Summer Guide 2013

Here at SFR, we love summer.
The endless daylight makes us feel like 11-hour workdays are totally normal; the sunshine gives our pale, computer-tethered faces the barest hint of health; and iced coffee offers a welcome change of pace. This year, in fact, we got so excited about summer that we counted the days. There are 93, which means 93 opportunities for day trips, hikes, swimming, flying, eating, drinking and lounging in the sun. And just in case 93 ideas for living summer to the fullest don’t immediately come to mind, we’ve made you a handy list of the 93 don’t-miss summertime activities. Follow this guide, and we guarantee that from Friday, June 21 until Saturday, Sept. 21, you’ll have the best Santa Fe summer of your life. How’s that for results?
—Alexa Schirtzinger

1. Become an oenophile

Oenophile (n.)—a lover or connoisseur of wine. You can become that and much more right here in New Mexico, the oldest wine-growing region in the country (!), according to the New Mexico Wine Growers Association. The Santa Fe Wine Festival (July 6-7, $13) offers an excellent opportunity to try a variety of local wares; if you want even more variety, don’t miss the 25^th annual New Mexico Wine Festival in Bernalillo (Aug. 31-Sept. 2, $12). You can also sample wines right here in downtown Santa Fe, where local vineyard Vino del Corazón (235 Don Gaspar Ave., Ste. 6, 216-9469) offers tastings ($10 for four sips and a snack) Tuesdays-Sundays. New to the process? Co-owner Erica Hart will happily instruct you in the subtleties of swishing that wine around in your glass like a pro. (Alexa Schirtzinger)

2. Munch on tamales and Coke

From Acequia Madre, the shaded road that runs along Santa Fe’s mother ditch, turn up Camino Don Miguel, and treat yourself to a Mexican Coca-Cola and a “world famous tamale” at Johnnie’s Cash Store (420 Camino Don Miguel)—don’t forget the cash. (Mia Rose Carbone)

3. Make it a day at the museum

You could spend many a hot summer day in any of Santa Fe’s museums. Some local favorites to start with: New Mexico Museum of Art (107 W Palace Ave., 476-5074); Museum of International Folk Art (706 Camino Lejo, 476-1200); Museum of Indian Arts and Culture (710 Camino Lejo, 476-1250); and Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (108 Cathedral Place, 983-8900). (MRC)

4. Go rafting! (or something like that)

OK, yes, there’s a horrendous drought happening right now. But (at least up here in northern New Mexico) that doesn’t mean the entire river has run dry; quite the opposite. Low water offers its own variety of sport, often in the form of inflatable kayaks and—get this—stand-up paddleboarding. Embudo-based New Mexico River Adventures (800-983-7756) bills itself as the state’s first stand-up paddleboarding outfitter and offers beginner trips starting at $90 for a half-day. (AS)

5. Try the world’s hottest green chile (or convince your friends to)

Warning: Don’t do this too early in the summer, because it may be the best laugh you’ll have all season. Take an out-of-towner (or, if you’re a tourist, take your significant other) to Horseman’s Haven (4354 Cerrillos Road, 471-5420) and give them a taste of the highest-level (or second-highest, or third) of green chile on the menu. You’ll see what I mean. (MRC)

6. Stargaze

We desert dwellers are fortunate to have such a clear, star-smattered sky. The Santa Fe Community College Planetarium brings you that much closer to touching those mysterious and distant suns and planets. (MRC)

7. Take yourself out to the ballgame

If you read SFR, you know that Santa Fe’s indie-league baseball team, the Fuego, last year gained the dubious honor of having the worst record in the lowest-ranking professional league in the country. That hardly makes the games less fun; Fort Marcy Park’s hometown feel, surprisingly great snacks and icy local beers make it the perfect weeknight outing for you and 25 of your best friends. For a home game schedule, visit santafefuego.com. (AS)

8. Learn something new

The Santa Fe Institute (1399 Hyde Park Road, 984-8800) is a nonprofit research center where scholars from around the world come to collaborate on projects spanning a broad spectrum of disciplines. Visit santafe.edu to explore projects, programs and, best of all, the calendar of free public lectures. (MRC)

9. Open up to art

On any given Friday evening, at least one of the 100-plus galleries along historic Canyon Road plays host to an art opening and reception. Dress up for the evening; mingle with artists, art collectors and art connoisseurs; and—who knows?—maybe buy a work of art. (MRC)

10. Birdwatch

At the very top of Canyon Road—beyond the galleries, across Camino Cabra and up the hill, where the road turns dusty—is the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary (1800 Upper Canyon Road, 983-4609). Occupying 135 acres of forest and river-basin land, the Audubon Center is a sanctuary for local wildlife. Open Monday-Saturday, the sanctuary is a breathtaking place to head for a hike, to spot local birds or to sit in the beautiful garden of the historic Randall Davey home. (MRC)

