Santa Fe
There is a tremendous mixture of culture in Santa Fe, where Hispanic influences blend with Native American and contemporary style to produce a lovely vibe.
Santa Fe in a nutshell
Santa Fe’s New Mexico location results in a unique blend of Native American and Spanish influences, seen in the city’s unique architecture, spicy cuisine, traditions and culture.
Add breathtaking natural beauty, unsurpassed sunsets and a wide selection of activities throughout the year, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable getaway.
Famous as an art colony in the early 20th century, the capital of New Mexico still retains its reputation as one of the top 3 art destinations in the US.
In Santa Fe you’ll find creations by luminaries such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Miro Kenarov in its galleries on Canyon Road, and works by up-and-coming arts in the artisan markets in the Railyard Arts District.
Culture is everywhere, in diverse museums including the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, the Institute of American Indian Arts Museum and the New Mexico History Museum, as well as in the city’s iconic Santa Fe Opera, which is partly open-air with jaw-dropping views of the Jemez Mountains.
Activities abound here, too. From powder skiing in winter in the nearby mountains to hiking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains when it’s warmer. And that’s just a taste…
Santa Fe is a creative, colorful, historic city in a magnificent setting. What’s not to love?
Best time to visit: Between September and November, when the weather is pleasant and there are numerous fun festivals to attend. Summer (June to August) is peak season.
Best Area for Sightseeing: With a choice of stunning locations in and around the city, it’s hard to pinpoint just one area to explore. See Things to do in Santa Fe, below, for some great ideas.
Shopping in Santa Fe: The city’s silver and turquoise jewellery is legendary, as are Navajo weavings and Pueblo pottery. You’ll also found Southern-style boots and garments. Downtown Santa Fe offers specialty stores with arts and crafts, books and toys and modern malls and shops abound along Cerrilos and Zafarano Roads.
Food & Restaurants in Santa Fe: Exciting taste sensations include a mix of Spanish, Mexican, Mediterranean and Pueblo Native American flavors - this is New Mexican cuisine at its best. Global dishes are also plentiful in a number of eateries, but it’s the city’s famous red and green chilies that are the big drawcard.
Nightlife: Santa Fe is known for its vibrant, eclectic music scene. Add a rich cultural heritage and you have a diverse music selection to enjoy in the city’s numerous bars, clubs and restaurants.
Things to do in Santa Fe:
- Explore the plethora of fabulous art galleries along Canyon Road.
- Step back in time at El Rancho de las Golondrinas, a living history museum offering a taste of 18th century life under Spanish rule.
- See the creative works of local resident Georgia O’Keefe in the museum of the same name and visit Ghost Ranch, the artist’s former home and studio.
- Soak up the city’s atmosphere in Santa Fe Plaza, home to the iconic Cathedral of St Francis of Assisi as well as the Palace of the Governors, the country’s oldest building.
- Visit the San Miguel Chapel, built in 1610, with its Miraculous Staircase.
- Scour the Farmer’s Market on Saturday and Tuesday mornings for delicious local produce.
- Learn all about the dynamic Native American art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts.
- Explore the Roundhouse, the New Mexico State Capitol, to see its impressive collection of paintings, photographs, sculptures and other creative items.
Best way to get around: You can easily explore Downtown Sante Fe on foot, but will need to rent a car to visit further afield.