feeling fiiiine afterwards. The water is actually pumped from deep within the Earth directly to the pools – kinda wild, right?!

To be completely honest, there’s not a ton to do in Truth or Consequences besides go for a soak and wander the (very) tiny town. So, if you wanna make a quick stop in Albuquerque for something you possibly missed on Day 1, feel free! Just don’t get carried away and miss your hot springs appointment!

Don’t laugh, but one of the main reasons I wanted to visit T or C was because of its super quirky name, haha. Sure, it might sound silly to visit a town simply for its name, but I mean, c’mon! It’s called Truth or Consequences (I can’t be the only one who finds this utterly fascinating, right?)! 

The town was actually renamed from Hot Springs to Truth or Consequences over 70 years ago in 1950. Why? Because of a radio show contest of all things, haha!

And it’s a great mid-way point between Santa Fe and White Sands, so unless you wanna drive about 6 hours with no breaks, why not stop for a night?!

You’ll probably arrive in T or C late morning, where you can then peruse the colorful town, grab some lunch (A & B Drive In and Passion Pie Cafe are great options), and then go for a soak at Riverbend Hot Springs.

What to Know About Riverbend Hot Springs

• It’s the most popular of all the hot springs in Truth or Consequences (it’s the only hot spring directly on the banks of the Rio Grande), so you most definitely need to make a reservation in advance.

• You can choose between a private soak in a private pool, or a public soak in the common hot springs pools, or both! We chose to make reservations for both – just make sure to time them correctly (back to back) or you’ll be waiting around with literally nothing to do.

• You can totally reserve a few hours at a time if you’d like, but we found an hour at the private soaking tub and then an hour in the common pools were enough for us!

• Prices are super affordable, at $25-35 per hour for 2 people for a property pass (yes, that’s the price for TWO people – super great value in my opinion!). Private soaks are a tad more expensive, at $35-50 per hour for 2 people for a private pool, but still a really good value!

• This isn’t a glamorous bougie spa. It’s a bit more rustic and bare-boned, but still very comfy and fun.

• Riverbend Hot Springs is actually a hotel, so you can stay the night! Unfortunately there was a 2-night minimum stay when we were visiting, so chose to stay elsewhere. 

• There is no alcohol, no glass/breakables, or food near the pools. And no smoking of any kind. Respect their rules! 

Where to Stay in Truth or Consequences: You really have two options for location – either directly in the town of T or C itself, or along I-25, which is where we stayed. 

Check out Blackstone Hotsprings, Pelican Spa, and of course Riverbend Hot Springs directly in town, or Holiday Inn Express & Suites Truth or Consequences (where we stayed!) and Comfort Inn & Suites right off the highway. 

Where to Eat in Truth or Consequences: The town is pretty tiny, and therefore there’s not too many restaurants to choose from. But enough for a 1-night stay for sure. 

There’s El Faro (Mexican food), Outer Edge Pizzeria, The Giddy Up Cafe (American breakfast), Pacific Grill, A & B Drive In (hamburgers), Further Bistro (salads and wraps), and a few others. There’s also plenty of fast-food options right off I-25 which we gladly indulged in, haha.

Day 7: White Sands National Park 

Total Drive Time: 2 hours; 125 miles (Truth or Consequences to White Sands National Park)

Next up – the stunning white gypsum sand dunes of White Sands National Park! The last day of our New Mexico road trip is dedicated to this other-wordly park, and I promise you’ll love it just as much as I did. A visit to White Sands needs to be on any New Mexico itinerary, especially a road trip!

IMPORTANT DRIVING TIP #1: We didn’t see many gas stations between Truth or Consequences and Las Cruces, so fill up ahead of time (there’s a few stations right off I-25 in T or C). Don’t worry, there’s plenty of gas once you get to Las Cruces, but I don’t want you freaking out if your gas tank gets low on the way there!

IMPORTANT DRIVING TIP #2: You’ll come across some border patrol checkpoints driving in the very south of the state. Don’t be alarmed – this is because you’re so close to Mexico (only about 50 miles or so)! You won’t need to show your passport or anything, and we got flagged through every time, but just be prepared to stop and follow directions if an officer does enforce you to stop.

Extra stop: If you leave early enough, make a short pit stop in Hatch – the chile capital of the world! We spent about 20 minutes at the Hatch Chile Market – and couldn’t believe just how many chiles were outside hanging to dry and stuffed in bags. Huge truckloads of chiles; it was wild! The market inside is also worth a quick look. 

If you’re hungry and want an early lunch, head to Sparkys, known for their green chile cheeseburgers and green chile lemonade!

Finally – White Sands National Park!

Imagine miles and miles of sparkling white sand stretching as far as the eye can see. A striking landscape filled with shimmering gypsum dust. Surreal sunsets and dark starry night skies. The largest gypsum dunefield in the entire world. That’s White Sands National Park in a nutshell — and it’s 100% worth a stop on any New Mexico road trip!

Ever since I saw a photo of Whites Sands National Park, I knew I needed to go. And yup, it was even more impressive than the sand dunes in Death Valley – go figure! Yes, wildly different, but ever-so-striking. 

And a day is the perfect amount of time to explore the park – it’s honestly HUGE, but visitors are not allowed past a certain point. It’s actually the largest gypsum dune field in the entire world – how cool is that?!

Psst – before visiting White Sands, check in advance that no roads are closed due to nearby missile testing (the park is surrounded by the White Sands Missile Range). When these military tests are in progress, Dunes Drive (the only way to access the park) is closed to all traffic for 2-3 hours or so.

Check in advance to see when the road is closed (park rangers usually find out 2 weeks ahead of time or so, but may be given only 24 hours notice).

Note that White Sands National Park gets extremely hot. In my opinion, I’d consider skipping it if you’re planning your New Mexico road trip during the scorching summer months. It’s by far the hottest time of year, with daytime temps often exceeding 100°F (38°C), and some days 110°F – no thanks! 

If you do plan to visit during the summer (maybe you don’t have much flexibility in your travel plans), visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are a tad cooler. Be prepared for the intense heat, and stay hydrated. Bring more water than you think you need, and plan to spend a bit of time in the AC in your car. Heat stroke is a real thing! 

A few things to note: 

• There’s no food in the park, so plan to bring your own picnic lunch and/or a bunch of snacks.
• PLEASE leave no trace and do your part to protect the park and all its natural flora and fauna! 
• We had absolutely zero cell service, besides a bar or two at the visitors center. Stop by the Visitors Center for a paper map – you’ll need one.
• BRING WATER! And more than you think you need. Staying hydrated is absolutely crucial in the desert – you don’t wanna pass out! The visitor center is the ONLY place to refill your water in the entire park. 
• Like most National Parks, you’ll need to pay a fee to enter – $25 per vehicle (included in the America the Beautiful NPS Pass of course as well).

