I'm going to be vacationing this summer in Santa Fe.

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I would love to have your recommendations on the best stuff to do and the best places to eat. What is on your "must do" list? I was there a few years ago for a short visit and just fell in love! I will be there for a whole week and will be able to go to the Indian Market. Any advice or thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[YDogg]

1. The Plaza Restaurant

One of our favorites. On the plaza.
http://roadfood.com/Reviews/Writeup.aspx?ReviewID=1388&RefID=1388

Another we've enjoyed is the Guadalupe Cafe. Several blocks from the plaza on Old Santa Fe Trail, I think.

Just don't eat at any chain. You can do that anywhere. :)

The Loretto Chapel. St. Francis Cathedral. Any museum. Galleries. The Santa Fe Opera.

[slestak]

2. Where are you staying?

I would advise you, if possible, to stay close to the Plaza. Driving in Santa Fe is horrible. Staying near the Plaza means you can walk to tons of great places.

It can be pricey to stay down there, but I think that Santa Fe is best explored on foot.

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3. We are staying at the El Dorado.

So we will be in the right spot. :)

[slestak]

5. Niiiiiiiice!

If you love margaritas, you gotta go to Maria's.

http://www.marias-santafe.com/

I spent a few days there just a few weeks ago. There are TONS of great places to eat, but all of them except one place had pretty bad service. That place was Rio Chama.

Anyway, down on the Plaza, you'll have a good time, there are tons of galleries and shops to check out. That's the cool thing about Santa Fe -- all the nooks and crannies that hide all these tiny places with the coolest stuff.

Have fun!!

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7. My sister's paying!

So nothing but the best! Thanks for the ideas. :)

[TygrBright]

4. Farmers' & Artists' Market on Saturday mornings...

Also, go up to Museum Hill and buy a combo admission to Folk Art and Indian Art and Spanish Colonial Art. See 'em all, they're fun. Have a cool drink at the little restaurant and enjoy the gorgeous gardens.

Later on, back downtown, play "Find the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum," a fun game we put together to keep tourists on their toes. (Hint: If you see people hanging around what looks like a bus station, you're close!)

Fabulous Italian food at Andiamo in the Guadalupe district, then stroll over to Gelato Benissimo for the best dessert (if you like cold tasty stuff) in town.

Hump out Cerillos Road to the Horsemens Haven for REAL New Mexico food. Treat that salsa with RESPECT, hijo/hija!

Day trips: DEFINITELY make time for a trip (maybe even a weekend!) to the spa at Ojo Caliente. Taos: Go midweek. Call ahead to the Pueblo and ask about visiting. They're friendly! Wander out 14 to Madrid just for an excuse to see the scenery and visit the funky little roadside museums and shops.

Flea Market at Pojoaque on Saturday afternoon, but bring a BIG water bottle!

Don't miss breakfast at the Chocolate Maven and be sure to grab a burger with green chile at the Second Street Brewery. Pick up a loaf of bread or some pastries for later at Cloud Cliff Bakery.

Blues at Willie's in the Guadalupe District (maybe after that Italian dinner and gelato dessert?)

Best gallery: Feral

Best shopping for souvenirs to bring the folks back at home: Jackalope

If you like murals, Santa Fe is a feast-- bring your camera. Everything from the weird to the sublime, and any number of odd little yard arts and home decorations, especially out Agua Fria way.

helpfully,
Bright

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6. Thanks!

I am writing all of this down! :)