This article provides an overview of things to see and do in Santa Fe, New Mexico along with useful links to other websites for additional travel related information.
At a Glance
Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a city like no other. As the oldest state capital in the U.S., founded in 1610, Santa Fe offers a rich blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. It’s a place where adobe architecture meets world-class art, where red chili ristras hang from doorways, and where sunsets paint the desert sky in jaw-dropping colors. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Santa Fe’s unique fusion of heritage, creativity, and natural beauty will captivate you from the moment you arrive.
Santa Fe is more than just a destination — it’s a sensory experience. The scent of piñon wood in the air, the taste of spicy green chile, the texture of centuries-old adobe walls, and the sight of the sun dipping behind the Sangre de Cristo Mountains all combine to create something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re there for a long weekend or an extended stay, Santa Fe invites you to slow down, soak it in, and see the world through a different lens.
Popular Activities
Explore Canyon Road
Home to more than 100 art galleries and studios, Canyon Road is a paradise for art lovers. You’ll find everything from traditional Southwestern art to modern installations, often housed in charming adobe buildings. Don’t be surprised if you stumble into an artist mid-painting or enjoy a glass of wine during a gallery opening.
Visit the Santa Fe Plaza
The historic heart of the city, the Santa Fe Plaza, has been a gathering place for over 400 years. It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings like the Palace of the Governors, where Native American artisans sell handcrafted jewelry and pottery daily, and San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the United States.
Tour the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Dedicated to one of the most iconic American painters, this museum celebrates Georgia O’Keeffe’s deep connection to the landscapes of New Mexico. It’s a must-visit for art and nature enthusiasts alike.
Savor Southwestern Cuisine
From green chili enchiladas to blue corn pancakes, Santa Fe is a culinary destination. Be sure to try The Shed or Café Pasqual’s for authentic New Mexican dishes. And don’t forget to answer the state’s unofficial question: “Red or green?”
Experience Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return
Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return is an immersive art installation that is a surreal, interactive journey through alternate dimensions, designed by more than 100 local artists. It’s part science fiction, part mystery and entirely unforgettable.
Soak in a Spa
Unwind at Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-inspired spa nestled in the hills just outside Santa Fe. Enjoy hot tubs, massages, and the tranquil mountain setting — perfect after a day of exploring.
Getting There
By Air
Fly Santa Fe (SAF) is a small regional airport with flights to and from Phoenix, Arizona (PHX), Denver, Colorado (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas (DFW) and Houston, Texas (IAH).
Albuquerque Sunport International Airport (ABQ) is the nearest large international airport and is just over an hours drive south of Santa Fe on Interstate 25.
By Car
Santa Fe sits along Interstate 25 just over an hours drive north from Albuquerque and about 6 ½ hours south of Denver, Colorado.
By Rail
Amtrak does not have direct rail service to Santa Fe. Passengers can take the Southwest Chief trains 3 and 4 to Lamy, New Mexico then take the RoadRunner Shuttle to their destination in Santa Fe. Passengers should call 505-424-3367 the day prior to departure to arrange a shuttle pickup.
Nearby Attractions
Bandelier National Monument
Just 45 minutes from Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument features dramatic canyon landscapes and ancient Ancestral Puebloan dwellings carved into the soft volcanic rock. Hike the trails and climb ladders into centuries-old cliff homes.
Taos
An easy 1.5-hour drive north, Taos is known for its historic Taos Pueblo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), vibrant arts scene, and ski slopes in the winter. The scenic High Road to Taos drive offers stunning mountain views and quaint villages along the way.
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
About an hour southwest of Santa Fe, these unique cone-shaped rock formations are a geological wonder. Hike the Slot Canyon Trail for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Madrid, New Mexico
Pronounced MAD-rid, Madrid is a quirky former mining town along the Turquoise Trail is full of galleries, cafes, and roadside charm. It’s also famous for its role in the movie Wild Hogs.
Pecos National Historical Park
Explore Civil War battlefields, 18th-century mission ruins, and scenic trails just 30 minutes east of Santa Fe in Pecos National Historical Park. This park offers a glimpse into the region’s complex history and stunning natural beauty.