If you’ve got some extra time after White Sands, stop by PistachioLand for homemade pistachio ice cream! It’s only a few miles north of the national park, and one of those super quirky roadside attractions you can’t miss. I mean, did you really visit New Mexico if you didn’t see the largest pistachio statue in the state?!

Where to Stay near White Sands National Park: Las Cruces or Alamogordo 

While there’s no accommodations within White Sands National Park itself, there’s thankfully a few options for staying nearby in both Alamogordo and Las Cruces. I’m a sucker for cute, boutique stays, but found most of the hotels to be your typical standard hotel chain – perfectly fine for a night and definitely within budget (our splurges were in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe).

Alamogordo, New Mexico: This is the closest urban area to White Sands (about a 20 minute drive), and a common base for visitors to the park. It’s a relatively small town, although it does have some hotels, motels, and restaurants. 

Hotels include: Hampton Inn Alamogordo, Days Inn by Wyndham Alamogordo, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alamogordo.

Las Cruces, New Mexico: Las Cruces is a vibrant city nestled in the Mesilla Valley, and another solid choice not far from White Sands National Park (about 50 miles west). It’s way larger than tiny Alamogordo, so a great place to stay if you’re looking for more restaurants and things to do. 

We decided to spend the night in Las Cruces at Holiday Inn Express Hotel Las Cruces, and it was perfect for a one-night stay (plus under $150 and included breakfast). Other options nearby include: Comfort Suites Las Cruces, La Quinta by Wyndham Las Cruces, and Staybridge Suites Las Cruces

Where to Eat near White Sands National Park: If you stay in  Las Cruces like we did, there’s a bunch of restaurants to choose from. However, I highly recommend The Shed for breakfast or lunch, and La Posta De Mesilla for dinner. But whatever you do, you NEED to grab some frozen yogurt sundaes from Caliche’s, basically an institution around these parts.

Note: If you’re flying back from Albuquerque, you’ll have a 3 ½ hour drive. To head to El Paso, it’s shorter at only 1 hour.

And that concludes our week in New Mexico road trip itinerary! Are you heading to the Southwest soon?!

The post The Best New Mexico Road Trip: A Week in New Mexico Itinerary appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Santa Fe (also known as “The City Different”), is the state capital of New Mexico. It’s known for its traditional adobe-style architecture (with earth-colored adobe walls), cultural diversity (a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences), and its thriving artistic community (honestly, there’s so many art galleries, museums, and studios here!). Plus, you can’t forget about the food – intoxifying Southwestern cuisine with loads of green and red chilies (and sweet sopapillas and spicy margaritas!).

It’s got laid-back historic adobe charm with a vibrant artistic energy, tons of traditional jewelry and crafts, and the famous Santa Fe Plaza. I had been wanting to check out New Mexico (and Santa Fe in particular) for oh so long, and was thrilled when I finally made it happen!

If you’ve never been to New Mexico, you’re in for a real treat. The perfect Santa Fe itinerary, coming right up!

Santa Fe Itinerary Logistics

Where is Santa Fe and How to Get There

Santa Fe is located in the high desert region of northern New Mexico. It sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the United States (yes, even higher than Denver’s whopping 5,280 feet)!

The city is right off Interstate 25 (I-25), which makes it the perfect stop on a much-longer New Mexico road trip, like we did! It’s not far from Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico (at just over an hour away), so I highly recommend visiting both cities in one trip!

And there’s so much natural beauty here – Santa Fe is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east and the Jemez Mountains to the west, plus the Rio Grande River flows to the west of the city! Don’t forget to look out the window if you’re flying in…

Flying to Santa Fe

Yes, you can fly direct to Santa Fe – I honestly didn’t even realize the city had its own airport until I started researching for my trip. 

However, The Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF) primarily serves regional flights, and there’s a super limited number of direct flights available (only from Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix at this time). It’s a tiny airport, so to be expected.

Because of this, most visitors (including us!) fly into the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is the largest and busiest airport in New Mexico. It’s only about 60 miles south of Santa Fe, and there’s loads more flight options. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or take the The Rail Runner Express commuter train to Santa Fe.

If you don’t mind driving a few hours (about 5!) and are planning to visit Southern New Mexico (like White Sands National Park and/or Truth or Consequences), you can also fly to El Paso International Airport (ELP). A great idea if you’re starting your New Mexico road trip in the southern part of the state.

Driving to Santa Fe

Already in New Mexico or the southwest? Santa Fe is easily accessible by car! Since the city is right along I-25 (a major north-south highway that runs through the central part of New Mexico), it’s super convenient if you’re coming from either north or south.  And you can easily rent a car at ABQ airport.

We drove to Santa Fe after our weekend in Albuquerque and had no problems whatsoever. 

Note that there are THREE different routes you can take between Albuquerque and Santa Fe:

1. Interstate-25 is the quickest and most direct, right on the main highway
2. The Turquoise Trail takes about 1 ½ hours, a 50-mile stretch through mining towns with gorgeous views along the way – make sure to fill up your gas tank before starting the drive!
3. Driving through the Jemez Mountains takes about 3 hours, plus however long for stops (which goes through Bandelier National Monument and Jemez Springs)

Since we only had about 3 days in Santa Fe, we didn’t wanna waste any time so simply took I-25. And since we were on a week-long New Mexico road trip, we saw plenty of scenic views the other days!

Here’s driving distances from other popular spots nearby-ish:

• From Albuquerque, New Mexico: 65 miles (1 hour)
• From Taos, New Mexico: ~70 miles (1 ½ hours)
• From White Sands National Park, New Mexico: ~250 miles (4 hours)
• From Durango, Colorado: ~215 miles (4 hours)
• From Las Cruces, New Mexico: ~300 miles (4.5 hours)
• From El Paso, Texas: ~325 miles (5 hours)
• From Colorado Springs, Colorado: ~325 miles (5 hours)
• From Flagstaff, Arizona: ~400 miles (6 hours)
• From Phoenix, Arizona: ~500 miles (7 ½ hours)

Public Transport to Santa Fe

Don’t feel like driving? I get it – you’re on vacation! Thankfully there’s a few ways to get to Santa Fe by public transit.

Train: The New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a commuter train that connects Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It’s perfect if you’re spending a few days in Albuquerque first. Psst – The Santa Fe Depot is the train station in downtown Santa Fe. It’s in the Railyard District, where you can either walk or call an Uber to take you to your hotel.

Shuttle bus: There’s a few different shuttle services that operate between the Albuquerque airport and Santa Fe. Check out Sandia Shuttle, ABQ Express Shuttle, and Groome Transportation.

