shop small – not only during the holiday season!
Santa Fe is a haven for small businesses, and there are a few that we just can’t get enough of. From kid-centered hangs to spots that are fun for the entire family (yes, really!), we compiled a list of our favorite local haunts to support. Have more recommendations? Send them our way! It seems we’re always discovering more nearby treasures to spend our money and our time at.
Bee Hive Books
A Santa Fe children’s classic (much like some of the titles they sell!), there are so many things to love about Bee Hive. Nestled on Montezuma Avenue in a sweet cottage, Bee Hive has a book selection curated with apparent care and knowledge, so you always leave with the perfect thing(s). Owned by a wonderful human and former DMS parent, we love that Bee Hive celebrates reading, writing, and community for our children.
FOMA Gallery
Just across the street from Bee Hive Books, you can find FOMA Gallery, owned and operated by a current DMS parent and board member! Santa Fe’s newest contemporary gallery space, FOMA showcases a variety of contemporary artists working in a variety of mediums – some local, some not. Need to get away from all the hustle and bustle? Go admire some work at FOMA, and don’t forget that DMS students will have their work there next month, too!
Indigo Baby
You’ve probably heard your child asking to go here – this little store in the DeVargas Center boasts some very thoughtfully-sourced toys and gear for kiddos. The prices can definitely be intimidating, BUT they have the best consignment deals in town – just take a walk down their chock-full consignment aisle!
cafecito
A family-owned business blending the unique cuisines and cultures of Argentina, Armenia, and Italy, Cafecito’s bright, airy, plant-filled space is a must for that casual Sunday family brunch. From dulce de leche to frittata to empanadas, Cafecito is a delicious and approachable way for your child (and you!) to expand their culinary horizons.
santa fe reptile & bug museum
Formerly the Harrell House Bug Museum at the DeVargas Center, many folks were crushed when the now Santa Fe Reptile & Bug Museum closed during the pandemic. Now back in a pop-up location at the fashion outlet mall, this creepy, crawly place is an extraordinary educational experience for kids and adults alike. Hold a Boa Constrictor, pet a Chilean Rose Tarantula, or watch Willow, the magnificent Frilled Lizard eat – or explore a whole variety of odd creatures that you may not even know existed. Afraid of bugs and scaly creatures? This unique little treasure might be the best way to conquer that fear!
wise fool
Serving over 2000 youth in the Santa Fe area, Wise Fool New Mexico’s mission is to ignite imagination, build community, and promote social justice through performances and hands-on experiences in the arts of circus, puppetry, and theatre. Your child can sign up for a variety of classes, from afterschool camps to family-wide circus play, or you can check out their performance calendar and take your kiddo to a can’t-miss-it show.
cielo home
With fancy, breakable things for big folks in the front and some very fun gems for kiddos in the back, this little shop on Guadalupe is great for getting ideas for your next party – or even for getting your costuming needs met! Walk away with a sweet stuffie to add to the collection, or maybe even with some artfully crafted artisanal soap. Their product range is wide, and it’s fun for all to browse the many shelfs of unique wares!
hacer
Santa Fe’s community oriented natural fiber and fabric studio, Hacer is more than just your average yarn shop. Whether you’re an experienced fiber artist or just starting on your crafting journey, you’re sure to find something inspiring at Hacer. Full of high quality natural fiber yarns and fabrics at a variety of price points, this is the perfect spot to take your kiddo on a snowy day and find something cozy and colorful to craft with. Hacer also offers classes to both teens and adults.