What to do in Santa Fe, NM

Activities, attractions and tours
Bandelier National Monument which includes tranquil scenes

Santa Fe Attractions

Sante Fe is a magical city located in the American Southwest. Rich in history and local lore, this community is also known for drawing artists from all over the world because of unique quality of the light featured by this part of New Mexico. Some of the best attractions in Santa Fe include local art galleries. The dry climate and stunning landscape make it a popular tourist destination, and many who visit end up returning at some future point to live as residents.

Although most American cities have their own unique styles and cultures, Santa Fe has always stood out from the crowd. Referred to as "The City Different" since the early part of the last century, Sante Fe's pueblo-style architecture, blending of the distinct cultures of the Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo Saxon peoples, and abundant natural beauty make it a truly individual community.

Numerous cultural offerings and festivals are among the many Santa Fe activities available to both residents and guests. Events frequently take place in the plaza that is located in the city's historic downtown district. A must see event for those visiting Santa Fe during July is the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market. Santa Fe tours include explorations of Museum Hill, which is an area close to the downtown region that contains a substantial number of museums. Other worthwhile Santa Fe excursions include the Canyon Road arts district and day trips to the Bandelier National Monument, which is located about 30 miles from Santa Fe proper.

Although summer is the most popular time of year to visit NM, many of those who return to Sante Fe on a regular basis do so during the month of September when the aspen trees in the surrounding mountains begin to put on their yearly show. Things to do in Santa Fe during the fall include attending the annual Fiestas de Santa Fe and visiting historic places such as the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi.

By calling our offices here at Expedia when planning your Santa Fe sojourn, we can provide you with a map of the area's main attractions. You can also book your stay at Santa Fe's top lodging spots directly through us.


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Most fun & popular experiences in Santa Fe


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Santa Fe

New Mexico Museum of Art showing art and a statue or sculpture

Downtown Santa Fe

4.5/5(14 area reviews)

Visitors to Downtown Santa Fe rave about its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries. You might also want to make some time to see Santa Fe Plaza or Lensic Performing Arts Center while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Downtown Santa Fe
Canyon Road featuring art and interior views

Historic Eastside

While visiting Historic Eastside, you might make a stop by sights like Canyon Road and Old Fort Marcy Park.

Historic Eastside
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Southside

3.5/5(5 area reviews)

Southside is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Meow Wolf and Camel Rock Casino, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Fe.

Southside
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South Capitol

If you're spending some time in South Capitol, Railyard Arts District and Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra and Chorus are top sights worth seeing.

South Capitol
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North Hills

While there might not be top attractions in North Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Old Fort Marcy Park and Santa Fe Plaza.

North Hills
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Northeast Santa Fe

5/5(2 area reviews)

While Northeast Santa Fe isn't home to many top sights, Santa Fe Plaza and Old Fort Marcy Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Northeast Santa Fe

Day trip destinations from Santa Fe