In the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains lies Santa Fe, New Mexico, and there’s no place quite like it. The city is a high-desert retreat — think dry climate, clear skies and wide-open landscapes, but with cooler temperatures than low desert areas. Native American, Spanish and Anglo cultures have each shaped The City Different.
Immerse yourself in peaceful mountain hikes, uncover New Mexico’s Puye Cliff Dwellings over 10,000 years old, and experience the energy of the exciting arts and culture scene. And don’t forget to indulge in delectable Southwestern food. At the end of your day of exploration, relax in your home-away-from-home at Villas de Santa Fe, a Hilton Vacation Club.
The Heart Of Santa Fe — The Downtown District
Santa Fe Plaza has served as the city’s heart for four centuries. This Plaza is where past and present come together in boutique shops, art galleries and world-class dining under the New Mexico sun.
What to Do: Right beside the Plaza is the Palace of the Governors, America’s oldest public building dating back to 1610. It now houses the treasured New Mexico History Museum.
Linger at the museum’s exhibition highlighting the series of archeological events that shaped the land over the centuries.
Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the half mile of Canyon Road, home to over 100 galleries. Creativity is on display, from contemporary Southwestern pieces at Ventana Fine Art to the works displayed at Nedra Matteucci Galleries.
Where to Eat: If you love traditional Southwestern dishes, The Shed serves up legendary red and green chile dishes in a hacienda that dates back to 1692. It’s been a local and traveler favorite since 1953.
History Meets Innovation In The Railyard Arts District
One of Santa Fe’s busiest areas is an old industrial center called the Railyard Arts District, which now thrives with modern energy.
What to Do: On Tuesday and Saturday mornings, stop in at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market featuring local growers, artisans and food vendors. Are you a fan of contemporary art? Be sure to stop at SITE Santa Fe, an innovative museum set in a transformed beer warehouse.
Where to Eat: When hunger strikes, La Choza serves bold New Mexico flavors in a casual, colorful setting. Second Street Brewery is the perfect spot to unwind and catch the sunset with a tall glass of craft beer as you listen to live music.
Explore Local Culture In Museum Hill
Museum Hill is Santa Fe’s cultural gem set against a background of the majestic Jemez Mountains. Explore its renowned museums to lose yourself in the intricacies of the art, history and traditions of the Southwest.
What to Do: The Museum of International Folk Art houses the largest collection of folk art on the planet, featuring pieces from over 100 countries.
Next door, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture tells the stories of Native Americans through interactive exhibits and enduring artifacts.
Where to Eat: In between museum visits, stop in at the Museum Hill Café. It’s a popular spot to relax and refuel with inspired cuisine. It’s also a fantastic place to admire the high-desert views.
Local Life And Creativity Combine In Midtown
Santa Fe’s Midtown district stands away from the usual tourist paths and is alive with artistic energy, local businesses and unique experiences.
What to Do: Don’t miss the multi-sensory Meow Wolf Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return. It’s an interactive art installation that gained international fame for its unusual installations. Part mystery, part playground, this is worth checking out.
Where to Eat: Around the corner from Meow Wolf, the Iconik Coffee Roasters serves barista drinks in a modern, open space for artists, entrepreneurs and free thinkers.
Canyon Road, The Soul Of Santa Fe’s Art Scene
Canyon Road is Santa Fe’s most iconic art district and is worth a stop because of its centuries-old adobe homes are now home to galleries, studios and small restaurants.
What to Do: Art lovers, be sure to make time for the Wiford Gallery and Sculpture Garden’s striking glass sculptures. Book lovers will enjoy a stop at Garcia Street Books, an independent bookstore celebrating regional literature and local voices.
Where to Eat: The Compound Restaurant is worth a visit while you’re here. It offers refined seasonal dishes in an elegant adobe setting designed by famous architect Alexander Girard. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with delicious global cuisine, visit Geronimo, set in a 1756 hacienda.
Local Spirit Shines In Southside
The Southside is the city’s fastest-growing neighborhood and offers a glimpse of daily life beyond the tourist hotspots.
What to Do: Southwest Area Node Regional (SWAN) Park offers outdoor activities in a spacious green area with paved walking trails, a playground and more. If you like outdoor sports, an 18-hole disc golf course is a fun way to spend a morning walk.
Where to Eat: For a taste of Santa Fe’s culinary influences, Jambo Café serves African and Caribbean flavors popular with locals and visitors. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the Santa Fe Brewing Company, New Mexico’s oldest and largest craft brewery.
Rustic Charm With A Touch Of Luxury In Tesuque
In a quieter setting north of Santa Fe, the village of Tesuque is a traveler favorite and home to occasional celebrity visitors.
What to Do: Head over to Tesuque Glassworks and watch as skilled artisans create beautiful hand-blown glass pieces. The facility often features demonstrations where visitors get up close to admire the beauty of this intricate art form.
At the Glen Green Galleries and Sculpture Garden, explore impressive sculptures displayed in a spacious and beautiful setting.
Where to Eat: Tesuque Village Market is the hub of the community where residents go to purchase gourmet groceries and savor casual snacks in a warm and welcoming space. If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience, Terra offers delicious farm-to-table dining and expansive mountain views.
The Santa Fe Experience Awaits
The City Different rewards exploration from its historic roots to its creative districts, and every corner has its own story to tell.
Whether you’re drawn to world-class art, delicious cuisine or natural beauty in the high desert, Santa Fe welcomes you to discover exciting activities, culture and history as they come together in a unique and wonderful blend.
For more on experiencing the best of the Southwest, read “The Best of Scottsdale, Arizona: Art, Adventure, Eats and More”.