May 24th, 2024 | By: Grace Kim
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Known as the oldest capital city and the third largest art market in the United States, Santa Fe nestles in the heart of the Southwest. It’s filled with unique blends of Pueblo charm and Spanish influence that whether you’re a history nerd or an art enthusiast, the city offers something for everyone.
Santa Fe is surrounded with unique adobe architecture and over 250 art galleries that hold some of the most intricate, hand-made Native American art in the country. According to Travel and Leisure, Santa Fe has been voted as the second best city to visit in the US, and for good reason. From art to food and outdoor activities, the city attracts all types of travelers who want to experience culture and see iconic places like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Meow Wolf “House of Eternal Return”.
Prior to my visit, I didn’t know what to expect of Santa Fe but after my 4 day trip, the city exceeded my expectations. I didn’t realize how much history there was to the city that wandering through the streets made me want to move there! Not only is the food scene incredible with New Mexican infused dishes found at almost every restaurant, but you’ll also be able to get around places without a car as the city is extremely walkable.
12 Best Things to Do
Whether you’re planning on visiting Santa Fe for 24 hours or for a long weekend, there are so many fun and memorable things to do that will leave you wanting to come back for more. I spent 4 days exploring Santa Fe and it was the perfect amount of time to see the city. Santa Fe is extremely walkable, as we were able to get to most places on foot. There were a couple of places, like Meow Wolf, where we had to call an Uber, but for the most part, we were very happy getting our steps in for the day.
Santa Fe is full of so much art, culture, and history that your days are going to be packed. Make sure to save these places when planning for your Santa Fe trip.
1. Santa Fe Plaza
Located in the heart of Santa Fe is where you’ll find the Historic Plaza that is surrounded by adobe buildings, museums, outdoor art markets, and incredible restaurants. This is also where you’ll find the iconic Palace of the Governors, which is one of the oldest buildings in the country.
Santa Fe is full of so much history that you’ll want to go on a historic walking tour. We went on a History Walking Tour with Paul from Vigilante Guides and learned so much. Not only did we learn about significant events that took place on the Santa Fe Plaza over the last 400 years, but Paul also took time describing so many important art pieces around the city. He is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the city that if we had the time, we could’ve spent hours and hours just talking about art and the development of the city.
2. Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
While exploring downtown, you’ll be faced with stunning angles of Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis. Sitting on the edge of E. San Francisco St., you’ll find this beautiful cathedral covered in stained glass windows with a courtside with benches to relax at.
Cathedral St. Francis was built back in the 19th century as it serves as a cultural expression to Santa Fe. You’ll find a statue of Mary, also known as “Our Lady of Peace, La Conquistadora”, inside the cathedral, as she symbolizes strength to the church. You’ve also probably seen photos of Mary in different outfits because she gets changed every two weeks by local volunteers with over 300+ outfits!
3. Loretto Chapel
Only steps away from Cathedral St. Francis is where you’ll find Loretto Chapel, which is renowned for its phenomenal staircase. Originally, Loretto Chapel was part of an all girls school when it was built.
When the nuns got to the chapel, they needed help with the rest of the construction, so they prayed. After a few weeks, a man knocked on their door and said that he was able to help with the physical labor. For 8 months straight, he worked on building what is now known as the miraculous staircase, and then left without notice. Not only did he leave without asking for payment but till this day, no one knows who this man was.
If you’re looking to visit Loretto Chapel, it is worth the visit as tickets are $5 per person.
4. Santa Fe Farmers Market
Open on Saturdays is where you’ll find some of the freshest produce, goods, and handmade crafts made from local Santa Fe businesses. The Santa Fe Farmers Market is a favorite to both locals and tourists as hours range between 8am-1pm.
My favorite was trying freshly made Roasted Garlic and Arugula Bread from Intergalactic Bread Company. You can find the stand in the beginning of the market as they only take cash. Before closing, I actually went back to my hotel to get cash because I refused to leave without trying some! I also loved the blue corn lavender donut found at Whoos Donut in the market’s cafe. I did not know that donuts could taste that good as the dough had an interesting, sweet corn like taste.
If you are visiting Santa Fe during the week, there is also a Tuesday Market open until the end of the year between 8am-1pm. One of my favorite activities was shopping for fresh produce and quick bites first thing in the morning. And if you missed the Farmers Market on Saturday, you’ll get another chance to swing by on Tuesday!
5. Railyard Arts District
Home to studios, galleries, restaurants, and shops, The Railyard Arts District is iconic to Santa Fe. The best time to visit is after strolling through the Santa Fe Farmers Market since it’s located right outside the market. You’ll find outdoor art pieces from international artists showcasing their work right by The Railyard. And if you’re lucky, during certain times of the year, you’ll be able to enjoy live music performances and events while shopping around.
6. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Located in the heart of downtown is where you’ll find hundreds of art pieces from Georgia O’Keeffe, one of America’s most celebrated artists. Georgia’s art ranges from paintings of the Southwest, floral studies, and inspiration from her international travels to Japan. I loved how intimate her paintings were, as so much of her art expressed her current life and relationship with her photographer husband, Alfred Stieglitz.
7. Ojo Santa Fe Spa
If you’re looking for a quick break from the bustling city, you’ll be in for a treat at Ojo Santa Fe Spa. Unwind at the spring-fed pools and indulge in spa treatments at this peaceful spa. Relaxing at Ojo Santa Fe made me feel like I was transported to another planet as the resort was so peaceful and inviting.
