Whether you are looking for a secluded spot to relax or simply a quiet space to enjoy the outdoors there are lots of options in Santa Fe. The City Different enjoys 320 days of sunshine a year, all four seasons, brilliant blue skies and some of the purest air in the world. Here are some of the best places to relax within the Santa Fe’s historic downtown area. You might even want to have a picnic!

Federal Courthouse Building Park  

We call it the “park with no name” but others know it as the park next to the Santiago E. Campos United States Courthouse building on Federal Place. You’ll find peace and quiet here and a wonderful view of the Scottish Rite Temple. You’ll also find picnic tables here for that impromptu picnic with food you picked up from a downtown eatery (The Beestro and it’s paninis, soups and saladas is a just short walk away) . Concerts sometimes take place on the lawns in the summer months, but many come here for a quick retreat and to enjoy its meditative surroundings.

Bring a lunch in from The Beestro to compliment your urban picnic.

Bring a lunch in from The Beestro to compliment your urban picnic.

Harvey Cornell Rose Park

Harvey Cornell Park (named for the landscape architect) is also known lovingly by Santa Fean’s as the “Rose Park”. A long-time Santa Fe favorite, this park is used for a range of activies, from wedding photography to touch football games. I love that you can find a beautiful rose garden, picnic tables, BBQ grills, grass and trees—all close to downtown. The park is located 1315 Galisteo Parkway and is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily . Just a short walking distance is BODY Café where you can order a takeout lunch and take it to the park.

 

Locals simply adore the “Rose Park”. Courtesy of Steve Collins Locals simply adore the “Rose Park”. Courtesy of Steve Collins

Railyard Park

The beautiful ten acre Railyard Park offers plenty of room for everybody to have fun. Featuring a children’s play area, unique Railway Gardens and Circular Ramada rose garden, this park is great to stroll, relax, and explore. The park is the green heart of The Railyard and an educational and recreational resource for the City.

If your group includes 20 people or more, a permit is required to use any area of The Railyard Park. If your group is smaller, you can still reserve an area for your convenience, but it is not required. The large and three small picnic areas provide tables, seating and barbecue grills. This spot is ideal for family reunions, birthday partys or class get-togethers. Various events take place at the Santa Fe Railyard. Be sure to visit their site for a calendar of events. Before you head out, grab a fresh juice at Modern General.

The Railyard Park offers a little bit of everything to everyone. Courtesy Branden Klayko

The Railyard Park offers a little bit of everything to everyone. Courtesy Branden Klayko

Santa Fe River Park

Condé Nast recently named the Santa Fe River Walk as one of Top Ten Great American River  Walks in the United States. Take a leisurely stroll and you’ll see why. Just minutes from the Santa Fe Plaza, the walk runs under the shade of the trees along Alameda St. You are very close to Canyon Road and I would suggest to walk over to The Teaouse and grab your favorite tea at the top of Canyon Road. The best place to find a picnic table is between Don Gaspar and Delgado Street.

The Railyard Park offers a little bit of everything to everyone. Courtesy Branden Klayko

Find a picnic bench and enjoy your surroundings at the Santa Fe River Park.

 

If you love to relax in great outdoor settings, then Santa Fe, New Mexico is the perfect place for you. It's a rare treat to find such an abundance of relaxing locales tucked in our vibrant cultural city. Visit us for more information to plan your next relaxed outdoor outing. And while you’re at it, order your copy of the 2015 official guide!