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Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, has been attracting artists, musicians and writers for long for its rich tapestry of cultural activities, adobe style architecture, jaw-dropping landscapes, “perfect every day of the year” climate and a pocket-friendly price tag. Find out why Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States, has earned the nickname, “The City Different”.
After visiting Santa Fe recently, I can easily see why renowned American artist, Georgia O’Keeffe, fell madly in love with New Mexico and made it her home. I too fell in love with the land of enchantment.
In late April as I was preparing to land at Santa Fe Airport, the Pilot’s announcement hit me like a ton of bricks—“It is snowing in Santa Fe.” This wasn’t the surprise welcome I was looking for.
Melting hot Arizona to snow swept Santa Fe in a matter of 1 hour 20 minutes? How can weather change 180 degrees?
That was my first “The City Different” moment.
Courtesy of my ignorance, I ended up wearing the most inappropriate clothing—summer-ready for an impromptu winter kiss. It was like not reading the memo and ending up in a fancy dress for a corporate dinner.
Luckily Cynthia, The Marketing Director of Tourism Santa Fe, was there for me. She understood my plight and made me change into winter wear before taking me around the city.
After that awkward moment I didn’t goof up and enjoyed exploring the many facets of Santa Fe, “the City Different”:
1. A HISTORY DIFFERENT
Where tricultural saga predates Columbus’s discovery of America
While exploring the oldest capital city in the United States (407 years), I realised how seamlessly the tricultural traditions (Native American, Spanish, and Anglo) have blended in Santa Fe to create a history which is so unique.
I traveled to Taos Pueblo tracing the timelessness of Santa Fe, which predates Columbus’s discovery of America by a few thousand years. The arrival of nomadic Paleo-Indians in this region dates to 10,000 BC. The distinctive adobe architecture and Pueblo style for which New Mexico is admired for was their gift.
Taos Pueblo, the oldest Native American houses in the USA
And it’s not just the Native Americans who contributed to Santa Fe’s history, in the 16th-century Spanish explorers arrived in search of gold. The reminiscent of Old West can still be found, especially in the Downtown Plaza’s Palace of the Governors, which was built in 1610, more than 300 years before New Mexico became a state.
Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Lastly, the Anglo settlers started arriving in Santa Fe region around 1750, which was followed by the creation of Santa Fe Trail in 1821. In 1846, the United States claimed possession of New Mexico leading to the Mexican-American war, which eventually U.S. Won. In 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state of the United States.
San Miguel Mission Church, Oldest Church in the U.S.
Often history is written by conquerors but in “the City Different” history was written by a mystery man too. The Loretto Chapel’s circular wooden steps were built by an unidentified man who is said to have shown up at the chapel in 1879 with a donkey and a toolbox.
Loretto Chapel’s circular wooden steps, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
Another historic moment that triggered a shift in Santa Fe’s national and even international recognition was the 1981 Esquire cover article on Santa Fe. The cover showed a young hip New Yorker heading to Santa Fe in a convertible loaded with skis, backpacks and clothes. After this story, all roads led to Santa Fe.
2. ART DIFFERENT
Where art is not a prop but the heart and soul of the city
Santa Fe is a long-established arts haven for all kinds of artists – from eminent makers to upcoming creators. And why wouldn’t creative minds flock to “the City Different “when they are surrounded and inspired by splendid high-desert landscapes, sweeping blue skies, and 325 days of sunshine per year. The result is a thriving culture economy with 250+ art galleries, over 14 unique museums, numerous art markets, a world-class opera house, and more.
Exploring Santa Fe was like walking through a never-ending art gallery. Each neighborhood had its own charm and people were genuinely interested in conversations – more dialogue, less selling.
Come in. Don’t be afraid. You don’t have to buy anything. You can spend as much time as you want and ask us anything. We love to talk.
said the owner of the Globe Gallery, Canyon Road, Santa Fe.
Canyon Road:
As I walked through the mile-long second most iconic street in America, I couldn’t help but get blown away by the cutting-edge, conceptual and contemporary Art Galleries. The standout feature for me was a seamless integration of the Western, Native American and contemporary art galleries into the historic adobe and territorial-style home architecture.