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11. Play hooky

We all have a sick day or two we’ve been meaning to use, right? Don’t wait until you actually get sick; pick the prettiest day of summer, plan a little getaway, and fake it like Ferris Bueller. (This excludes SFR editorial employees.) (AS)

12. Hit the ice

Believe it or not, in this dry desert heat, there is an oasis of freezing cold: Genoveva Chavez Community Center’s ice rink (3221 Rodeo Road, 955-4033, chavezcenter.com). The Chavez Center offers more than 400 skate rentals for $3 per pair, per session. It’s cheap and chilling, so why not? (MRC)

13. Take the kids to the Children’s Museum

The Santa Fe Children’s Museum (1050 Old Santa Fe Trail, 989-8359), builds “upon a child’s natural sense of joy and discovery by cultivating habits of inquiry in the arts, sciences and humanities.” But mostly, it’s a beautiful and fun place to explore, for parents and kids alike. (MRC)

14. Live the high life

It gets packed on warm afternoons, but Coyote Rooftop Cantina (132 W Water St., 983-1615) is a must for summer. Order the popular Lava Lamp (a frozen margarita suspended in a beer, it’s surprisingly refreshing) or try one of the cantina’s signature margaritas. And, of course, indulge in some serious people-watching of the streets below. Those suckers—don’t they know the bar’s up here? (AS)

15. Play kickball

Summertime is the perfect time to get back to your inner child—and kickball is the perfect game. (Remember when that awful, smirking kid used to aim directly for your face whenever he stepped up to the mound?) Patrick Smith Park (top of East Alameda Street) has just the flat green lawn, shade and a river view for a Funday Sunday with balls, beer and brats (both kinds). (MRC)

16. Cornhole: not what you think!

Some call it corn toss, some call it bags—whatever the name, cornhole is pretty much the most awesome game ever. Santa Fe Brewing Company (35 Fire Place, 424-3333) has a setup just outside its taproom, so you can play the game the right way: beer in one hand, bag in the other. (MRC)

17. Scoot around

Scooters-for-rent have proliferated around Santa Fe, and they’re a fun and convenient way to putter about town—especially for longer walks like Canyon Road. Rent them at Mangiamo Pronto (228 Old Santa Fe Trail, 989-1904) or at the corner of Water and Shelby Streets. (AS)

18. Go fish

Santa Fe may be in a desert, but it still has rivers—and plenty of fish. High Desert Angler (460 Cerrillos Road, 988-7688), along with several other local shops, offers guided trips and fly-fishing classes. (AS)

19. Throw like a girl

Yearning to let out your inner artiste? Santa Fe Clay (545 Camino de la Familia, 984-1122) offers a series of summer workshops for the aspiring potter. From June 17-21, Linda Cordell instructs Animal Constructs: Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed porcelain figurines for all you dog- and prairie-dog-lovers out there. Tuition is $525, plus a $50 lab fee, so save your bucks! (AS)

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20. Lunch like a lady

On occasion, my friends and I do ladies’ lunches, which is generally code for having a glass of wine with our salads, and there’s no better spot for it than the magical patio at La Casa Sena (125 E Palace Ave., 988-9232), where the trickle of a fountain and the generous shade of an enormous cottonwood have the power to transport the ladies in attendance to lunchtime nirvana. Men can come, too…sometimes. (AS)

21. Explore Indian Market

One of the only times you’ll ever feel like you’re in a big city in sleepy Santa Fe is during SWAIA’s Indian Market (Aug. 12-18). In its 92^ndyear, the 2013 Indian Market anticipates an attendance of over 150,000 people from around the world to admire, buy and sell Native artwork. (MRC)

22. Dip your feet in the Rio Grande

A few weeks ago, a boy, a dog and I took a little trip to Diablo Canyon. The canyon, which is about 15 miles from Santa Fe, but a 45-minute drive on long dirt roads, is eerie and magnificent. The dark basalt walls loom overhead, dotted with the occasional rock climber and echoing the calls of various desert birds. Our destination was the Rio Grande. The trek down to the river is three miles long, but in the spring and summertime heat, walking the sandy arroyo is a challenge. The sandy routes reminded me that we live at the bottom of a dried-up sea—a thought that made me feel small and very parched. (It’s difficult to carry enough water for two people and a thirsty dog.) Toward the end of the three miles, green trees appeared in the distance. The river must be close. The Rio Grande there is glorious—a desert oasis of trees and river shrubs. We stepped into the water, which was less chilly than I’d anticipated: the power of the desert sun. We stripped and sat down in the water. The river is shallow enough that one must lie down to be completely submerged. The walk was worth every step for the cool sensation of water on our sunburned skin. Thank goodness for running rivers; they are the perfect place to dip in your toes and cool off. (MRC)

