51 of the Best Things to do in Santa Fe, NM (2024)12 min read
The locals guide to Santa Fe, New Mexico’s bucket list items this 2024!
Santa Fe, NM aka The City Different is one of the most beloved cities of the Southwest United States.
With so many amazing things to do in Santa Fe you seriously might feel overwhelmed. Don’t be!
If you’re lucky enough to visit in any season, start here to ensure you see the best attractions when exploring this amazing high desert area!
1. Visit the Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city different!
First things first. One of the best things to do when visiting Santa Fe, is exploring the Santa Fe Plaza. The Plaza is in the heart of Santa Fe and will connect you to many of these other must do activities on this list!
Hopefully, your visit aligns with one of the many festivals that center around this historic area.
Insider tip: Sample any of the food carts or vendors if they are out on your trip!
2. Dive into an unforgettable Santa Fe Breakfast Burrito!
Breakfast Burritos in Santa Fe are undoubtedly unforgettable. I’m serious, the options are endless and quality unmatched.
As far as best things to do in Santa Fe goes, this is at the tippy top. This is a great way to make sure you have enough calories especially if you’re going to be out checking off all of these items!
Browse our list of Best Breakfast Burritos in Santa Fe!
3. Tour the Palace of the Governors which was built in 1610
The Palace the Governors is attached to the Santa Fe Plaza and will likely be filled with vendors on your weekend visit. Make sure to tour the space as it’s one of the most historic places in the entire city different.
4. Explore the countless art galleries along the famous Canyon Road
Canyon Road is the most famous street for art galleries in Santa Fe. This street has more than 80 art galleries for you to explore when visiting the city!
Be sure to include this on your Santa Fe bucket list to ensure your trip here is complete!
5. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, showcasing the works of the famous artist who lived in Santa Fe
The most recognized and visited museum is definitely the fantastic museum of Georgia O’ Keefe.
Conveniently located next to the Santa Fe plaza, all art lovers should add this to their must visit spots in Santa Fe!
6. Tour the historic San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States
The San Miguel Mission is an amazing Santa Fe attraction to witness as it’s the oldest church in the entire USA!
History is around every corner here in Santa Fe.
7. Hike to the top of Atalaya Mountain for panoramic views of the city
There are so many good hikes in the Santa Fe area but we love Atalaya above the rest.
This is a challenging hike but the views at the top are worth their weight in gold.
If you want to know about all the other amazing hiking options here, check out my Best Hikes in Santa Fe Guide today!
8. Electric Bike Tours of Santa Fe
Heritage Inspirations Santa Fe Tours & E-Bike Rentals offers guided E Bike Tours of Santa Fe that rock!
I mean what’s better than a load of history without a load of pedaling?
9. Visit the New Mexico History Museum to learn about the state’s rich history
Museums in Santa Fe are one of the highest rated tourist attractions to the city. If you like museums, you will LOVE this city.
10. Eat a Frito Pie at the Five and Dime General Store
Anthony Bourdain visited this spot many years ago and was enlightened with one of these simple frito pies.
Head to the back of the general store to load up on a Santa Fe staple! If you’re a foodie, explore my Santa Fe Foodie’s Guide!
11. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Art, showcasing art from the state’s diverse cultures
12. Experience the immersive psychedelic art of Santa Fe’s Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf Santa Fe is an immersive art experience that takes you on a surreal journey through a Victorian house and otherworldly dimensions.
It’s a mind-bending and visually stunning adventure that combines interactive installations, vibrant colors, and hidden passages to create an unforgettable experience.
Visit the Santa Fe Events Page for an up to date look at Meow Wolf events and more things in Santa Fe!
13. Take a day trip to Taos, a nearby town known for its artistic community and beautiful scenery
There are countless day trips to make from Santa Fe, but our favorite is up to Taos.
Taos is a place that is much better experienced than viewed. Just get up there if you have time in your travel schedules!
14. Indulge in New Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant, such as the famous Green Chile Cheeseburger
Green Chile Cheeseburgers are another staple attraction to beautiful Santa Fe. If you haven’t tried one yet, just go for it!
15. Take a guided walking tour of the city’s distinct and historic architecture
Santa Fe is walkers city! What makes it even more of a walkers city is being able to bask in the historic adobe architecture around every corner.
