For our anniversary this September we packed up the car, turned up the playlists, and drove from Dallas to Santa Fe for a weekend we’ll never forget, one full of red rock views, crisp mountain air, great food, and dog-friendly fun. It was our first time in Santa Fe and we absolutely loved it- from the views to the arts and culture there’s so much to do!

WHERE TO STAY:

We stayed at El Rey Court for our first night which was a cute abode inspired boutique hotel. It had a great bar on property and was of course dog friendly! The next two nights we splurged for our anniversary and stayed at the Four Seasons- which was such a stunning property. We really enjoyed using the on property hiking trails with our dog and the amazing food the hotel had. Some other great hotels in the area are the Bishop’s Lodge and the Inn of Five Graces.

WHAT TO DO:

Santa Fe Farmers’ Market at Railyard Market- Local produce, art, and of course dog-friendly

Canyon Road Art Walk- Stroll through colorful galleries and sculpture gardens.

Shopping the Plaza- The historic square is a perfect spot for browsing local shops, picking up handmade souvenirs, and people-watching under the trees.

Santa Fe River Trail- A peaceful, shady trail right in town, perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk with your pet.

Nambé Highlands- A quiet trail just outside the city with stunning desert views and unique rock formations.

WHERE TO EAT/DRINK:

The Shed (Santa Fe Plaza)

Iconic New Mexican fare in a cozy adobe setting- don’t miss the red chile enchiladas or house margaritas. A must-visit for first-timers.

SkyFire Terrace at Bishop’s Lodge-
Perfect for sunset cocktails with sweeping mountain views. Elevated atmosphere without feeling stuffy- ideal for pre-dinner drinks.

Cowgirl BBQ-
Casual, fun, and full of local flavor. Great spot for lunch with dog-friendly patio seating and live music vibes.

Terra at Four Seasons Rancho Encantado-
Elegant and scenic- a romantic dinner spot with seasonal dishes and desert views. Worth the short drive out of town.

Apothecary Dining-
Hidden gem with a fully gluten-free menu. Creative dishes, cozy atmosphere, and great for health-conscious or allergen-sensitive diners.

Geronimo (Canyon Road)-
Refined yet welcoming. Known for its fine dining and impeccable service, it’s the perfect spot for a special night out in the heart of Canyon Road.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just need a break from city life, Santa Fe checks all the boxes: stunning scenery, rich culture, amazing food, and endless opportunities to explore- all at a slower, more peaceful pace. Coming from Dallas, it’s surprisingly very accessible. You can make the scenic drive in a day, or take a quick 1.5 hour, pet-friendly JSX flight for a stress-free getaway with your dog right by your side. From dog-friendly hikes and patios to cozy adobe stays and unforgettable sunsets, Santa Fe offers the kind of weekend that leaves you rested, inspired, and reconnected- with your partner, your pet, and yourself.

If you want assistance booking your next trip to Santa Fe, I’m a travel agent and would love to help! I can make sure and get you the best available rate + extra free VIP perks like resort credits, room upgrades, and more!