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Spring Break From the Ordinary

For those who seek uncommon adventures, head to Santa Fe for next level Spring Break vibes and a break from the ordinary itinerary.

Mark Twain wrote that travel is "fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” Travel can broaden the mind, and the experiences we have from seeing new places and people can lead to a better sense of understanding in how we see ourselves in the world. Santa Fe is New Mexico’s capital, and the oldest capital in the United States so it’s no wonder that it’s also a mecca for tourists seeking history, culture and “The City Different”. 

Vibes are high when you reimagine Spring Break in a place full of spiritual seekers, artists, cultural connoisseurs and outdoor explorers. For those who are enthusiastic about taking a trip outside the ordinary, we’ve got some pro moves and can’t skip tips to make this the best Spring Break ever.

Day 1: Portal Dive

A humanoid hologram in the center of the interdimensional travel agency, Portals Bermuda.
Alva is the hostess of the interdimensional travel agency, Portals Bermuda. Photo Credit: Kate Russell

Every good trip begins with a single step in one direction… Or does it? Interdimensional travel might be the perfect way to start your Spring Break trip when you visit the iconic Meow Wolf in Santa Fe. Now appearing in five cities with another on the way, the House of Eternal Return is the original Meow Wolf.

Pro moves:

Exploring Meow Wolf takes time - there is so much to see, so give yourself several hours! Download the app for access to the Psychic Sensor to explore beyond your ordinary sensory. Get the Anytime Admission ticket so you can go during regular, open hours on the day of your choosing without having to commit to a specific time.

Look, listen, touch and explore because there are so many secrets! If you see the Meow Wolf historian, ask him questions. He knows.

Can’t skip:

Adults 21+ should head to Float Bar and try the famous Meow-garita which is featured on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail. Selfies. Selfies. Selfies. Purchase some tokens for the photobooth, it’s located in Fancy Town. Live music fans should check the show schedule and get a ticket. Epic concert venue. 

Day 2: Train Ridin’ 

Woman riding the open car on Skyrail with a cocktail.
Riding Skyrail includes breathtaking views, delicious drinks and good vibes. Photo Credit: Sky Railway.

It’s not every city that can boast of having a historic, 140+ year old railroad that was saved from the ravages of time and turned into a thrilling train excursion with live music and a full bar. Back in 2020, Sky Railway came together when Bill Banowsky (owner of Violet Crown Cinemas and renown filmmaker) plus George RR Martin (novelist, Meow Wolf co-owner, and savior of the Jean Cocteau Theater) joined forces with several other prominent Santa Feans including author Douglas Preston and Gary Oakley to revive the historic railway. 

Pro moves:

Book your train tickets well in advance since many of these excursions are extremely popular and sell out quickly! Head to the Railyard early in the day for shopping, eating and sightseeing. SITE Santa Fe is 18,000-square feet and hosts notable international & contemporary art exhibits, lectures & discussions. For the sunset serenades and stargazing excursions, bring a jacket and wear close-toed shoes.

Can’t skip:

Take a walk to the open car on Skyrail for an exciting 360° selfie! Adults 21+ who love margaritas, craft beer or wine should look at the calendar for these themed rides. It’s very easy to order from the onboard bar and enjoy drinks on the train. The musicians on Skyrail are incredible! If you love and support local live music, you’re going to be thrilled.

Day 3: Mountain Vibin’ 

Skier enjoying runs at Ski Santa Fe in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Elevation over 10,000 feet plus eight lifts and 88 runs at Ski Santa Fe. Photo Credit: Ski Santa Fe.

Take a drive 16 miles from the heart of Santa Fe up the mountain to Ski Santa Fe. With base elevation at 10,350 feet, it’s a perfect outdoor adventure. With beginner, intermediate and expert runs, everyone can find a vibe on these expertly groomed slopes. 

Pro moves:

Dress in layers! First, a layer against your skin to wick moisture, then a layer for warmth and the final layer should be waterproof and wind resistant. While ski equipment (boots, skis, helmets) are available to rent, you will need to purchase goggles and gloves if you do not have any. Those are available for purchase in the Sports Shop.

Book your lessons (group and private available) in advance to ensure your spot. 

Can’t skip:

La Casa has all your hot coffee, tea, and snacks plus it’s where you purchase lift tickets, rentals and check in for Snow Sport School. Totemoff’s Grill is located mid-mountain. For those who love some apres-ski, this is the place! Check out Totemoff’s live music calendar and schedule your visit accordingly. 

Day 4: Out-of-the-norm Explorin’ 

Meow Wolf characters enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables at the Santa Fe Railyard Farmers Market.
Santa Fe Railyard is the location for the Saturday Farmers Market and the Sunday Railyard Artisan Market. Photo Credit: Kate Russell Photography.

Tourists and locals alike can find Southwestern apparel, art and gifts in the Santa Fe Plaza, but there are other spots to explore, too. Canyon Road is known for its abundance of art galleries, so art aficionados will want to take a stroll along this street for epic wall-watching. It is totally worth it to make stops in these popular areas, and here are a few more for those who like to see what’s off the beaten path. 

Pro moves:

Keep the body relaxed and mind open when you visit the hot springs at Ojo Santa Fe... Or get a Japanese spa experience at Ten Thousand Waves

Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM are for the Railyard Artisan Market. If you’d rather do nothing on a Sunday, the Saturday Farmers Market from 8:00 AM to 1:00 pm is consistently voted one of the top 10 in the country. 

Santa Fe is the Flamenco capital of the Southwest. Make reservations at El Farol or El Flamenco Cabaret to catch this stunning art form. 

Can’t skip:

The museums and world-class collections located in Santa Fe are absolutely worth a visit. The Georgia O’Keeffe, Museum of International Folk Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, and New Mexico Museum of Art are just a few examples.

New Mexico is home to 23 Native American Tribes, Nations and Pueblos. Call ahead to plan a visit and learn more about the festivals, culture and peoples. 

Red, green or Christmas - try it all! New Mexican cuisine is a unique and multicultural delight. 

Whether you’re diving into Meow Wolf’s mind-bending universe, carving fresh powder on the slopes, gazing at breathtaking landscapes from a vintage train, or discovering the soul of Santa Fe’s art and culture, this Spring Break is anything but ordinary. It’s a journey through creativity, adventure, and awe, where every moment invites you to explore beyond the expected. Pack your curiosity and get ready to make memories in a place where reality is just the beginning.