Top 22 Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico
When it comes to things to do in Santa Fe, the list is long, but we’ve pulled together our top 22 picks. As you explore this wonderful city, check out this list. One adventure leads to another, so you’ll never run out of things to do in Santa Fe. The City Different offers so much to do and see! Take a cooking class, raft a river, experience a Native American Feast Day or an art festival, visit our historic sites, museums, and galleries, shop for handcrafted jewelry, attend an opera, and more!
Meow Wolf Meow Wolf has consistently been on our list for its unparalleled combination of interactive art and captivating entertainment. In its permanent exhibit, “House of Eternal Return,” a collective of innovative artists has transformed a once-ordinary bowling alley into an expansive adventure park. This adventure starts within the confines of a Victorian mansion and expands into fantastical dimensions filled with tunnels and hidden corridors. Don’t overlook the souvenir store or the whimsical Float Cafe and Bar. Meow Wolf hosts an array of events throughout the year, from educational workshops to musical performances.
Canyon Road Arts District Wander down the renowned Canyon Road in Santa Fe, and within half a mile, you will encounter over a hundred galleries, artist studios, boutiques, and eateries. Engage with gallery proprietors who showcase exceptional artwork from international artists. Venture into a studio and see artists at work. Don’t miss the lively Friday night art openings, a cherished tradition in the area. Take a private walking tour for an ideal introduction to the city’s historic plaza, charming adobe buildings, parks, and art galleries. Finish at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.
Sky Railway Step onto the Sky Railway, launched in 2020, for an unforgettable journey between Santa Fe and Lamy, New Mexico. Enjoy entertainment, music, exquisite dining options, and beverages aboard the train. Under the guidance of George RR Martin, the creative force behind Sky Railway, the railway offers thrilling and innovative short-line rail journeys.
Puye Cliff Dwellings A designated National Historic Landmark, the Puye Cliff Dwellings served as the home for 1,500 early Puebloans, ancestors of the modern Santa Claran community. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that explore the grandeur and enigma of this location, along with a visit to a historic Fred Harvey House now featuring an interpretive center and a gift shop.
Museum Hill Santa Fe stands as a renowned hub for those who cherish museums. Located on a scenic hill, Museum Hill houses four distinguished museums — the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, and the International Folk Art Museum. The area also offers dining, shopping, and the Santa Fe Botanical Garden.
Santa Fe Breweries Santa Fe boasts an impressive beer scene. Santa Fe Brewing, the largest brewery in New Mexico, offers a range of delightful beers and a new beer hall. Blue Corn Brewery and Rowley Farmhouse Ales are also notable. Explore more breweries in our Santa Fe brewery guide. Visit Santa Fe's own Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery, where beer, spirits, liqueur and more are created from scratch.
New Mexico History Museum & Palace of the Governors Explore the extensive history of New Mexico at the New Mexico History Museum. The museum complex includes the centuries-old Palace of the Governors, a National Historic Landmark featuring period rooms and exhibits spanning 400 years of New Mexico’s history. Take the Ultimate Santa Fe History Tour evening stroll.
Santa Fe National Forest The expansive Santa Fe National Forest covers 1.6 million acres, home to rivers, lakes, and streams excellent for fishing. Enjoy whitewater rafting in summer, skiing in winter, and hiking among golden aspens in autumn. The forest offers over 1,000 miles of trails for exploration.
Loretto Chapel A standout architectural masterpiece in Santa Fe, the Loretto Chapel is famous for its Miraculous Staircase. Legend has it that the staircase was built by a mysterious carpenter using only simple tools, and it remains a stunning creation worthy of a visit. Take a self-guided audio tour of historic santa Fe.
Art Classes Santa Fe offers numerous art classes where you can hone your skills or try something new. From painting and pottery to jewelry making and weaving, there's a class for every interest.
Food and Wine Tours Discover Santa Fe’s culinary delights on a food and wine tour. Sample local cuisine, visit vineyards, and learn about the region's rich food and drink heritage.
Walking Tours Take a guided walking tour to discover Santa Fe's history, art, and architecture. Knowledgeable guides can enhance your experience with stories and insights.
Rafting Adventures Experience the thrill of rafting on the Rio Grande or Rio Chama. Guided tours offer varying levels of difficulty, making it an adventure suitable for everyone. Combine white-water rafting with wine tasting on a small-group tour from Santa Fe. You'll spend your morning taking a thrilling rafting ride on one of the most popular sections of the Rio Grande. In the afternoon, you’ll head out to lunch, followed by wine tastings at Vivac, La Chiripada, and Black Mesa wineries.
Historic Churches Explore Santa Fe's historic churches, including the San Miguel Mission and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. These architectural gems offer a glimpse into the city’s spiritual history.
Shopping for Handcrafted Jewelry Santa Fe is a treasure trove of handcrafted jewelry. Visit local markets and boutiques to find unique pieces created by talented artisans.
Santa Fe Opera Attend a performance at the Santa Fe Opera, known for its stunning open-air theater and world-class productions. The season runs from late June to August.
Hot Springs Relax in the natural hot springs near Santa Fe. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa offers a range of soaking options in a serene setting.
Ghost Tours Discover Santa Fe's spooky side on a ghost tour. Learn about the city’s haunted history and hear tales of mysterious occurrences. Take a Haunted Spirits Tour of Santa Fe.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to see the works of one of America’s most iconic artists. The museum also offers insights into her life and the landscapes that inspired her.
Horseback Riding Explore the stunning landscapes around Santa Fe on horseback. Guided trail rides offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Santa Fe Botanical Garden Wander through the Santa Fe Botanical Garden to see native plants and beautiful landscapes. The garden offers educational programs and seasonal events.
Cooking Classes Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional New Mexican dishes. Classes often include a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients.
Santa Fe is a city rich in culture, history, and adventure. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something here for you. Book ahead to reserve your spot for the most popular tours and experiences.
Enjoy your time exploring the City Different!
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