How to Get Around Santa Fe

Driving in Santa Fe: Since public transit is a bit lacking in Santa Fe, it’s recommended to get a car for your Santa Fe itinerary. Especially if you wanna visit a few bars and restaurants a little off the main drag, plus take day trips to Bandelier National Monument and/or a day spa! 

Since we were taking a New Mexico road trip throughout much of the state, we had our rental car with us. Note that most hotels charge for parking, and it’s kinda difficult (although not impossible) to find parking in the downtown Plaza – just something to keep in mind. There’s a fairly large parking garage directly across the street from the Rosewood Hotel if you wanna plot that on your map. 

Walking in Santa Fe: Yes, walk! Santa Fe is super pedestrian friendly, especially the downtown areas! There’s also plenty of bike paths if it’s warm out. If you’re staying right in Old Town (highly recommended), you’ll be able to walk to dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Public transit in Santa Fe: The city doesn’t have its own extensive public transit system like many big cities do. You’ll find Santa Fe Trails, the city’s public bus service with several routes within the city. We didn’t take it so can’t comment on how reliable the bus is unfortunately. 

Rideshare: If all else fails, there’s always taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft!

When to Plan your Long Weekend in Santa Fe Itinerary 

Santa Fe experiences a semiarid climate with four distinct seasons. And just like Albuquerque, tons of bright blue skies and over 320 days of sunshine! Bet you had no idea! 

TL;DR — The city has cold winters with occasional snowfall and warm, wet summers. High elevation keeps temperatures moderate, ranging from about 85° F in July to lows near 20° F in January.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a glorious time to visit Santa Fe – the temps are mild (50s to 70s °F), crowds are fewer, and there’s tons of blooming flowers! The aspens and cottonwoods start leafing, and the cactus flowers start blooming. 

Note that nights can still be quite cool (bring layers) and it’s possible for a late spring snowstorm or two to happen! Be prepared for all weather conditions. 

Summer (June to August)

Summer heats up, with daytime highs in the 80s to low 90s°F. The city is exceptionally busy, so expect to pay higher prices for hotels and airfare, and to wait a while at popular restaurants. However, the days are super long, meaning you can squeeze in oh so much into your 3 day Santa Fe itinerary.

Take note of the dramatic summer thunderstorms that can happen – it’s monsoon season in this part of the country (bring a raincoat)! Thankfully, the storms never last too long (usually happening in the afternoon – plan your outdoor activities in the morning) and, well, rainbows! 

If you do find yourself with some rain, don’t fret – just pop into a museum or art gallery, there’s lots to choose from.

Plus, the Santa Fe Opera season runs during this time (!!!), and the Santa Fe Indian Market (one of the largest and most prestigious Native American art markets) is held annually in August.

Fall (September to November)

Near perfect weather (with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s °F – perfect for playing tourist) and stunning fall foliage. Plus, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is held in September, which is exactly as it sounds – celebrating the region’s wine and culinary offerings!

October is when the famous Balloon Fiesta takes place in Albuquerque, and plenty of visitors make the short drive up to Santa Fe for a day or so. Meaning, it’ll be exceptionally busy. Plan your long weekend in Santa Fe another time if you aren’t planning on attending the balloon festival (still on my USA bucket list!).

For reference, we visited Santa Fe at the end of November, and while there were still some fall colors left, locals told me it was beginning to shift to winter. And it was WAY colder than I expected it to be, so make sure you wear your layers! 

We had crisp blue skies almost the entire time we were there, and heard that it snowed the day after we left!

Winter (December to February)

Winter is chilly, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s°F, and lows in the 20s. Nights can be extremely cold, often dipping below freezing. Come prepared with true winter gear – it definitely gets cold here! 

And there’s snow, typically from sometime in late November through March, although most of it is up in the ski area and not tons in town.

This is considered low season, so it’ll be less crowded, but some attractions have reduced hours (and the La Fonda on the Plaza Bell Tower rooftop is sadly closed for the season).

Where to Stay in Santa Fe

If it’s your first time in Santa Fe, I highly recommend staying in either the Historic District (Old Town) or the nearby Railyard District (up-and-coming trendy area). 

Since we ended up staying 4 nights in Santa Fe (we left early our last morning to head south to Truth or Consequences), we actually stayed in both areas!

Historic District (Old Town)

This is iconic Santa Fe. 

Here you’ll find the Santa Fe Plaza, a charming and authentic Southwestern atmosphere with adobe architecture, and tons of cultural attractions. Plus Native American markets and even some art galleries. 

We stayed at the Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi and were blown away by the gorgeous sitting area/library, authentic furnishings, and the in-room fireplace. Didn’t hurt that we were given free margarita coupons for the bar, plus chocolate chip cookies before bed every night. The true key to my heart, haha. 

Our hotel was literally right in the middle of everything (literally less than 5 minutes away), meaning we could walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and trendy bars every day/night. That’s one huge benefit of staying right in Old Town – it doesn’t get more convenient than that. 

It is the most expensive area to stay in Santa Fe (understandably), but hey, location, location, location!

Railyard District

The Railyard District is a vibrant and evolving area that’s undergone a huge revitalization lately. It’s got a way more contemporary and urban feel compared to Old Town, and feels kinda trendy in a sense. You’ll still find a mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants here, but more modern and eclectic. 

The area’s well-within walking distance to the Plaza (only 15 minutes away or so), but it doesn’t have the same historic ambiance as Old Town. That’s not to say that’s a bad thing though, just different!

Plus, staying in the Railyard District is way easier on the wallet, so if you wanna save a few bucks for some extra margaritas, I won’t fault you! 

Our stay at Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe was phenomenal – much more basic than the Rosewood Inn Of the Anasazi of course, but still very design-focused (especially the common area) and way less expensive. The owners kept the historic feel of the 1800s building while giving it a sleek southwestern vibe. We just loved it!

Other hotels we were considering in Santa Fe were El Rey Court (I was obsessed with those cool western vibes, OMG – at least come for a cocktail one night), Hotel Santa Fe Hacienda & Spa (right in the Railyard District), and La Fonda on the Plaza (with its popular rooftop bar).

Other Important FAQs for your a Santa Fe Itinerary 

Is 3 days in Santa Fe really enough?! I think yes, a long weekend in Santa Fe is the perfect amount of time! Personally, I felt pretty satisfied with our 3 days in Santa Fe, although you could easily add on an extra day or two and not get bored (especially if you wanna do a day trip or two). Any more and it’d be overkill in my opinion. 

What to eat in Santa Fe? I swear New Mexican food is my new favorite food group, haha. It’s wildly underrated in my book, and the flavors are just so, so good. 