23. Catch the Waves

While there are a host of great day spas in town—and the beloved and scenic Ojo Caliente just a short drive away—Ten Thousand Waves (3451 Hyde Park Road, 982-9304) offers a true escape plan, transporting visitors to the lush, watery bliss of a Japanese onsen. Book a massage, facial or other treatment, or just relax in one of the spa’s secluded private tubs. (AS)

24. Ride the Rail Trail

With a new connection underneath busy St. Francis Drive, Santa Fe’s paved, scenic Rail Trail is the perfect place for a long (or short, if you prefer) bike ride. For a rewarding afternoon, start your ride at Second Street Brewery (1814 Second Street, 982-3030). Go as far as you want, then return the way you came—cold beer and hot burgers will be waiting for you at the end. (AS)

25. Learn to fly

Sure, the Santa Fe Airport’s direct flights are convenient for getting the hell out of Dodge in a hurry, but it’s also a destination for another reason: flight school. Sierra Aviation (474-0774, sierraflying.com) offers an $80 “discovery flight” that includes 30 minutes of instruction followed by a 30-minute flight where you’re at the controls—no experience necessary. They also do instruction for $50/hour and rent planes to already-certified pros. (AS)

26. Go barefoot in the park

Sometimes it’s important to let yourself breathe. It’s summer, it’s hot, so go commando! Or at least take off your shoes, walk on the lush, green grass at Patrick Smith Park and dip your feet in the Santa Fe River. Who knows? There might even be water in there. (MRC)

27. Tennis, anyone?

It’s called the “sport of a lifetime” because, truly, it is. Dust off the old racquets, open a new can of tennis balls, and hit the courts at Alto-Bicentennial Park (1043 Alto St.). If it’s hot, visit the nearby public pool for a swim afterwards. Hell, it’s almost like you just joined a country club. (AS)

28. Play golf (the hippie kind)

Since watering an entire golf course in the desert is, um—let’s just go with totally unsustainable—we recommend you leave the clubs at home. Instead, pick up a Frisbee, a few friends and some brews, and head out to one of Santa Fe’s many disc golf courses. Santa Fe Disc Golf just raised money to refurbish the city’s oldest course, at Ashbaugh Park; New Mexico Disc Golf (nmdiscgolf.org) hosts a list of upcoming events. (AS)

29. Go to the Santa Fe Opera

Seriously, just go. Even if you hate opera (or know nothing about it), the SFO experience is so much more—fancified tailgating, amazing views, fabulous people-watching and overall a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Oh, yeah—and if you do like opera, SFO consistently pushes the envelope in terms of talent and innovation. This year, for instance, it hosts the world premiere of Oscar, an opera about Oscar Wilde. If that doesn’t scream Santa Fe to you, maybe you took a wrong turn in Albuquerque. For season dates and tickets, visit santafeopera.org. (AS)

30. Patio sipping

Nothing says summer like a chilled cocktail sipped slowly on a sunny patio, and Secreto Bar at the Hotel St. Francis (210 Don Gaspar Ave., 983-5700) has perfected the ambiance—and the drinks. From classic cocktails to the famed smoked sage margarita, mixologist Chris Milligan is sure to mix up a craft cocktail to suit your summertime fancy. (AS)

31. Ice cream is for grown-ups, too

Actually, this particular ice cream is only for grown-ups. In a revamped cocktail menu that embraces all things summer, Coyote Café (132 W Water St., 983-1615)—the more refined cousin adjoining the Cantina of the same name—has put the talents of its mixologist and owner, Quinn Stephenson, to good use. We adore the Manhattan sorbet—a Manhattan, essentially, frozen into sorbet using liquid nitrogen ($16, available Fridays and Saturdays). It’s the perfect combination of an adult drink with the childlike delight of an ice-cream cone. The mixologist amuse bouche—cucumbers “completely inundated with salted gin” ($6)—is also not to be missed. (AS)

32. He said, she said

If you’ve never submitted an Eavesdropper (“Overheard in Santa Fe”) to the Reporter, quite frankly, you haven’t truly lived in Santa Fe. Sure, this one’s a little self-serving, but open your ears, and you’ll be shocked, awed and occasionally delighted by the weird shit you hear around here. The Plaza can be an especially fruitful listening spot. Send eavesdroppers to eavesdropper@sfreporter.com. (AS)