Ditch the car and explore the charming history by foot.
Being able to slow down and take in the charming designs always tops the list of top things to do in the city different!
16. Take a guided tour of the historic Loretto Chapel and see its famous spiral staircase
The Loretto Chapel has long been one of the best things to do when exploring Santa Fe but it’s even more enjoyable when visited with a guide.
The staircase is a mind trip as the structural support does not make any sense but is aesthetically gorgeous. Check it out!
17. Experience the healing powers of a traditional spa treatment at Ten Thousand Waves
New Mexico is a state full of holistic healers and incredible natural wonders. One of the most popular relaxing and recharging experiences to be had in Santa Fe, is a spa day at Ten Thousand Waves.
After experiencing this amazing Santa Fe experience be sure to dine at one of the best Asian restaurants in Santa Fe, Izanami!
18. Explore the natural beauty of the Santa Fe National Forest
The Santa Fe National Forest has numerous hikes for all abilities that will surely get your heart pumping.
As a local who has hiked almost every peak in the Santa Fe area, be sure to check out Santa Fe Ski Basin hikes like Nambe Lake, Deception Peak, and Lake Katherine.
19. Take a cooking class to learn how to make different traditional New Mexican dishes
One of the main reason people visit Santa Fe is because of the delightful and unique foods. Curious to learn how to cook one of those amazing New Mexican meals you had the night before?
Book a cooking class with Santa Fe School of Cooking to wow all your friends when you’re back from your trip!
20. Visit the Museum of International Folk Art, showcasing folk art from around the world
21. Go on a wine-tasting tour at one of the many wineries in the region
22. Learn about the traditional art of weaving at the Spanish Colonial Arts Society
23. Visit the Railyard Park, a public park with sculptures and a community garden
24. Attend the Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest Native American arts market in the world
Hopefully you’re lucky enough to experience one of the best events in Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Indian Market. This culturally rich event is not only a tribute to the natives of the area but a rich cultural demonstration of the city of Santa Fe.
25. Visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market and taste fresh, local produce
The Santa Fe Farmers Market is one of the top markets in the country and is easily one of the best things to do when visiting Santa Fe!
Read my full SF Farmers Market Guide now!
26. Experience the Santa Fe Opera, a world-renowned opera house in a stunning outdoor setting
Did you know the Santa Fe Opera is a world renowned gem located only about 10 minutes outside of the city?
This amazing venue is tucked into the hillsides of Tesuque is undoubtedly an unforgettable Santa Fe experience!
27. Visit the Santa Fe Botanical Garden and explore its numerous trails and gardens
28. Attend the Santa Fe Wine Festival, featuring local wines and live music
29. Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
30. Explore the history of the Atomic Age at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
31. Attend the Santa Fe Folk Art Festival, featuring traditional folk art from around the world
32. Go on a horseback ride through the beautiful landscape
33. Visit the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary for birdwatching and hiking
34. Learn about the traditional art of tinwork at the Tinwork Museum
35. Visit the New Mexico State Capitol building and see the art collection
36. Attend the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, featuring artists from around the world
37. Explore the historic El Rancho de las Golondrinas, a living history museum
38. Take a scenic drive through the Jemez Mountains
39. Explore the art and history of the Pueblo people at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
40. Attend the Santa Fe Indian Market Winter Showcase, featuring Native American artists
41. Go on a guided tour of the Cerrillos Hills State Park
42. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
43. Attend the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, a world-renowned choral group
44. Visit the Ghost Ranch, a former home of Georgia O’Keeffe and a stunning natural landscape
45. Take a guided tour of the Santa Fe Opera Backstage
46. Explore the art and history of the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
47. Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset for stunning views of the city and landscape
48. Visit the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art to learn about the art and culture of the Spanish colonies
49. Go on a guided photography tour of the city and surrounding areas
50. Take a scenic drive along the Turquoise Trail, a historic highway through the Sandia Mountains
51. Attend the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival, showcasing independent films from around the world
52. Take a day trip to the nearby Valles Caldera National Preserve, a stunning volcanic landscape with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
53. Unwind with an amazing Santa Fe Massage
Find an amazing local Santa Fe Massage Therapist to let your body truly unwind when visiting!
More of the Best Things in The City Different
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