“I’m a big believer in winging it. I’m a big believer that you’re never going to find the perfect city travel experience or the perfect meal without a constant willingness to experience a bad one. Letting the happy accident happen is what a lot of vacation itineraries miss, I think, and I’m always trying to push people to allow those things to happen rather than stick to some rigid itinerary.”
Anthony Bourdain
From Salt Lake City (UT) to Roswell (NM)
Day 15 – Salt Lake City (UT) – Cody (WY)
After the drive from Salt Lake City, it’s time to rest and recharge before the next leg of your journey to Yellowstone. Check into your accommodation and take some time to relax and unwind.
Cassie’s Super Club
In the evening, head over to Cassie’s Supper Club, a local favorite in Cody. This place has a fantastic vibe, combining great food, drinks, and live music. Start with a drink at the bar, some bourbon and beer perhaps? Not my usual choice, but somehow seemed appropriate. Enjoy the live music while you dine. The atmosphere at Cassie’s is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to soak in some local culture and unwind after a long day. The combination of good food, great drinks, and live entertainment creates a memorable dining experience that you’ll love.
King’s Inn, Cody – 2 nights
Day 16: Explore Yellowstone
Spend the day exploring the splendid Yellowstone National Park. It’s impossible not to be impressed by the sheer enormity and grandeur of this natural wonder. The park’s diverse landscapes range from lush forests and tranquil lakes to dramatic geysers and vibrant hot springs, each area offering its own unique beauty and awe-inspiring sights.
Focus on the Lower Loop, which is home to some of Yellowstone’s most iconic features. Start your adventure at Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser. Watching this natural marvel erupt with precision is a must-see experience. Nearby, you can explore the Upper Geyser Basin, where you’ll find an array of geysers and hot springs, each with its own unique character.
Next, head to the Grand Prismatic Spring, the park’s largest hot spring. The vibrant colors of the spring, ranging from deep blue to fiery orange, are truly mesmerizing. The view from the boardwalk is stunning, but for a more panoramic perspective, take the short hike to the overlook on the Fairy Falls trail.
Continue your journey to the Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Its serene waters and scenic shoreline offer a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
The Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is another highlight of the Lower Loop. This impressive waterfall plunges over 300 feet into the canyon below, creating a spectacular sight. Take in the view from Artist Point, where you’ll get a breathtaking perspective of the falls and the colorful canyon walls.
Millstone Pizza
For dinner, head to Millstone Pizza in Cody,. After a day of exploring, you’ll appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and simple food.
Day 17: Cody (WY) – Colorado Springs (CO)
Ahead of us is a super long drive to Colorado Springs, but the journey is filled with stunning landscapes and the promise of more amazing experiences. The road stretches through vast plains, rolling hills, and picturesque mountain ranges, offering a visual feast for the eyes as you make your way to your destination.
Eggington’s
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Eggington’s in Casper, Wyoming. This local favorite is known for its delicious and creative breakfast dishes. Try their famous Eggs Benedict to fuel up for the long drive ahead. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect stop to start your day.
After several hours on the road, you’ll finally arrive in Colorado Springs. This city, nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Check into your motel and take a moment to relax and freshen up.
Paravicini’s
For dinner, head to Paravicini’s Italian Bistro. It’s one of recommendations from Triple D.
Quality Inn & Suits Gardens of The Gods
Day 18 – Colorado Springs (CO) – Santa Fe (NM)
Start your morning by exploring the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This natural landmark is renowned for its dramatic red rock formations and stunning scenery. Take a short trail to immerse yourself in the park’s beauty, and don’t forget to snap some photos of the towering sandstone formations.
Garden of The Gods
Ojo caliente hot springs
After enjoying the views head to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa in New Mexico. This historic spa resort is famous for its natural hot springs and serene atmosphere. The resort features several different pools, each with its own unique mineral content and healing properties.
The Iron Pool, known for its reddish hue, is believed to aid in blood circulation and soothe muscle aches due to its iron content. The Arsenic Pool offers a warmer soak and is known for its soothing and healing properties, especially for those with arthritis and other joint issues. The arsenic content is thought to relieve pain and improve overall health. The Lithia Pool is renowned for its mood-enhancing properties, providing a calming and relaxing experience that is believed to elevate mood and promote a sense of well-being.
The Soda Pool contains sodium bicarbonate, which is known for its detoxifying effects and ability to soften the skin, making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate. The Cliffside Pools provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a more secluded experience. Spend the afternoon soaking in the tranquil vibe of Ojo Caliente. The serene environment and restorative waters make it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate after your morning hike.