33. Soak up the sun

Sometimes, the sun shines so much here that we take it for granted. Don’t! Slather on the sunblock, whip out your floppy hat, and catch some vitamin D at the Railyard Park (corner of Paseo de Peralta and Cerrillos Road). There’s a pretty cool play area for kids, a beautiful garden (thanks, Railyard Stewards!) and, on weekends, farmers and artisan markets nearby. (AS)

34. …or the shade

One of our city’s unsung beauties is Federal Park (corner of Washington Ave. and Paseo de Peralta), where towering trees shade soft grass to provide the perfect weekend reading or picnicking spot. (AS)

35. Get your art on

Santa Fe’s art scene blooms in the summer. The Railyard district’s contemporary galleries offer a creative counterpoint to Canyon Road’s classic visual arts and Friday-night openings, and its cornerstone is one of our perennial favorites: SITE Santa Fe (1606 Paseo de Peralta, 989-1199, sitesantafe.org). This summer, SITE is doing what it does best: boldly going where no other galleries have gone before with The Pearl, a project by multimedia artist—though that hardly does him justice—Enrique Martínez Celaya. Celaya’s “immersive installation environment” is slated to take over SITE’s entire space starting July 13 and “includes several large and small-scale paintings, sculptures, video, waterworks and olfactory interventions.” (AS)

36. Ride ’em, cowboy!

From June 19-22, the 64^th Rodeo de Santa Fe (rodeodesantafe.org) comes to town. General admission costs $17 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors—a bargain for some of the best mutton-bustin’, rodeo-clownin’ and general cowboy-themed merriment this side of the Rio Grande. Thirsty for more? On Aug. 10-11, the Zia Regional Rodeo, sponsored by the nonprofit New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association (nmgra.com), combines the thrill of bronco riding with the good cause of equality. (AS)

37. Roll hard

If you’ve never been to a roller derby bout, well, ’tis the season to watch hardcore girls in rollerskates vie for dominance of a roller rink! Santa Fe’s own Disco Brawlers face the Albuquerque Dooms Dames on Aug. 15; for more info on upcoming bouts, visit dukecityderby.com. (AS)

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38. Jazz it up

Sometimes all that sunshine just makes you want to hole up somewhere cool and dark, right? Especially at the end of the weekend, when you’re all sunburned and exhausted from all that summer fun? Fortunately for you, The Den (downstairs at 132 W Water St., 983-1615, thedensantafe.com) hosts Speakeasy Sundays, a weekly jazz-and-cocktails night, 5:30-8 pm Sundays all summer long. Nestle into one of the lounge’s luxe sofas, order one of Coyote Café mixologist Quinn Stephenson’s inimitable cocktails, and relax to the jazzy crooning of local chanteuse Faith Amour. You’ll forget that Monday’s even coming. (AS)

39. Be proud

After the recent election of Ms. and Mr. Santa Fe Pride (love you, Bella Gigante!), the city is primed and ready for its annual Pride Parade & Festival, scheduled for June 22 and sponsored, as usual, by the local chapter of the Human Rights Alliance (santafehra.org). You don’t have to be LGBTQ (or anything else, for that matter) to have a blast dressing to the nines and coming out to celebrate equality, and the vibrant parade and ensuing festivities (Rocky Horror Picture Show, anyone?) are always fun. For more info, visit facebook.com/pages/Santa-Fe-Pride. (AS)

40. Take a pedicab ride

Although few downtown destinations are beyond walking range, opting for a bike-powered buggy can be both fun and edifying, as most Santa Fe Pedicabs (santafepedicabs.com) drivers know a lot about the City Different—and, if you’re polite (and don’t forget to tip!), they’re usually willing to enlighten you. Rides cost $1 a minute, which means getting from the Plaza to Canyon Road shouldn’t cost you more than $10. (AS)

41. Belay on

Fear of heights? No better way to conquer it than meeting the rocks head-on! The Santa Fe Climbing Center (825 Early St., 986-8944) offers youth and adult classes in its indoor climbing gym, as well as guided trips to outdoor rock-climbing destinations around New Mexico. Visit climbsantafe.com for more information. (AS)

42. Dance the night away

Santa Fe should thank its lucky stars for Rouge Cat (101 W Marcy St., 983-6603), whose frequent DJ spots and dance-all-night craziness do the heavy lifting when it comes to the city’s late-night scene. Check SFR’s calendar listings for weekly events. (AS)

43. They call me Mellow Velo…

Full disclosure: We’re a bit partial to the friendly cycling enthusiasts who share our building (and their beer), but that doesn’t cloud our judgment (much). While many other bike shops around town offer affordable rentals, service, maps and the rest, Mellow Velo (132 E Marcy St., 995-8356) will go the extra mile (heh) to send you on an adventure suited to your interests and abilities. City cruiser rentals cost $20; the Queen song stuck in your head for the rest of the day is just an added bonus. (AS)

