Things to do & places to visit in Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States

Venture into the unspoiled beauty of 7,000-foot Rocky Mountain vistas, marvel at the contrast of ancient native culture mixed with modern arts, feast on legendary cuisine and relax in rustic sophistication. A visit to Santa Fe, Travel & Leisure's #1 Cultural Getaway, feels a lot like a visit to Europe. The Spanish Colonial charm of this historic destination has been enchanting travelers for over 400 years. And Santa Fe shows no signs of slowing down.

Santa Fe city in New Mexico, United States. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Thursday, May 02, 2024, 21:09.

Top things to do (22)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Santa Fe Opera House (1.079 reviews)
- $tunning
Operas

A beautiful outdoor venue that offers music festivals in July and August. See more..
5.0 Nedra Matteucci Galleries (358 reviews)
- Beautiful gallery!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

An art gallery specializing in 19th- and 20th-century American art. See more..
5.0 Luca decor (39 reviews)
- Superb Canyon Road Art Gallery
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

Luca decor art gallery is located on the world famous Canyon Road, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. A unique collection of sculptural and functional art for the home and garden. Offering hand woven rugs, furniture, paintings, copper mirrors, fish lamps, chandeliers, magnetic interactive art, stone furniture, and outdoor garden lanterns. Featuring Mark White Kinetic Wind Sculptures. See more..
4.5 Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (5.175 reviews)
- The Center of O'Keefe
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Museums

The O’Keeffe Welcome Center includes a store, classroom, amenities, and check-in for tours of the O’Keeffe Home and Studio in Abiquiu, the Center serves as a gateway to the Rio Chama valley, with information about O’Keeffe and the rich history and culture of the area. Tours of the Home & Studio run seasonally from March – November with advance reservations and payment. See more..
4.5 Loretto Chapel (5.170 reviews)
- puzzling spiral
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Religious Sites

This chapel contains a mysterious spiral staircase built without nails, dowels or any visible support. See more..
4.5 Canyon Road (4.051 reviews)
- Highlight of the art galleries in Santa Fe
Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

Over 100 art studios and galleries line the western end of this charming Santa Fe street. Make sure you set aside a few hours of your stay in the city to walk down the mile-long Canyon Road and view the world-class art on display here, which ranges in style from Native American to contemporary avant-garde. Shop for high-value handicrafts and jewelry, and don’t forget to visit the restautants along the street when hungry. Take an art tour of Canyon Road with an expert to see all the hidden gems and must-see art in the district. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (3.980 reviews)
- Must Do in Santa Fe
Thursday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

This cathedral was built in 1886, and is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture. See more..
4.5 Santa Fe Plaza (3.220 reviews)
- In October, they celebrate Indigenous People's Weekend (instead of Columbus Day)
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Surrounded by city landmarks, including art and history museums, the Santa Fe Plaza is the heart and soul of the capital city. Sit back on one of the square’s benches to people-watch and take in the small-town feel. Then, set out to explore the countless art galleries, shops, and flea markets in the area. Try the local street food from the food carts, or if you’re in the mood to splurge, check out the dozen or so high-end restaurants. You can also sign up for a walking tour to learn more about the city’s rich history. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Meow Wolf Santa Fe (2.936 reviews)
- Must Visit In Santa Fe For All Ages
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Unique & immersive art installations with multimedia elements and a mysterious narrative throughout. See more..
4.5 Museum of International Folk Art (2.112 reviews)
- Bet You Won't See It "All" in One Visit
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Open 10am to 5pm Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Easter & Thanksgiving holidays. Current exhibitions include Cartoneria Mexicana / The art of Paper and Paste, Yōkai: Ghosts & Demons of Japan, Lloyd's Treasure Chest: Folk Art in Focus, plus more than 120,000 objects are on display in the long term exhibition Multiple Visions, A Common Bond by architect and designer Alexander Girard. This international folk art collection includes miniature buildings, streets and village scenes from more than 100 different countries. There are no text panels in this exhibition, the cases are numbered. If you miss the Docent walk-in tour, pick up a multi-media tour at the front desk or a grab a printed gallery guide at either entrance. Kids 16 and under and Museum of New Mexico Foundation Members always free! See more..
4.5 New Mexico History Museum (1.478 reviews)
- Excellent Museum
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

