Getting to Santa Fe County

Whether you’re soaring into our local airport, taking a scenic train ride from Albuquerque, or embarking on a classic Southwest road trip, getting to Santa Fe County is part of the adventure. Here is everything you need to know to plan your journey.

Flying into Santa Fe (SAF)

For the ultimate convenience, fly directly into the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF). Located just 15 minutes from downtown, this charming terminal offers a stress-free alternative to larger hubs.

• Airlines: Served by American Airlines, United Airlines, and JSX.

• Direct Connections: Enjoy daily non-stop flights from major hubs including:

  • Dallas (DFW & DAL)
  • Phoenix (PHX)
  • Denver (DEN)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)

On-Site Amenities: Rental cars (Avis, Budget, and Hertz) are available on-site, along with rideshare pick-up zones for Uber and Lyft.

Arriving via Albuquerque (ABQ)

Many travelers choose to fly into the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), located about 65 miles south of Santa Fe County. From there, you have several easy ways to get here:

Rental Cars

The Albuquerque Sunport hosts all major rental car agencies. The drive to Santa Fe County is a straightforward 60-minute trip north on I-25, offering beautiful views of the mountains and the high desert.

Public Transit: The Rail Runner Express

For a scenic and affordable journey, take the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter train.

• How to catch it: Take a quick shuttle or rideshare from the Sunport to the Alvarado Transportation Center in downtown Albuquerque.
• The Experience: Enjoy a 90-minute relaxing ride.
• Arrival: The train stops at the Santa Fe Depot in the heart of the Railyard District, within walking distance of the Plaza.

Uber, Lyft & Taxis

Rideshare services and traditional taxis are readily available at the Sunport.

Pro Tip: While convenient, rideshare fares to Santa Fe typically range from $85–$120 depending on the time of day. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Rail Runner or a pre-booked shuttle. Shuttles can usually be arranged with your hotel.

Driving to Santa Fe County

Santa Fe County is a premier road trip destination, centrally located in the Southwest. For those setting out by car, here are the estimated driving distances and times from these cities across the region.

Arrival via Train

Traveling to Santa Fe County by rail is a scenic and relaxed option via Amtrak. The Amtrack station to Santa Fe County is located in Lamy, New Mexico about 18 miles of downtown. From Lamy, visitors can connect to Santa Fe County via prebooked shuttle services on the RoadRunner Shuttle or local taxis, with a drive time of approximately 25–30 minutes. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief line provides service to Lamy from major cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Albuquerque, making it a convenient option for travelers seeking a more leisurely journey through the Southwest’s dramatic landscapes.

Alternatively, you can take Amtrack to Albuquerque, New Mexico and transfer to the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter train, which will drop off at the Santa Fe Depot located in the Railyards district about 1 mile from downtown.

Both routes offer a unique way to experience the region, with wide-open desert views and a slower pace that complements the spirit of Santa Fe.

Once You’re Here

Once you arrive, getting around is easy!

• Santa Fe Pick-Up: The free downtown shuttle connects the Historic Plaza, the Railyard, and Canyon Road.
• Walkability: Downtown Santa Fe is highly walkable, with world-class museums, galleries, and dining all clustered near the center of town.
• NCRTD "Blue Bus" Provides free regional bus service to surrounding communities like Taos, Chimayó, and Los Alamos. 
• NMDOT Park and Ride This is a great way to save money and connect with areas throughout Northern New Mexico.

Scenic Routes to Consider

If you’re arriving by vehicle, there are several scenic routes that highlight the unique character of Northern New Mexico.

The Historical Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

Travel between Albuquerque and Santa Fe along Highway 14 to pass through historic mining towns such as Madrid and Cerrillos. The Turquoise Trail Day trip

High Road to Taos

If arriving from Colorado or Northern New Mexico, this historic route offers mountain views, centuries-old churches, and traditional villages.

Original Route 66

New Mexico lays claim to two Route 66 road alignments. When the highway opened in 1926, the original route took drivers on a curved alignment north then west from Santa Rosa and into Santa Fe. There it connected with Old Pecos Trail and Old Santa Fe Trail and led to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, which seems only fitting for a state capital.  Cruise On The Fabled Route 66

Tip for Visitors: Santa Fe sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet, so visitors arriving from sea level should stay hydrated and take it easy their first day while adjusting to the altitude.