Downtown:
The Epicenter of Santa Fe is a hub of fine-art activity where thought-provoking museums like the New Mexico History Museum, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and world-class art galleries hypnotize the visitors. You can’t help but be inspired by the legendary collections.
Plaza and Downtown, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Downtown Art Galleries, Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Railyard:
The 50-acre neighborhood has a thriving art scene with vibrant art galleries, restaurants, Santa Fe Farmers’ Market (one of the most widely recognized farmers’ markets in the United States), brewery, music venues and a movie theatre.
Railyard and Railrunner, Santa Fe, New Mexico
David Richards Gallery, Railyard, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Midtown Innovation District
Further south, the Midtown Innovation District is home to the Meow Wolf, an artist cooperative, and Prescott Studio. The former has partnered with Game of Thrones creator George R. R. Martin to open a multi-use art complex.
Midtown Innovation District – Meow Wolf, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Meow Wolf Exhibits, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Museum Hill
South East of downtown lies museum Hill, renowned for four distinct art institutions – the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, Museum of International Folk Art and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian.
The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Even a person like me (who can’t understand the intricacies of fine art) couldn’t stop falling in love with the beauty of artsy Santa Fe. I was so impressed, I immediately rang my Creative friends to make Santa Fe their next travel destination.
Santa Fe is the first designated UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Art. And it puts in lot of effort to maintain that tag. It organizes three major annual art markets: the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market; the Traditional Spanish Colonial Market and the Indian Market. One percent of Santa Fe’s hotel tax supports local arts organizations, helping to maintain a flourishing arts community, employ artists and attract tourism. Furthermore, two percent of the cost of city buildings and infrastructure support site-specific public artworks.
Santa Fe Annual Indian Market, New Mexico
It would be safe to say the heart and soul of Santa Fe lies in its culture economy, which has made it the number one choice of Culturephiles.
Santa Fe is all about creativity; from museums, art galleries and artists. The love of art is a driver of economic prosperity here in the City! As one of the top markets in the U.S. for art collectors and enthusiasts, Santa Fe’s art covers a wide range of media and genre of art.
Says Cynthia Delgado, the Marketing Director of Tourism Santa Fe.
3. FOOD DIFFERENT
Where Christmas is served 365 days
Santa Fe is different even when it comes to food. I am not a foodie but the city made me one. I felt at home in the Chile capital of the world. The chile—spelled with an e, not an i—is a big deal, found on every menu in town and featured in dishes from breakfast to dinner, and even found in deserts! Chiles are more than just an ingredient, they are a way of life.
I was placing an order at the La Fiesta Lounge, La Fonda when my server asked:
Red, green, or Christmas?
That’s local parlance for “How do you prefer your chile?” The spicy, capsaicin-rich sauce made from the official state vegetable. Whether you prefer spicy green, mellow red, or “Christmas,” a combination of the two, the little-known secret about New Mexico chile is that red and green are one and the same. The difference is how ripe the pepper is when picked.
The authentic New Mexican Cuisine features dozens of varieties of green and red chile, and dishes that creatively use Chile. You can never have a bad meal in Santa Fe, wherever you might eat – from 400+ restaurants to food markets.
Chile Roasting, Santa Fe Farmers Market, New Mexico
I missed on the Farmers Food Market but I really enjoyed my meal at il piatto Farmhouse Kitchen, where everything is freshly sourced from farmers, foragers, and ranchers; breads, pastries, pastas, and pizzas are made from whole wheat flour and only European styled grass-fed butter is used for cooking.
Chile BIG DEAL in Santa Fe
Food of Santa Fe
il piatto farmhouse kitchen
The staff at Inn on the Alameda became my de facto guide – suggesting me the best places to eat and see. (If you are planning to visit Santa Fe, I highly recommend them to stay. (Read the detailed Inn on the Alameda Hotel review).
Thanks to them, I am planning to return during Santa Fe’s Green Chile Cheeseburger, an annual competition held at The Railyard, where local chefs compete for the winning title.
