Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Missouri Tourism in partnership with St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau. All opinions and photos are mine. I participated in planning the travel itinerary’s points of interests.
It’s time to “Get to Know Jo,” aka St. Joseph, Missouri, a town located on Highway 36, The Way of American Genius, offering visitors distinctive museums, dining, and charming accommodations.
If you visited St. Joseph years ago, rediscover it during an overnight stay. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Kansas City.
As a first-time visitor, I was impressed by how the town has evolved since its days as the last stop for pioneers heading West. For a location considered the place to go in 1861, it’s maintained its visit-worthy status as a Midwest travel destination.
TAKING A TOUR OF HISTORIC MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS
Patee House Museum and Jesse James Home
St. Joseph, home to over a dozen museums, is recognized as the site of the original Pony Express. Patee House Hotel was its headquarters.
Two significant events in history occurred on April 3: the Pony Express’s first rider left the station, and bank-robbing outlaw Jesse James died. Each significant history-making moment took place in St. Joseph. Visitors at Patee House Museum and Jesse James Home (1202 Penn Street) gain access to these stories.
Entering into the Patee House Museum is like walking into Missouri’s version of the Smithsonian. The historic building’s enormity and contents are awe-inspiring.
Once operated as a four-story luxury hotel opened in 1858, John Patee’s staff hosted travelers in 140 guest rooms. People from all over the world knew of the hotel within three years of its construction. Artifacts detail the history of the Pony Express, emphasizing transportation and communication, which are the museum’s focus.
I’ve visited innumerable history museums, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I peered inside a glass case and spied riverboat captain Mark Twain’s authentic signature on a book. He joined his brother Orion starting in St. Joseph for a trip west, as described in his book “Roughing It.”
I suspect you’ll find the U.S. provost marshall’s office, a wagonmaster’s blacksmith shop, and restored cars outside a 1920 replica service station fascinating. A self-guided tour of the first railway mail car and a ride on the Wild Thing Carousel is a must.
Afterward, walk outside the Patee House Museum to the Jesse James Home. It’s the original home where Jesse James was shot in the back and killed by gang member Bob Ford in 1882.
Not only is the three-room home historically accurate, but its glass cases house artifacts from Jesse’s grave recovered when they exhumed his body in the 1990s. DNA evidence proves with 99.7% accuracy that he was shot in the home.
Open Monday through Saturday from April through October; the Jesse James Home takes about 30 minutes to tour if you read the signage and ask questions of the museum’s host.
PRO TIP: Ask to see a replica skull that debunks the myth the gunshot that killed James exited his head, although a hole in the home’s wallpapered wall may prove otherwise.
Pony Express National Museum
Brave riders raced on horses across unforgiving terrain in unpredictable weather from St. Joseph to Sacramento, California, to deliver mail for the Pony Express. The town was the ideal starting point because it connected via railroads to the east.
The Pony Express National Museum (914 Penn Street) does an exceptional job of preserving history and presenting it interactively.
A self-guided museum tour reveals the story of the Pony Express and its brave riders through interactive exhibits and curated artifact displays.
Many of the exhibits are child-friendly zones, appealing to kids and school groups. For example, flip boards, aka Barn Door Trivia, keep all ages engaged in learning in the Hall of Riders, which details 22 famous and lesser-known riders.
Photo opportunities abound at the museum. Take a photo of authentic saddles or peek through photo cutout stations. Life-size faux horses are positioned in the barn’s stables, making for a picture-worthy moment for all ages at the Moment in Time exhibit.
As I meandered through the museum’s exhibits, I appreciated how the director and her volunteers presented the stories of the people who made the Pony Express worthwhile. You’ll discover letters and artifacts from actual Pony Express riders donated by their family.
PRO TIP: If you’re a true Pony Express fan or like to read all of a museum’s signage, plan for a two-hour tour of the Pony Express National Museum. Add half an hour to watch an introductory film and explore its gift shop.
