The 10 Best Things to do In Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a beautiful place to visit no matter what time of year. But what is there to do? Santa Fe offers a wide variety of activities to keep you busy. From the beautiful art galleries and museums to the tasty southwestern-style food to the breathtaking hiking trails, there is no shortage of things to experience. One thing you should remember to bring for your vacation is your sunglasses and sunscreen! Even during the winter season, the sun is powerful and it is best to be protected. 

Why is Santa Fe so popular?

Santa Fe is a magical and unique city that is famous for its Architecture, Native American Culture, and World-Famous Art Scene & Georgia O'Keefe. Georgia O’Keefe is a famous artist whose paintings were of the rugged yet beautiful desert landscaping around Santa Fe.  The desert around Santa Fe is full of mystery and wonder. The arid climate combined with the Chama River brings an oasis feel to the arroyo-scarred landscape. 

 

When is the best time to visit Santa Fe?

Santa Fe is beautiful year-round but the best time to visit is in the fall, September, and November to be specific. During this time of year, the temperatures range from the mid-20s to the mid-70s. Other than the weather there is a plethora of things to do in the fall. One of the most popular activities is attending one of the many festivals that are put on. Fiesta de Santa Fe, Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, and Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration are some of the more well-known and popular fall-time festivals.

Plan the perfect itinerary for your Santa Fe vacation

Santa Fe is the perfect weekend getaway destination! Three days is the perfect amount of time to see all the most popular attractions. However, if you would like to take your time and visit all the best restaurants and shops, 4 to 5 days in Santa Fe is what we would recommend. To help you start planning we put together an itinerary of all the best places to visit and things to do during your time in Santa Fe:

  1. Explore Art Museums: Museum of Indian Arts, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Culture, New Mexico Museum of Art
  2. Attend an event at Santa Fe Plaza
  3. Pick up one-of-a-kind artwork or jewelry at the Santa Fe Indian Market or Traditional Spanish Market
  4. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Kakawa Chocolate House
  5. Stargaze with Astronomy Adventures
  6. Cook International Santa Fe Cuisine with Santa Fe School of Cooking
  7. Browse Art Galleries: Ventana Fine Art, SITE Santa Fe, Center for Contemporary Arts, and Railyard district
  8. Enjoy a tailgate at the Santa Fe Opera
  9. Admire Santa Fe Architecture: The 'miraculous' Loretto Chapel staircase, Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, Santuario de Guadalupe
  10. Enjoy a road trip along the Turquoise Trail

Looking for a Place to Stay in Santa Fe?

Explore our Santa Fe Vacation Rentals to find the perfect place to stay! We have homes for the whole family including your pets. Our Dog-friendly homes are ready to welcome you and fido to Santa Fe! If you are looking to stay in Santa Fe for an extended period of time we have monthly rentals for when you stay longer than 30 days and long-term rentals if you plan on staying for 12 months or longer. No matter whom you come with or how long you plan on staying, we have a vacation rental just for you!