Santa Fe’s Green Chile Cheeseburger Competition, New Mexico
And it isn’t food which is great in Santa Fe. The Wine Industry in Mexico is older than California’s. From 1629 till date, the state has come a long way from one winery to more than 42 wineries that produce more than 700,000 gallons of wine annually.
Santa Fe is also renowned for its Margarita Trail. All you need to do to enjoy the trail is to purchase the Santa Fe Margarita Trail Passport for $3 and you are good to experience one of a kind trail – from low-key bars to award-winning establishments where bartenders share their drinks and secrets.
Tip: Watch the glorious sunset from the historic Bell Tower at La Fonda on the Plaza while sipping your Margarita
Sunset view from the Bell Tower, La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico
4. SHOPPING DIFFERENT
Where culture and commerce crossroads at historic trading routes
I am not a shopaholic but Santa Fe is a dream come true for retail therapy devotees. Having been the final stop for historic trading routes like the Santa Fe Trail and El Camino Real for centuries, it’s no secret that Santa Fe has been a major shopping hub. Shopping in the family owned-shops at Plaza, Railyard-Guadalupe District, and Canyon Road is nothing less than a feast for senses.
Being a silver and turquoise jewelry lover I couldn’t stop myself from buying it from the Native American sellers at the Plaza. Great designs at affordable price. A perfect place to buy souvenirs.
Canyon road is one of the best spots in the world to buy art, fine leather goods, chic home furnishings and avant-garde jewelry. But remember quality comes at a price. I could only afford window shopping.
If you are a fan of cowboy fashion and don’t want to burn a big hole in your wallet, you should head to Kowboyz at Railyard-Guadalupe District for a fantastic selection of used cowboy hats, boots and western wear.
5. OUTDOORS DIFFERENT
Where spectacular outdoor adventures are just minutes away
I came to see the history and culture of Santa Fe but fell in love with its great outdoors. The pristine wilderness of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains surrounding the city. And guess what. They are just minutes away from the city center. At over 7000 feet, Santa Fe’s mountain setting makes it an ideal destination for Skiing. No wonder Skiing in Santa Fe is ranked amongst the top 5 Ski destinations in U.S. and Canada as per Conde Nest Traveller.
Hiking near Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is Mecca for hikers, skiers, snowshoers, mountain bikers, river rafters, fishing enthusiasts, horseback riders and people who love walking. In winters, you can ski the Rocky Mountains or ice skate in Hyde Memorial State Park. In summers, you can choose to hike or mountain bike or horseback ride in the 325 acres of mountain wilderness while enjoying the spectacular panoramic vistas and fields of wildflowers.
Aspen Vista Trail, Santa Fe National Forest, Rocky Mountains, New Mexico.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have much time so I could only explore the ancient cliff dwellings and thousand-year-old Taos Pueblo Up North. The sweeping mountain and cliff views made the journey unforgettable.
Aspen Vista Trail, Santa Fe National Forest, Rocky Mountains, New Mexico.
So these were my five reasons which make Santa Fe, “the City Different”. I am sure you’ll have many more.
Santa Fe was love at first sight where I didn’t feel like an outsider. Santa Feans were eager to interact and share their city, traditions, and secrets. After visiting Santa Fe, I know why it routinely features in travel awards. It is truly “The City Different”. But let me warn you — just like me you may fall in love after just one visit and would want to return again and again.
If this post inspired you to travel soon to Santa Fe soon, don’t forget to read Perfect Travel Guide for visiting Santa Fe in the USA.
Disclaimer:
I was in Santa Fe on the invitation of Tourism Santa Fe. All views expressed above are mine and based on my experience and interactions during my stay at Santa Fe. All pictures are either taken by me or provided by Tourism Santa Fe
Love how the Railroad Neighborhood looks!! 🙂
Absolutely! I used it to visit Albuquerque. Totally loved my train journey. They had a “donate a book” library on the train too. Very cool.
Love how the *Railyard Neighborhood looks!! 🙂
I have never been to the States but I did hear about Santa Fe and I have always imagine it was a warm place. It was surprising to see snow under the perfect blue sky and surrounded by blooming trees, in your photos. I would love to visit Santa Fe and take in a bit of its culture and art spirit. I can see why it is such a special place. And going back to basics, the margarita trail sounds really exciting! 🙂
It was supposed to be spring and that’s why flowers were blooming everywhere and suddenly weather gods had a mood swing. And bam snowfall happened! But that made Santa Fe even prettier.
