Santa Fe vacation guide

Top things to do in Santa Fe

• 
  The Santa Fe TrailFree★5.0

  Explore the legendary historic trade route ending in downtown Santa Fe.

• 
  Santa Fe TrailFree★4.9

  Trace the iconic nineteenth century trade route into historic Santa Fe

• 
  Bandelier National MonumentFree★4.8

  Discover ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings nestled in dramatic canyon landscapes.

• 
  Cumbres & Toltec Scenic RailroadFree★4.8

  Historic steam train journeys through the scenic Rocky Mountain wilderness

• 
  El Santuario de ChimayoFree★4.8

  A historic Roman Catholic shrine famed for its miraculous healing soil

• 
  Lensic Performing Arts Center$$★4.8

  Santa Fe's historic premier venue for music, theater, dance, and film.

• 
  Los Alamos Nature CenterFree★4.8

  Discover Northern New Mexico wildlife, interactive exhibits, and canyon views

• 
  Pecos National Historical ParkFree★4.8

  Explore centuries of Puebloan history, Spanish missions, and Civil War heritage.

• 
  San Miguel MissionFree★4.8

  Visit the oldest church in the United States in Santa Fe

• 
  Santa Fe Art Institute$★4.8

  An artist residency in Santa Fe focused on social justice.

• 
  Santa Fe InstituteFree★4.8

  A pioneering research hub exploring complex adaptive systems in Santa Fe.

• 
  Santa Fe Opera$$★4.8

  World-class operatic performances set against stunning New Mexico mountain vistas

All things to do in Santa Fe →

Where to eat

• 
  Lemon Lush$★5.0

  Mobile fresh-squeezed lemonade stand serving customized flavors in Santa Fe

• 
  Tacos y burritos la fe$$★4.8

  Authentic Santa Fe food truck serving oversized burritos and Pinches tacos

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  Cafe Fina$$★4.7

  A Taste of Italy in Santa Fe

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  Clafoutis$$★4.7

  Charming French country cafe serving artisanal pastries and classic brunch fare

• 
  Doodlet's$★4.7

  Whimsical Santa Fe shop packed with quirky gifts and folk art

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  Jambo Cafe$$★4.7

  Savory African and Caribbean fusion fare in colorful Santa Fe surroundings

• 
  Kakawa Chocolate House$★4.7

  Artisanal historic drinking chocolate and handcrafted confections in Santa Fe

• 
  Bode's General Store$★4.6

  An essential historic general store and eatery north of Santa Fe

All places to eat in Santa Fe →

Plan your Santa Fe trip

About Santa Fe

As the oldest state capital in the United States, Santa Fe offers a rich cultural journey centered around its historic Plaza and centuries-old adobe landmarks like the Palace of the Governors. Art lovers can wander the famous galleries along Canyon Road, discover the lively Santa Fe Railyard district, or experience the immersive multimedia world at Meow Wolf. Framed by stunning mountain vistas, the city invites travelers to enjoy authentic New Mexican cuisine, explore bustling artisan markets, and absorb a deeply creative, tranquil atmosphere.

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.

Frequently asked questions

Local tips

• 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.

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.

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• 
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• 
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• 
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