Walk/view the famous red rock formations and short paved overlooks; the park is open 24/7 though the Visitor & Nature Center is typically 9:00am–5:00pm—check current hours before you go.
Eat an early dinner in Pueblo or Colorado Springs to keep to your relaxed schedule; aim to be seated by 6pm so you’re finished early (many recommended restaurants open 4–5pm).
Explore the tallest sand dunes in North America; hike or sand-surf (bring shoes, water, and sun protection). The park is open year-round; Visitor Center hours typically ~9:00am–5:00pm—verify for seasonal changes.
If Medano Creek is flowing (spring/early summer peak), enjoy the creek at the dune edge or take easy boardwalk trails nearby for different views of the dunes.
Drive or walk to the Roundhouse for photos and a short look at the building and its art collection; public hours are typically weekdays 8:00am–5:00pm—weekend hours vary, so confirm.
Visit the historic San Miguel Chapel (often open daytime) and stroll the Plaza to get your first dose of Santa Fe's adobe architecture, shops and galleries.
If you have energy, pop into the New Mexico History Museum (near the Palace of the Governors) to orient yourself to local history; typical hours ~10:00am–5:00pm—check ahead.
See the world-class O'Keeffe collection—gallery hours are typically 9:00am–5:00pm; reserve tickets in advance for preferred entry time and to avoid lines.
Enter Meow Wolf for an immersive art experience—open often into the evening (commonly 10:00pm), but book timed tickets in advance and arrive early to maximize time.
Begin the long drive back toward Denver; plan ~6.5–7 hours driving to the Denver Airport area—leave in mid-afternoon for a comfortable drive with stops.
If you arrive early in the Denver area and want a short outing, visit a nearby park or light shopping area; otherwise rest and prepare for next-day airport arrival.
Check out and take the hotel's shuttle (or drive) to Denver International Airport allowing buffer time for traffic and security—shuttle times vary so confirm with hotel.