Santa Fe is an amazing place. So much to see, eat and do. I wish I had more time in hand. I am definitely going back. And yes, Margarita trail rocks!
When I was in US, my classmate whose wife came from Santa Fe, always told me that I would love it more than any other city in the country. Reading your post makes me realise why…I guess I need to plan another US adventure soon 🙂
Oh yes, Santa Fe is like no other. I really loved it a lot. Didn’t feel like returning. You should absolutely visit Santa Fe. Since you are already in that side of the world, maybe you can fly to the US from Canada 🙂
The US is so vast – this post reminds me that there are tons of places that I have yet to see. Santa Fe seems like a cool place to visit on a US roadtrip. Also never thought of it as a ski destination – cool stuff.
I so agree with you. And that is what I was completely blown away with. The US is immense and needs so much time to explore. I am so glad I could see some of its diversity. Even I was ignorant about Santa Fe’s Ski credentials.
I like the way you guide readers through the “different” aspects of Santa Fe. It makes me feel like this is not just a capital of New Mexico, but also a place full of culture and uniqueness. I love your photos as well – they really capture the spirit of the city. Really enjoy reading this 🙂
Hey Fiona,
I am so glad you liked the story. And you are absolutely right, Santa Fe’s is Mecca for art and culture lovers. A must visit place for anyone who is creative or not.
If you have not been there, then you should absolutely visit it. I can guarantee you’ll not be disappointed.
Wow you forget how young the US is. The oldest place in the UK is Colchester which was referenced in text in 77 Ad.
However young or old Sante Fe is, it looks like a great place to visit. As a lover of art and the outdoors, it is a perfect destination. Thanks for putting Sante Fe on my radar.
Hey Kathy,
I agree everything seems to be toddler when you compare it with the European or Asian civilizations. But the US has its own charm. I really love its diversity.
Santa Fe was a pleasant surprise for me. It was so cool to see the tricultural influence in almost everything. A must visit place.
I’m in love with your photos! I feel so ignorant because I didn’t realize Santa Fe was such an artsy area. You’ve really brought Santa Fe to life for me and now I’m wondering if it might be a cool place to explore! I know my 3yo would love the Railyard!
Hey Marcie,
Thanks for the kind words. I am so glad you liked my effort. Comments like yours always keep me going. And you should definitely visit Santa Fe. Your little one will definitely like Santa Fe. You should take her to Meow Wolf. She’ll love it.
It looks like Santa Fe would be a photographer’s paradise. I love the architecture of the city. The art is so colorful. And I would LOVE the experience the food! This article really provides a good overall setting of what to expect when visiting!
Thanks a lot Jamie for the kind words. I am so glad you liked the article. It was actually a challenge for me to write about a place that has so much to offer. Santa Fe is a must visit place for anyone.
Absolutely a great city. Went there for the first time last year and loved it! ESPECIALLY Meow Wolf which is just such an amazingly cool experience.
Hi Whitney,
I so agree with you, Santa Fe is an amazing city. Can’t wait to go back. I too loved Meow Wolf a lot.
I love Santa Fe, one of my favorite US cities. As a photographer, it’s definitely one of the best places for photo sessions! I love all the colors you captured and the architecture is unlike anywhere else in the US. I can’t wait to go back!
Hi Maggie,
You have said it so well. It’s a dream come true for a photographer. And thanks a lot for like my effort. Just like you, I too can’t wait to get back to Santa Fe.
I visited Santa Fe a few years ago, I had no idea it is the oldest capital in the US. I loved the adobe style architecture, perfect for photography especially with the great weather they have there. I’m glad you mentioned food in the City Different, I enjoyed a delicious meal there and noticed there were lots of unique restaurants, a foodie heaven!
Thanks a lot for your comment. I feel so happy when i come across people who share the same passion. In this case, our shared love for Santa Fe. It is a haven for art, food, shopping, culture and anyone who loves beautiful life.
