The best things to do in Santa Fe

30 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

Browse another shelf: all of Santa Fe’s best · Restaurants · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Beauty · Shopping · Bakeries & Sweets · Nightlife · Arts & Culture · Home & Garden · Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · Health & Wellness · Pets · Sporting Goods · Cafes · Services

Pinned in Santa Fe today

This spot is open today.

Two pinned places a day in Santa Fe — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. List your business →

Paid placements are always marked.

Entertainment · 30 places · showing the latest additions first

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want an excuse to walk on real grass, Santa Fe Country Club offers a semi-private, 7,100+…

4360 Country Club Rd · ✓ checked Jul 29

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want an excuse to walk on real grass, Santa Fe Country Club offers a semi-private, 7,100+ yard parkland course with wide fairways, multiple tees, and a driving range for all skill levels.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 4, 2026

Website ↗

Flix Brewhouse

Entertainment

Flix Brewhouse is serving first-run films with push-button, seat-side service, a crave-worthy menu, and beer brewed right at the theater.…

12921 Indian School Rd NE (Albuquerque) · ✓ checked Jul 30

Flix Brewhouse is serving first-run films with push-button, seat-side service, a crave-worthy menu, and beer brewed right at the theater. Grab a juicy burger, hand-tossed pizza, vegan-friendly bites, or something sweet while sipping a Nebulas Hazy IPA or Luna Rosa Raspberry Wheat. Albuquerque weekends, solved.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 12, 2026

Website ↗

Whether you swing, saddle, or stretch, The Club at Las Campanas dials up Santa Fe life this week with two Jack Nicklaus Signature courses,…

132 Clubhouse Dr

Whether you swing, saddle, or stretch, The Club at Las Campanas dials up Santa Fe life this week with two Jack Nicklaus Signature courses, a full-on Fitness & Wellness Center and Spa, one of the finest equestrian facilities in the Southwest, plus dining from Hacienda elegance to breezy patios.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 30, 2026

Website ↗

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

4901 Pan American Fwy NE (Albuquerque)

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Website ↗
Run a Santa Fe business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

Trade another errand for fresh air at The Canyon Club at Four Hills. Expect well-kept golf, racquet sports, and a full lineup of family…

911 4 Hills Rd SE (Albuquerque)

Trade another errand for fresh air at The Canyon Club at Four Hills. Expect well-kept golf, racquet sports, and a full lineup of family activities, including PGA Junior Golf, so even the kids get a win this week.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 23, 2026

Website ↗

Paradise Hills Golf Course delivers Sandia views and a legit test for every skill level, whether you’re sneaking in 9, committing to 18, or…

10035 Country Club Ln NW (Albuquerque)

Paradise Hills Golf Course delivers Sandia views and a legit test for every skill level, whether you’re sneaking in 9, committing to 18, or just working the driving range this week. Grab a lesson from their PGA pros, then celebrate at The Office Bar & Grill because practice deserves fries.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 11, 2026

Website ↗

Icon Cinemas San Mateo ABQ nails the cozy-night-out vibe with plush reclining seats, a self-serve snack bar, and glorious free refills on…

4591 San Mateo Blvd NE (Albuquerque)

Icon Cinemas San Mateo ABQ nails the cozy-night-out vibe with plush reclining seats, a self-serve snack bar, and glorious free refills on popcorn and drinks. Easy drive for Rio Rancho folks, and perfect for last‑minute plans or big-release weekends.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 6, 2026

Website ↗

University of New Mexico Championship Golf Course pairs big-time pedigree with public access, plus a driving range, practice greens,…

3601 University Blvd SE (Albuquerque)

University of New Mexico Championship Golf Course pairs big-time pedigree with public access, plus a driving range, practice greens, lessons and a well-stocked pro shop. Recently tagged #2 in New Mexico by Golfweek (2025) and #18 campus course by Golfweek (2022), it keeps locals honest... grab a bite at the Lobo Grill.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 15, 2026

Website ↗

Cliff's Amusement Park has been Albuquerque's go-to for over 60 years, mixing legit thrill rides, classic family spinners, Kiddyland for…

4800 Osuna Rd NE (Albuquerque)

Cliff's Amusement Park has been Albuquerque's go-to for over 60 years, mixing legit thrill rides, classic family spinners, Kiddyland for tiny daredevils, and Watermania when the temps spike. Grab friends, ride Rocky Mountain Rapids, cool off, then reset on the Carousel for another laugh lap.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, September 20, 2026

Website ↗

Looking to tune up your swing this week, Las Campanas Sunrise Course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature layout with smooth bentgrass, five tee…