Pony School
On the grounds of The Pony Express National Museum, the Pony School is a one-room replica schoolhouse you should see. It’s open by appointment for tours (ask the museum director for access!) and interpretive programs.
Wood floors creak under each step as you choose a seat at a student desk for the day’s lesson. An authentic pot-bellied stove, slate boards, and presidential portraits create a historically accurate setting.
PRO TIP: If you want a school group or youth group to experience an interactive led by a teacher reenactor, book an interpretive program by calling (816) 279-5059.
Pony Bar and Goetz Museum
Nearby, the Pony Bar and Goetz Museum is a visual reminder of the German-American story. Doubling as a reservable event space, the museum’s displays describe the people who impacted St. Joseph’s industry. Did you know the M.K. Goetz Brewing Company was founded in St. Jospeh in 1859?
The brewing company survived prohibition by pivoting to sell non-alcoholic Country Club Near Beer. It thrived and was eventually purchased by Pearl Brewing Company of San Antonio. The Pony Bar and Goetz Museum is a beautifully restored space where you can learn the company’s story by appointment.
Walter Cronkite Memorial
You don’t have to be a former college journalism graduate like myself to appreciate the life’s work of Walter Cronkite.
The broadcast journalist was born in St. Joseph in 1916, and spent his childhood visiting grandparents on their farm. Walter Cronkite Memorial (4525 Down Drive) at Missouri Western State University is more of a miniature museum than solely a memorial.
Push button interactive stations play videos of his life story and CBS News broadcast clips, including Vietnam’s coverage during the war.
Various exhibits chronicle moments in Cronkite’s career history, including NASA’s landing on the moon, JFK’s assassination, and coverage of 16 Republican National Convention events. The “We Came In Peace” Saturn V Sculpture and Cronkite’s original newsroom desk make an impression.
PRO TIP: The memorial in Spratt Hall is free to tour Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. year-round. Park in Lot C, which is dedicated to memorial visitors.
EXPLORING PUBLIC ART DOWNTOWN
Self-Guided Mural and Sculpture Walk
As you drive into St. Joseph, one thing becomes clear. The town celebrates the arts. Murals and sculptures dot the downtown landscape. The St. Joseph Sculpture Walk includes 15 installations, each a contender for the People’s Choice award.
Participating is easy. Before embarking on a city stroll, pick up a brochure map and ballot at the Allied Arts Council office (118 S. 8th Street). You can purchase a particular sculpture if you fall in love with it.
Larger-than-life murals depict the town’s history as the pioneers’ last stop to gather supplies before heading West. In the downtown corridor, you’ll discover at least seven murals painted by artists.
PRO TIP: Access this link to find all of the murals, most of which are located outside.
SAVORING THE LOCAL DINING SCENE
Café Belle Epoque
Stepping into Café Belle Epoque‘s (1141 Frederick Avenue) cozy dining room conjures up thoughts of leisurely lunches with friends. It’s the kind of restaurant where you want to order a Pear Moscow Mule from the bar while you wait for artfully plated sandwiches and salads to arrive at the table.
I chatted with a new friend between bites of the Chicken Salad Sandwich served on a croissant while he sampled the Sweet Potato Biscuit Slides. My meal, which came with soup or salad, was paired with a small bowl of scrumptious Tomato and Peach Gazpacho.
I was pleased with my meal, which used fresh ingredients, and I highly recommend dining there. The service was prompt and attentive despite the steady arrival of customers at lunchtime. I can only imagine the popularity of the brunch menu or dinner entreés, which feature slow-braised beef, butter chicken, and salmon.
PRO TIP: Keep tabs on their Facebook events page for special menu events.
Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steaks
One wouldn’t expect to discover authentic Cajun and Creole food served in Missouri, but then they haven’t dined at Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steaks (224 N. 4th Street). The thematic restaurant, located in a historic downtown building, is a bustling place during the dinner hour on a weekday.
The restaurant is decorated with draped beads on chandeliers and rope lights around interior columns. A taxidermy alligator on an upper shelf rests under neon signage.