Loved this article! Have always fancied Santa Fe (since I watched Rent 😂). The buildings look so beautiful and colourful! Also the food sounds to die for!
Hi Clare,
I am so glad you loved the article. I haven’t watched the movie but now I would. Food is really good in Santa Fe. You should definitely visit it.
This place sounds amazing. I’m just reading a book written by someone who grew up in New Mexico. I think Santa Fe needs to go on my list of places to visit. you have really sold me on the culture in this city.
Thanks a lot Claire. Santa fe absolutely deserves to be on your list of places to visit. I can bet you’ll love it and would want to keep on returning to the city. That’s the magic of, “the city different”.
I did not realize how much history was in Santa Fe. It looks so beautiful with a lot to offer. Somewhere we need to visit for sure so thanks for making me aware of it !
Hi Natasha,
Thanks a lot for your comment. Santa Fe is one beautiful destination that never disappoints anyone. You should absolutely visit it. You’ll love it.
loved your recount :). Just got back from one of countless trips up the road this past weekend-it is a never-ending exploration every time I’m there. My goal is to retire there or better, get there sooner.
Hi Gretchen,
Thanks a lot for your words of encouragement. I am glad you liked my experience. I agree when you are on the road it becomes a never-ending exploration. Love road trips. Santa Fe is really a great place to retire. I am thinking too 😛
Never been to this part of the world! Interesting info shared. The shopping section interested me the most. Those stuffs on display seems good. Did you buy any?
Thanks a lot Indrani. It was my first time too in that part of the world. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am definitely going back.
Snow in April? Oh no. Though it has given your photos a little something special. The food looks amazing. Makes me so hungry
Yeah, it was unseasonal snow. That’s why you see flowers blooming in snowfall 🙂 And the food in Santa Fe is to die for. You should definitely visit Santa Fe.
I’ve seen more of the world than I ever have of my home country (The US) and this post truly made me realise how much I’ve missed out on. It’s almost otherworldly! Coming from a hispanic background some of this felt familiar while other bits of it felt new and I really want to explore it futher now.
Hi,
I can totally related to what you are saying. Happens with me too. In a quest to see the world I often forget to check my backyard. But having said that Santa Fe is a place I will keep going back again and again. It has that kind of charm. You must explore it.
Thanks for the history lesson, I had no idea that Santa Fe was the oldest capital in the US – in fact I didn’t know much about it at all until reading this post. I love the mix or Spanish and native architecture, it reminds me a lot of some of the older central american villages i’ve visited.
Hey David,
I am so glad you found the article useful. I too was unaware how awesome Santa Fe is until I visited it. The place has everything that makes it so unique. It should definitely be on everyone’s travel map.
Amazing pictures that truly make me want to go to Santa Fe. The houses and the innovations district look great too. Food seems to be as well a highlight and of course, the sceneries would make it a perfect destination to go hiking.
Hi Nico,
Thanks a lot for your comment and liking what I shared. I really fell in love with Santa Fe on my maiden trip and felt compelled to share my experience. If you have not been there, you should absolutely visit it.
Seems like Santa Fe has something to offer everyone. From the art to the history to the food. Wow. I think I need to add this to my list. I’ve never been to New Mexico but it’s always appealed to me for the hiking alone. Thanks, I pinned this for future reference!
Hi Shannon,
It’s really a fantastic feeling when someone likes the effort you put into something. I really had a great time in Santa Fe and wanted to share my experience with others. I am so glad you liked the story. And trust me you’ll love Santa Fe. It’s that kind of a city which is meant for love at first sight. If you ever need any help, please feel free to contact.
Hope you get to travel to Santa Fe soon.
I have a couple of friends in Santa Fe, all into cultural and artistic profession!
I really hope to visit Santa Fe, the City Different and indulge into the arts and crafts booming there!
Downtown and Midtown Innovation District are just stunning!
Hey Bhushavali,
I am so glad to know that you found my article good enough to consider visiting Santa Fe. It is really “the City Different”. In reality the city is even more gorgeous 🙂
Wow, I’ve heard of Santa Fe but never really knew much about it. It looks like it has something for everyone with the historical sites and plenty of vibrant and modern art and museums!