The Artesian Restaurant & Wine Bar
Don’t miss lunch at their farm-to-table restaurant. The food is amazing, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that create delicious and healthy dishes. Try the prickly pear margarita – it’s one of the best margaritas you’ll ever have, perfectly balancing sweet and tart flavors with a refreshing twist.
Harry’s Roadhouse
In the evening, head to your motel to freshen up. For dinner, visit Harry’s Roadhouse. This popular eatery offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to end your day with a satisfying meal.
Motel 6 Santa Fe – 2 nights
Day 19 – Exploring Santa Fe
After a restful night’s sleep, spend the day exploring the charming city of Santa Fe. This city is a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. As you wander through the streets, you’ll notice the distinctive dry chilies hanging from the street lamps, adding a touch of local flavour to the city’s unique charm. Whether you’re browsing local shops, visiting art galleries, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings, the city offers a perfect mix of activities and sights to make your day memorable.
The Pantry
Start your day with breakfast at The Pantry, a beloved Albuquerque institution since 1948. Known for its hearty, New Mexican comfort food, The Pantry offers dishes like huevos rancheros, breakfast quesadilla, and blue corn pancakes that are sure to start your day off right. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Margarita Trail
Deciding to explore Santa Fe in a fun and flavorful way, we embarked on the Margarita Trail. This self-guided tour takes you through various bars and restaurants, each offering their own signature margaritas. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene while enjoying some of the best margaritas Santa Fe has to offer.
The Shed
Five & Dime General Store
We also couldn’t miss trying the famous Frito Pie at Five & Dime General Store, which we saw on Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown.” This quirky dish, served right in the Fritos bag, is a Santa Fe staple. It’s a messy, spicy, and utterly satisfying snack that captures the essence of local cuisine.
Coyote Cafe & Rooftop cantina
Roques carnitas
La Fiesta Lounge
Cowgirl BBQ
Tomasita’s
Maria’s
Tune up cafe
For lunch, we picked Tune-Up Cafe, a favorite thanks to its feature on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” The café offers a variety of delicious dishes with a distinct New Mexican flair. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to take a break and refuel.
Lulu’s Chinese
The Matador
Day 20 – Albuquerque
Clafoutis
Start your day with breakfast at Clafoutis, a popular spot known for its delicious French pastries and hearty breakfast options. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the delightful smell of freshly baked goods make it the perfect place to kick off your day.
Breaking Bad & Better Call Saul tour
If you’re a “Breaking Bad” fan like us, embark on a self-guided tour of the show’s filming locations. It’s thrilling to see these iconic spots in real life, from Walter White’s car wash to Saul Goodman’s office. The tour brings back memories of the show’s intense moments and adds a unique layer to your visit to Albuquerque.
Taqueria Mexico
For lunch, head to Taqueria Mexico. This authentic Mexican restaurant is known for its delicious tostadas and tacos, each bursting with flavor and freshly made ingredients. It’s a great spot to refuel after your morning adventures.
Albuquerque
In the afternoon, explore Albuquerque’s Old Town. This historic area is filled with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stop for some chips and an afternoon margarita at one of the local spots, soaking in the relaxed, Southwestern vibe.
In the evening, head back to your motel to unwind. For dinner, order a pizza from the same pizzeria Walter White got his pizza that famously landed on the roof. Some pizza in bed and watching “Breaking Bad” on the laptop was the perfect ending to the day, blending the best of Albuquerque with a touch of TV nostalgia.
Hotel 505 – 1 night
Day 21: Albuquerque – White Sands – Roswell
Frontier
Start your day with breakfast at Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque. Known for its classic New Mexican cuisine, this iconic spot serves up a breakfast burrito that is both hearty and delicious. Don’t miss their famous sweet roll – it’s the perfect combination of soft, sweet, and satisfying.
White Sands
After breakfast, head to White Sands National Park. This place is like stepping onto another planet, with its vast dunes of gypsum sand stretching out in all directions. The pristine white sand is stunning, and the experience of exploring this unique landscape is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hiking, sledding down the dunes, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, White Sands offers an otherworldly adventure.
Continue your journey to Roswell, a town steeped in UFO lore and mystery. Roswell gained international fame in 1947 when an alleged UFO crash was reported near the town. The story, whether myth or reality, has made Roswell a hotspot for alien enthusiasts. However, despite its intriguing history, the town itself seems to have lost some of its appeal over the years. The town feels quite run down, with a lack of impressive attractions beyond the UFO-themed shops and museums.
For dinner in Roswell, visit Cattle Baron. Known for its impressive salad bar and hearty steaks, it’s a great spot to enjoy a satisfying meal. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a pleasant dining experience.
After dinner, check into your motel to rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Roswell inn – 1 night
