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AI-Magellan
16 Apr 2025
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Santa Fe to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

Santa Fe to Las Vegas Road Trip Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Santa Fe to Las Vegas, exploring a vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage, natural wonders, and iconic landmarks. Start your adventure at the historic Santa Fe Plaza, where the fusion of Native American and Spanish colonial influences creates a unique atmosphere. As you travel south, discover the ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans.

Continue to the charming streets of Albuquerque Old Town, where history comes alive through its preserved adobe structures and local crafts. Venture further to El Malpais National Monument, with its captivating volcanic landscapes, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The surreal beauty of Petrified Forest National Park awaits, boasting colorful badlands and ancient petrified wood formations.

Marvel at Meteor Crater, a fascinating reminder of Earth's cosmic encounters, before arriving in Flagstaff, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and stargazers alike. Experience the engineering marvel of Hoover Dam, with its awe-inspiring views and historical significance. Finally, culminate your journey on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, where the city's exuberant energy, luxury, and entertainment promise an unforgettable finale to your road trip adventure.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Santa Fe Plaza

    Santa Fe Plaza is the historic heart of Santa Fe, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage with its charming adobe architecture, vibrant art scene, and bustling markets. It's a perfect place to start exploring Santa Fe's unique blend of Native American and Spanish colonial influences.
    Santa Fe Plaza
    Santa Fe Plaza
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    Santa Fe Plaza
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    Santa Fe Plaza
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Bandelier National Monument

    Bandelier National Monument is a stunning natural landscape that features archaeological sites and ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, witness beautiful canyons, and learn about the area's fascinating history.
    Bandelier National Monument
    Bandelier National Monument
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    Bandelier National Monument
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    Bandelier National Monument
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    Bandelier National Monument
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    Bandelier National Monument
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Albuquerque Old Town

    Albuquerque Old Town offers a step back in time with its preserved adobe buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops. It's rich in history and culture, providing visitors with a taste of New Mexico's vibrant traditions and a variety of local arts and crafts.
    Albuquerque Old Town
    Albuquerque Old Town
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    Albuquerque Old Town
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    Albuquerque Old Town
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    Albuquerque Old Town
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    Albuquerque Old Town
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    El Malpais National Monument

    El Malpais National Monument boasts a dramatic landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. It's a paradise for adventure seekers with its unique lava flows, cinder cones, and diverse geological formations. Visitors can explore its rugged terrain through hiking, caving, and marvel at the beautiful natural arch formations.
    El Malpais National Monument
    El Malpais National Monument
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    El Malpais National Monument
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    El Malpais National Monument
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    El Malpais National Monument
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Petrified Forest National Park

    Petrified Forest National Park is famous for its extensive deposits of petrified wood dating back millions of years. It's a surreal landscape that offers colorful badlands, ancient fossils, and the Painted Desert. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and a glimpse into Earth's ancient past.
    Petrified Forest National Park
    Petrified Forest National Park
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    Petrified Forest National Park
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    Petrified Forest National Park
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    Petrified Forest National Park
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    Petrified Forest National Park
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Meteor Crater

    Meteor Crater is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites in the world. Visitors can explore the impressive crater that provides a unique opportunity to understand the power of cosmic events. The visitor center offers informative exhibits about meteors, the crater's formation, and the science of impacts.
    Meteor Crater
    Meteor Crater
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    Meteor Crater
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    Meteor Crater
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    Meteor Crater
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    Meteor Crater
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Flagstaff

    Flagstaff is a charming city known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. It's a gateway to the Grand Canyon and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a vibrant downtown with unique shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Flagstaff is also renowned for its dark skies, making it an excellent place for stargazing.
    Flagstaff
    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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    Flagstaff
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Hoover Dam

    Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel and a testament to human ingenuity. It's one of the largest dams in the United States, offering stunning views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its fascinating construction and historical significance while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
    Hoover Dam
    Hoover Dam
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    Hoover Dam
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    Hoover Dam
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    Hoover Dam
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Las Vegas Strip

    The Las Vegas Strip is a world-renowned destination for entertainment, luxury, and nightlife. It's famous for its elaborate casinos, glamorous shows, and iconic attractions. Visitors can experience the vibrant energy of the city, indulge in fine dining, enjoy live performances, and explore the extravagant themed resorts.
    Las Vegas Strip
    Las Vegas Strip
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    Las Vegas Strip
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    Las Vegas Strip
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    Las Vegas Strip
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    Las Vegas Strip
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Shed, Santa Fe, NM

    The Shed, Santa Fe, NM

    Located in Santa Fe, The Shed is famous for its traditional New Mexican cuisine, with flavorful red and green chile dishes served in a historic adobe setting.
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    The Range Cafe

    3.7

    The Range Cafe

    This Albuquerque spot offers a quirky, eclectic vibe with an extensive menu featuring New Mexican and American favorites. It's known for its colorful decor and tasty green chile dishes.
    3.7
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    The Blue Window Bistro