Hey Anastasia,
You are absolutely correct – Santa Fe has everything for everyone. It’s difficult for anyone to not fall in love with it. Visiting it once is not enough. I can’t wait to go back.
You should definitely plan to visit it. Is there anything particularly that interested you?
I love these kind of places. Looks like it has a lot to offer and that too to the interest of all kind of visitors. I will keep it in my radar when I visit US
Hey Neha,
Thanks a lot for stopping by and sharing your feedback. The US is huge and cities like Santa Fe offer so much to tourists. Before I visited it, I had no clue it was so awesome.
You should definitely include it in your US travel plans. If you need any help, please feel free to contact.
Cheers!
I’ve done a fair amount of US travel, but honestly never really thought about visiting Santa Fe until reading your post. You captured Santa Fe beautifully! Canyon Road seems right up my ally, I love contemporary art. Santa Fe seems to offers a perfect combination of things to do, see, and eat — will definitely make sure to stop by when I’m in the Southwest next.
Hey Kim,
I too would have skipped Santa Fe, if it wasn’t my friend who convinced me to visit it. And I am so glad he succeeded. It is such a beautiful city that leaves an endearing mark on you long after you have left.
Hope you get to travel soon to Santa Fe.
Cheers!
It has been way too many years since my last visit to Santa Fe. The downtown looks exactly the same! I love the green chili sauce on EVERYTHING. Looks like it is time for me to go back to Santa Fe.
Hey Jen,
Santa Fe is like old wine. It gets better with time. Though a lot of good things have come up the soul of Santa Fe is still the same. You must revisit Santa Fe soon.
Food, art, the outdoors… Santa Fe really does sound like a darn good place to live. The slogan reminds me of that one small company’s “Think Different,” messing up my need for grammatical order. I guess I should just go there to see for myself.
Hey Peter,
Thanks a lot for stopping by and sharing your feedback. Before I visited Santa Fe, I had no clue it was so awesome. And you are right it’s really “The City Different”. You should definitely visit it and see it by yourself. If you need any help, please feel free to contact.
Ha, part of my Twitter handle is Santa Fe 🙂 I absolutely love this place. It’s like a brimming pot of art and culture mixed with natural beauty. Look at all the colours an downtown art museums. And food! How can anyone forget food! If I could, I’d call this my home in a heartbeat.
Hey Zinara,
That’s so cool. Are you the Santa Fe Couple on Twitter? I agree to every single word you said. I too would be happy to call it my home in a heartbeat 🙂
Wow, I have never been to Santa Fe, ever! I have never really considered traveling there but after your incredible photography and post I have changed my mind. I am in love with the history and vibe and would love to have my family experience this amazing destination!
Thanks! Debbie | http://www.tothineownstylebetrue.com
Hey Debbie,
That’s a huge compliment for me. Thanks a lot for your kind words. Frankly speaking, before I visited Santa Fe, I had no clue it was so awesome. You would totally fall in love with the city.
Great blog and beautiful photos. I will have to visit Santa Fe!
Thanks a lot Shawn. Hope you get to visit Santa Fe soon.
While I’ve heard of Santa Fe, I didn’t know anything about it until this post. It looks like an awesome place to visit – the architecture is beautiful and I really love the sound of the culture there. The shopping and food sound great too. I’m now really keen to visit!
Hey Emily,
I am actually surprised to know that there are so many people who had never known how awesome Santa Fe. I included in that list. I am so glad I visited it, else I would have really missed out on something awesome.
And you should absolutely visit it. You’ll love the food, shopping, culture and architecture there.
After reading your post, I can say that Santa Fe is a great place to explore. It has a unique vibe. It looks like a culturally diverse place. The best part is that people are into expressing themselves through art in many ways. I am quite eager to taste the chile too.
The two facets of Santa Fe that I knew of where the strength of art and craft made they and the cultural aspect to some of those artisanal products. I had no idea about the deeper history or the food, which particularly interests me.
Hey Kavey,
First of all thanks for visiting my site and sharing your feedback.
