Good Morning, Adventurers!
Day 2 in the Land of Enchantment was a whirlwind of colors, creativity, and chile cheeseburgers. Saffron and I had an absolute blast exploring Santa Fe’s quirkier side, and we’re just getting started.
Morning Madness at Meow Wolf
We began the day diving into the bizarre and magical world of Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return. Imagine a house that’s also a portal to other dimensions, with secret passageways, interactive exhibits, and surreal art installations at every turn.
Meow Wolf started as a collective of artists in 2008, aiming to create collaborative art that broke the mold of traditional gallery spaces. This immersive, multimedia art exhibit launched in 2016 with the help of George R.R. Martin, who purchased and renovated a former bowling alley to house the collective’s ambitious vision. The House of Eternal Return is a 20,000-square-foot maze of interconnected rooms, tunnels, and secret passages. Each space is packed with interactive art, from neon forests to an interdimensional refrigerator.
The central narrative follows the Selig family, whose house is mysteriously torn apart by a cosmic anomaly. Guests can piece together clues to uncover the story or simply enjoy the fantastical surroundings.
For a mouse, this place was paradise!
One moment I was squeezing through a crack in the fireplace, and the next, I was tumbling down a neon-lit slide into a room filled with glowing mushrooms. Saffron, ever the responsible older sibling, tried to keep track of me but quickly gave up.
Rodent-Size Perspective: If you’re small, Meow Wolf is like a maze of never-ending hide-and-seek opportunities. Just make sure you have a buddy who knows when and where to find you!
Lunch at Cowgirl BBQ
All that dimension-hopping worked up quite an appetite, so we headed to Cowgirl BBQ. This has been a Santa Fe staple since 1993. This lively, family-friendly restaurant combines classic Southwestern flavors with American barbecue. From hearty brisket platters to mac and cheese with green chile, Cowgirl BBQ serves up comforting dishes with a local twist. Try the Cowgirl’s Frito Pie, served right in the chip bag—a New Mexican tradition!
Beyond the food, it’s a hub for live music, featuring everything from bluegrass to blues. The patio is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, often bustling with laughter and the clink of margarita glasses.
I tucked into a plate of smoky brisket while Saffron savored a bowl of green chile stew. The atmosphere was lively, with cowboy hats, checkered tablecloths, and live music that got my tiny tail tapping.
Pro Tip: Always leave room for dessert here—their ice cream nachos are a wild treat.
Railyard Ramble
Our afternoon was spent exploring the Railyard District, a revitalized area that has become one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Once an industrial zone tied to the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, the district underwent a major transformation in the early 2000s. Now, it’s home to contemporary art galleries, boutique shops, and community spaces.
Key attractions include the Santa Fe Railyard Park, a green space with walking trails and public art installations, and the Santa Fe Depot, where you can still catch the Rail Runner train. The district is a blend of old and new, honoring its history while embracing modern design and culture.
And best of all, the Santa Fe Farmers Market is located in the Railyard District. We lucked out because it was market day! The smell of fresh roasted chiles filled the air as local vendors showcased everything from handmade pottery to organic veggies.
Held year-round on Saturdays (and Tuesdays in summer), the Market is one of the oldest and largest in the country. It began in the 1960s when a handful of farmers gathered to sell produce from the backs of their trucks. Today, it features over 150 vendors offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal bread, honey, and handcrafted goods.
The market emphasizes local and sustainable practices, with vendors required to grow or produce everything they sell. It’s also a great place to sample New Mexico’s famous chiles, whether fresh, dried, or roasted on-site.
Saffron picked up some lavender honey, while I scored a tiny clay pot—perfect for a mouse-sized garden.
Dinner and a Cheeseburger Dream
For dinner, we indulged in one of New Mexico’s most iconic dishes: the green chile cheeseburger. We grabbed ours at Shake Foundation, which was founded by renowned chef Brian Knox. The Shake Foundation is a small but mighty burger joint that focuses on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. It’s best known for its green chile cheeseburgers, a quintessential New Mexican dish that combines juicy beef patties with melted cheese and roasted green chiles for a perfect balance of heat and flavor. In fact, Shake Foundation often sources its green chiles from nearby Hatch, a region famous for producing some of the world’s best chiles.
The menu also features hand-cut fries, shakes made from local ice cream, and a unique offering: fried oyster sandwiches, a nod to Knox’s time spent cooking on the East Coast.
Our burger was juicy, the chile had just the right kick, and the fries were perfectly crisp. Saffron claimed she needed two milkshakes to “cool off,” but I think she just wanted more dessert.
Back to The Inn
With full bellies, we returned to The Inn of the Five Graces, where I lounged in a cozy corner while Saffron journaled about the day. The vibrant Southwestern decor and the gentle hum of Santa Fe’s quiet night made for a peaceful end to our adventure.
Collectible of the Day
Today’s keepsake is the tiny clay pot from the Farmers Market. It’ll make the perfect home for a desert succulent.
Final Thoughts: Meow Wolf and the Railyard District showed us a more playful side of Santa Fe. Tomorrow, we’re off to Bandelier National Monument for some ancient history and breathtaking hikes. I can’t wait to climb those cliff dwellings!
Until tomorrow,
Sonny
Big Adventures for a Little Mouse
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