The New Mexico History Museum is a statewide educational resource, local landmark, and destination for anyone who wants to understand the diverse experiences of the people of New Mexico, the dynamics that have shaped our state, and the relationships that connect our region with the rest of the world. The New Mexico History Museum offers a welcoming place for exploration of multifaceted views on history, dialog that bridges social and cultural divides, and reflection on the conditions needed for a more resilient, just, and sustainable future. The New Mexico History Museum highlights include the historic Palace of the Governors built in 1610, the Fray Angelico Chavez Library (1907), the Palace of the Governors Photo Archives and the Pete V. Domenici Building (2009) which houses three levels of gallery exhibits . See more..
4.5 New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse) (1.051 reviews)
- State Capital as an Art Museum
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Government Buildings

I did the Discovery Walking Tours of Santa Fe and the tour Guide Allen recommended that I visited the State Capital art gallery. I am so glad I did. Must see for Santa Fe. FREE art museum! See more..
4.5 Palace of the Governors (1.010 reviews)
- Native arts by native artisans (with no middleman)
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

On a good day (probably a weekend), the long, covered entry front to the historic building will be awash in blankets claiming the sales-front territory upon which vendors will display their wares. This is the real-deal. Everything is made by the artisans who have licenses to display their native works. Primarily jewelry but not limited to metal works, vendors will display their pottery works, and any/every artistic rendering a human mind can dream. All vendors must be licensed. The gentleman from whom we bought some impressive earrings displayed his license. Look him up, his work impressed us. I don't believe this is a barter situation, their prices are pretty fair and not open to haggling. Do stroll up and down the promenade and take in all the excellent hand-crafts for sale. These are some mighty talented artists! See more..
4.5 San Miguel Chapel (916 reviews)
- Fascinating - Historian on Premises
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Religious Sites • Art Museums

Constructed in 1610 by the Tlaxcalan Indians of Mexico, who came to New Mexico as servants of the Spanish, this is the oldest church still in use in the country. See more..
4.5 Museum of Indian Arts & Culture (886 reviews)
- Expect the Unexpected
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, one of four museums in the Museum of New Mexico system, is a premier repository of Native art and material culture and tells the stories of the people of the Southwest from pre-history through contemporary art. The museum serves a diverse, multicultural audience through changing exhibitions, public lectures, field trips, artist residencies, and other educational programs. See more..
4.5 Ski Santa Fe (598 reviews)
- Good Times
Thursday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas

With a base elevation of 10,350 ft, Ski Santa Fe is the launching point for a ski experience your family will never forget. Located only 16 miles from the heart of Santa Fe, a city rich in culture, fine arts and exceptional cuisine, this is one of the country's most diverse and unique ski destinations. See more..
4.5 Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian (382 reviews)
- The first museum to visit in Santa Fe
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

The museum features changing exhibitions of contemporary and iconic Native American art with an emphasis on the Southwest. See more..
4.5 Santa Fe Farmers Market (365 reviews)
- Great Saturday market!
Thursday: Flea & Street Markets

Stopped on our way to old town on a Saturday morning. Parked in the garage, if you come later than 10am be prepared to circle for parking here or on the streets. Good sized farmer's market - art vendors on one side, separated from the food vendors. On the food side, there were tons of stands selling vegetables of all types, seasonal fruit, honey, spices, breads and more. The building has vendors as well, including a couple of delicious bread/pastry stands. Wish we lived in the area - I would definitely go there weekly for fresh produce. See more..
4.5 El Rancho de las Golondrinas (361 reviews)
- Amazing Place to Visit
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Ranches • History Museums

This living history museum, located just south of Santa Fe, recreates 18th-century ranch life. Guides, dressed in period clothing, show how people lived in early New Mexico. See more..
4.5 Hyde Memorial State Park (228 reviews)
- Snow Tubing
National Parks

Located in a breathtaking natural setting, this park is ideal for picnics and camping. See more..
4.5 Randall Davey Audubon Center (222 reviews)
- A perfect place for a quiet picnic close to town but it feels remote
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