I’ll give lots of restaurant recommendations at the end of the itinerary, but here’s a few foods you shouldn’t miss:

• Chiles Rellenos: Green chiles stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings, coated in egg batter and fried
• Posole: traditional hominy-based soup with pork or chicken, red or green chile, and various toppings 
• Biscochitos: spiced shortbread cookies often flavored with cinnamon and anise, yum! New Mexico’s official state cookie!
• Sopapillas with Honey: Fluffy, deep-fried pastries served with honey – my new favorite!
• Blue Corn Pancakes: pancakes made with blue cornmeal and topped with local honey or syrup (a regional specialty!)
• Fry Bread Tacos: A dish influenced by Native American cuisine, with fry bread loaded with taco ingredients.
• Margaritas: I mean, you are in Santa Fe! And the cities even got their own Margarita Trail.. So it just makes sense to participate!

Where should I go after Santa Fe? Ohh – good question! 

We spent a weekend in Albuquerque before heading north for 3 days in Santa Fe and Bandelier National Monument, then made our way south to Truth or Consequences, Las Cruces, and White Sands National Park! 

I highly encourage you to explore more of New Mexico – it’s such a fascinating, underrated state!

Can I take a day trip to Santa Fe from Albuquerque? Sure, why not?! The two popular cities are only about an hour away, and thankfully, the Rail Runner Express commuter train makes it super easy. The train takes just over an hour and a half, so if you leave early enough, you’ll have time for shopping at The Plaza, checking out the art galleries on Canyon Road, and plenty of mezcal margaritas and frito pie, haha!

BUT I really think you’d be better off with at least a night and two full days in Santa Fe to really get a feel for the town.

On that note, I think you can easily do a day trip to Albuquerque from Santa Fe and see oh so much! Although you’re probably flying into ABQ, so that’d just be silly!

Why is Santa Fe called “The City Different”? Because Santa Fe is just different, in so many different aspects! Some people compare visiting NM to a different country, and I can totally see why. It’s got its own unique and distinctive character – a rich blend of cultures, artistic vibrancy, and historic charm. There’s really nowhere else like it!

Finally, what you came here for – the perfect 3 days in Santa Fe itinerary! Let’s get to it!

3 Days in Santa Fe Itinerary 

Santa Fe Itinerary Day 1: Old Town Santa Fe 

On the first day of this 3-day Santa Fe itinerary, you’ll be hanging around Old Town and the plaza! This is Santa Fe’s famous historic district, a culturally rich neighborhood with distinctive adobe-style architecture, art-filled streets, and a vibrant plaza! You can easily spend all day here, and that’s exactly what we did!

It’s super chill but there’s actually quite a bit to see. If you wanna have a leisurely day and still see everything on this list and eat, I’d stick to one museum visit.

NOTE – I typically provide a specific order of activities on my itineraries, but no need for that today! Everything in Old Town is super close to each other, and you can kinda go with the flow and pick and choose (except for the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum – but more on that in a bit). 

Also – there’s TONS of amazing restaurants here in Old Town. I’ve included a whole long list of all our favorites at the end of this post, but here’s what I recommend for Day 1:

• Breakfast: Cafe Pasquals or Tia Sophias
• Lunch: The Shed (gets busy so put your name down before you’re absolutely starving, haha)
• Dinner: Coyote Cafe or La Boca

Here’s all my recommended things to do in Old Town:

Wander through Santa Fe Plaza

This is the central hub of Old Town, and a must on any Santa Fe itinerary! You’ll see tons of people out and about, enjoying the park with their families and children. Throughout the year there’s plenty of events, markets, and cultural festivities over here – if you’re lucky, you may just catch one.

Directly north of the Plaza you’ll find vendors selling tons of handcrafted items at the Palace of the Governors. This is the Native American Artisans Program, and the artists sell and showcase pottery, textiles, and jewelry made of traditional materials like turquoise, coral, and silver. 

And the program is regulated – meaning the artisans only sell the highest quality merchandise, handmade themselves (never mass-produced or imported).

I really love this initiative, and highly encourage you to speak to some of the vendors about their pieces. By buying from them, you’re directly supporting the family who made them.

You can also try a Famous Frito Pie at the Five & Dime General Store less than a block away – literally a sliced open corn chip bag piled high with cheese, chilis, and meat. Mmm… delicious in the best kinda way.

IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA)

If you’re interested in learning about Native American contemporary art plus history and culture, make your way over to the Museum of Contemporary Native Art, or MoCNA for short! 

It’s the only museum in the entire country dedicated to the progressive work of contemporary Native artists (and there’s lots here – over 10,000 Contemporary Indigenous artworks, created from 1962 to the present on rotation).

The museum is honestly kinda small, but the collection is downright excellent – with tons of sculpture installations, digital media, murals, and paintings.

The colorful pillars outside are what really caught my eye! Such a fun place for photos, and you know we took a lot, haha. I thought it’d be packed with people, but we found it relatively empty most times we strolled past.

Wanna get into the museum for free? Come the first Friday of every month when there’s free admission from 5-7pm (although some of the exhibits are closed).

There’s also the New Mexico Museum of Art if you haven’t had your art fix yet!

Go Shopping at The Plaza 

Shopping at The Plaza is an absolute must – you’ll find plenty of Native American jewelry, clothing, boots, pottery, and more. Like in Albuquerque, there’s of course some tacky souvenir shops, but I promise you there’s tons of beautiful handmade stuff as well. Talk to the shop owners and vendors and you can easily tell what’s authentic.

There’s *so* many cool spots to check out and explore (honestly, Santa Fe really surprised me), but these were my favorites:

• O’Farrell Hat Company (truly custom hats with outstanding quality; prepare to drop some money) 
• The Rainbow Man (a super eclectic main courtyard with multiple indoor spaces, with everything from Mexican pottery to arts and crafts)
• Parts Unknown (upscale Western clothing store with lots of unique designs)
• chocolate + cashmere (chocolate and cashmere, what more could you want?!)
• Shiprock Santa Fe (GORGEOUS Navajo rugs, jewelry, woven baskets, and accessories)
• Back at The Ranch (the most beautiful exotic cowboy boots you’ll ever see – too bad they were way outta my price range)
• Original Trading Post (lots of unique gifts and souvenirs with that New Mexico touch – green or red chiles, chiminea wood burners, and fine regional pottery)

I so wish I left some room in my suitcase for a handwoven rug – they were all so gorgeous and I just loved the traditional colors.

Admire the Santa Fe Churches

Santa Fe is home to several historic and architecturally significant churches, and I highly encourage you to check them out. Just remember to be respectful and quiet – these are places of worship and mass still occurs.

• Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi: Located right off the Plaza, this Roman Catholic cathedral is full of Romanesque Revival architecture and a beautiful interior. You can go inside if you’d like to see the religious artifacts and statues, but I simply admired the cathedral from the outside.

• San Miguel Chapel: A few blocks away you’ll find what is believed to be the oldest church in the United States, built around 1610 (very fitting that it’s directly across from the Oldest House Museum, haha). 

• Loretto Chapel: Finally there’s the Loretto Chapel with its famous spiral staircase, known as the “Miraculous Stairs”. This elegant, wooden staircase has no visible means of support (really, there’s no poles and no nails!), and people just love it! Especially those into architecture! You’ll need to grab a ticket, but the admission fee is just a few bucks.

Explore the Oldest House Museum

Also known as the De Vargas Street House, the Oldest House Museum was apparently built in the early 1600s – yes, making it one of the oldest homes in the United States! It’s made of thick adobe walls which help regulate temps and give us clues into the architecture back then.

It’s not so much a museum, but a few rooms with some signage, pictures, and artifacts (and a large gift shop… of course haha). It only took us a few minutes to walk through, but worth the short visit to imagine life back then. Plus, it’s free! 

Take Photos at the Inn & Spa at Loretto 

I have to admit I came here solely for the iconic Santa Fe photo opp! The adobe architecture really is stunning, with its earthy-orangey color and soft curves. 

Note that anyone can take photos here, as this is literally the entrance to the hotel. Bring your patience if you want a clear shot though – people were coming and going with their suitcases and the valet was doing his job bringing cars to the entrance. We came mid-morning and the sun was super harsh, so I recommend either going just after sunrise or right before sunset.

Sip some Bubbles at the Gruet Winery

This isn’t an absolute must, but if you’re in the mood for some bubbly, make a quick pit stop at Gruet Winery for some New Mexico made champagne! I tried the New Mexican sunrise and it was *chefs kiss* – perfect for a quick pick me up before my visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

If it’s warm, definitely sit on the back patio with a flight of sparkling wine. You’ll probably wanna make a reservation in advance (I was able to walk in for a quick glass, but not so sure a full-on tasting would have been available for me).

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

You can’t visit Santa Fe and not visit this museum. If you’re not familiar, Georgia O’Keeffe was one of the most significant American artists of the 20th century. New Mexico is the place that inspired her work, so it makes sense to view it here! 

I honestly didn’t know too much about her before visiting, and still loved the museum – all her works are downright fascinating and I loved learning about her life. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum houses the largest collection of her artworks, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures spanning her entire career. I loved her famous flower paintings and New Mexican landscapes the most (she had a deep connection to the state).

When I was visiting, there was a temporary exhibition showcasing her time in Maine, where she went back and forth for a few years. Felt pretty fitting since I collected shells when I was younger as well, and still do!

The museum is a tad smaller than I expected, but done really well and was a great way to spend an hour or so.

Note that you need to purchase a timed ticket in advance on the website. This is one of the most popular things to do in the entire city, so if you desperately wanna make it here on your Santa Fe itinerary, plan for it beforehand! A few of my friends missed out because they didn’t book their tickets enough in advance… buy your ticket here (a few weeks prior in busy season). 

I chose one of the last time slots and loved slowly strolling throughout the gallery after running around all day.

Psst – If you’ve got an extra day in Santa Fe (and a car!), you can also head north to Ghost Ranch, one of O’Keeffe’s first homes. On my list for next time!

Watch Sunset at Cross of the Martyrs

I love watching the sunset, especially when I travel, so was thrilled when I learned Cross of the Martyrs is the best place to do so! From up here you get sweeping panoramic views of Santa Fe; you can really see the whole city from here! 

Getting here is easy peasy – you can either walk up (an easy but kinda steep 10 minute up-hill walk) or drive to the parking lot and walk down to the cross. There’s also some history of Santa Fe on the plaques on the way up too.

We actually came here twice – I walked here after browsing the O’Keeffe Museum one night, and then took my husband back a few nights later. Sunsets just hit different in the desert. Of course you can visit any time of day, but I found it exceptionally gorgeous at sunset.

Santa Fe Itinerary Day 2: Railway District and Canyon Road

Day two of your three days in Santa Fe has you exploring two other areas of the city – the Railyard District and Canyon Road. They’re not as overly iconic as Old Town, but still very much worthy on any Santa Fe itinerary. And since they’re pretty small, you can totally explore both in the same day.

Again, so many great restaurants/cafes/bars in these areas as well. Here’s my recommendations for Day 2:

• Breakfast: CrashMurderBusiness or Iconik Coffee Roasters
• Lunch: El Chile Toreado (definitely get the pork Adobada burrito) and Whoo’s Donuts
• Dinner: La Choza, Paloma, or Paper Dosa

Morning: Santa Fe Railyard Arts District

Start the day strolling around The Santa Fe Railyard District! It’s experienced a significant revitalization the last few years, and hence has a vibrant, chill vibe. Perfect for hanging out for a few hours. You can even walk here from the Plaza if you’re staying in Old Town.

Stop 1: Fuel up with some caffeine

Before the day really gets going, pop into one of the coffee shops nearby. I chose CrashMurderBusiness, a cozy spot that specializes in craft coffees and elixirs (what a fun name, right?). Everything on the menu sounded downright delicious (and super creative), but we chose the Race of Roadrunners (with hints of cacao, red chile, and smoked sea salt) and the Parliament of Owls (an earl gray tea with cardamom and orange blossom honey).

There’s also Iconik Coffee Roasters if you’re looking for something more substantial (they’ve got a full breakfast menu as well as plenty of coffee options).

Stop 2: Santa Fe Farmers Market or Artisan Market

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, Saturday, or Sunday, you’re in luck (and I highly recommend rearranging your days to make this happen)! You’ll be able to check out either the Santa Fe Farmers Market or the Artisan Market – both perfect for a morning stroll.

Note that the Tuesday Market is not open year round, and the markets have different opening hours:

• Saturday Farmer’s Market
  • OPEN ALL YEAR LONG
  • 8am – 1pm
• Tuesday Market
  • May 7th – December 24th
  • 8am – 1pm
• Railyard Artisan Market
  • Sundays 10am to 3pm

The Santa Fe Farmers Market is the King of them all. It’s packed with vendors beyond vendors!

If you can get to the Railyard on a Saturday, you’re in for a real treat. Expect tons of fresh produce, handmade goods, locally grown spices, eggs, dried beans, honey, and much more. The Saturday Market has the largest variety of vendors and products by far. I so wish we were in Santa Fe on a Saturday so I could’ve bought and tried a whole bunch of things. 

