Pre-Trip Fun for Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Dreamkeeper" -- A 17-year-old and his grandfather head for an All-Nations gathering in New Mexico -- and self-discovery. Once your kids see a Santa Fe sunset, they may feel an awakening as well. (School Age and Up)

"The Cowboys" -- You'll either hear a lot of John Wayne accents around your house or the kids will beg to hit the dude ranch on your Santa Fe vacay. (School Age and Up)

"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" -- This classic buddy flick will inspire your kids to head for the Santa Fe Horse Park; they can take in a lesson or just horse around. (School Age and Up)

"Independence Day" -- This sci-fi romp features scenes of White Sands; it's about a four-hour drive from Santa Fe, but the kids will never forget it. (School Age and Up)

"City Slickers" -- If your kids think they can fare better than these three city slickers, sign up at a Santa Fe ranch for fishing, horseback riding, or hog hunting. (Pre-Teens and Up)

Huevos Rancheros -- This popular dish is a southwestern breakfast staple.

Pico de Gallo Chicken Quesadillas -- You'll find this kid-friendly snack on most southwestern-style menus -- and it's a great alternative to grilled cheese.

"Lewis and Papa: Adventure on the Santa Fe Trail" by Barbara Joosse -- You and your young reader will bond over this father-son story. Rich illustrations and maps charting the journey add an air of authenticity. (Ages 4 to 8)

"My Name Is Georgia" by Jeanette Winter -- Share this picture-book portrait of Georgia O'Keefe with your budding artist -- and don't forget to pack the art supplies to capture the Santa Fe scenery. (Ages 6 to 10)

"All the Stars in the Sky: The Santa Fe Trail Diary of Florrie Mack Ryder" by Megan McDonald -- Your kids can keep a diary of what they see as they travel to Santa Fe, just like young Florrie did in the 1800s. (Ages 9 to 12)

"The Pueblo" by Charlotte Yue and David Yue -- A fantastic introduction to the architectural style and structures you'll be seeing in the southwest. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Ceremonial Costumes of the Pueblo Indians: Their Evolution, Fabrication, and Significance in the Prayer Drama" by Virginia More Roediger -- This illustrated history will give your kids an understanding and appreciation of the ceremonial costumes they may see during your visit. (Ages 12 and Up)

Giant Tissue Paper Flowers -- The kids will be more excited to see Georgia O'Keeffe's famous flower paintings after creating a few flowers of their own.

Backyard Tepee -- Santa Fe is steeped in Native American history.