Is Santa Fe Worth Visiting?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

Besides being renowned for

its cultural diversity and interesting historic tourist attractions

, the city is also famed for its extraordinary arts scene. While plenty of galleries dot its streets, Santa Fe is also an important center for the performing arts and hosts lots of great cultural events and festivals.

What is so special about Santa Fe?

With a population of 70,000, Santa Fe, which means Holy Faith in Spanish, is New Mexico’s fourth largest city. … Situated at 7,000 feet in the foothills of the southern Rocky Mountains, Santa Fe is

the highest and oldest capital in the U.S. Founded

between 1607 and 1610, it’s America’s second oldest city.

What is the best month to visit Santa Fe?

The best time to visit Santa Fe is

between September and November

. During this time, temperatures range from the high 20s to high 70s. One can argue that springtime has a similar climate with similar hotel rates, but the festivals make fall the clear winner.

Why is Santa Fe a good place to visit?

With a culture based on a variety of unusual ingredients, including Gothic cathedrals, a love for the great outdoors, chile-infused cuisine and a profound emphasis on the arts, this truly is the “City Different.” Santa Fe also

preserves a historic feel

– with Spanish-influenced architecture and buildings that date back …

How many days should I spend in Santa Fe?

If you’re thinking of coming to Santa Fe, I would recommend trying to schedule in

at least four or five days

so that you can enjoy an easy pace and have a wider variety of experiences.

Which is better Santa Fe or Taos?


Taos is glorious scenery

, but Santa Fe is pretty scenic too, and as the state capitol, is much larger with more things to do. For girls of their ages, the History Museum and the Folk Art Museum will be a good fit, as will Rancho de las Golondrinas. Fun and inexpensive shopping at Jackalope and Doodlets.

Is it better to stay in Albuquerque or Santa Fe?


Albuquerque

is going to be your cheaper bet for hotel stay. You might as well get more room for your buck. Santa Fe is a quick drive anyway, just get a hotel on the north side of Albuquerque or at least decently close to I-25. For restaurants, you can do some of the better known tourist places.

Is Santa Fe expensive?

With a cost of living index at 115.4,

Santa Fe is generally considered more expensive than the national average

– and you’ll see why in the moment. With one of the hottest housing markets in the United States right now, it can be hard for those looking to buy a home.

What food is Santa Fe known for?

You’ll find Native

American fry bread

-style sopaipillas; lots of red and green chile peppers, posole, and slow-cooked beans; plus creations native to the area, including the green chile burger, Frito pie, and the breakfast burrito. Take a tour of these delicious foods and beverages that are at their best in Santa Fe.

What is there to see between Taos and Santa Fe?

  • Nambé Pueblo & Nambe Falls. …
  • Chimayó …
  • Truchas. …
  • Peñasco. …
  • Taos. …
  • Millicent Rogers Museum. …
  • The Taos Art Museum. …
  • Taos Pueblo.

What is the coldest month in Santa Fe New Mexico?

Average Temperature in Santa Fe

The cold season lasts for 3.0 months, from November 22 to February 21, with an average daily high temperature below 48°F. The coldest day of the year is

January 6

, with an average low of 18°F and high of 40°F.

What should I wear in Santa Fe?


A coat, long sleeve shirts, thermal layers, and pants

are all must-haves. Of course, regardless of the season you visit, we recommend packing some nice clothing if you want to explore the upscale restaurant and culture scene at night (Santa Fe Opera and art galleries). Also, try not to overpack shoes and socks.

Is Santa Fe crowded?

Peak tourist season in Santa Fe is typically during the

summer months and early fall

, particularly in July, August, and September. … The city can feel especially crowded during this period since many people with second homes in Santa Fe will be in town during the summer for the season’s cultural events.

Are there scorpions in Santa Fe?

We live about 20 minutes outside of Santa Fe, the only snakes we have seen in 16 years are the harmless bull snake.

No scorpions

, but some centipedes.

Is it safe to walk around Santa Fe?


Yes- it is safe

. Most stores close between 5 and 6pm but a (very) few stores stay open a little later -8 or 9ish. Yes, but take the same basic precautions you would take anywhere at night.

Is Santa Fe snobby?

“I’ve never had anybody tell me ‘what a

snobby

city’ this is.” … And, indeed, one of the things that consistently puts Santa Fe near the top of lists of places to visit – its wide array of cultural activities – appears to be among the items that earned cities a snob ranking.

Timothy Chehowski
Author
Timothy Chehowski
Timothy Chehowski is a travel writer and photographer with over 10 years of experience exploring the world. He has visited over 50 countries and has a passion for discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems. Juan's writing and photography have been featured in various travel publications.