At the market 100% of the veggies, fruits, and plants are grown right in Northern New Mexico – no imports here! And you’re guaranteed everything is super, super fresh. And remember, buying here means you’re directly supporting the farmers of NM!

I recommend coming early as the market does get quite busy. Stop by right after breakfast for an hour or two. 

The Tuesday Market is similar to the market on Saturday, although much smaller. When I visited in late November, it was mostly confined inside – although I’ve seen photos where it spills outside. Must be time of year! It seemed like a mixture of a farmers market and an artisan market – there were a bunch of both.

The Railyard Artisan Market (on Sundays) is dedicated to local artisans and small creative businesses, and is actually one of New Mexico’s oldest markets! 

Here you can purchase original works straight from the artisans, including lots of fine art (like paintings, printmaking, and even sculptures), wooden and ceramic crafts, Native American jewelry, and even lotions and potions and health remedies, oh my. 

Stop 3: Browsing/shopping on Guadalupe Street

End the morning with some shopping on Guadalupe Street, where most of the shops and cafes are. It was pretty quiet when I visited on a Tuesday morning, but can see it being really busy on the weekend.

These were my favorites on/near Guadalupe:

• form & concept: An art gallery in a sleek, airy space showcasing the works of eclectic artists, both established and up-and-coming. Some really colorful and interesting pieces here.

• Double Take: Everything is so eclectic in this vintage/thrift store. There’s two sides to it – a low end with lots of thrift pieces and a higher end, selling designer and vintage pieces. I spent so much time in here, whoops!

• Rio Bravo Trading Co: What a gem! There’s tons of vintage rugs, hats, and jewelry. Plus, the owner’s dog is the cutest. I must’ve spent over 20 minutes listening to his stories there.

• Array: The cutest gift shop with tons of things to browse. You never know what you’ll find.

• Kowboyz: A western store with the coolest vintage boots at actually affordable prices. Plus loads of cowboy hats.

If you’re looking for a pre-afternoon cocktail/beer, check out As Above, So Below Distillery (female owned and distilled!) or Second Street Brewery at The Railyard. Or both, because, ya know, you’re on vacation and there’s no rules. 

Note that As Above, So Below is currently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan around that if you’re craving some time in the cocktail lounge.

Afternoon: Canyon Road and Kakawa Chocolates

Any Santa Fe itinerary isn’t complete without a wander down Canyon Road – it is quintessentially Santa Fe afterall! 

Here you’ll find an eclectic assortment of art galleries in historic adobe homes and sidewalks lined with coyote fences and plenty of trees. The whole area is undeniably charming, with hidden sculpture gardens and patios serving up wine and margaritas. 

Plus tons of art everyone! Where else can you see classic black-on-black pottery, contemporary mixed-media, exquisite Navajo weavings, and vibrant lithographs all on the same block?! An absolute *must-see* for art lovers spending a long weekend in Santa Fe!

It’s said that there’s about 80 art galleries on Canyon Road alone, and while it’s impossible to visit them all, I promise you’ll make your way into so many good ones. 

We popped into about 6 or 7 and found each gallery showcased wildly different things – all so varied and I promise you’ll never get bored! Plus, the gallery staff were all so friendly and chatty. Note that some galleries are closed on Sundays, so double check if there’s anywhere specific you wanna visit.

Here’s a few galleries we popped into that I especially loved:

• Gerald Peters Contemporary
• Luca Decor
• Prescott Sculpture Gallery
• Freeman Gallery
• Adobe Gallery

Kakawa Chocolate House: But before you start your walk, pop into Kakawa Chocolate House for some chocolate elixirs and truffles! There’s a reason it’s super famous afterall. And yes, that means it can get *extremely* busy, so prepare to wait in line a bit. 

What’s so special about this place? Most of their menu features traditional historic recipes from Mesoamerica, Mayan, Aztec, and Colonial Mexico (way back from 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD). 

There’s lots to choose from (and thankfully they give samples). We blended the Zapoteca and Aztec Warrior (both Mesoamerican), and found it to be the perfect combo, not too sweet and with a hint of spice. Plus loads of whipped cream on top.

A lot of the chocolates are made with a very high percentage of cacao – meaning the truffles are the perfect balance of sweet and rich. So, so delicious, although I don’t think anything will ever beat those chocolate truffles we loved in Bruges, Belgium.

What’s an elixir you ask?! I wasn’t sure myself either. An elixir is essentially a beverage that contains ingredients meant to support the body and its functions, like herbs and superfoods. Now that is something I can get behind! Chocolate drinks that are good for you? Sign me up!

The Tea House: If you walk all the way to the end of Canyon Road, you’ll eventually get to The Tea House. This is an easy local favorite, with over 150 different types of tea and plenty of scones (plus a full menu if you’re feeling famished). We didn’t make it here (I was too full of chocolates), but it’s on the list for next time for me!

Santa Fe Itinerary Day 3: Bandelier National Monument and Hot Springs Soak

The last day of this long weekend in Santa Fe brings us on some day trips outta the city. Hiking in Bandelier National Monument and/or a soak at Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort – two of our favorite things we did on our New Mexico road trip!

If you want a really chill last day, you can just do one. BUT I honestly think you have time for both; maybe it’s being a tad ambitious, but it’s less than 2 ½ hours of driving total… and they’re both excellent experiences. I recommend heading to Bandelier in the AM, and then driving straight to Ojo Santa Fe for a soak!

Morning: Bandelier National Monument

Time to get your hike on! Bandelier is one of the best places near Santa Fe to get yourself out into nature. Imagine well-preserved ancestral cliff dwellings, stunning scenery (full of canyons, mesas, and the Frijoles Creek), and even ancient petroglyphs. Plus ladders to climb, cavates to explore, and tarantulas to watch out for – yes, we saw one!

And nope, you don’t need to go all the way to Mexico, Greece, Italy, or Guatemala to see remains of ancient civilizations. They’re right here in New Mexico!

Bandelier is a must-visit if you’re interested in soaking up the stories and rich heritage of the American Southwest, plus lots of natural beauty. And getting some cool pictures too!

I recommend waking up early, grabbing a quick breakfast, and making your way to Bandelier (it’s only about an hour from Santa Fe, so really not that bad). The park does get busy though (understandably!), so the earlier you arrive, the better. 

Plus, if you’re visiting in summer you’ll wanna ensure you get a spot in the parking lot so you aren’t forced to take the shuttle (mandatory after 9am from mid-June to mid-October).

With only a few hours in the park, you should prioritize the Main Pueblo Loop Trail. This is the most popular hike in the park, and in only 1.4 miles (roundtrip), you’ll see multiple archeological sites within the canyon and even use the ladders to crawl into a few cliff dwellings. 

