Tinkertown, Sandia Crest Peak, Madrid, and Los Cerrillos Day Trip
Looking for an unforgettable day trip from Santa Fe that blends adventure, history, and charm? This itinerary is perfect for group getaways, romantic rendezvous, and friendly adventures—a journey that all ages will enjoy! Explore the best of New Mexico's Turquoise Trail with stops that showcase the area's jaw-dropping, otherworldly natural beauty, quirky art, and intriguing history.
Pack your bags, fill your water bottles, and prepare for an incredible journey through Tinkertown, Sandia Crest Peak, Madrid, and Los Cerrillos.
Start Your Day
- When to Depart: Leave Santa Fe between 8:00 and 10:00 AM to maximize your time at each stop.
- What to Bring: Light breakfast, water bottle, snacks, comfortable shoes, and a camera for photos.
Take the scenic Highway 14/Turquoise Trail South for a drive that will immerse you in stunning Southwestern landscapes.
Stop 1: Tinkertown Museum, Cedar Crest, NM
Discover a handcrafted New Mexican treasure at Tinkertown Museum, a quirky and delightful museum made with love and creativity. Open seasonally from April to October (check their website below for exact dates), this destination is a must-see for all ages. Operated with dedication by Carla Ward, Tinkertown is as charming and nostalgic as it is unique.
Visitor Tips
- Grab a Scavenger Hunt Card: Make your visit interactive by hunting for items throughout the museum.
- Bring Quarters: Vintage coin-operated exhibits will delight both kids and adults.
- Shop Local: The gift shop is packed with locally sourced treasures—perfect for birthdays and holiday shopping.
- Snap Photos: Don’t miss the whimsical outdoor photo spots!
Learn More: Tinkertown Museum
Stop 2: Sandia Crest Peak
Next, ascend to the peak of the Sandia Mountains for breathtaking views of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscapes. Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, the Sandia Crest offers something memorable for every traveler!
What to Do
- Take in the panoramic views from the lookout point, accessible via handicap-friendly ramps.
- Walk around the parking area and enjoy a snack while taking in the scenery.
- Explore the hiking trails if time permits.
- Be prepared to pay a parking fee at the self-serve kiosk.
Bonus Tip: Keep your camera handy—the vistas are picture-perfect year-round.
Learn More: Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands - Sandia Mountains
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Stop 3: Madrid, NM
Step into a fascinating former coal mining town full of character and charm. Madrid gained fame as the filming location for the 2007 movie Wild Hogs and is now a hub for art, food, and entertainment.
What to Do
- Park at Connie’s Photo Park: Make a small donation and take fun, quirky pictures with the park’s creative props.
- Stroll and Shop: Walk along Madrid’s main street, exploring galleries, shopping the boutiques, and enjoying the cafes.
- Lunch at the Mineshaft Tavern: Don’t miss the MadChile Burger—a local favorite! Enjoy live music and artwork by Tinkertown’s Ross Ward.
Learn More: Visit Madrid, NM
Stop 4: Los Cerrillos, NM
End your day with a visit to this historic turquoise mining town. Los Cerrillos feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the magic of the Old Southwest.
What to Do
- Visit the Casa Grande Trading Post, Petting Zoo & Cerrillos Turquoise Mining Museum. Explore the trading post, meet the animals, and view scenic scopes highlighting the stunning landscapes.
- Stroll through the quiet streets and take in the historic charm of this unique ghost town.
Learn More: Cerrillos New Mexico Ghost Town
Wrap Up Your Adventure
After your return to Santa Fe, kick back and stream Wild Hogs or catch a few episodes of Dark Winds to see Madrid and Los Cerrillos on screen. It’s the perfect way to relive the magic of your day trip.
Why Choose Santa Fe for Your Next Getaway?
At A Vacation Different, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a place to stay—we deliver unforgettable local experiences. Our guests gain insider access to Santa Fe’s best-kept secrets, from must-visit restaurants and family-friendly activities to breathtaking outdoor excursions. Here, we’ve done the planning for you, so all you need to do is relax and create lifelong memories while immersing yourself in Santa Fe’s magic!
Special Thanks: A warm New Mexico thank you to AVD's very own Ursula-Luchetti Jordan, an Abiquiu, NM native and talented jewelry artisan, for curating this local itinerary! Her insider knowledge and passion for the region brought this adventure to life.
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