The Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Santa Fe - Everything You Need to Know

Interested in learning more about what’s going on in Santa Fe? Looking for insider tips and tricks for planning your stay? Wander New Mexico’s guides to Santa Fe have all the info you need and more!

Food & Drink

We’ll admit it - we think Santa Fe’s food scene is pretty special. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional new Mexican cuisine or world-class international fare, the best breakfast spots or a place for after-dinner drinks, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. Read on for recommendations on hidden gems, local watering holes, and much more!

Wander New Mexico Blog
The Best Italian Restaurants in Santa Fe
The Best Italian Restaurants in Santa Fe

If you’re looking to enjoy classic Italian food while visiting Santa Fe, you have several different great options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale pasta and wine or laidback pizza and paninis, here are our top picks for the best Italian restaurants in the City Different.

Our Favorite Chocolate Shops in Santa Fe
Our Favorite Chocolate Shops in Santa Fe

Santa Fe has a surprisingly diverse chocolate scene, featuring everything from historic drinking chocolate elixirs to chocolate bars, truffles, baked goods, and more.

Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance
Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance

While Santa Fe has a whole host of attractions to keep you occupied throughout the day, it’s not a city necessarily known for its nightlife. Santa Fe has a smaller population of young people than many other cities of its size, and most bars and restaurants shut down before midnight. If you’re looking to grab a drink or a bite to eat, or just want to get out and socialize with other people, your late-night options are a bit limited. Luckily, however, what Santa Fe lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.

The Best Places to Catch a Breathtaking Santa Fe Sunset
The Best Places to Catch a Breathtaking Santa Fe Sunset

The Land of Enchantment has some of the most stunning sunsets in the country. Cotton candy skies, sweeping vistas, and glowing high desert twilights are part of the package when it comes to visiting New Mexico.

The Best Burgers in Santa Fe
The Best Burgers in Santa Fe

Santa Fe may be famous for its authentic New Mexican food, but every once in a while you just need to chow down on a good burger. Luckily, Santa Fe has options in that department, too. Many local restaurants pride themselves in their green chile cheeseburgers, a New Mexico classic featuring smoky, spicy Hatch green chile. We’re partial to a laid-back summer afternoon hike, followed by burgers and fries at one of the city’s many excellent burger joints. Bonus points for cool patio dining and locally brewed beer!

11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe
11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe

We might be biased, but we think Santa Fe is a traveler’s paradise (and it’s pretty nice for locals, too.) With a little something for everyone, there are activities to fill up your days and then some with fantastic food and drink, scenic vistas, museums, historic sites, and much more. Read on for tips on where to go, what to do, and (of course) what to eat!

The Ultimate Guide to Patio Dining in Santa Fe: Where to Eat & Drink Outside
The Ultimate Guide to Patio Dining in Santa Fe: Where to Eat & Drink Outside

Looking for a patio to dine, drink, and relax in? On a hot summer afternoon, nothing hits the spot like a shady patio, a cool drink, and a good meal. From the casual to the upscale, classic New Mexican to innovative American cuisine, Santa Fe has a little something to offer everyone. Read on for some of our top picks for patio dining in Santa Fe this summer.

72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do
72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do

From the vibrant arts and culture scene, to the spectacular natural environment, to the world-class shopping, to the stellar food and drink, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to make a list of must-see stops. Luckily, Wander New Mexico is here to help! Here are our recommendations for spending 72 hours in the “City Different.”

Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Santa Fe
Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a coffee and tea lover’s paradise, with a wealth of coffee shops and cafes all over town. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee to perk you up in the morning, or want to linger with a book and a cup of tea, these cafes have the perfect mix of great drinks, food, and ambiance. Read on for our top suggestions of where to go, what to get, and more!

3 Things to Know Before Attending Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta
3 Things to Know Before Attending Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta

If you’re looking for a world-class culinary experience alongside wine tasting, auctions, seminars, and more, look no further than the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta! This weeklong event features a little something for everyone, from wine and food, to golf, to film screenings, and everything in between.

Arts & Culture

Santa Fe is a town with a thriving arts scene and a vibrant and diverse culture that is influenced by Spanish, American, and Native traditions. The “City Different” is also home to a whole host of festivals, galleries, art markets, and museums. Whether you’re in the mood for fine art, rich history, or modern experimentation, Santa Fe is the place to be!

Wander New Mexico Blog
Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance
Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance

While Santa Fe has a whole host of attractions to keep you occupied throughout the day, it’s not a city necessarily known for its nightlife. Santa Fe has a smaller population of young people than many other cities of its size, and most bars and restaurants shut down before midnight. If you’re looking to grab a drink or a bite to eat, or just want to get out and socialize with other people, your late-night options are a bit limited. Luckily, however, what Santa Fe lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.