Don’t leave without stuffing your face with some fry bread (covered in sugar) from the park’s semi-famous restaurant, Sirphey. The perfect after-hiking treat!

Psst – since you’ll basically be passing Santa Fe on your way to the hot springs, this is the perfect time for some lunch! Unless you wanna eat at the Blue Heron Restaurant overlooking the springs like we did – they’ve got an all-day brunch! Mmm – that breakfast burrito smothered in chiles really hit the spot.

Afternoon: Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort

After a morning full of hiking (or a long, leisurely brunch… no judging!), it’s time to finally hit the spa! Santa Fe (and New Mexico in general) are known for their hot springs, and what better way to soothe those aching muscles by soaking in a tub of steamy 100°F water. Okay, fine, the hikes in Bandelier really aren’t *too* strenuous, but hey, you deserve some R & R.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to purchase a day pass (good for as many hours as you wish – they don’t take reservations), and optional robe and slippers. It’s a tad expensive (at $45 during the week and $65 on weekends and holidays), but if you stay a few hours, I feel it’s more than worth it.

The whole resort is gorgeous – with multiple soaking areas, plenty of spring-fed thermal pools, comfy hammocks, a duck pond, a full-service spa, a bunch of walking trails, and even a first class restaurant on-site. You can also book yourself a private pool ahead of time if you want more privacy.

It looks especially beautiful in the fall when all the leaves change color (we visited in late fall/early winter and most of the leaves had sadly already fallen off). And once you’re done soaking, it’s only a 20-minute drive back to Santa Fe! Unless you wanna stay (for $$$), but I honestly don’t recommend it since it’s kinda isolated from the rest of the city.

Note: There’s also Ten Thousand Waves (a Japanese-style spa hotel with views of the mountains) about 10 minutes north of Santa Fe. BUT you can’t just walk on in, so prepare to make a reservation for one of their public communal pools or private soaking tubs a few weeks in advance.

We also visited Riverbend Hot Springs a few hours south in quirky Truth or Consequences, and had great experiences at both. If you’re embarking on a NM road trip like we were, I highly recommend both – never too many hot springs in my book!

Where to Eat in Santa Fe 

This wouldn’t be a very complete Santa Fe travel blog without a whole slew of restaurant recommendations. I had NO clue just how much of a foodie spot this diverse city is, and boy am I glad we had a full 3 days in Santa Fe to eat as much as we could. 

Honestly, New Mexican food is oh so flavorful and full of spice – it may be my new favorite food group (although, mild for me, please)! You can really taste the rich cultural heritage of the region just by its food – a unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo!

Whatever you do, don’t miss all the red and green chile sauces, blue corn anything and everything, fry bread tacos, posole (which I discovered I loved), and sopapillas (best drizzled with honey).

Margarita Trail: Before I get into the actual restaurants and bars we loved, I need to mention the Margarita Trail. Yes, Santa Fe has its very own established Margarita Trail, with over 50 signature margaritas at various locations throughout the city! There’s even an app for it or a paper passport – yup. 

It seems a little gimmicky (if I’m being honest here)… with prizes available and the need to purchase the app or a paper passport for tiny discounts. No visitor in their right mind is gonna try more than a dozen in a weekend, so I feel it’s best suited for locals or those living in New Mexico who visit Santa Fe quite frequently.

BUT margaritas! Passport or not, the city boasts tons of creative margaritas, which you should totally try. My husband tried silver coin margaritas at the Rosewood (where we stayed), a frozen strawberry marg at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, something fun at El Rey Court (I honestly forgot what, haha), and a prickly pear marg at La Choza. And surprise, surprise, he didn’t complain about any of them, haha.

Christmas-Style Chile: Another thing to note – you’ll undoubtedly get asked red or green whenever you order a New Mexican dish. They’re asking if you want red or green chile, and I recommend always asking for Christmas-style, meaning you get both!

Where to Eat in Old Town

• Cafe Pasquals: Super popular and busy, busy, busy for breakfast, so put your name down and wander Old Town. It’s a colorful, eclectic restaurant with lots of art on the walls and flags hanging from the ceiling. We tried the pancakes with chiles, mole, and maple syrup (said to be amazing but I think we missed something…).

• The Shed: Located right in the plaza, this is probably one of the most popular spots in Santa Fe serving traditional New Mexican cuisine – famous for their green chile stew, enchiladas, and fresh tacos. Either make a reservation for dinner, or come for lunch (no reservations needed, but expect a long wait time). Sit outside in the courtyard if it’s nice out!

• Tia Sophias: A no frills, authentic spot filled with plenty of locals. Great for breakfast – promise me you’ll order a Christmas style breakfast burrito (huge!) and sopapillas. Plus, it’s where the term “Christmas” style was invented, so you know it’s good.

• Coyote Cafe: Everyone recommended this place to us, and I can totally see why! We actually had Thanksgiving Dinner here, and wow, just wow. All the flavors were on point, and I’d love to come back to try their regular menu. I’m still dreaming about that banana cream pie. Head up to the Rooftop Cantina for views of downtown.

• La Boca: Here you’ll find Spanish tapas and small plates. We unfortunately missed this place (didn’t have enough time!), but I heard so many great things about it. It’s a bit fancy, so perfect if you wanna dress up a little. Surprisingly, the artichokes are one of their most popular dishes – try them and report back to me!

• Frito Pie from Five & Dime General Store: You should totally eat a frito pie at least once during your 3 days in Santa Fe. I mean, even Anthony Bourdain ate here, so that’s good enough for me! 

• Cocktails at Los Poblanos Bar Norte: A super cute shop curated with bar accessories, snacks, and other home goods. The tiny bar in the back is super cute – and right down the block from our hotel! We went to the restaurant location in Albuquerque and had a great meal, so I had a feeling the bar in Santa Fe would be just as great.

• Drinks at The Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda: The perfect spot for happy hour with sweeping 360° views of the mountains and city below. Plus amazing cocktails (margaritas!) and small bites. Come for sunset! Closed for winter unfortunately!

Restaurants in the Railyard District

• La Choza: This was easily one of our favorite meals during our 3 days in Santa Fe. It’s admittedly got a very similar menu to their sister restaurant, The Shed, so perfect if you couldn’t get in there. Expect truly authentic New Mexican food, like green chile stew, blue corn soft tacos, spicy enchiladas, and carne adovada. Don’t miss the sopapillas – and drizzle on as much of that honey as you want! My new guilty pleasure. Usually very long wait times, so come for an early dinner.