After a 10-minute wait, my server took my order for a creamy crab bisque appetizer. Arriving steaming hot with a bed of rice and sliced baguette bread, I ate every bite. A fan of New Orleans’ restaurant fare, the French-style bisque was flavorful and well-prepared.
The Blackened Salmon arrived heavily-seasoned for dinner, although slightly overcooked, so I requested a white cream sauce to drizzle on top of it. The signature Boudreaux Potatoes were cubed and boiled potatoes served in savory vegetable broth.
PRO TIP: Plan to save room for dessert. My only regret was not ordering dessert, which unfortunately did not include New Orleans-style beignets, but it did feature Bourbon Pecan Pie and Turtle Cheesecake.
Mokaska Coffee Company
During an early morning visit to Mokaska Coffee Company (750 Edmond Street), instrumental jazz plays while the barista steams milk behind the bar. The dog-friendly downtown café is a hub for locals who often order coffee to go.
A London Fog hot tea and layered pastry filled with Nutella curbed my cravings. Although the courtyard patio was inviting, I chose to sit inside while it rained outdoors. Chatting with employees about their love of the town’s art scene only confirmed my appreciation of St. Joseph.
PRO TIP: Join café-goers at its bar from Thursday to Saturday when the bartender serves 10 thematic cocktail flights until 10:00 pm. Follow the Facebook page for details.
UNWINDING WITH A CRAFT BEER
River Bluff Brewing
Opened in 2018, River Bluff Brewing (1224 Frederick Avenue) is an award-winning craft beer taproom and production facility that exceeds your expectations with a long list of beers and good-time vibes.
The parking lot was full when I arrived, and once inside I realized why. It was the third Monday of the month, so the place was hopping with the sounds of the Saint Joseph Big Band playing movie-themed songs. No cover charge required from 7:30 pm-9:30 p.m.
I selected a River Cream Ale, an approachable light beer from over 12 craft beers. It went down easy as I observed families gathering and couples arriving for date night entertainment.
PRO TIP: Don’t drink beer? No worries. River Bluff Brewing pours carbonated seltzer and a guest tap sangria.
ENJOYING A GOOD NIGHT’S REST IN LUXURY
Shakespeare Chateau Inn Bed & Breakfast
Why stay overnight at a hotel when you can enjoy timeless elegance at Shakespeare Chateau Inn Bed & Breakfast (809 Hall Street)? The 1885 home in Millionaires Row, a National Register Historic District, is a five-minute drive from downtown. The multi-bedroom estate’s architecture and meticulously restored interior is breathtaking.
Upon arrival, classical music played in the home’s foray, where a hand-carved wooden staircase led my eye upstairs to a row of stained glass windows. Opulent crystal chandeliers and tiled fireplace mantels adorned each room on the main floors. Period furniture, artwork, and a bust of Shakespeare completed the Queen Anne-style home’s interior.
I was one of two guests lodging overnight that day, so I toured the home’s bedrooms, each with a private jetted bathtub. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast served in the grand dining room, where the day’s sunshine beams through colorful stained-glass windows.
I stayed in the Verona Suite, a spacious room with a king bed that includes a bathroom with jacuzzi tub and a walk-in dressing room. The in-suite amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and a flatscreen television with streaming movie channels made for a comfortable stay.
A peek inside unoccupied suites revealed similar amenities. The bed and breakfast caters to couples and solo travelers, although the As You Like It Suite‘s separate beds can accommodate one to two children. I was impressed by the home’s premiere room, The Merchant of Venice Executive Penthouse Suite, which could easily sleep up to four people.
I enjoyed a good night’s sleep in luxury. The plush accommodations surpassed anything I could have imagined. It was as if I was a posh member of royalty staying in a castle.
Innkeeper, Isobel, offers guests a remarkable experience unlike anything you’ve likely experienced. Reserve a suite at Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens to enjoy views atop a bluff over St. Joseph and the Missouri River.
