Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a New Mexico city with plenty of personality. Live where culture, nature, and adventure meet. This city nestled in the heart of the Land of Enchantment will win you over with a variety of fun explorations and experiences. Santa Fe has developed quite a reputation for its thriving art scene including renowned museums and art galleries.

Must-Do Attractions

No visit to the City Different is complete without a trip to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, where you can marvel at the iconic works of this legendary artist who found inspiration in New Mexico's landscapes. Canyon Road is an art lover's paradise, with over one hundred galleries showcasing everything from traditional New Mexican folk art to contemporary masterpieces. Mingle with the creative crowd at openings, take a pottery class, or get your hands dirty at a painting workshop. But Santa Fe is not just about looking at art - it is about getting hands-on too! Families will love the interactive exhibits at the Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return, a mind-bending fusion of art, technology, and imagination that is perfect for sparking creativity in kids of all ages.

Keep the good times rolling at the Santa Fe Railyard for live music and food truck fare. The historic Lensic Theater is the perfect spot to take in performances by world-class musicians and actors year-round. Unique and fun opportunities await you. Imagine taking a balloon ride over the city at sunrise. Stargaze in the clear desert skies or explore the ancient petroglyphs carved into volcanic rocks. Catch a performance at the Santa Fe Opera, set in a beautiful open-air theater under the stars. For a deeper dive into the region's history, explore the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the United States.

Dining and Shopping

Round out your fun with some retail therapy and delicious dining. From eclectic boutiques showcasing local artisans to upscale galleries featuring Native American pottery and jewelry, Santa Fe's shopping scene is as diverse as it is delightful. Downtown Santa Fe is a shopper's paradise, with boutiques selling locally made jewelry, artisan crafts, and Southwest-inspired clothing. After a day of retail therapy, treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through Santa Fe's vibrant food scene, where you will find everything from traditional New Mexican cuisine to innovative farm-to-table fare.

Explore the Great Outdoors

For those craving a taste of the great outdoors, nearby state parks like Hyde Memorial State Park and Cerrillos Hills State Park offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Whether you are an avid angler, a seasoned hiker, or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Santa Fe's state parks provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure. This desert oasis has championship golf courses with just the right amount of challenge.

Venture outdoors and discover the natural wonders that surround Santa Fe. Strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where you will find breathtaking vistas and serene alpine lakes just waiting to be explored. Hit the slopes at Ski Santa Fe, hike through the breathtaking Bandelier National Monument, or go whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande. For a more leisurely outing, pack a picnic and head to the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, where you can stroll among colorful blooms and native plants while soaking up the sunshine.

Entertainment Options Await

But the fun does not stop there! Throughout the year, Santa Fe plays host to a variety of festivals, events, and celebrations that highlight the city's unique blend of cultures and traditions. From the Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest and most prestigious Native American art market in the world, to the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, where artisans from around the globe converge to share their craft, there is always something exciting happening. There is even a festival for children, the Santa Fe Children's Festival. This two-day extravaganza of music, dance, and activities will put smiles on the faces of all the attendees.

Unique to Santa Fe

Santa Fe knows how to throw a party! The annual Burning of Zozobra draws crowds eager to see a giant papier-mâché figure go up in flames. Celebrate the Day of the Dead with traditional altars and lively processions. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Fiesta de Santa Fe, featuring music, dancing, and delicious food.

Stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure are what has Santa Fe consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. It is a place where history whispers secrets, art comes alive, and adventure awaits around every corner. See for yourself why Santa Fe truly is the City Different!