New Mexico

16 Apr 2025

Edit

Save

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

1
Santa Fe Plaza
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
2
Bandelier National Monument
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
3
Albuquerque Old Town
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
4
El Malpais National Monument
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
5
Petrified Forest National Park
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
6
Meteor Crater
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
7
Flagstaff
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
8
Hoover Dam
Remove Edit Reorder
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.
9
Las Vegas Strip
Remove Edit Reorder
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.

Restaurants

The Shed, Santa Fe, NM
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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.
The Range Cafe
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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
The Blue Window Bistro
Remove
Edit
Reorder
4.5
$$$$
The Blue Window Bistro
Located in Los Alamos, this creative bistro offers a diverse menu with unique twists on classic dishes, highlighting locally sourced ingredients in a charming setting.
4.5
$$$$
El Rancho Hotel and Motel
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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
Pine Country Restaurant, Williams, AZ
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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.

Hotels

The El Rey Court - Santa Fe, New Mexico
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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.
Hotel Luna Mystica
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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
Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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
La Posada Hotel (Winslow, Arizona)
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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
The Venetian Resort
Remove
Edit
Reorder
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.

Local Events & Happenings

Mike Pinto
Mike Pinto
The event will take place at The Museum Club in Flagstaff.
The Museum Club in Flagstaff (78.76 mi)
20 Oct 2025
Visit Website
Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters
Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters
The event will take place at Yucca North in Flagstaff.
Yucca North in Flagstaff (99.56 mi)
26 Oct 2025
Visit Website

Flagstaff International Film Festival
Flagstaff International Film Festival
The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
N/A
Visit Website
Michael Franti & Spearhead
Michael Franti & Spearhead
The event will take place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff.
Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
22 Aug 2025
Visit Website
Dub and Down With The Blues
Dub and Down With The Blues
The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
23 Aug 2025
Visit Website
Ruta Verbena
Ruta Verbena
The event will take place at Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff.
Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
24 Aug 2025
Visit Website
Sam Barber
Sam Barber
The event will take place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff.
Pepsi Amphitheater in Flagstaff (100.42 mi)
28 Aug 2025
Visit Website