Travel Guide To Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Santa Fe area is home to a rich Native American culture. During your visit to the area you will be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of this town located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. During your visit to Santa Fe you can immerse yourself in the rich culture, experience thrilling adventures and relax in this laid back environment.
Accommodations
There is no better way to experience local culture than to stay in the heart of the city's action. Staying within the Santa Fe limits will put you in the center of all there is to see and do.
Santa Fe is home to an eclectic selection of places to stay during your visit to the area. You will find everything from spa retreats to resorts to bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels in the Santa Fe area. Where you choose to stay will be determined mostly upon the type of getaway you want to have.
Top places to stay in Santa Fe include:
Dining
A diverse selection of food options await you in Santa Fe. You will find everything from cheap, authentic Mexican dives to high-end eateries and restaurants showcasing Native American cuisine and quaint breakfast bistros. There is definitely something for everyone, no matter how picky they may be.
High-end restaurants you do not want to miss include Geronimo and Restaurant Martin. Other top dining options available in Santa Fe include:
Attractions
Santa Fe is home to many different attractions and things to do. You can relax at the spa, go hiking in the foothills, shop from unique boutiques and explore the many museums the area has to offer. Activities you must experience while in Santa Fe include wandering through the different art galleries of Canyon Road and listening to live music at the Santa Fe Plaza.
Attractions you do not want to miss when visiting Santa Fe include:
- Georgia O'Keefe Museum
- El Zaguan
- Dragon Room at the Pink Adobe
- Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis Assisi
- San Miguel Mission
- Bandelier National Monument
- Palace of the Governors
- Santa Fe Farmers Market
- Museum of International Folk Art
- Railyard District
Related: Guide to a Long Weekend in Santa Fe
Tours
Of course you can go exploring Santa Fe on your own, however, taking a guided tour of this spirited community will offer you a unique insight to the local culture. Most Santa Fe tours include an experienced tour guide who will narrate your travels offering travel tips, history facts and a little bit of humor to your tour experience.
4x4 Fun will take you on a 90-minute tour that goes way beyond the Santa Fe Plaza. This tour will take you to some of the most breathtaking views in New Mexico, including those of the mountains and area landscapes. Tours depart from San Francisco Street daily. Check their website for times.
A Well Born Guide, also referred to as "Have Ph.D. Will Travel," will take you on one of the most unique, entertaining and informative tours showcasing New Mexico's history.
Other popular tours in Santa Fe include:
Planning Tip
When planning your Santa Fe vacation, look to go during the months of April, May, September, October or November. Outside of holiday weekends, these months are generally the cheapest and there are not many tourists visiting the area.
There is so much to see and do while in Santa Fe that you will be busy from the moment you arrive to the time you are checking out and heading home. Do not forget to purchase yourself some Native American turquoise jewelry to take back home with you. It will be a great reminder of the time you had in Santa Fe and inspire you to return on your next vacation.
Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.