8 Great Santa Fe Bookstores
8 Great Santa Fe Bookstores

Most people are familiar with Santa Fe’s stellar arts scene, with world-class art museums and galleries scattered all over the city. But you may not know that Santa Fe has an equally vibrant literary scene, home to a wide variety of independent and used bookstores that carry everything from academic texts on Ancient Greece to New Mexico history to the latest literary best-sellers. These bookstores are the perfect place to while away an afternoon in, and have a little something to offer everyone, no matter what kind of books you like to read. Like Santa Fe itself, these bookstores are diverse and eclectic, so you’re sure to stumble across something that strikes your fancy.

11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe
11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe

We might be biased, but we think Santa Fe is a traveler’s paradise (and it’s pretty nice for locals, too.) With a little something for everyone, there are activities to fill up your days and then some with fantastic food and drink, scenic vistas, museums, historic sites, and much more. Read on for tips on where to go, what to do, and (of course) what to eat!

Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe This Summer
Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe This Summer

Visiting Santa Fe this summer? The City Different has a wealth of activities to keep you occupied from sunrise to sunset and beyond. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, experience a little culture, or something in between, Santa Fe has something for everyone!

72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do
72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do

From the vibrant arts and culture scene, to the spectacular natural environment, to the world-class shopping, to the stellar food and drink, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to make a list of must-see stops. Luckily, Wander New Mexico is here to help! Here are our recommendations for spending 72 hours in the “City Different.”

How to Spend Fall in Santa Fe
How to Spend Fall in Santa Fe

Fall is one of the best times to visit Santa Fe. The city is quieter, the weather is perfect, and there’s plenty to do whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, stellar food and drink, art and culture, or just pure relaxation. If you’re thinking of visiting Santa Fe in the Fall, check out our tips for where to go, what to do, where to eat, and more!

3 Things to Know Before Attending Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta
3 Things to Know Before Attending Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta

If you’re looking for a world-class culinary experience alongside wine tasting, auctions, seminars, and more, look no further than the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta! This weeklong event features a little something for everyone, from wine and food, to golf, to film screenings, and everything in between.

How to Experience the Santa Fe Opera
How to Experience the Santa Fe Opera

Whether you’re a dedicated fan traveling to Santa Fe specifically for its world-class operas, or just happen to be in town during the season, the Santa Fe Opera is an experience that you won’t want to miss!

Santa Fe’s Indian Market: Everything You Need To Know
Santa Fe’s Indian Market: Everything You Need To Know

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive new piece for your art collection or are simply interested in a one-of-a-kind experience focused on native culture and art, Indian Market is a unique Santa Fe event. At once a world-famous art market and a bustling festival with entertainment for all ages, Indian Market has a little something for everyone. If you’re visiting Santa Fe in August, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Guide to Santa Fe’s Famous Art Markets
Guide to Santa Fe’s Famous Art Markets

If you’re an art aficionado, then Santa Fe has a wealth of options for you, from hole in the wall galleries to bustling outdoor events. Drawing huge crowds of locals and tourists alike, these markets are famed for their wide variety and authentic flair.

Shopping & Leisure

If you’re in the mood to browse chic storefronts, explore hidden gems throughout northern New Mexico, or just enjoy an afternoon at the spa, there’s plenty to do in Santa Fe. Read on for our recommendations on day trips, vacation shopping, and more!

Wander New Mexico Blog
Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance
Santa Fe Nightlife: Where to Eat, Drink, and Dance

While Santa Fe has a whole host of attractions to keep you occupied throughout the day, it’s not a city necessarily known for its nightlife. Santa Fe has a smaller population of young people than many other cities of its size, and most bars and restaurants shut down before midnight. If you’re looking to grab a drink or a bite to eat, or just want to get out and socialize with other people, your late-night options are a bit limited. Luckily, however, what Santa Fe lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.

Santa Fe’s BEST Spas: Relax and Rejuvenate in the City Different
Santa Fe’s BEST Spas: Relax and Rejuvenate in the City Different

There are three world-class spas in the Santa Fe area, all of which are worth taking a trip to soak in hot pools, take in the ambiance, and maybe even book a treatment or two.

8 Great Santa Fe Bookstores
8 Great Santa Fe Bookstores

Most people are familiar with Santa Fe’s stellar arts scene, with world-class art museums and galleries scattered all over the city. But you may not know that Santa Fe has an equally vibrant literary scene, home to a wide variety of independent and used bookstores that carry everything from academic texts on Ancient Greece to New Mexico history to the latest literary best-sellers. These bookstores are the perfect place to while away an afternoon in, and have a little something to offer everyone, no matter what kind of books you like to read. Like Santa Fe itself, these bookstores are diverse and eclectic, so you’re sure to stumble across something that strikes your fancy.