• El Chile Toreado: There’s a reason the chef earned a James Beard nomination in 2023. Don’t miss the pork adobada burrito (marinated pork in adobo sauce cooked with onions) – so, so, so good. I desperately wanted to go back for another one but we ran out of time. Perfect for a chill, casual lunch. Just note it’s a food truck and there’s nowhere to eat, so if you’re visiting in late fall/winter like we were, you’ll probably wanna eat elsewhere, haha. Way too cold to stand around and eat outside.

• Whoo’s Donuts: A quick stop for some blue corn donuts (standouts being the blue corn blueberry lavender and blue corn maple pecan). And boy were they good. Just make sure you specify you want blue corn as there’s also regular donuts as well.

• Paloma: Upmarket Mexican cuisine (with creative cocktails) in a rustic-chic colorful space. YOU GUYS – I was beyond obsessed. Literally everything we got was perfect – tuna tostaditos, carnitas quesadillas (with oaxaca cheese!),  guac, short rib barbacoa… it was all beyond perfection. Make a reservation; you won’t regret it. Plus, the best mezcal selection I’ve ever seen.

• Crash Murder Business: Coffee and tea drinks with a quirky twist inside such a cozy space; perfect for your morning caffeine before hitting up the shops.

• Paper Dosa: Genuine, authentic Indian cuisine right here in Santa Fe! It’s a bit south of the Railyard District, but super, super popular, and extremely busy. FOR A REASON – I couldn’t stop talking about my dosa for days, haha. They don’t take reservations, but I highly recommend coming for an early dinner. We got there just a little after opening and already had a 45 minute wait or something like that.

• El Rey Court: You definitely can’t walk here (regardless if you’re staying in Old Town or closer to the Railyard), but I promise it’s worth the short drive. The perfect after-dinner stop for some mezcal margaritas in a super chic space. The bar inside the hotel is cute and modern, and super cozy in the winter with the fireplace going! I loved the design so much we came back the next day to take some photos!

So there ya have it – my personal recommendations on the perfect 3 days in Santa Fe! Are you headed to New Mexico soon?!

The post Santa Fe Itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days in Santa Fe, New Mexico appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Wow, another year flew by – I say this every year (look at my past Year in Review posts if you don’t believe me, haha), but damn did 2023 go fast. I feel like I was just reflecting back on 2022 last month!

2023 was another year of living on my own terms, going against societal expectations, and truly enjoying my life. It was a year I heavily leaned into truly living in the present, indulging in extravagant trips and meals without regret, and working damn hard for it all. As I get older, I’m understanding there’s no time like the present, so I make it my mission to fill my year with fun experiences and try not to take life too seriously.

Overall, 2023 was pretty excellent. 

I listened to a shit ton of audiobooks (over 50!), finally made it to Disneyland, and crossed a huge bucket list trip off my never ending list of adventures. I traveled with friends, with my sister, with my husband, found my way back to solo travel, got to see my parents twice (!), and had a whole slew of visitors as well! 

Wild to think this is actually my 11th year writing detailed year in reviews on my blog. Sure, those 10-second overdone reels on IG are fun for a few minutes, but I honestly don’t even know how to make them, haha. Plus, I like being able to write 8k words and include over 100 photos (which is probably more like 200 knowing me).

It was the year of the Eras Tour (although I didn’t have any interest in participating, I opted for Beyonce instead), the horrific war in Israel, and deciding I want to visit all 50 states in the next few years (before I turn 40!).

So proud of this life I created for myself. 

Interested in seeing what I got up to in years past? Here’s all my year in review posts: 2013 / 2014 / 2015 / 2016 / 2017 / 2018 / 2019 / 2020 / 2021 / 2022

2023 by the Numbers

• Countries Traveled To: 8 (USA, Guatemala x2, Belize, Tanzania + Zanzibar, Mexico, England, Austria, Czech Republic)
• States Visited: 8 (California, Hawaii, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, Idaho, New Mexico, North Carolina)
• Days On The Road: ~105
• Days Traveling Solo: 8 (Caye Caulker, Belize and Flores, Guatemala!)
• Flights Taken: 34 (60,500 miles flown!)
• Books Read: 56 (favorites: Molokai, Pachinko, Into Thin Air, Remarkably Bright Creatures, The Day the World Came to Town, Fly Girl, The House in the Cerulean Sea, Nowhere for Very Long)
• Duolingo Streak: 576 days (primarily Spanish and math!)
• Candy Crush level: 3195

January 

The year started off a bit crazy, getting home from Mexico a week later than expected after the airline canceled my flight. I made it home at 9:30pm on New Year’s Eve, just in time to celebrate my late arrival with my husband by indulging in a slice of our favorite cheesecake and some cuddles with Kona. 

MAUI

Just a week later we were off to Maui for Noah to run the Maui Oceanfront Marathon! He has a goal to run a full marathon on each Hawaiian island it’s offered, and although he already crossed Maui off his running list, he decided he wanted to run again! Fine by me; I’ll never say no to a trip to Hawaii (obviously). 

He PRed AGAIN and subbed 4, finishing the full marathon in 3 hours, 59 minutes, and 34 seconds! Absolutely WILD — my husband is a beast! So, so proud of him and his dedication.

Besides his running escapades, we spent most of the long weekend in Kihei, kinda sorta feeling like a local, walking to the beach for sunset every night and eating/drinking nearby. I sometimes love revisiting places we’ve been to a bunch of times, so I can focus on simply enjoying our time together instead of feeling like I need to see and do everything. Something I’m clearly working on, haha.

The main focus of this Maui trip (besides Noah running the marathon of course) was WHALES! Since we were visiting during prime whale season, we saw SO many humpbacks. So, so magical. And besides taking an official whale watching tour, we saw so many whales right off the coast — all those breaches and whale tails never get old!

We left Maui with holes in our hearts, aching for permanent island life. The heartache was so bad we started semi-seriously talking about moving to Hawaii (complete with a pros/cons list and mile-long to-do list). We ultimately decided this isn’t the best time for our dream, but I think we’ll be back sooner than later. 

February 

I kicked off the month by taking myself out on a solo birthday date to see Mean Girls on Broadway! Scored myself a $40 rush ticket, which turned out to be an amazing seat all the way down in the orchestra! Such a fun show, and proud of myself for making the effort despite going solo. 

Also — I celebrated TEN official years of A Passion and A Passport on February 9th — cannot believe I’ve stuck with my passion project turned side hustle for oh so long!

MADONNA INN

I always plan a birthday trip for myself (past years including Mexico City, Hawaii, and Todos Santos), and decided to do something low-key this year. We celebrated my belated bday with a weekend in SLO at the Madonna Inn, complete with pink champagne cake, a glitzy pink bathroom in our all pink room, and pink boozy drinks.