Posted in New Mexico March 20, 2017 by

Why This New Mexico Railyard Is The Best Place To Spend A Day

Since its grand reopening in 2008, Santa Fe’s Railyard has flourished as a community gathering space. From restaurants to markets and galleries, there are plenty of ways to spend a day in this funky, historic place.

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Flickr/Rennett Stowe
The Railyard first opened in 1880 and it changed our capital city immeasurably. It signaled the end of the Santa Fe Trail and the start of our tourism industry.
To this day, the Railyard remains a functional station, with the Railrunner stopping here. But now it is so much more than a spot to wait for a train.
Flickr/Christine Franck
In "Sunset Magazine," the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market was voted one of the top ten in the nation. This is partly because the food sold here is guaranteed to be locally grown by the vendors.
Tripadvisor/on_the_go_98765
On Saturday, browse this bustling market for honey, produce, bread, sweet treats, flowers, cheese, and personal care items.
Flickr/La Citta Vita
In warmer months, the market is open on additional days. For more info.
Once you’ve picked up some groceries, amble between the myriad galleries that now populate the Railyard.
Yelp/Blue Rain Gallery
Alternatively, an Artists Market forms a long, outdoor gallery on Saturday mornings (between March and December).
Facebook/Santa Fe Railyard
All the goods here, from jewelry to photographs, were created by New Mexican artists. For more info.
Flickr/La Citta Vita
Movie fans rejoiced when Violet Crown opened in the Railyard.
Yelp/Tom Hunt B.
I’ve been to movie theaters that ranged from historic and slightly tattered, to slick and state-of-the-art but this place is my all-time favorite. Violet Crown offers blockbuster and indie movies. And, you can watch them while ensconced in squishy leather seats, sipping on a glass of vino, and nibbling on gourmet pizza. While a little pricier than the average cinema, it’s totally worth it. This place is popular, so order tickets online and in advance. For more info.
For heartier dining, head to Boxcar Bar and Grill for nachos, green chile cheese fries (pictured), and fried pickles that’ll blow your mind – they’re made with local pickles from Barrio Brinery.
Yelp/Leahi M.
This gastropub meets sportsbar unexpectedly serves brunch – try the biscuits and gravy. For more info.
Yelp/Boxcar Bar and Grill
Second Street Brewery is a Railyard institution that’s been around for 20 years.
Facebook/Santa Fe Railyard
Your best bet is to order a beer flight, but if that doesn’t appeal the servers are very knowledgeable and can steer you in the right direction.
Yelp/Kent Y.
This taproom is also known for burgers; come on, who can resist an "original alien burger"?
Even without kids in tow, Railyard Park is well worth a visit.
Flickr/La Citta Vita
Finished a few years ago, it is beautifully designed and, despite the urban setting, it’s a true oasis.
Flickr/Ali Eminov

Have you been to the Santa Fe Railyard?

To plan a visit, check out the Railyard’s website or Facebook page.

If you’re interested in industrial areas that have been (or are in the process of being) revived, you’ll want to read about The Yards in Albuquerque. Go for the weekly market (between May and October), stay to admire the architecture.