EVENTS WORTH EXPERIENCING
Annual Pony Express Re-Ride
Consider planning your visit during the National Pony Express Association’s annual re-ride in June. Watch as a rider leaves or returns to St. Joseph (depending on the year).
Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp
National Football League fans can pay $5 to watch the Kansas City Chiefs practice at their official training camp facility, Griffon Indoor Sports Complex at Missouri Western State University. Check the full-team or special-team schedule.
BONUS THINGS TO DO
If only I had more time in St. Joseph! It’s a town I will return to explore more, especially for its arts and music scene. Saint Joseph Symphony puts on full-orchestra and chamber performances at the historic Missouri Theater.
The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art hosts free admission on the fourth Tuesday of the Month from 5:00 pm- 7:00 pm with free admission for military families year-round.
If you’ve traveled to St. Joseph or you’re a local, please let me know of other points of interest worth checking out. I’m eager to add them to my Missouri tourism bucket list.
During my return trip to Leavenworth, I was eager to take in places I had yet to discover and revisit old gems.
PRO TIP: The Burr-ow, a backroom space dedicated to reading or board gaming, is a quiet spot to work.
It’s a scenic area worth exploring for its birdwatching and native treelined grounds. The path lies parallel to an active Union Pacific railway, a nod to the town’s railroad era that replaced the Missouri River’s steamboat industry.
They recorded detailed notes about the region’s landscape for President Thomas Jefferson noting what people could expect heading west. Signage overlooking the river at 2nd and Dakota Street recognizes their visit to the area.
It’s the tucked-away murals that excite me the most. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller paintings on doors on various buildings downtown.
I dined on deviled eggs with bacon and a chicken cobb salad to the beat of Jamaican music while watching hosta leaves sway.
Between sips of iced tea, I noticed the hostess lead lunchtime diners to patio tables to enjoy the scenery, which resembled a nicely designed backyard landscape.
If you love old collectibles, you could spend hours perusing the mall while listening to oldies music play overhead. The friendly employee at the front desk is happy to answer questions about refurbishing relics.
Of course, you can always spot something delightful for the home when you’re ready to swap out your seasonal decor. From garden flags to great-smelling candles, CJ Gift Co. satisfies shoppers on a mission to beautify their space.
Expecting parents and grandparents will appreciate the owner’s selection of kid-loving plush toys. Seasonal items, bath products, and top-selling Leavenworth t-shirts round-out the front-of-store inventory.
PRO TIP: The store is also home to 5th Avenue Frames. Ask them to custom frame artwork, photography, or prints.
Consider creating a gift basket for someone while shopping for yourself. Whether one loves hot tea or cold brew, Queen’s Pantry Teas is the place to shop.
The owner, who was busily crafting jewelry in a studio, greeted me, as did her helpful staff. I perused the store, admiring an endless boho chic apparel and jewelry inventory.
The owners, a mother-daughter duo, carry the latest fashions for the season on display at the front of the store.
If the thought of enjoying the salty goodness of popcorn with the sweet flavor of your favorite candy bar excites you, stop by Popcorn Pit Stop for a grab-and-go bag.
Peruse the outdoor garden houses to shop for plants and flowering hanging baskets before entering inside the store for refrigerated food items. Travelers without coolers will appreciate jarred foods and bagged dry goods.
The sounds of Space Invaders and Mortal Kombat resonate through the arcade, open Thursday-Saturday. It’s an excellent place for all ages to enjoy indoor entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
The reservation-required dinner and a show were entertaining, and the best part of the evening was getting to know the guests at our shared table, who welcomed me like new friends. Three hours of fun flew by.
My King Suite home-life feel helped me unwind after a fun day of exploring. In the morning, I checked emails on my laptop using high-speed internet from a in-room workstation before enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast in the lobby.