44. Expand your taste buds

Too many locals drive down Airport Road without stopping—specifically, stopping for tacos made from weird parts of various animals (intestine, tongue, etc.). Don’t do that! Allot an afternoon to tasting the wares at Airport Road’s many taco trucks—each one has its own specialty, everything’s cheap, and they’re almost all delicious. (AS)

45. Visit Nambé Falls

Drive 16 miles north of Santa Fe to Nambé Pueblo ($10 per vehicle) and splash in the water at the gorgeously refreshing Nambé Falls (nambefalls.com). (MRC)

46. Grab some holy dirt

The Santuario de Chimayó is a historical temple and pilgrimage destination. Every year during Holy Week, pilgrims from near and far walk to the church in fulfillment of a vow or in search of healing—the church’s holy dirt is thought to have healing powers. Whether or not you make the trek on foot, the Santuario is a beautiful and sacred destination for a summertime escape. (MRC)

47. Hole up at the Humidor

The dark, cool space attached to Rio Chama Steakhouse (414 Old Santa Fe Trail, 955-0765) is a great way to while away the hot, sunny hours with a cocktail—and you can smoke inside, to boot. (MRC)

48. Take the high road…

…to Taos. The drive snakes through the Carson National Forest and through little high-desert towns. Final destination: Taos, the historic home of the Taos Pueblo and a prolific art community. For directions and more information, visit newmexico.org/high-road-to-taos-trail. (MRC)

49. Take a mini-trip to Madrid

If you’re pining after an escape from town without spending a fortune on gas, take a trip to Madrid (pronounced MAD-rid). En route to Albuquerque on the historic Turquoise Trail, Madrid is a little artist colony, home to quaint cafés, restaurants and galleries. On the way, pit stop in the dusty but scenic little desert towns of Galisteo and Cerrillos. (MRC)

50. Wander the Allan Houser Sculpture Garden

Twenty-five miles south of Santa Fe, with 10 miles of trail and 85 original works of art, the Allan Houser Sculpture Garden is a treat for the senses. The garden holds the Houser family collection of Allan Houser’s last 25 years of works. Tours of the private gardens must be scheduled (471-1528), but the short venture to the piñon- and juniper-covered hills between Cerrillos and Galisteo is worth the escape. (MRC)

51. Brunch like a champion

While it seems Santa Fe just recently caught on to the weekend brunch fad, we learned fast. Four favorite spots for a long, leisurely, delicious start to your Saturday or Sunday (and, given that it’s summer, we’re favoring patio spots): Tune-Up Café (1115 Hickox St., 983-7060) melds Salvadoran fare with American favorites for a unique and delicious brunch menu; Counter Culture Café (930 Baca St., 995-1105) serves up freshly baked cinnamon rolls the size of your head; Rio Chama Steakhouse (414 Old Santa Fe Trail, 955-0765) makes amazing Bloody Marys; and the Swiss Bakery Pastries & Bistro (401 S Guadalupe St., 988-1111) concocts a killer croque madame. (AS)

52. Take a little trip…

…in a lowrider. That’s the New Mexico dream, right? But if you don’t have access to a real, souped-up deal, you can pay a visit to the Low ‘n Slow Lowrider Bar (125 Washington Ave., 998-4900), where you can check out the hanging gallery of low-rider photos while comfortably sipping a margarita (which you should not do in an actual lowrider). And since it’s bad form to yell catcalls in a bar, you can at least belt it out, karaoke-style. (MRC)

53. Join a CSA

If you don’t live on a farm, the next best thing to farm-fresh food straight out of the earth, is farm-fresh food straight out of the earth from a local Community Supported Agriculture. Visit beneficialfarm.com to find out how. (MRC)

54. Go hiking

It’s possible to walk from the heart of Santa Fe into the foothills and beyond to the Santa Fe National Forest. From there, the Pecos Wilderness extends into a seemingly endless expanse of pine. We’ve got the Jemez, the Sangre de Cristos and the Sandias, and awesome expanses of desert to explore in between. You could, if you wanted, spend all 93 days of summer hiking and never even come close to exhausting the possible routes—but watch out for the fires. (MRC)

55. Get wet

You’ll probably want to spend more than just one day of the hot, dry Santa Fe summer season cooling off in the water. About an hour and half north of town, Abiquiu Lake shimmers like a mirage in the red-clay desert. The lake is the perfect place to take a long dip and sunbathe on huge, warm stones. (MRC)

56. Take to the stage

Just across the parking lot from the Santa Fe Brewing Co. tap room, Sol Santa Fe Stage & Grill (37 Fire Place, 424-9637) hosts some of the most popular traveling and local music acts. Some of the upcoming performances this summer include The Grippin and Rippin Tour 2013; Portugal The Man and Guard; and Sara Beth & Jessica. Never heard of them? Just be grateful someone’s willing to stop in Santa Fe. (MRC)

