by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 5/22/2025
What is there to do in Santa Fe, New Mexico?
Santa Fe offers a blend of cultural, artistic, and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the city's historic adobe
architecture and vibrant arts scene, which includes numerous galleries, museums, and the renowned Santa Fe Opera. The
city is also known for its unique cuisine, blending Native American, Spanish, and Mexican flavors. Outdoor enthusiasts
can enjoy hiking and skiing in the surrounding mountains, while the historic Santa Fe Plaza provides a lively area for
shopping and dining.
Sitting at an elevation of approximately 7,199 feet (2,194 meters) above sea level, Santa Fe is one of New Mexico's prettiest towns. The city’s distinctive adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene and stunning mountain backdrop contribute to its appeal. Santa Fe has been on our list of places to visit for quite some time and it did not disappoint. In fact, we ran out of time while we were there and would like to return to see what we missed and to repeat a few amazing experiences.
Santa Fe has a very dry, high desert climate with intense sunlight. On average, the city experiences more than 300 sunny days per year. However, at 7,199 feet in elevation (the third-highest city in the USA), getting sufficient oxygen can be challenging, especially when encountering stairs or uphill walks
In the sections below, we provide background information and details about what there is to see and do in Santa Fe. We also offer an itinerary as a guideline for you to plan your own trip.
Santa Fe served as our base camp from day five through day nine of our Southwest road trip, providing a fantastic hub for exploring the region. We spent several days discovering Santa Fe’s Old Town area and its museums, then ventured outside the city to visit Bandelier National Monument, Los Alamos, and Nambe Falls.
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Click the above image to explore our Santa Fe, New Mexico comprehensive travel guide! This video offers an in-depth overview of where to stay, top Santa Fe restaurants, and a suggested 3-day itinerary to make the most of your visit. Discover must-see sites in the historic old town, delve into the immersive art of Meow Wolf, experience the cultural richness of Museum Hill, and unwind at the luxurious Ojo Spa. Whether you're exploring Bandelier National Monument, Los Alamos, or Nambe Falls, this Santa Fe travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip. Don't miss out on the unique blend of art, history, and relaxation that Santa Fe has to offer! Inspiring travel and providing information to help you have a great trip
Here are some interesting facts about Santa Fe, NM that we discovered during our trip research;
Staying within walking distance of Old Town Santa Fe is the best option for visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in the city’s charm. This area provides easy access to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, renowned restaurants, unique shopping experiences, fascinating museums, and other top attractions.
There is a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets, including well-known chain hotels such as the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, charming local inns, and numerous VRBO options. While staying in Old Town can be more expensive, the convenience and ambiance make it worth the extra cost. However, if staying in Old Town isn’t feasible, there are many excellent options just outside the central area that still offer great access to the city's highlights.
As of 10/25/2024 Google says there are 2,104 accommodations of all types in Santa Fe. If you prefer to do your own research click here to view a Google Search Results list of "accommodations in Santa Fe" - note that this list is in the default Google display order and that you can change that order by modifying any of the displayed "Search Filters".
Top-rated hotels in the Old Town area include:
We opted to rent a charming casita through VRBO, located just two blocks from Old Town Santa Fe. This one-bedroom gem offered all the conveniences of home, including a full kitchen and a washer and dryer. We only stayed for two nights before moving to the Buffalo Thunder Resort outside of town, but in hindsight, we wished we had stayed longer. The casita’s proximity to the heart of Santa Fe made it an ideal base for exploring the area’s many attractions. Click here to view this property on the VRBO Website.
Whether you choose to stay in the heart of Old Town or in the surrounding areas, Santa Fe offers a variety of lodging options that cater to different preferences and budgets.
Santa Fe is a culinary haven, offering a diverse array of dining options that showcase the region's unique flavors. These are just a few of the many exceptional dining options in Santa Fe. Whether you're looking for casual eats or an upscale dining experience, Santa Fe's culinary scene has something to offer every palate.
Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza If you're craving pizza, head to Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza. Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, calzones, and craft beers, Il Vicino offers a casual and inviting atmosphere. Their menu features a variety of creative toppings and fresh ingredients, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Don't miss their house-made root beer and selection of local brews. oogle Reviews
We ate a late lunch here after we visited the Georgia O'Keefe Museum. It was cozy inside and the service was good. The pizza was reasonable and the beer was cold.
The Plaza Cafe Downtown The oldest restaurant in Santa Fe, Plaza Café Downtown offers a mix of traditional New Mexican dishes and American diner favorites. Located right on the Santa Fe Plaza, it’s perfect for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a relaxed dinner while enjoying views of the bustling Plaza. Don’t miss their green chile cheeseburgers or their homemade pies. oogle Reviews
We ate lunch here after exploring the Old Town area, and the location on the Plaza really can't be beat. On a beautiful spring day, it was delightful to sit outside in the patio area and people-watch. The service was great, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal. We opted for a salad and a burger, both of which were excellent choices.
Santa Fe Plaza is the historic and cultural heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Surrounded by adobe-style buildings, galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants, the Plaza embodies the city’s vibrant heritage. Established in the early 1600s as a central gathering place, it remains a bustling hub of activity today.