132 Clubhouse Dr

Looking to tune up your swing this week, Las Campanas Sunrise Course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature layout with smooth bentgrass, five tee sets and big mountain views at 7,000 feet. Hit the 19-acre practice facility or the techy Performance Center with TrackMan and SAM PuttLab.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 14, 2026

Website ↗

Santa Fe Railyard Arts District pulls together Santa Fe’s leading contemporary galleries and museums, even snagging a USA Today 10 Best…

544 S Guadalupe St

Santa Fe Railyard Arts District pulls together Santa Fe’s leading contemporary galleries and museums, even snagging a USA Today 10 Best nod. Stroll the Last Friday Art Walk or Free Fridays at SITE Santa Fe and Vladem Contemporary, then let Blue Rain, Tai Modern, and friends reset your creative brain.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 16, 2026

Website ↗

Putts N Pints

Entertainment

Albuquerque’s classic putt-putt is coming back as Putts N Pints with three outdoor courses, elevated food and drinks, a retro arcade,…

5100 San Mateo Blvd NE (Albuquerque)

Albuquerque’s classic putt-putt is coming back as Putts N Pints with three outdoor courses, elevated food and drinks, a retro arcade, virtual golf, and a party room that actually feels like a party. Keep an eye out this week, join their Putts Points club and get first dibs on opening events.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, August 19, 2026

Website ↗

Hinkle Fun Center

Entertainment

When the kids are climbing the walls, Hinkle Fun Center delivers with go karts, mini golf, laser tag, XD Dark Ride, Star Wars VR, and the…

12931 Indian School Rd NE (Albuquerque)

When the kids are climbing the walls, Hinkle Fun Center delivers with go karts, mini golf, laser tag, XD Dark Ride, Star Wars VR, and the new Hammered Drop Tower, plus two game rooms and prizes. Great for birthdays or just letting everyone burn off some Albuquerque energy.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 1, 2026

Website ↗

Sky Cinemas Midtown

Entertainment

Built on an old soundstage, Sky Cinemas Midtown programs the latest global, indie, and art house films, plus Q&As and special events that…

1020 Midtown Calle Central

Built on an old soundstage, Sky Cinemas Midtown programs the latest global, indie, and art house films, plus Q&As and special events that actually feel special. Pro tip, find La Rana Coffee on site, so a good espresso and a good movie can be the same plan.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

Skip the doomscroll and catch something on the big screen at Sky Cinemas Railyard. The Railyard spot pairs a neighborhood cinema vibe with…

1606 Alcaldesa St

Skip the doomscroll and catch something on the big screen at Sky Cinemas Railyard. The Railyard spot pairs a neighborhood cinema vibe with a cafe pouring beer and wine, so you can make it a low-key date night or a treat-yourself midweek escape.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 26, 2026

Website ↗

Executive-length course featuring a banquet hall, known for its food and service.

9717 Copper Ave NE (Albuquerque)

Executive-length course featuring a banquet hall, known for its food and service.

Website ↗

Ladera Golf Course

Entertainment

Ladera Golf Course brings Westside golf vibes with 27 holes across two tracks, an 18-hole disc golf course, PGA-instructor lessons, and a…

3401 Ladera Dr NW (Albuquerque)

Ladera Golf Course brings Westside golf vibes with 27 holes across two tracks, an 18-hole disc golf course, PGA-instructor lessons, and a renovated bar and grill slinging New Mexican eats with Thirsty Thursday live music. Bonus trivia, it was once Notah Begay III’s home course.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 4, 2026

Website ↗

Albuquerque Country Club blends 1914 charm with modern perks like a classic 18-hole park-style golf course, four newly resurfaced tennis…

601 Laguna Blvd SW (Albuquerque)

Albuquerque Country Club blends 1914 charm with modern perks like a classic 18-hole park-style golf course, four newly resurfaced tennis courts, a 25-meter Junior Olympic pool, and Chef Scott Neuman’s seasonal menus. If you want a welcoming private club vibe with real community, put it on your list this week.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 18, 2026

Website ↗

University of New Mexico North Golf Course is the locals’ “hidden gem,” a shady, tree-lined 9-hole track where you can squeeze in a quick…

2201 Tucker Ave NE (Albuquerque)

University of New Mexico North Golf Course is the locals’ “hidden gem,” a shady, tree-lined 9-hole track where you can squeeze in a quick loop after work. Built in 1942 and once hosting legends like Arnold Palmer and Babe Zaharias, it still delivers tight fairways, classic vibes, and sneaky challenge.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, August 22, 2026