In Merriam, the home offers visitors access to nearby parks and trails, boutique shopping, and local eateries, plus it’s minutes away from attractions like the 
Using a self-entry keypad, I entered the home and was impressed with its earth-toned furnishings and globally-inspired design. The interior was tastefully decorated simplistically. After a full tour of the house, it exceeded my expectations for design and cleanliness.
Upstairs, the main living room area is an inviting space seating multiple people comfortably. It’s the ideal place for adults to hang out and enjoy morning conversation over coffee or cocktails before preparing dinner.
The primary bedroom features a king-size bed with plush linens, a workstation desk area, and a ceiling fan.
Nearby secondary and third bedrooms include queen-sized, sun lit bedrooms with interior closets and ceiling fans. Extra blankets, an ironing board, and iron are available. Each is styled with minimal yet sophisticated decor keeping with the boho style.
Each shower and vanity comes with fragrant Tommy Bahama bath products so you can pack light overnight. Bright and cheery spaces, the bathrooms are tidy and clean, including fluffy towels and a hair dryer.
Something about the home’s decor, reminiscent of dessert colors and textures, inspired me to want to shake up a salty margarita using the bar cart station. Guests could use the arched window separating the kitchen from the living room to pass drinks to friends for a crowd-pleasing good time.
Inside, plenty of seating is available, with access to three sitting rooms. Savor a warmed blueberry scone and iced coffee amongst people gathering for friendly meet-ups or to work remotely using complimentary Wi-Fi.
If it’s your first visit, order the classic cheeseburger combo with crinkle-cut fries or tater tots. Fill a medium drink cup with fountain Pepsi before heading to a patio table.
PRO TIP: Check the bar’s 
Although tempted by a long list of flavors, I selected maple bacon ice cream, a satisfying choice. I watched kids play a video game console while others sipped Boba drinks and ate ice cream at brightly-colored seating areas.
A dog-friendly patio. Beers named after birds. Relaxed vibes indoors. What else could you want?
The shop also hosts merchandise drop and Moonlight Market events. Follow the 
Smiling employees greeted me with enthusiasm as I shopped for gifts for my niece, which they wrapped in pretty tissue paper. Like me, grab a mini shopping basket and enjoy the experience.
I watched as the owner drew illustrations on greeting cards and prepared them for sale, and of course, I bought one. Who can pass up a handmade greeting card? Short on time, I’ll definitely return to shop for pre-loved clothes or a handbag.
I sat on a bench near flowering shrubs while watching Turkey Creek’s water flow over rocks, creating instant calm. Native birds flew overhead as the trees gently swayed in the breeze.
A caterpillar sculpture by artist Joshua Weiner entitled 
Don’t miss a chance to appreciate public artwork installations at Merriam Marketplace, a fun area for group photos or selfies.
Kansas City Wheel
Shop Moon Marble Company’s retail for assorted marbles, nostalgic toys, and games. Staff are eager to explain how to play marbles, if you’re want to buy a set.
I was impressed with the large turnout and visited with audience members between songs, making for a delightful experience.
I’ve raved about Quentin BBQ’s menu since it I discovered their food truck in the 
Additionally, The on-site art gallery showcases The Harvest Queen mural by George Melville Stone. A walk outdoors to Farm Town USA is fun for young kids who can participate in 
The baked bread and fruit pies are irresistible, and you can expect produce twice the size of grocery store varieties sold at reasonable prices. I made two purchases and a new friend within 15 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful, prism-cut crystal for your home or a tumble stone for a friend, you’ll find it here. I enjoyed visiting with the owner, who is passionate about stone hunting and is quick to recommend the best stone for each person.
The owner handpicks brands that are also suited for youngsters and shoe lovers, and she specializes in personalized wood-etched gifts.
For what the store lacks in size, it makes up for in inventory volume, catering to shoppers seeking a casual or semi-dressy outfit for a same-day event or date night. Shop near the register for make-up and small gift items.
The owner and creator, Valerie, sews on patches and appliques to reimagined denim jeans, jackets, and overalls. Fabric swatches are sewn together to create one-of-a-kind apparel like the dress pictured above. Shop from available inventory or place an order for pick-up.