The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico
The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico

Thanks to geothermal activity in the region, New Mexico is a hot spot for hot springs of all sorts. Many of these hot springs can be accessed in their natural state, pools of warm, soothing water surrounded by the natural beauty of New Mexico. Other cultivated hot springs are often part of resorts and spas, and a long soak can be bundled up with hotel stays, massages, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a hike before relaxing in a hot spring, or just want to relax in one of New Mexico’s many hot spring spas, there are plenty of options to choose from.

11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe
11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe

We might be biased, but we think Santa Fe is a traveler’s paradise (and it’s pretty nice for locals, too.) With a little something for everyone, there are activities to fill up your days and then some with fantastic food and drink, scenic vistas, museums, historic sites, and much more. Read on for tips on where to go, what to do, and (of course) what to eat!

72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do
72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do

From the vibrant arts and culture scene, to the spectacular natural environment, to the world-class shopping, to the stellar food and drink, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to make a list of must-see stops. Luckily, Wander New Mexico is here to help! Here are our recommendations for spending 72 hours in the “City Different.”

The Best Day Trips from Santa Fe - High Road to Taos and Valles Caldera
The Best Day Trips from Santa Fe - High Road to Taos and Valles Caldera

Sometimes getting there is just as rewarding as being there. These two stunning drives will have you oohing and aahing at every mile marker.

3 Stunning Day Trips from Santa Fe: An Adventure in Every Direction
3 Stunning Day Trips from Santa Fe: An Adventure in Every Direction

Scenic byways showcase Northern New Mexico’s rugged beauty, protected areas offer outdoor thrills, and rich cultural experiences make day trips from The City Different worth the drive. Here's a look at a few of our favorite routes.

How to Spend Winter in Santa Fe: Snow, Spas, and Chocolate
How to Spend Winter in Santa Fe: Snow, Spas, and Chocolate

With a plethora of indoor and outdoor cold-weather activities, Santa Fe is a great place to visit in the winter. Hit the slopes, chill out at a Japanese-style spa, or sample the city's best craft beer - check out our mini guide for winter getaway ideas!

What to Do on a Santa Fe Bachelorette Getaway
What to Do on a Santa Fe Bachelorette Getaway

Planning a bachelorette party weekend in Santa Fe? Make it an unforgettable girls trip with our recommendations on where to eat, drink, dance, and explore during your getaway.

Outdoor Adventures

At the tail end of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Santa Fe’s outdoor offerings won’t disappoint! New Mexico’s stunning high desert landscapes, secluded mountain trails, and hidden oases are sure to take your breath away. Whether you’re looking to hike, ski, or swim, the great outdoors are just minutes away from the heart of the city!

Wander New Mexico Blog
Santa Fe's Best Outdoor Activities: The Complete Guide
Santa Fe's Best Outdoor Activities: The Complete Guide

It’s no secret that Santa Fe is a nature-lover’s paradise - but with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming when it comes to finding the perfect spots to hike, swim, ski, raft, and more. From fan favorites to hidden gems, northern New Mexico has a wealth of stunning outdoor spots to get out and explore.

Where to Go White Water Rafting in New Mexico
Where to Go White Water Rafting in New Mexico

New Mexico might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of world-class rapids, but the Land of Enchantment might surprise you when it comes to great white water rafting opportunities. You can go white water rafting at several spots along the Rio Grande as well as on the Rio Chama. There are plenty of raft guide companies to choose from and trips for all skill-levels, whether you’re looking for fast and furious rapids or smooth, family-friendly rafting.

Our Favorite Waterfalls in New Mexico
Our Favorite Waterfalls in New Mexico

You may not think of waterfalls when you think of New Mexico, but the high desert is full of hidden gems in the waterfall department. Whether you’re in the mood for a good hike, a quick dip, or just want to enjoy the soothing sight and sound of a good waterfall, here are our top picks!

The Best Lakes in New Mexico
The Best Lakes in New Mexico

If you know where to look, New Mexico has quite a few lakes to fish, swim, and hike around. Especially during warm summer months, these lakes provide welcome relief from the high desert heat and a little oasis for water-lovers in the land-locked Land of Enchantment.

How to Prepare for Santa Fe Elevation
How to Prepare for Santa Fe Elevation

Santa Fe stands at a little over 7,000 feet above sea level, making it the highest capital city in the United States. While most Santa Fe residents are well-acclimated to the elevation, it can take visitors by surprise.

The Best Places to Catch a Breathtaking Santa Fe Sunset
The Best Places to Catch a Breathtaking Santa Fe Sunset

The Land of Enchantment has some of the most stunning sunsets in the country. Cotton candy skies, sweeping vistas, and glowing high desert twilights are part of the package when it comes to visiting New Mexico.