If you want the full experience, I recommend booking massages and reservations at the restaurant in advance since it gets pretty busy throughout the year. There is also another Ojo Spa in Caliente, which is about an hour away from downtown. Although there are more thermal pools in the Caliente location, if you’re in Santa Fe only for a limited time, you’ll enjoy your time just as much at the Santa Fe location.
8. Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return
Get ready to embark on an interactive, art experience with over 70+ rooms to explore at Meow Wolf. Once you walk inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into mysterious portals and fantasy realms with exceptional art. There are rooms within rooms, and art pieces with hidden meanings waiting to be rediscovered.
Every corner is unique with a different narrative as you can spend hours getting lost in the rooms and haunted houses. Entrance fee starts at $40 as it is a must visit place perfect for people of all ages, families and kids, couples, and solo travelers.
9. Cross of Martyrs
Located on top of a hill is where you’ll find a cross overlooking the city. The Cross of Martyrs is the perfect place for sunrise as it was built in remembrance of the Franciscan Friars, those who lost their lives back during the Pueblo Revolt in 1680.
Spend some time admiring the views and landscapes seen on top of the hill as it gives you a completely different perspective of Santa Fe. Catching sunrise at the Cross of Martyrs was my favorite as it was extremely serene and peaceful at the top. Just remember to wear sneakers and to bring a jacket since it does get cold at the top.
Note that if you are planning to call a Lyft or Uber for sunrise, to schedule your ride in advance since drivers are very limited. And if you’re up for the adventure, spend another 20 minutes walking back downtown and grab coffee at Agapao Coffee. We enjoyed our lattes and conversations with Dave!
10. Ten Thousand Waves
If you’re looking for the best hidden gem during your visit in Santa Fe, you won’t regret taking a trip up to Ten Thousand Waves. Located about 15 minutes from the city center is where you’ll feel like you’re in Japan. The resort has everything from spa treatments, restaurants, hot tub soaking and saunas, and lodging but just remember to make reservations in advance. Plus, if you happen to visit during snowfall, you’ll seriously feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.
11. Canyon Road
Canyon Road is a vibrant road filled with unique galleries, sculptures, and botanical gardens. It’s about a 15 minute walk from the city center as there is world-class artwork all around within adobe architecture.
We spent some time on Canyon Road after grabbing lunch at The Compound, which was my favorite restaurant to dine in Santa Fe. Don’t forget to get their Chicken Schnitzel – this dish will have you speechless.
12. Kakawa Chocolate House
Tucked between downtown and Canyon Road is where you’ll find rich chocolates infused with exotic spices and recipes at Kakawa Chocolate House. The Yuzu and Mezcal chocolates were my favorite as this boutique chocolate house offers everything from hot drinks, chocolate truffles, and packaged chocolate bars. There is even a seating area where you can enjoy flights of your selected chocolate drinks.
Best time to visit
Santa Fe has seasonal weather with winters getting low in the 40s to summers getting high in the 80s. There are so many events that happen throughout the year that there isn’t just one best time frame to visit.
Spring
The weather can be unpredictable as the beginning months have a mix of cold and slightly cooler days. Temperatures range in the 60s-70s and hotel prices are pretty reasonably priced.
Summer
The summer is the busiest time of year as there are several annual events that draw large crowds and activities, which means that hotel rates are typically high with low availability. However, the weather seems to be perfect everyday as temperatures range between the 50s-80s.
Fall
Similar to the spring, temperatures during the fall range in the 60s-70s, and is the perfect time for hiking. There are a ton of events that go on, such as Fiesta de Santa Fe, and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, that if you don’t plan in advance, accommodations can be difficult to find.
Winter
If you like to ski, Santa Fe is the place to be during the winter. Ski Santa Fe is perfect for families and outdoor lovers as there are 86 different ski trails. It also gets chilly as temperatures only get as high in the 40s, but has the best hotel rates with high availability.
Where to stay?
Depending on budget and time of year, there are a handful of great places to stay in Santa Fe. You’ll want to stay walking distance to the city center since that’s where you’ll find the best restaurants, activities, and museums to visit.
During my visit, I stayed at Hotel Sante Fe (sp Santa) and couldn’t have asked for better accommodation. Not only is the staff extremely kind and attentive, but it’s also seconds away from Santa Fe’s Farmers Market and the popular Railyard Arts District. There’s also a fantastic bar and restaurant downstairs to start off the night with quick bites and delicious happy hour drinks.
Hotel Santa Fe is also the only indigenous owned hotel in Santa Fe, which will make you feel that much more immersed in the culture. The rooms and lobby also all have a local touch of indigenous art and design that will make you feel like you are traveling back in time.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Santa Fe should be on everyone’s USA bucket list as there is something to be offered in the city for every type of traveler. From museums to beautiful artworks and serene sunsets, there is so much to Santa Fe that will want you coming back for more. As someone visiting from the east coast, Santa Fe seems to be such an underrated city to visit, but has now been one of my favorites in the US. Traveling in Santa Fe made me feel like I was traveling in South America as there was just so much history, culture, and architecture encapsulating the city.
After spending 4 days in Santa Fe, I already imagined myself living there for a few months! There are so many events that go on throughout the year, restaurants I still wanted to try, and hidden alleyways that I wanted to explore that I know this is not my last time visiting.
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