Santa Fe images
Santa Fe images
Santa Fe images

Santa Fe

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Overview

Santa Fe is known for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene. It's a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and nature, making it a unique destination.

History

Santa Fe, founded in 1610, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and has a rich cultural history influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures.

Culture

The city has a rich cultural diversity, primarily influenced by its Native American and Hispanic populations, along with a growing community of artists and expatriates.

Interesting Facts

  • Santa Fe is the highest state capital in the U.S. at over 7,000 feet above sea level.
  • The city has a unique blend of Hispanic and Native American cultures.
  • Santa Fe hosts the oldest continuously operated public art market in the country.
  • The Palace of the Governors is the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S.
  • Santa Fe is considered a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art.
  • The city is known for its distinctive adobe architecture.
  • Georgia O'Keeffe, a famous artist, spent much of her life in the area.
  • The city has over 250 art galleries and museums.
  • Santa Fe has a rich history of Pueblo Indian culture.
  • The city is famous for its red and green chile dishes.

Expert Advice

  • Visit the local markets for authentic Native American crafts
  • Try to avoid peak tourist season in summer for a more relaxed experience
  • Explore the local art galleries and museums
  • Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's history
  • Sample the local cuisine at various restaurants
  • Check out the annual Santa Fe Indian Market
  • Plan visits to nearby attractions like Bandelier National Monument
  • Use sunscreen as the sun can be intense at high altitudes
  • Attend the Santa Fe Opera in the summer months
  • Stay hydrated while exploring the city.

People on Budget

  • Visit free museums on designated days
  • Take advantage of free walking tours
  • Eat at local food trucks for budget-friendly meals
  • Explore the outdoors with free hiking trails
  • Stay in budget accommodations like hostels or motels.

Emergency Details

  • 911
  • Santa Fe Police Department: (505) 428-3710
  • Santa Fe Fire Department: (505) 955-3200
  • Presbyterian Santa Fe Medical Center: (505) 231-0000
  • New Mexico State Police: (505) 827-9000

Weather

Santa Fe experiences a high desert climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.

Ideal time to visit

The best time to visit Santa Fe is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.

Top Places to Visit in Santa Fe

Santa Fe caters to all tastes. Below, we have picked some crowd favorites. Prepare for memorable experiences that will leave a lasting impression:

  • Visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
  • Explore the Palace of the Governors
  • Walk around the historic Santa Fe Plaza
  • Tour the Loretto Chapel
  • Visit the Museum of International Folk Art
  • Hike in the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains
  • Attend the Santa Fe Opera
  • Explore the local art galleries
  • Visit Bandelier National Monument
  • Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
  • Relax in a local spa
  • Experience the Santa Fe Farmers Market
  • Take a cooking class
  • Visit the New Mexico History Museum
  • Explore the ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier.
Image for Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe Plaza

Experience the Vibrant Heart of Santa Fe

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Palace of the Governors

A Glimpse into New Mexico's History

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New Mexico Museum of Art

Discover Southwestern Art at the New Mexico Museum of Art

Top Places to Eat in Santa Fe

Santa Fe boasts a plethora of exceptional dining choices. Below, we highlight a few must-try options not to be missed during your visit. Prepare to savor the culinary delights that await you:

  • Green Chile Stew
  • Blue Corn Pancakes
  • Sopaipillas
  • Posole
  • Tamales
  • Santa Fe Tacos
  • Biscochitos
  • Chiles Rellenos
  • Ceviche
  • Local breweries and wineries
  • The Shed
  • Cafe Pasqual's
  • La Plazuela
  • Coyote Cafe
  • Geronimo

Plan Your Trip to Santa Fe

Ready to visit Santa Fe? We can get you started! Choose how many days youd like to stay and well start an itinerary for you.

Day 1

BREAKFAST arrow icon

Eat BREAKFAST
8:00am

Event Venue arrow icon

Santa Fe Plaza
9:00am

LUNCH arrow icon

Eat LUNCH
12:00pm

Museum arrow icon

Palace of the Governors
1:30pm

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New Mexico Museum of Art
3:45pm

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New Mexico History Museum
6:00pm

DINNER arrow icon

Eat DINNER
7:00pm

Day 2

BREAKFAST arrow icon

Eat BREAKFAST
8:00am

Historical Site arrow icon

Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
9:00am

LUNCH arrow icon

Eat LUNCH
12:00pm

Cultural Center arrow icon

Lensic Performing Arts Center
1:30pm

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Santa Fe Trail
4:15pm

DINNER arrow icon

Eat DINNER
7:00pm

Day 3

BREAKFAST arrow icon

Eat BREAKFAST
8:00am

Art District arrow icon

Canyon Road
9:00am

LUNCH arrow icon

Eat LUNCH
12:00pm

Historic Site arrow icon

San Miguel Mission
1:30pm

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Loretto Chapel
3:15pm

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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
4:45pm

DINNER arrow icon

Eat DINNER
7:00pm