Website ↗

Commissioned by New Mexico United and created by New Mexican artist Jodie Herrera, the "Her Strength" Mural celebrates the female fan base…

141 5th St NW (Albuquerque)

Commissioned by New Mexico United and created by New Mexican artist Jodie Herrera, the "Her Strength" Mural celebrates the female fan base and representation in sports, centering a woman of color that reflects our community. Swing by for a quick hit of pride, color, and ABQ spirit.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 8, 2026

Website ↗

This week, Flix Brewhouse Albuquerque Coors serves first-run films with push-button, at-your-seat dining, so you can crush juicy burgers,…

B, 3236 La Orilla Rd NW #1 (Albuquerque)

This week, Flix Brewhouse Albuquerque Coors serves first-run films with push-button, at-your-seat dining, so you can crush juicy burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, wings, and sweet treats without missing a scene. They also brew beer in-house, including Nebulas Hazy IPA, Luna Rosa Raspberry Wheat, and seasonal selections.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, August 27, 2026

Website ↗

Quail Run Golf Course is a PGA-rated, private nine-hole wrapped in Northern New Mexico views, a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.…

3101 Old Pecos Trail

Quail Run Golf Course is a PGA-rated, private nine-hole wrapped in Northern New Mexico views, a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Tune up this week with lessons and clinics from Golf Pro Drew Shurbet, explore the Golf Lab, then find your people in the Men's and Women's Golf Associations.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, August 17, 2026

Website ↗

Sandia Golf Club

Entertainment

If your short game needs therapy or you just want an excuse to stare at the Sandias, Sandia Golf Club delivers a Scott Miller designed…

30 Rainbow Rd (Albuquerque)

If your short game needs therapy or you just want an excuse to stare at the Sandias, Sandia Golf Club delivers a Scott Miller designed par-72 that’s the longest in New Mexico, plus a legit practice range, PGA instruction, and the Sandia Grille for post-round celebrations.

From the Rio Rancho newsletter, August 28, 2026

Website ↗

Guild Cinema

Entertainment

Compact, retro-inspired theater screening limited release, international & art-house flicks.

3405 Central Ave NE (Albuquerque)

Compact, retro-inspired theater screening limited release, international & art-house flicks.

Website ↗

Icon Cinemas

Entertainment

Icon Cinemas nails the little things locals actually care about, with roomy recliners, squeaky-clean bathrooms, and a lobby arcade that…

13120 Central Ave SE (Albuquerque)

Icon Cinemas nails the little things locals actually care about, with roomy recliners, squeaky-clean bathrooms, and a lobby arcade that keeps kids busy while you inhale popcorn. Skip the hassle with the app or Quick TIX, snag loyalty rewards, and pick 4 Hills or San Mateo for a low-stress, high-comfort watch.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 6, 2026

Website ↗

Cool Springz

Entertainment

Cool Springz packs a ton into one roof with trampolines, laser tag, a ninja course, climbing walls, dodgeball, and an arcade for the…

5205 San Mateo Blvd NE (Albuquerque)

Cool Springz packs a ton into one roof with trampolines, laser tag, a ninja course, climbing walls, dodgeball, and an arcade for the high-score hunters. Little ones have their own space, and Jumpin' Jax Cafe handles pizza, slushies, and cotton candy.

Website ↗

Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.

3930 Pan American Fwy NE (Albuquerque)

Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.

Website ↗

Winrock Town Center

Entertainment

Winrock Town Center is that rare spot where you can catch a movie, crush a few arcade games, then wander into local markets, free concerts,…

2100 Louisiana Blvd NE #51 (Albuquerque)

Winrock Town Center is that rare spot where you can catch a movie, crush a few arcade games, then wander into local markets, free concerts, and Wednesday yoga without leaving the neighborhood. The mix of national shops, indie finds, and The Campground’s food trucks makes spontaneous weeknights dangerously easy.

From the Albuquerque newsletter, September 12, 2026

Website ↗

Jean Cocteau Cinema

Entertainment

Jean Cocteau Cinema keeps it delightfully local in the Railyard District with nostalgic films, live performances, and music, plus a Lobby…

418 Montezuma Ave

Jean Cocteau Cinema keeps it delightfully local in the Railyard District with nostalgic films, live performances, and music, plus a Lobby Bar slinging craft cocktails, beer, and themed weekend drinks. R. Martin, this indie art house is a reliable cure for a dull weeknight.

From the Santa Fe newsletter, September 9, 2026

Website ↗

Listed here?

You’ve earned the mark — get the BaseLocal’s Best badge for your site →. Want in? List your business →