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57. Host a Downton Abbey-inspired picnic

Downton Abbey is done for the season, but, after all, it’s summertime and it’s probably better to enjoy the outdoors than to watch reruns inside. Here’s an alternative: organize a Downton-inspired picnic. Head up the hill to the St. John’s College athletic field, or go to Patrick Smith or Fort Marcy Park. Order one of your impeccably dressed servants to rustle up some cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, dress in something light and flowy, put on your best British accent and pretend you’re super-rich. (MRC)

58. The hills are alive…

Wednesday evenings throughout the summer, St. John’s College hosts its Music on the Hill series (St. John’s College athletic field, 6-8 pm Wednesdays through July 24). If a Downton Abbey-inspired picnic’s not your thing, sunset evenings overlooking the Rio Grande Valley with an impressive lineup of jazz musicians just might be. (MRC)

59. Eat an ice cream cone

Earlier this spring, SFR went for a post-deadline beer at Marble Brewing Co. From our balcony perch, we noticed that at least every fourth person to cross the Plaza did so with an ice-cream cone in hand. Presumably, once the dog days hit, the frequency of cone-toting individuals will increase to every other person. Why not join the crowd? The Plaza Bakery, located on the Plaza, has a full ice-cream bar of Haagen Dazs flavors. Ecco Gelato and Espresso (105 E Marcy St., 986-9778) makes their additive-free gelato in-house, with tantalizing flavors like espresso and strawberry habañero. Mangiamo Pronto (228 Old Santa Fe Trail, 989-1904), which, beginning this week, opens the doors of their gelato and juice shop daily, offers the most refreshingly delicious (and cooling!) blood orange gelato I’ve ever tasted, among a variety of other citrus and dairy-based flavors. Yoberri Frozen Yogurt (325 W San Francisco St.; 3466 Zafarano Drive), uses fresh ingredients and, as of press time, offered peanut butter, blueberry with agave and classic tart fro-yo flavors. (MRC)

60. Be a locavore

On Saturday and Tuesday mornings (8 am-1 pm) throughout the summer months, the Santa Fe Farmers Market (1607 Paseo de Peralta) brings together a variety of local farmers and their produce in the Santa Fe Railyard. The indoor-outdoor market is vibrant with fruit, vegetables, flowers, breads and crafts. Escape the sun in the indoor market space, or meander through the crowds outside as you nibble on farm-fresh snacks and support local growers. (MRC)

61. Poach a pool

Poolless? One of the benefits of living in a tourist town is having a variety of hotels with pools to choose from. Check out Bishops Lodge Ranch Resort and Spa’s beautiful outdoor pool; Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado; Inn and Spa at Loretto; La Posada de Santa Fe Resort and Spa; Inn of the Governors; Hotel Santa Fe…just to name a few. (MRC)

62. Play with sidewalk chalk

Get down on the ground and write or draw or scribble. Leave anonymous notes, create a fleeting masterpiece—until monsoon season begins, it might just stick around. (MRC)

63. Pay homage to Dale Ball

For an escape from town sans car, the Dale Ball Trails are the way to go. Meandering through 22 miles of untouched foothill expanses, the trail system offers spectacular views, wildlife sightings and a great way to get the body moving. (MRC)

64. Learn to cook local, organic—and cheap!

Every third Wednesday throughout the summer, Local Organic Meals on a Budget offers $22 courses on how to shop, cook and dine locally, organically and affordably (see page 50). (MRC)

65. Giddy up

Head to Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort & Spa (1297 Bishop’s Lodge Road) for a horseback ride. The Lodge offers group, private, children’s and sunset rides through beautiful Sangre de Cristo mountain trails. Call 819-4013 to schedule a ride. (MRC)

66. Walk around the Roundhouse

So, you’re downtown, but you’re sick of the galleries, the museums, the trinket shops and upscale boutiques. Why not check out New Mexico’s capitol building? It’s shaped like a Zia, an ancient sun symbol—and, at its center, the Capitol Rotunda Gallery is currently exhibiting a vibrant display of handmade quilts. (MRC)

67. Go to the movies

A classic way to escape the summertime heat and forget the daily stress, is to hunker down in a cool, dark movie theater. Check out the Center for Contemporary Arts’ Cinematheque (1050 Old Pecos Trail, ccasantafe.org/cinematheque) or Santa Fe University of Art and Design’s The Screen (1600 St. Michael’s Drive, thescreensf.com) for alternatives to the summertime blockbusters. (MRC)

