Ultimate 7-Day California to New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary Itinerary

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Grove Cafe & Market, offering a menu of fresh, local ingredients. Then, take a stroll through the heart of Santa Fe and explore the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the center of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, indulge in the innovative Southwestern cuisine at SantaCafe, known for its fusion of flavors. Afterward, visit the iconic Loretto Chapel with its miraculous staircase and explore the interactive exhibits at the Museum of International Folk Art.

As the day winds down, enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Geronimo, set in a 1756 adobe house. Cap off the evening with a memorable performance at the world-renowned Santa Fe Opera House (seasonal), nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Kick off your morning with an unforgettable Albuquerque Rio Grande Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride, where you'll witness the stunning New Mexico landscape from above. After landing, enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina, known for its traditional New Mexican cuisine.

Visit the Albuquerque Turquoise Museum and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this unique gemstone. For lunch, savor the flavors of the Southwest at Flying Star Cafe - Downtown Albuquerque, a local favorite.

Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic Old Town Albuquerque, exploring the adobe buildings, vibrant shops, and galleries. For dinner, enjoy the eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere at Nexus Brewery and Restaurant - Silver.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Scalo Northern Italian Grill, offering a blend of traditional and innovative dishes. Then, embark on the Los Lunas Decalogue Stone, an intriguing scavenger hunt to uncover the mystery of this ancient artifact.

After working up an appetite, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Slate Street Cafe, known for its relaxed ambiance and diverse menu. Spend your afternoon exploring the Petroglyph National Monument, where ancient rock art and stunning landscapes await.

Conclude your day with a romantic dinner at Artichoke Cafe, offering contemporary cuisine in an elegant setting. As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll through the Albuquerque BioPark Botanic Garden, where colorful flowers and exotic plants create a magical atmosphere.

Begin with a delightful breakfast at The Shop Breakfast and Lunch, known for its cozy atmosphere and creative menu. Then, embark on the Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game, which will take you through hidden gems and iconic landmarks of the city.

For lunch, enjoy the casual elegance of Trombino's Bistro Italiano and indulge in authentic Italian flavors. Spend your afternoon at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, where you can explore the rich heritage of New Mexico's 19 Pueblos through exhibits, live demonstrations, and a traditional Pueblo oven.

As the day winds down, experience the vibrant flavors of Pueblo Harvest, specializing in traditional and contemporary Pueblo cuisine. Cap off the evening with a visit to the Albuquerque Balloon Museum, where you can witness the history, science, and art of ballooning in a state known for its annual International Balloon Fiesta.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Feel Good cafe, offering a menu of healthy and satisfying options. Then, embark on the Albuquerque’s Timeless Wonders From Plazas to Museums}, exploring the city's iconic plazas, historic sites, and world-class museums at your own pace.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Tucanos Brazilian Grill, where the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine and the interactive dining experience will transport you to the tropics. Afterward, visit the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the history, science, and art of ballooning and aviation.

For dinner, savor the innovative dishes and sophisticated ambiance of The Artichoke Cafe, a local favorite for contemporary American cuisine. Cap off the evening with a visit to Vernon's Hidden Valley Steakhouse, a speakeasy-style restaurant known for its impeccable service and extensive wine list.

Start with a delicious breakfast at Farm & Table, known for its seasonal menu sourced from local farmers. Then, set out on the Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt, a fun and interactive way to explore the city's hidden treasures and vibrant culture.

For lunch, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and fresh, innovative dishes at Seasons Rotisserie & Grill. Afterward, take a journey through time at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, where state-of-the-art exhibits bring the prehistoric past and the scientific wonders of the universe to life.

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Indigo Crow, offering a blend of Southwestern, New American, and global flavors in a sophisticated setting. Reflect on your journey over a cocktail at The Salt Yard, a popular spot for craft drinks and a vibrant social scene.