Santa Fe with Kids: Fun for the Whole Family
Santa Fe, with its rich history, vibrant art scene, and stunning landscapes, might not be the first place that comes to mind for a family vacation. But don’t be fooled! This enchanting city offers a surprising number of kid-friendly activities, services, and restaurants that will delight both children and adults alike.
Kid-Friendly Activities in Santa Fe:
- Santa Fe Children’s Museum: This moderately-sized hands-on museum is a must-visit for families with young children. With interactive exhibits on art, science, and culture, kids can explore and learn while having a blast. Don’t miss the outdoor area with a climbing structure, sand play, and water features.
- Meow Wolf: This immersive art experience is a mind-bending adventure for all ages. Explore a fantastical world of interactive exhibits, secret passages, and hidden surprises. While it might be a bit overwhelming for very young children, older kids and teens will be captivated.
- Santa Fe Climbing Center: This state-of-the-art climbing gym offers walls and routes for all ages and skill levels. Let your little monkeys climb to new heights under the guidance of experienced staff.
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas: This living history museum transports visitors back in time to 18th- and 19th-century New Mexico. Kids will love exploring the historic buildings, watching traditional crafts demonstrations, and participating in hands-on activities. Special events like the Fiesta de los Niños offer additional fun for families.
- Music with Queen Bee Music and Movement: This program offers a fun and engaging introduction to music and movement for toddlers and preschoolers. With interactive songs, dances, and instrument play, kids will develop a love for music while socializing with other children.
- Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary: This nature center offers hiking trails, bird watching, and educational programs. Kids will love exploring the trails and discovering the diverse wildlife that calls this sanctuary home. The natural playground structure is also very special.
- Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary: This nature center offers hiking trails, bird watching, and educational programs. Kids will love exploring the trails and discovering the diverse wildlife that calls this sanctuary home. The natural playground structure is also very special.
- Chavez Center: In addition to Olympic pools for workouts, this features an indoor year-round heated leisure pool with a small lazy river type feature and water slides. The center also has ice-skating available.
- Museums: Checkout the Santa Fe Reporter Calendar for kid-friendly museum events, at least once a month museums have craft hours or special activities.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Santa Fe:
- The Pantry Rio: This local favorite serves up hearty sandwiches, burritos, and classic diner fare. With a casual atmosphere and a kids’ menu, it’s a popular spot for families.
- The Shed: This iconic restaurant offers Southwestern cuisine in a historic adobe building. While not specifically a kids’ restaurant, they have a children’s menu and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Cowgirl BBQ: This lively restaurant features barbecue classics, live music, and a spacious outdoor patio with a playground. Kids will love the casual atmosphere and the chance to run around.
- Chocolate Maven: This bakery and cafe is a sweet tooth’s paradise. Indulge in pastries, cakes, and other treats and a full brunch menu while your kid’s are captivated watching the bakery action through the glass window.
Tips for Visiting Santa Fe with Kids:
- Plan Ahead: Research kid-friendly activities and restaurants before your trip to make sure you have a well-rounded itinerary.
- Pack Appropriately: Santa Fe’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for anything from sunshine to rain.
- Bring a Stroller or Carrier: If you have young children, a stroller or carrier will be essential for exploring the city’s historic plazas and uneven sidewalks.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Santa Fe is full of surprises, so be open to spontaneous adventures and new experiences.
With a little planning, Santa Fe can be a wonderful destination for families. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, this unique city offers something for everyone to enjoy.