68. Get nostalgic

The world may not be all black and white, but Monroe Gallery (112 Don Gaspar Ave., 992-0800) has extraordinary exhibits of black-and-white photography. Currently showing is 1963, photographs from the “year of change.” (MRC)

69. Kick it like a cowgirl

Hit up a local watering hole, the Cowgirl BBQ (319 S Guadalupe St., 982-2565), where the waiters are cowboys and girls, the music is live, and the patio is the perfect place to sip a margarita or an ice-cold beer. (MRC)

70. Stroll along the Acequia Madre

Explore Santa Fe’s mother ditch. Running parallel to Canyon Road, and without the tourist crowds, Acequia Madre is historic, tree-lined and lush. If you’re lucky, there might even be water flowing through it. (MRC)

71. Camp out

Now that the fires are in full blaze, wilderness camping is more of a challenge. But there are still plenty of getaways. For instance, head up Hyde Park Road, or drive up to the Rio Chama for beautiful nights under the stars. (MRC)

72. Make s’mores

Fire season means no campfires, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fire up the BBQ (or, for that matter, turn on the gas range) and toast a marshmallow, then sandwich it in between two graham crackers with some slightly-melted milk chocolate. (God, doesn’t that sound amazing?) Just please, please remember: Only you can prevent forest fires. (AS)

73. Do nothing

Seriously—doing absolutely nothing can be absolutely amazing. (AS)

74. Get hitched

Nothing like a summer wedding, right? Ehh, I don’t know. That shit is stressful. (AS)

75. Join the circus

Don’t think you’ve got talent? Think again. Local circus and puppetry outfit Wise Fool New Mexico (2778 Agua Fria St., Ste. D, 992-2588) isn’t just for kids; it also “welcomes adults of all ages, shapes, fitness and experience levels, and genders” to participate in classes including trapeze, aerial fabric and unicycling. Visit wisefoolnm.org for more info. (AS)

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76. Get naked

I happen to be lucky enough to have a walled-in back patio, but even if you’re not that lucky, summer’s the perfect time to bask in the sun wearing only your birthday suit. Just don’t forget the sunblock, and please don’t do it on the Plaza. But if you can find somewhere private up in them hills…just sayin’. (AS)

77. Let your hair down

Actually, this is a six-step process. Step 1: Go to Doodlet’s (120 Don Gaspar Ave., 983-3771). Step 2: Try not to be distracted by all of the amazing pranks you could do if you bought the whoopee cushion, fake poop, etc. Step 3: Mind over matter, you have succeeded in buying yourself some kick-ass sunglasses (preferably the kind that come with a fake mustache attached to the bottom). Step 4: Get a friend to come by and pick you up in his/her convertible (or any car with a sunroof, really). Step 5: Put on the glasses, let down your hair, stick your hands up in the air (or through the sunroof) and yell, “I’m the king of the world!” Step 6: Enjoy the gorgeous drive up to Tesuque Village Market (138 Tesuque Village Road, 988-8848), park, get a table on the patio, and order two silver coin margaritas. Got it? (AS)

78. Make time for Girl Time

Not that we at SFR are experts—quite the opposite; journalists are known for being socially awkward—but one thing we lady-journos do know is that Girl Time is essential to survival. And it’s really pretty easy to organize: Just find out when Vanilla Pop is playing, and be there. Since you’ll be required to dance all crazy to songs ranging from the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” to Nine Inch Nails’ “I Want to Fuck You Like an Animal,” we recommend you stop by the Palace Restaurant & Saloon (142 W Palace Ave., 428-0690) for a stiff drink beforehand. With any luck, that’s exactly where the band will be. (AS)

79. …and Man Night.

Let’s admit it: Despite the fact that the women outnumber the men here, Santa Fe does Old Boys’ Club pretty damn well. Enjoy a steak and a Scotch at The Bull Ring (150 Washington Ave., Ste. 108, 983-3328); if owner Harry Georgeades is there, he’ll personally see to your every need. Afterward, head to Primo Cigar Shop (328 Sandoval St., 954-1168) for some stogies. (AS)

80. Be kind to your four-legged friends…

…and take them to the dog park! Frank S Ortiz Park (corner of Camino de Las Crucitas and La Loma Vista) allows dogs to roam off-leash on its expansive (but, be warned, often dusty) grounds. Stay for 20 minutes, and you’re virtually guaranteed an exhausted pooch. (AS)

81. Go to college

Our local Santa Fe Community College (6401 S Richards Ave., 428-1000) is truly a hidden gem, with affordable noncredit, continuing-ed classes ranging from breadmaking and visual arts to creative writing, “Yoga for Insomnia” and animal tracking. The best part? It’s all surprisingly affordable. (AS)