I know what you mean. Trust me until you visit a place, you can never really know it’s true essence. At least Santa Fe taught me that.
You should definitely visit it.
It does sound amazing – I love the painted columns of the museum and the food looks spectacular. As for the climate – those fabulous blue skies with snow on the ground!
Food is to die for in Santa Fe. And culture scene is dope. You can never get bored in Santa Fe.
This is an interesting article, and the city and its surroundings look great. Considering the history of Santa Fe, is Spanish still widely spoken by people who live there? What was your number 1 standout experience from this trip?
Yeah, you are right people still speak Spanish there. I could see Spanish influence in everything – cuisine, music, food, art, architecture and what not. My favourite experience was watching the gorgeous sunset at La Fonda Bell Tower for which the heritage hotel is known for. After the dinner, I started walking back to my hotel. As I was passing through the lobby I heard Jazz music playing in the nearby bar. To my surprise, I saw three women in their seventies dancing freely in the lobby of the hotel (not bar) without caring if anybody was watching them or if they were not at the right place wearing the right clothes doing the right thing. All they cared about was having a good time together. To me that was the real essence of travel – travel without inhibitions. Travel like there’s no tomorrow. And Santa Fe is ideal for that kind of travel.
This is very colorful. I never thought of visiting Santa Fe before. You make it look like such a vibrant place!
Thanks a lot for your wonderful feedback. Before I visited Santa Fe, I had no clue it was so awesome. It’s vibrancy and energy is infectious. Must visit place.
Such a colourful place to visit and how interesting that you got snow I didn’t think it would snow here. The art and crafts look really nice if I ever visit I will have to make sure I have some room in my suitcase to bring some home with me.
Hey Jeni,
I had not anticipated snowfall in Spring in but I am glad it did. I love snowfall. It was magical to see colorful blooms in the snow 🙂 And yes, it’s a perfect place to collect art.
This post has me wanting to hop on a plane to Santa Fe! It sounds amazing there! I love art and museums, and had no idea there was such a thriving art scene in Santa Fe. Coincidentally I just met a woman in Laos a couple of weeks ago who used to work for the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market you mentioned. So cool that Santa Fe is a UNESCO Creative City too! Great post, thanks for the travel inspiration 🙂
Hey Jen,
I am so glad you liked the post. Thanks a lot for stopping by and sharing your feedback. Before I visited Santa Fe, I too had no idea it was so amazing. You shouldn’t wait too long. Just buy a ticket and arrive in Santa Fe 🙂
Santa Fe seems to be the ideal place to visit for any artists. It’s so neat to read about the history of Santa Fe’s artistry and culture. I love that they contribute one percent of hotel tax of support local art organizations. Now to try that Chile!
Hey Riely,
I am so glad you liked what I wrote. Art and culture are very important in Santa Fe and that’s why the locals don’t take it as a burden when they have to contribute one percent of hotel tax to support art organizations. They really take pride for their unique identity.
This is an absolutely beautiful city and it offers a lot. I would love to visit it
I can’t believe I haven’t visited here yet! I’m a huge Georgia O’Keefe fan and I would love to experience the city through her eyes and her paintings. The art and jewelry and food all look amazing. Time for me to finally start planning a trip!
Hey Lois,
It’s so nice to know that you love Georgia O’Keeffe. She was way ahead of her time. It was really wonderful visiting her museum. I could have spent the entire day at her museum. It was so good.
Going by your comment, Santa Fe has everything you love. You shouldn’t waste any more time and just pack for Santa Fe.
One of my sisters lived in New Mexico back in the 80’s, but I didn’t get to visit her back then. Now we’re planning to visit Santa Fe next year, so this post is perfect! Thank you for sharing this! I love your pictures.
Thanks for your fantastic feedback. Love it.
It’s too bad you couldn’t visit Santa Fe when your sister was there in 80’s. But it’s better late than never. You should absolutely visit it asap 🙂
Woww That is absolutely beautiful! I love how much culture the place has, the vibrancy of it all! After going to California last year, I’ve had my taste of Mexico influenced culture and absolutely loved it. Hopefully, I get to visit New Mexico soon!