I wasn’t leaving without trying beef lasagna and garlic toast (the “light portion” is pictured below) with a small garden salad. The marinara sauce was so tasty that I used the bread to mop up every last bite.
The Northeast Kansas town of slightly over 2,000 people is one you’ll wish you visited sooner. The perfect girl’s getaway, thanks to its plethora of downtown shops, it also caters to every kind of traveler.
Inventory includes recognizable brands such as Swan Creek Candles and Mudpie. Also offering custom picture framing, Leah stays busy with custom orders and bridal registry fulfillment.
The inventory includes a range of gifts for men, graduates, and decorations for your home’s seasonal switchover.
Celebrating 60 years in business, the family-owned and operated store provides courteous service. They quickly ask what you need and walk you to the item. My purchase? A rain gauge, which I couldn’t find for sale at other stores earlier in the week.
Seneca Variety
PRO TIP: Don’t miss shopping the Discount Wall. I spotted holiday decorations marked down 40 percent.
Seneca is a multi-denominational community, and Uniquely Gifted’s inventory reflects faith-based values, particularly Catholic ones.
The owner, who has a degree in apparel merchandise, does an impressive job of carrying on-trend brands and everyday apparel necessities. Racks and tables display primarily women’s apparel, but men’s clothing and children’s shoes are well-stocked.
Order a healthy protein shake or tea at the store’s beverage counter, 
If you choose a graphic design from the templates book, staff can usually print your shirt the same day. And if you’re a K-State fan, this shop carries the most extensive collection of collegiate wear in town.
The owner carries recognizable brand names, including Ashley Furniture, La-Z-Boy, and Sealy, and the showroom includes outdoor patio sets as well.
The hardware store, run by the owner’s family for generations, maintains its architectural charm. Painted ghost signs on the wall, original shelving, and framed black and white photographs over the register are a glimpse into its past.
The owner gets up early daily to make various bars and donuts – apple fritters sell quickly. Diners with gluten-free dietary needs will appreciate crustless quiche, energy balls, and muffins.
My ham and cheese breakfast cheese made with flaky crust was the real deal. It paired well with a Mixed Up real fruit smoothie prepared with strawberries, pineapple, mango, and peaches.
I watched from the bar as the waitstaff greeted regular customers with their usual drinks, often predicting what they wanted to order for lunch. The day’s special, a Philly cheese sandwich, sold out before 1:00 p.m.
Not only did a downtown shop owner tell me I should order the sausage and kraut pizza, but my server, Kim, admitted it was one of her favorite meals. My medium pizza arrived piping hot, covered in savory toppings and stretchy cheese. I savored two slices before taking the rest home.
I chose a table at the clubhouse restaurant amongst golfers and locals on lunch dates. The menu, consisting of appetizers, sandwedges, and fried food baskets, was extensive given the size of the restaurant. The Hole In One quesadilla prepared with grilled chicken was fulfilling and worthy of a repeat order.
Over the years, the buildings’ owners have worked long hours preserving its wood floors and stained glass arched windows to create an inviting space.
I chatted with the owner, who showed me before and after photos of the building’s renovations. A Seneca resident introduced himself and told me stories of his past while he ate a cinnamon roll and sipped coffee. Cornerstone CoffeeHaus is a delightful stop.
As you walk upon the building’s original wood floors, explore a makeshift saloon, replica schoolroom, and original artifacts for the Smith Hotel, a refuge for riders needing a break.
PRO TIP: The museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 pm and 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturdays. To guaranteed a tour, call (785) 294-6655 to schedule an appointment.
The 
The museum is small, but well organized and includes fire station relics unique to its location.
PRO TIP: Don’t miss viewing the a model buildings layout, a tribute to Seneca’s days gone by.
You’ll see graphic panels on points of interest along Main Street, each providing context to the building’s history. A self-guided walking tour requires at least 30 minutes, but it will take longer if you’re like me and want to take photos of the architecture while taking your time.