82. Feel the pasión

If you haven’t been yet (or even if you have), try the famous flamenco dinner show at El Farol (808 Canyon Road, 983-9912). Tapas, wine, sensuous Spanish dancing—what’s not to love? (AS)

83. Get to know a ghost

You’re bound to find a few ghosts in the country’s oldest capital city, and several local guides can show you exactly where they’re hiding. Call Santa Fe native Allan Pacheco (986-5002 or 231-1336; santafewriter@me.com) for a private ghost (or just historical) tour. Peter Sinclaire (983-7774) also leads tours departing from Collected Works Bookstore and the Hotel St. Francis Saturday evenings, and Allan “Tex” Wheeler (986-8388) leaves from the Hilton and Eldorado hotels every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. (AS)

84. Picnic at the rose park

In 1966, the city was deeded a piece of land that made the Amelia White Park (Old Santa Fe Trail and Camino Corrales) an official public park. The deed stipulated: “flowers and vegetation will be cultivated and irrigated,” and to this day, the park—small, sweet and quiet—is one of the most beautiful rose gardens in Santa Fe. Pack a picnic, and stop and smell the roses. (MRC)

85. Grow something

Even in the desert, things grow in the summertime. Why not try it? If you don’t have a garden or a piece of desert earth, buy a bag of soil, cut it open the long way, and plant your seeds, baby basil, wildflowers—or, whatever, take your pick! You’ll have the best luck at Plants of the Southwest (3095 Agua Fria St., 438-8888), which specializes in drought- and desert-tolerant varieties. (MRC)

86. Beer + wilderness = fun!

When I first moved to New Mexico, I was invited to go on a hike with a couple of new acquaintances. A former backpacking guide in Alaska and Wyoming, I considered hiking a serious endeavor—like, let’s see if we can summit at least five mountains today. That’s pretty much the opposite of what my new friends had in mind. After a short saunter halfway up Taos’ Devisadero Trail, my new friends stopped at a rocky outcropping, reached into their backpacks, and pulled out three cans of Tecate—and I learned about a world of relaxation I’d never even imagined. This summer, take a couple of people whose company you enjoy, head up one of our local trails, sit down, and chill out. There’s nothing like a cold beer on a hot day with the scent of pine and juniper all around. (AS)

87. Get Georgia on your mind

Ghost Ranch (877-804-4678; ghostranch.org), Georgia O’Keeffe’s beautiful, red-desert home in Abiquiu, might make you want to take up painting, too. The 21,000-acre ranch offers horseback rides, walking tours, archeology, paleontology and history tours, and rope courses, to boot. (MRC)

88. Untether for a day

Unplug the computer, the cell phone, the iPad, the…all the things that keep you connected, anxious, busy. And, for a day, enjoy being unreachable and free—and not watched by the NSA. (MRC)

89. Be a baller

In Italy, it’s bocce; in France, it’s boule; but whatever, it’s a great game for the New Mexico desert, where we have sand and clay and dry desert dirt (try it in an arroyo!). Bring some friends, some food, some wine, beer and water, and throw some balls. (MRC)

90. Take a dip in the swimming hole

Wouldn’t the perfect thing in this dry desert heat be a dip in a swimming hole? Too bad we don’t have a swimming hole, right? Well, we do, and it’s close—somewhere near the top of Upper Canyon Road. But like Forrest Fenn, that’s the only hint I’ll give. (MRC)

91. Take the Rail Runner to Albuquerque

For $9 (full-fare online price; $11 on the train; discounts available) you can rail-run away to Albuquerque and escape Santa Fe for a day. Go to the movies, a bar, a restaurant or Old Town. (MRC)

92. Now that you’re an expert on wine…

Hit up happy hour at either of Santa Fe’s best-kept not-really-secrets: La Boca (72 W Marcy St., 982-3433) or Taberna (125 Lincoln Ave., Ste. 117, 988-7102) for half-price tapas and wine specials from 3-5 pm daily. The atmosphere is always convivial, and a $2 bowl of marinated olives pairs perfectly with an afternoon glass of sangria. (AS)

93. Find balance

Yoga is everywhere in Santa Fe. Why not try it just this once? Check out Body of Santa Fe (333 Cordova Road, 986-0362), Santa Fe Community Yoga Center (826 Camino de Monte, 820-9363), Yoga Santa Fe (1505 Llano St., 982-6369), Yoga Source Santa Fe (901 W San Mateo, 982-0990) or Prajna Yoga (11 Toltec Road, 988-5248). These are just a few of Santa Fe’s yoga offerings, so there must be something to it. (MRC)

Santa Fe Reporter

Summer Guide 2013

93 Days of Summer; 93 Ways to Enjoy Them

Letters to the Editor