Writer D.H. Lawrence, who called New Mexico a second home, once said, “Touch the country (of New Mexico), and you will never be the same again”. The capital city of New Mexico touches hearts and souls of visitors and residents alike. From artistic glory to sunsets that you can barely put into words and decadent culinary delights, Santa Fe has something for everyone. These unique date ideas in Santa Fe, Mexico will have you planning a second honeymoon for you and your true love!
7 Romantic date ideas in Santa Fe
Take Flight
If taking a hot air balloon ride is on your dating bucket list, there is no better place to cross it off than Santa Fe. Santa Fe Balloons is one of the Top 5 outdoor activities to experience in Santa Fe. You’ll soar over a vast open area called “Las Barrancas” (The Ravines) where the southwestern landscape is your backdrop. Your pilot will take you above the canyons, teach you about flying, and you and your love will finally touch down and enjoy a romantic French traditional light brunch and champagne toast. Safety is a top priority, as a crew will follow the balloon below in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle as they communicate with the pilot. Don’t worry about a thing on this romantic once-in-a-lifetime flight!
Dinner & An Opera
Experience fine culture and superior music at the Santa Fe Opera. For an “evening of magic“, enjoy a preview dinner before the opera begins. Current shows include Alcina and The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs. Opera titles change, but there is always something to enjoy at one of Santa Fe’s most popular destinations for couples.
Romantic Sunsets
Santa Fe is known for its sunsets. Locals recommend the views from the Cross of the Martyrs, which sits atop a steep hill and honors the 21 Franciscan priests killed during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. If you’re up for hiking, the Atalaya Mountain Trail gives picturesque views throughout the 6-mile trail. Wherever you are in Santa Fe, you’re sure to fall in love with the breathtaking sunsets.
Take the Train
Ride the Santa Fe Southern Railway with the one you love and experience a historic, scenic train ride throughout Santa Fe. Take a 4-hour round trip from the Santa Fe depot to Lamy, a tiny Wild West inspired town 18 miles southeast of Santa Fe. Drinks and food are available on the train, so you can make it a lovely dining experience for you and your sweetheart. Reservations are highly encouraged.
Channel Your Inner Ghost
We’re not talking cemeteries here. If you hear the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” in your head whenever you see a pottery wheel, it’s time to reenact the romantic Ghost scene ala Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze by taking a pottery lesson. In all seriousness, you can learn how to make a beautiful clay masterpiece with private lessons from acclaimed Santa Fe artist Ginny Zipperer. You’ll always have a memento of your special date to treasure with your love!
Take a Food Tour
What is more romantic than sampling delicious local cuisine with your love? Check out Food Tour New Mexico and fall in love with everything from “Culinary Creations” cooking classes, “Taste of Santa Fe” lunch tour with pairings, “Savor Santa Fe” dinner tour with wine pairings, “Margaritas y Mas” (which focuses on the local favorite beverage), and more! These tours give you a chance to sample delicious foods from 4-5 restaurants. Plus, you’ll take a walking tour of beautiful areas of Santa Fe. What’s not to love?
The Farmers’ Market
Santa Fe’s Farmers’ Market is one of the top 10 rated in the country. It’s so much more than shopping for fruits and vegetables. Visit the shops and have a glass of wine with your sweetheart. Enjoy the market year round on Saturdays and at various other times throughout the year. Every Sunday, check out the Railyard Artisan Market and take home a gorgeous piece of Santa Fe art.
Whether you’re planning a vacation or falling in love all over again with your home of Santa Fe, there are so many unique date ideas in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The next time you’re thinking of something to do with your spouse, check out Santa Fe’s top romantic attractions.
Have you visited Santa Fe? Do you have any fun date ideas to add to the list?
eldoradodental01 says
Great post! Really appreciate your sharing.
Amy says
Hey there – I’m a Santa Fe native. Thought I should mention that Picacho Peak is actually in Arizona (and your link directs visitors to the state park website, which is in Arizona). Did you mean to direct people to Monte Sol instead? It’s a popular sunset hike and the elevation you listed is about right.
Hope this helps.
Stacey Werner says
Thank you so much, Amy!! You are absolutely correct. I’m updating it now.