Hey Daisy,
you should totally visit Santa Fe. You are going to love it. It will blow your mind with its uniqueness.
Santa Fe has been on my radar for awhile now, and your article reminds me why! I’d love to stay at the Inn of the Alameda. The food looks great, and I would love to purchase some of the local art. I’ll get there someday!
hey Stacey,
I am so glad you found my article useful. Inn on the Alameda is a beautiful hotel with beautiful people. You’ll love it.
Your photos are amazing! Love your blog because it so easy to read ❤️❤️❤️Keep it up!
Hey Jackie,
I am so glad you liked my blog. Hope it inspired the wanderlust in you for Santa Fe 🙂
What a beautiful place to visit, I would love to see Santa Fe with my own eyes. The photo of Taos Pueblo looks like it comes from a Hollywood movie. The Downtown Art Galleries look really interesting, it must be great to walk around.
My mom loved Santa Fe. I haven’t been, but I loved Albuquerque so I am hoping to get there soon. Plus New Mexico has great food.
I went to Albuquerque for the POW WOW festival and totally loved it. But Santa Fe is something else. There’s so much to see, do and eat here.
US is lovely on its own. It might be not as old as the Asian civilizations but it has its own beauty to offer. I am glad you are able to explore some of it! Thanks for sharing!
I agree. I had a myopic vision for uS. I thought it will be all new age but it really surprised me with its diversity and unique identities of different places I visited. can’t wait to return.
These are gorgeous photos and I love your site layout! I’ve been meaning to take my wife to New Mexico and Arizona and that area for quite some time. Perhaps it needs moved up on the priority list!
Hey Josh,
I did Arizona and New Mexico together. It was such an amazing trip. So diverse so enriching. You should absolutely take your wife there.
Santa Fe looks like a city with a very unique and distinct character. The city has so much history and intrigue woven into its very fabric, and this adds to its allure. The fact that it is a designated UNESCO heritage site makes it a really tempting destination to head out too.
Hey Sandy,
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your feedback. Santa Fe is really “The City Different” om every aspect. I really loved it. Hope you get to see it soon.
That is insane that weather can change that much that quickly!! It blows my mind a little. I love the look of your trip to Santa Fe and I find those oldest native American houses fascinating! Would love to visit and see it all for myself!
Hi Jolene,
First of all many thanks for visiting my website, reading the article and sharing your feedback. Really appreciate it. Santa Fe was a very different kind of an experience from the word go. I absolutely loved my stay there and I recommend it to everyone. It si such a beautiful place. Everyone will fall for it 🙂
There are so many things to do and see in Santa Fe! Reading your post has already made me excited and hope to visit there one day. As what you say, I may fall in love with the city at first sight I guess. 🙂
Santa Fe looks like my kind of destinations. Unfortunately, I just haven’t made it out there yet. I would love to visit the Railroad and all the different galleries. I love the Southwest, so it seems like this should be a must-see for me!
It looks like Santa Fe has a lot to offer and so much to see and do. You show it very well with your list and your photography. And what would definitely get me to visit Santa Fe is hearing that it is the Chile capital of the world. My piece of cake 🙂
I was almost transported to some western movie set. I love the old world charm of Santa Fe which is far more different from the other US cities. I also like how they have preserved and showcased Native American cultures.
We were just in Santa Fe and loved it there! New Mexico is such a great state with so much to offer–we loved road tripping around. I wish we had more time in Santa Fe though–found quite a few things on your list that we need to add for our next visit. A few of our favorite spots were Meow Wolf, Taos Pueblo and hiking at Tent Rocks!
Zowie — what a thorough article, and absolutely stunning, vibrant photos! I had no idea that Downtown Plaza’s Palace of the Governors was built all the way back in 1610. Clearly Santa Fe has both beauty and history!
Great photos!! It looks so exotic I have to pay a visit!
What a fascinating city! Like stepping back in time, those pueblo style structures, the colourful arts and crafts, and the celebration of Indigenous history and culture. Santa Fe just looks intriguing. I would definitely hit up the Georgia O’Keefe museum, and I would assume there are full on Georgia O walking tours and whatnot too!
Cheers,
Emily