Have you always wanted to visit Santa Fe but you aren’t sure what to do when you get there? In order to facilitate your planning, I’ve compiled a list of things to do when you get there. Check out my next post, for what to do around Santa Fe. Hopefully they will give you plenty of ideas for when you are ready to go. Enjoy!
Best Things To Do In Santa Fe
All of the sites listed below are located within Santa Fe. As a matter of fact, they are all walking distance from each other. If you want to visit all these sites, you will need to stay about a day and a half.
Explore the Palace of the Governors
Originally constructed in the early 17th century, the Palace of the Governors chronicles the history of Santa Fe, and the nearby region. The adobe structure is now a state museum, Registered National Historic Landmark and American Treasure. It’s a must see.
Admire the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi
Also known as the Saint Francis Cathedral. The original parish was built in 1610 as an adobe structure. It was destroyed in the Pueblo Indian revolt of 1680. Only to be rebuilt again in 1714. However it was judged unsafe in 1850 so the new church was built between 1869-1887 in Romanesque style. The beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is in the heart of Santa Fe.
Cathedral Park
Right next to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, is Cathedral park. It’s a beautiful place to take a rest from all the walling around town. It features a beautiful intricately carved fountain.
Gaze at the city’s Architecture
Since all buildings are built out of Adobe. Walking around the streets of Santa Fe is an absolute must during your visit. The architecture is very unique here and it’s absolutely beautiful. Check out some really cool art galleries while you are at it.
Check Out the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Art
Visit the Institute Of American Indian Arts Museum of Contemporary Art, it is the country’s only museum that that interprets, exhibits and collects the work of contemporary Native artists. Featuring 7500 artwork created in 1962 or later by Native artisans.
Walk Around Santa Fe Plaza
The Santa Fe Plaza is over 400 years old and is in the heart of the city. It was and always will be the central gathering place for the city. Local merchants and shops line the plaza on all sides. Also this is a good place to eat. With many restaurant options and a great view on the plaza. Since it is also a gathering place, it hosts Indian and Spanish markets as well as shows and concerts. Check the music schedule here.
Go See the New Mexico Museum Of Art
Built in 1917, the New Mexico Museum Of Art was the first building opened in the state entirely dedicated to art. Originally it was the New Mexico Museum of Fine arts but the name was changed in 2007. Most of the artwork revolves around the Santa Fe area and local artists.
Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
The Georgia O’Keeffe museum is home to the largest collection of O O’Keeffe art work in the world. Featuring over 1200 objects created by Georgia such as sculptures, paintings and charcoal drawings. Click here to read my post about it.
Accommodations
There are accommodations all over Santa Fe, New Mexico. Keep in mind that all hotels in Santa Fe will charge you for valet parking. There are no self parking hotels available. If you want a beautiful, comfortable hotel with lots of freebies within walking distance of all attractions. Book your night at the Drury Plaza Hotel. I loved my stay there, click here to read about it.
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