The well is 34 feet wide by 65 feet deep, and the original pump remains on top of a service platform. Tours are available from May through October by calling the 
I was so impressed with the accommodations that I immediately called home to tell others about it. The owners did a meticulous job restoring the two-story space, which includes original wood floors and crown molding, and each room contains framed antique photographs of downtown Seneca.
Guests climb a tall set of stairs using a self-entry keypad entrance before entering the loft’s entrance. A modernized, open kitchen/living concept includes tall windows facing Main Street. A full-size laundry room with supplies is located off the the kitchen.
I had my choice of two large bedrooms, and settled on the one pictured below featuring a queen bed with jersey knit duvet bedding. Each bedroom included a dresser drawer for personal items and a flatscreen Roku TV.
After a full day of exploring and shopping downtown boutiques, I spent the evening unwinding in one of the living room’s leather recliners with a glass of rosé wine.
The following day, I watched the sunrise from one of the swivel window seats pictured above with a tall mug of complimentary coffee. As traffic increased on Main Street, I felt sad knowing that I had to check out of my Airbnb and say goodbye to Seneca.
Local vendors sell indigenous-inspired jewelry every day in front of the Palace of the Governors. You’ll see the most extensive collection of vendors available on Saturday morning.
Most plaza shops carry variations on the same theme – all things Southwestern from clothing to housewares. But if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate a handful of unexpected business like Los Padres Records, which sells classic rock and country music vinyl records.
If you only have an hour to tour the museum, you’re going to have to do it quickly if you want to see its entirety. Two hours for a tour is more appropriate.
The Georgia O’Keeffe: Make a Life exhibit provides an insight into how she lived when she wasn’t in the studio painting. It details her hobbies, and showcases clothing, furniture, and art tools. It’s an intimate glimpse into her life.
PRO TIP: It’s essential to 
I preferred the artwork on view upstairs with access to a reading library of art books. This museum supports artists of all mediums, which I found refreshing as some historical museums tend to lean into the same subject matter.
I was thrilled to discover that the red and green chili enchiladas served “Christmas Style” lived up to the hype. A roasted, medium-spice flavor dominated the meal, a local food tradition you must experience firsthand. View the menu.
In a chile-crazed town, I was keen to order chile rellenos, a cheese-stuffed, deep-fried pepper smothered in red sauce. It was one of the best I’ve eaten in years. The shareable Chiquito Nachos were prepared to my Nacho Queen standards with every layer of tortilla chips touched by savory meat and garnishes.
I discovered handcrafted doors of noteworthy design everywhere we traveled, from courtyards in museums like the Pueblo-style door pictured above to the intricate carvings of church doors.
The ornamental doors make a fabulous backdrop for a photo, adding to the historic charm of Santa Fe’s authentic architecture.
Referred to as the Miraculous Stair, a central pole supports it and consists of 33 stairs with a two-turn spiral to the choral loft.
The church is more of a museum, and a place where we witnessed visitors in awe of its architectural design. If you go, respect the museum’s request to remain quiet. Restless children will not find it as appealing.
We were awe-struck by the mesmerizing beauty, from the decorative tiles on the ceiling to the patterned wood floors. Tall Gothic windows illuminated the space, and we admired the display cases containing artifacts from saints who once visited the parish.
Like us, you’ll likely encounter worshipers praying quietly as you meander the church when a mass is not in session.
A live band or musician typically plays outdoors while shoppers mill about the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market Pavilion.
I regret not eating before attending the market, as there are several vendors and an on-site mini restaurant serving breakfast items. Bring your appetite.
PRO TIP: The taproom’s patio makes for an excellent place to enjoy the sunshine. Check their 
On night two, we skipped the downtown dining scene opting to read books in the comfort of an air-conditioned living room while sipping margaritas. A makeshift meal was easy to prepare thanks to a full kitchen setup.