Visitors can explore landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S., and enjoy the Native American artisans selling handcrafted jewelry and art. Seasonal festivals, live music, and cultural events often fill the Plaza, making it a lively destination year-round.
The area also boasts unique dining options, offering Southwestern cuisine and more, while its charming streets invite leisurely strolls. Santa Fe Plaza is a perfect starting point to experience the city's rich blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences.
We had a nice lunch at the
Plaza Cafe Downtown, adjacent
to the public square on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and San Francisco Street.
Good food & good service and they have outside seating.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a captivating destination offering a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Here are the top ten reasons to visit:
For most travel enthusiasts, the world is divided into two kinds of destinations: those on the "must-see" list and those that fall into the "hope-to-visit" category. The must-see destinations are the iconic places that inspire your wanderlust and feel almost essential to your travel journey. They might be destinations you’ve dreamed about for years, read about in books, or seen in breathtaking photographs.
On the other hand, the "hope-to-visit" destinations are those that pique your interest but may be more aspirational or slightly off the beaten path—places you’d love to explore when the timing, resources, or opportunity aligns. These destinations often represent future adventures, holding the promise of discovery and excitement.
Below, we've curated both our must-see and hope-to-visit lists. They reflect the destinations that fuel our travel passion and keep our sense of adventure alive. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, we hope these lists inspire your own travel dreams and perhaps even align with places you’ve long wanted to explore. Let us know if any of these resonate with your travel goals!
The following list of destinations are places that we visited, and all of these are located on this page;
The following destinations are all places that we would have visited if we had more time in Santa Fe and they are included here for your convenience. Each is linked to their web site;
If you would prefer to perform your own research, here is a link to a Google Search Results list for "Things to do in Santa Fe".
This Santa Fe museum is dedicated to Georgia O'Keeffe's life's work. This intimate museum offers a unique chance to delve into the mind of this iconic American modernist painter. Explore thoughtfully curated galleries showcasing O'Keeffe's paintings across various periods. Witness her early works and teaching years, followed by the bold abstractions inspired by the New Mexico landscape she adored. The museum doesn't just showcase art; it brings O'Keeffe's world to life.
To view this fascinating museum, click here to view our Georgia O'Keeffe Museum page.
This image is the property of John Phelan via Wikimedia Commons using the CC BY 3.0 license.
Explore the coolest Native American stuff at Santa Fe's Museum of Indian Arts & Culture. Forget dusty displays – this place is all about bringing the Southwest's Indigenous cultures to life. Their new exhibit, "Here, Now and Always," is like a treasure hunt through time. Check out hundreds of objects, from pottery to paintings, each with a story to tell.
To view our exploration there, click here to view our Museum of Indian Arts & Culture page.
Soak in the natural wonders - their claim to fame are the multiple pools and tubs fed by mineral-rich hot springs. Choose from the serene outdoor setting of the communal pools, or indulge in a private soaking experience for ultimate relaxation. The warm waters, ranging from 95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, are known for their therapeutic qualities. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and let your stress melt away.
To view our visit there, click here to view our Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort page.
Take a trip through scientific discovery! This free museum unlocks the secrets of Los Alamos National Laboratory's fascinating history and cutting-edge research. Explore over 60 interactive exhibits that bring science to life.
To view our exploration there, click here to view our Bradbury Science Museum at Los Alamoss page.
This park is like a real-life time machine. Hike through canyons and mesas that were home to the Ancestral Puebloans way back when. Imagine their lives as you check out cliff dwellings carved right into the rock walls. Some even have ladders you can climb for a closer look!
To view this beautiful area, click here to view our Bandelier National Monument page.
This is a really nice area just 28 miles north of Santa Fe
Managed by the Nambe Pueblo, this recreation area offers a refreshing adventure for all. Choose between two trails, each a quarter-mile trek. The upper trail rewards with a breathtaking panoramic view of the cascading waterfall.
To view this day trip, click here to view our Nambe Falls page.
Unfold a rabbit hole of wonder at Meow Wolf Santa Fe. This isn't your typical museum; it's an immersive art experience that explodes with creativity. Prepare to be transported into the bizarre and beautiful world of the "House of Eternal Return," a sprawling, multi-room exhibit. Explore a curious Victorian home filled with hidden passageways leading to fantastical dream landscapes.
Each room is a unique work of art, filled with vibrant colors, surreal designs, and interactive elements. From a living room that transforms into a magical forest to glowing, alien-like creatures and surreal landscapes, every corner offers a new surprise. The experience is designed to be non-linear, encouraging visitors to explore at their own pace and uncover layers of the story, whether through clues, hidden messages, or augmented reality elements.
To view this unusual place, click here to view our Meow Wolf page.
The following is a suggested itinerary based upon places & ideas that we came up while exploring Santa Fe - note Links are provided to each destination for your convenience;
In the trip menu list below, a "dark filled circle" represents a destination where we stayed, and the "dark filled arrow" items below that circle location, represent the destinations we visited while in that city or location. A circle icon that is not filled represents a city that we visited or stayed in, but did not necessarily explore.
Click any link below to go directly to that page;
Alamogordo, NM
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, NM
Grand Canyon, AZ
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