10 Best Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico
Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico
Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe has continually been voted Travel + Leisure magazine’s “Top Cultural Getaway.” New Mexico’s historic capital city boasts the appeal of Spanish Colonial charm without having to travel all the way to Europe. If you are planning a trip to Santa Fe, do not miss out on these ten unique attractions and experiences!

1. Enjoy Delicious Local Food

Coyote Cantina in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Coyote Cantina in Santa Fe, New Mexico

In Santa Fe, there is no shortage of delicious food and treats. Taste the traditional huevos rancheros – a delicious plate of eggs, beans, chile, and cheese served on a tortilla – at the Tecolote Café. If you are in the mood for some burritos, try the “Christmas-style” burritos served with red and green chile at The Shed. They also have a beautiful flower garden on their patio for you to enjoy while you eat your lunch! If it is margarita time, head over to the Coyote Cantina and enjoy a drink on their open-air terrace.

2. Visit Immersive Museums

Apache Mountain Spirit Dancer bronze sculpture at Museum of Indian Arts & Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Apache Mountain Spirit Dancer Bronze Sculpture at Museum of Indian Arts & Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico

There are over a dozen museums around Santa Fe. Get inspired through the area’s rich cultural heritage, history, and art. If you are eager to learn about Native American art and culture, check out the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the New Mexico History Museum. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum houses some stunning artwork as well, so it is a must see!

3. Shop at the Palace of the Governors

Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Browse the shops at the Palace of the Governors. It was originally constructed to be Spain’s seat of government for what is now the American Southwest. Its shops are full of beautiful handmade Native American silver and turquoise jewelry and art so make sure to pick up something to remember your trip.

4.  Relax at La Fiesta Lounge

La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe, New Mexico
La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Take a break from the many Santa Fe attractions at the La Fiesta Lounge inside the La Fonda on the Plaza hotel. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious margarita!

5. Check out the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa Fe, New Mexico

When in Santa Fe you must stop and admire the historic Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis Assisi. This cathedral was built between 1869 and 1886 and is known for its impressive Romanesque architecture.

6. Walk Along the Canyon Road Art District

Canyon Road Art District in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Canyon Road Art District in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Canyon Road Art District is every shopper and art lover’s dream! It houses over a hundred galleries, restaurants, and boutiques in just a half mile radius. It is a great way to appreciate some amazing art in just one short walk.

7. Explore La Casa Vieja de Analco

La Casa Vieja de Analco in Santa Fe, New Mexico
La Casa Vieja de Analco in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Did you know that Santa Fe houses the oldest continuously inhabited residence in America? Visit La Casa Vieja de Analco to explore the beautiful structure that Pueblo Indians built in AD 1200.

8. Discover Unique Art Markets

Santa Fe International Folk Art Market
Santa Fe International Folk Art Market

Santa Fe has an abundance of art markets to discover. Make sure you check out the Spanish, Indian and Folk Art markets – they are top-notch, and you won’t be disappointed!

9. Experience the Famous Santa Fe Opera

Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico.
Santa Fe Opera

What better way to immerse yourself in culture than by watching a show at the world-famous Santa Fe Opera? Catch an old favorite or a world premiere, and make sure you pack a posh picnic so you can tailgate in the car park before the show.

10. Hike up to Santa Fe Baldy

Santa Fe Baldy Via Windsor Trail
Santa Fe Baldy Via Windsor Trail

If you are a nature lover, you have to take the hike up to Baldy, an unforgettable treeless trek that will guide you 3,700 meters up to Santa Fe’s peak. Here you can savor the amazing views of the city and the desert beyond it!