The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico
The Best Hot Springs in New Mexico

Thanks to geothermal activity in the region, New Mexico is a hot spot for hot springs of all sorts. Many of these hot springs can be accessed in their natural state, pools of warm, soothing water surrounded by the natural beauty of New Mexico. Other cultivated hot springs are often part of resorts and spas, and a long soak can be bundled up with hotel stays, massages, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a hike before relaxing in a hot spring, or just want to relax in one of New Mexico’s many hot spring spas, there are plenty of options to choose from.

11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe
11 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Santa Fe

We might be biased, but we think Santa Fe is a traveler’s paradise (and it’s pretty nice for locals, too.) With a little something for everyone, there are activities to fill up your days and then some with fantastic food and drink, scenic vistas, museums, historic sites, and much more. Read on for tips on where to go, what to do, and (of course) what to eat!

Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe This Summer
Fun Things to Do in Santa Fe This Summer

Visiting Santa Fe this summer? The City Different has a wealth of activities to keep you occupied from sunrise to sunset and beyond. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, experience a little culture, or something in between, Santa Fe has something for everyone!

72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do
72 Hours in Santa Fe - Things to Do

From the vibrant arts and culture scene, to the spectacular natural environment, to the world-class shopping, to the stellar food and drink, Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to make a list of must-see stops. Luckily, Wander New Mexico is here to help! Here are our recommendations for spending 72 hours in the “City Different.”

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Best Day Hikes Near Santa Fe

While Santa Fe may be a small city, it is surrounded by some of the most varied and beautiful landscapes in the country. From arid high-desert hills to green valleys, steep mountain trails to wildflower-strewn plateaus, New Mexico has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a casual stroll, there is a wealth of options within a short drive from Santa Fe!

How to Spend Fall in Santa Fe
How to Spend Fall in Santa Fe

Fall is one of the best times to visit Santa Fe. The city is quieter, the weather is perfect, and there’s plenty to do whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, stellar food and drink, art and culture, or just pure relaxation. If you’re thinking of visiting Santa Fe in the Fall, check out our tips for where to go, what to do, where to eat, and more!

How to Spring Break in Santa Fe
How to Spring Break in Santa Fe

Planning a Santa Fe spring break trip? Don’t miss our list of recommendations on where to ski, where to drink, what to eat, and, most importantly of all, what the weather will be like

The Five Best Things About Summer in Santa Fe
The Five Best Things About Summer in Santa Fe

Whether you prefer to hit the trails, cool off at a lake, or spend your days event-hopping, there no shortage of ways to spend a perfect summer in Santa Fe. We share five of our favorite things about the season in the City Different.

The Best Day Trips from Santa Fe - High Road to Taos and Valles Caldera
The Best Day Trips from Santa Fe - High Road to Taos and Valles Caldera

Sometimes getting there is just as rewarding as being there. These two stunning drives will have you oohing and aahing at every mile marker.

Dog Days: How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Visit to Santa Fe
Dog Days: How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Visit to Santa Fe

If you’re thinking of visiting Santa Fe with a canine companion, you’re in luck! The City Different is (in our completely unbiased opinion) one of the best places to travel with a dog (or to be a dog!).Here are some of our favorite activities and destinations around town that will keep both humans and animals happy.

3 Stunning Day Trips from Santa Fe: An Adventure in Every Direction
3 Stunning Day Trips from Santa Fe: An Adventure in Every Direction

Scenic byways showcase Northern New Mexico’s rugged beauty, protected areas offer outdoor thrills, and rich cultural experiences make day trips from The City Different worth the drive. Here's a look at a few of our favorite routes.

How to Spend Winter in Santa Fe: Snow, Spas, and Chocolate
How to Spend Winter in Santa Fe: Snow, Spas, and Chocolate

With a plethora of indoor and outdoor cold-weather activities, Santa Fe is a great place to visit in the winter. Hit the slopes, chill out at a Japanese-style spa, or sample the city's best craft beer - check out our mini guide for winter getaway ideas!

Santa Fe's Best Short Hikes
Santa Fe's Best Short Hikes

For visitors who can tear themselves away from the endless dining, cultural, and historical attractions in Santa Fe, a hike is a great way to experience the natural beauty of our region. Even if you only have a couple hours, there are a number of nearby, short hikes with incredible and varied scenery.

Wander New Mexico

At Wander New Mexico, we have a passion for telling stories and creating unique gastronomic experiences that allow people to connect through food.

Join us for authentic, immersive food & history tours that allow our guests to experience New Mexico’s unique food culture, rich flavors, and intriguing history!

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