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Blue Window Bistro

    Located in Los Alamos, this creative bistro offers a diverse menu with unique twists on classic dishes, highlighting locally sourced ingredients in a charming setting.
    4.5
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    El Rancho Hotel and Motel

    4.3

    El Rancho Hotel and Motel

    This historic venue in Gallup offers a touch of old Hollywood glamor with its vintage decor and famous guests, alongside classic American and Southwestern fare.
    4.3
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    Pine Country Restaurant, Williams, AZ

    Pine Country Restaurant, Williams, AZ

    In Williams, Arizona, this restaurant is known for its homemade pies and hearty comfort food, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring Route 66.
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The El Rey Court - Santa Fe, New Mexico

    The El Rey Court - Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Located in Santa Fe, this historic hotel offers a unique mix of vintage charm and modern amenities, set on a sprawling property with beautiful gardens.
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    Hotel Luna Mystica

    4.7

    Hotel Luna Mystica

    In Taos, this vintage trailer hotel offers a one-of-a-kind experience with retro-style trailers and stunning views of the Taos Mesa and Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
    4.7
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    Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa

    4.6

    Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa

    Located in Truth or Consequences, this lodge is known for its soothing hot springs and boutique accommodations, providing a rejuvenating escape.
    4.6
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    La Posada Hotel (Winslow, Arizona)

    4.8

    La Posada Hotel (Winslow, Arizona)

    Set in Winslow, Arizona, this historic hotel combines Southwestern elegance with an intriguing history, offering beautiful gardens and artwork throughout the property.
    4.8
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    The Venetian Resort

    The Venetian Resort

    Experience luxury in Las Vegas with this iconic resort featuring a replica of Venice’s attractions, complete with gondola rides and intricate architecture.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Mike Pinto

    Mike Pinto

    The event will take place at The Museum Club in Flagstaff.
    Map IconThe Museum Club in Flagstaff (78.76 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Oct 2025
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    Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters

    Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters

    The event will take place at Yucca North in Flagstaff.
    Map IconYucca North in Flagstaff (99.56 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Oct 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Flagstaff International Film Festival

    Flagstaff International Film Festival

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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  • Event Icon

    The Irie

    The Irie

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
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    Bijou

    Bijou

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Durand Jones & The Indications

    Durand Jones & The Indications

    The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
    Map IconOrpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2025
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Wyatt Flores

    Wyatt Flores

    The event will take place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff.
    Map IconPepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon17 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Whether you enjoy traveling by ... for everything related to road trips! ... Hi, I'm currently driving from FL to CA, planning on staying the night in Santa Fe tomorrow. ...

    Suggestions for a route between Santa Fe and Las Vegas?

    Whether you enjoy traveling by ... for everything related to road trips! ... Hi, I'm currently driving from FL to CA, planning on staying the night in Santa Fe tomorrow. ...

    /r/roadtrip
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    But once in las Vegas make sure to visit Montezuma and the hot springs. ... The 40 to 15 is very scenic. Just took that route from SoCal to Flagstaff. Tomorrow I punch out to ...

    Is the drive from Santa Fe to Las Vegas considered scenic?

    But once in las Vegas make sure to visit Montezuma and the hot springs. ... The 40 to 15 is very scenic. Just took that route from SoCal to Flagstaff. Tomorrow I punch out to ...

    /r/SantaFe
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    I am traveling in early November to Santa Fe NM with the intention of renting a car and taking a 7 day trip ending in Las Vegas. The first leg of

    Looking for a good spot to stop in between Santa Fe NM and Page Arizona

    I am traveling in early November to Santa Fe NM with the intention of renting a car and taking a 7 day trip ending in Las Vegas. The first leg of

    /r/Shoestring
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Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    This classic Eagles hit is perfect for road trips with its laid-back vibe and lyrics about taking things in stride.
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  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson's anthem about the joy of traveling on the road captures the spirit of adventure.
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  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Tom Cochrane's energetic tune will keep you motivated and upbeat on long stretches of highway.
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  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    This classic hit celebrates one of America's most legendary highways, highlighting the fun of road travel.
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  • Music Icon

    M83 - Midnight City

    M83 - Midnight City

    M83's song captures the feeling of driving through a city at night with its euphoric melody.
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    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    The Eagles' iconic song pairs well with the Southwest’s desert landscapes and legendary stories.
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  • Music Icon

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen's classic is about escaping and hitting the open road with a sense of urgency.
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  • Music Icon

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman's soulful ballad offers a narrative of escape and the dreams associated with travel.
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  • Music Icon

    Prince - Little Red Corvette

    Prince - Little Red Corvette

    Prince's upbeat and catchy tune pairs well with the excitement of hitting the road.
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  • Music Icon

    Green Day - American Idiot

    Green Day - American Idiot

    Simon & Garfunkel's song evokes a sense of discovery and the vastness of the American landscape.
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