This 135-acre nature sanctuary serves as the state office and educational center for the National Audubon Society, which offers education programs and free natural history and birding walks throughout the year. See more..
4.5 Old Fort Marcy Park (204 reviews)
- Historic park with nice views and informative plaques
Parks

Built by the U.S. Army in 1846 to protect the American presence in Santa Fe, the remains of this historic military fort still stand on a hill overlooking the town. See more..
4.5 Lensic Performing Arts Center (204 reviews)
- Count Basie Orchestra at the Lensic
Theaters

We are Santa Fe, N.M.'s premier performing arts center located in the historic Lensic Theater in the heart of downtown Santa Fe.Our MissionThe nonprofit Lensic Performing Arts Center enriches lives by bringing diverse art and people together in the historic Lensic Theater, a cornerstone of downtown Santa Fe since 1931. The Lensic presents and supports local and national artists and serves as a center for education, community and youth events through its accessible and affordable programming. See more..
4.5 Cross of the Martyrs (192 reviews)
- Worth Doing
Monuments & Statues

A monument dedicated to the Franciscans killed in the 1680 Pueblo Revolt. See more..
4.5 La Cieneguilla Petroglyph Site (157 reviews)
- Adventurous hike, worth the effort
Historic Sites

From parking lot, go left. Follow path along fence line to left of trail marker until you see arrows pointing uphill. There is a quasi path, over rocks to the top. Once at top, you find your own way right and left across the peak to view the petroglyphs. This hike is not for kids under 10, or those with bad hips or knees. Wear hiking boots and gloves, as you will need to grab on to rocks and tree limbs for support as you climb and traverse. Coming down you are unlikely to find exact way you came up. Just use caution. The path can be muddy, and rocks are slippery. See more..
4.5 Dale Ball Trails (152 reviews)
- Great
Hiking Trails

We really enjoyed exploring the Dale Ball Trails. We went early in the morning so it was not too hot. If you go later in the day make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. It can get really hot. See more..
4.5 Santuario De Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe (106 reviews)
- Pleasant Blessings
Religious Sites

Built in 1795, this church houses the oldest shrine to the Virgin Mary in the United States. See more..
4.0 New Mexico Museum of Art (598 reviews)
- A pleasant time in a lovely setting
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

When the New Mexico Museum of Art opened in 1917 it was the first building in the state dedicated to art. Its galleries, reception areas and St. Francis auditorium were made by the people of New Mexico for the promotion of the state's rich culture to visitors and locals alike The architects Isaac Hamilton and William Morris Rapp designed the building as an enlarged and modified version of the building they made for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in San Diego. The style of the building, called Pueblo Revival, uses modern contruction materials made to look like the historic adobe churches found throughout the state's Pueblos. Throughout its century long history, the museum has grown and redefined itself to adapt to changes in art and museum practices. See more..
4.0 Santa Fe Botanical Garden (311 reviews)
- Spectacular Desert Garden
Thursday: Spent < 1 hour Gardens

The Santa Fe Botanical Garden strives to benefit all Santa Fe and New Mexico citizens, and our area's many visitors. The Botanical Garden is an independent nonprofit, not a part of the four Santa Fe state museums, with a commitment to affordable admission and providing monthly Community Days free for New Mexico residents. Our educational mission raises awareness of critical issues such as water conservation, climate change impact, and responsible gardening practices. The Gardens provides an "outdoor living room" where everyone can connect with nature, marvel at amazing plant varieties, and benefit from a place for contemplation. Visitors can relax under shading ramadas, discover a century-old red bridge, and explore the Art Trail, where changing exhibitions of sculpture will encourage return visits. With an array of native and traditional plants, awe-inspiring stone and metal work, and breathtaking vistas, the Botanical Garden is the essence of New Mexico. See more..
4.0 Railyard Arts District (262 reviews)
- A Change from Canyon Road
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

The RAILYARD ARTS DISTRICT is Santa Fe's premier destination for focused regional and international contemporary art. Located 7 blocks southwest of the Plaza, the spacious warehouse style venues are within walking. The RAILYARD ARTS DISTRICT seeks to add to the excitement of the Railyard through coordinated events like the Last Friday Art Walk & Free Fridays at SITE Santa Fe. See more..