Things to Do in Santa Fe

Known as "The City Different," Santa Fe captures the hearts of its residents with art, heritage, and modern-day amenities. The city's streets are lined with adobe-style architecture and dotted with art galleries, boutique shops, and tantalizing eateries that make daily life exciting. Living in Santa Fe is as much about enjoying its amenities as embracing the city's distinctive Southwestern lifestyle.

With a community that reveres its storied past, Santa Fe offers a lifestyle that combines relaxation with a dynamic, arts-centered social scene. There's always something happening, from lively annual events and outdoor festivals to a bustling farmers market that keeps locals stocked with fresh, local produce. The stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains set the scene for endless outdoor adventures, whether hiking scenic trails, skiing in the winter or enjoying a sunset. 

Whether you're exploring new interests or indulging long-held passions, Santa Fe is a city where every day feels like an opportunity to experience something special. It's easy to see why buying a home in Santa Fe, NM, is such an attractive prospect for those looking to settle in a place with endless possibilities for adventure and enjoyment.

A stroll down Santa Fe's iconic Canyon Road is like stepping into a living gallery where art and culture come to life. The historic street is famous for its wide variety of art galleries, each showcasing works that capture the spirit and beauty of the Southwest. Visitors will find everything from contemporary masterpieces to traditional Native American art and Southwestern-inspired creations that reflect Santa Fe's unique character. As visitors move from one gallery to the next, they're often greeted by local artists who are happy to share the inspiration behind their works.

Walking along Canyon Road allows visitors to admire sculptures and murals that bring life and color to the surroundings. These outdoor installations, scattered along the street and nestled within gardens and courtyards, add an interactive element to the experience, transforming a simple walk into a journey through the region's artistic heritage. From ceramics and textiles to striking metalwork and wood carvings, the diversity of art on Canyon Road makes it a perfect destination for discovering new styles and gaining insight into the artistic soul of Santa Fe.

Santa Fe's wine culture is deeply rooted in its history as one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the United States. This makes it a paradise for wine enthusiasts looking to explore unique, locally crafted flavors. Santa Fe Vineyards, for example, offers an authentic introduction to New Mexican wines, with an array of whites, reds, and specialty wines that capture the state's rich terroir. 

Another beloved spot for wine lovers is the Gruet Tasting Room, a family-owned winery known for its award-winning sparkling wines. Founded by French winemakers, Gruet combines traditional techniques with the unique characteristics of New Mexican soil, resulting in some of the finest bubbly around. Whether stopping by for a casual tasting or planning a weekend vineyard tour, Santa Fe's wine scene offers endless possibilities for those looking to unwind, indulge, and discover a side of the city that's as flavorful as it is historic.

The Santa Fe Railyard District is one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods. At restaurants like Radish & Rye, locally sourced ingredients shine in a menu filled with inventive Southwestern-inspired dishes. At The Violet Crown, diners have an elevated cinema and restaurant experience that is stylish and relaxed. The district also boasts shops like Kowboyz, a boutique specializing in high-quality Western wear and handmade boots, and Workshop, a design-forward store that features curated home goods and artisan crafts you won't find anywhere else.

A highlight of the Railyard District is the Santa Fe Farmers Market, a lively market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious treats made by local vendors. The market, open year-round, draws crowds eager to taste the flavors of New Mexico and meet the farmers and artisans behind the products. Here, residents can sample freshly made tamales, roasted chiles, and baked goods while shopping for farm-fresh ingredients to try creating Santa Fe-inspired dishes at home. 

Adding to the district's appeal are outdoor art installations and live performances, such as concerts at Railyard Park and rotating exhibits by local artists. Vibrant dining, shopping, and art make the Santa Fe Railyard District a favorite spot for residents to spend an afternoon.

Santa Fe's culinary scene celebrates its deep-rooted heritage, where Native American, Mexican, and Southwestern flavors create dishes that are as memorable as they are mouthwatering. The city's traditional cuisine offers a distinct taste, with hearty favorites like green chile stew, enchiladas smothered in red or green chile, and posole, a savory hominy-based dish from Native American culture. 

The Shed is a family-owned establishment known for its iconic red chile enchiladas, served in a cozy, adobe-walled setting that captures the essence of Santa Fe. Another can't-miss eatery is Café Pasqual's, an institution that combines organic ingredients with bold Southwestern flavors. Famous for its brunch, the café offers dishes like huevos rancheros and mole enchiladas in a warm, art-filled space. 

Perched atop a scenic hill with sweeping views, Museum Hill is home to several renowned museums, each showcasing distinct aspects of heritage and artistry. The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture has exhibitions that celebrate and preserve the traditions and stories of Native American communities. From intricate pottery and weaving to ancient artifacts and contemporary Native American art, this museum provides an immersive look into the diverse histories that define the Southwest.

The Museum of International Folk Art brings a global perspective to Santa Fe with one of the largest folk art collections worldwide. Visitors can explore vibrant exhibits, from traditional Mexican textiles to African sculpture and European woodwork. The museum's displays highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of cultures across the globe, offering an educational and inspiring experience. Together, the museums on Museum Hill create a fascinating journey that combines local heritage with international artistry, making it an ideal destination for anyone curious about history, culture, and art.

The Santa Fe Plaza has been the city's heartbeat since the early 1600s, offering a gathering place steeped in history and alive with vibrant community events. The Plaza is a hub for art markets, festive celebrations, and local vendors who showcase the unique culture of Santa Fe year-round. Events like the Santa Fe Indian Market, held every August, draw artisans and visitors worldwide, featuring incredible Native American art, jewelry, and crafts. In September, the Fiestas de Santa Fe fills the Plaza with colorful parades, traditional music, and performances honoring the city's centuries-old heritage.

Shopping around the Plaza is an experience in itself, with stores offering exquisite turquoise jewelry, handcrafted pottery, and one-of-a-kind art pieces that capture the spirit of the Southwest. Historic landmarks like the Palace of the Governors add a deeper sense of place. The building, dating back to the early 1600s, is one of the oldest continuously used public buildings in the United States. 

For those ready to call this distinctive city home, local real estate expert Robyn Tyra is here to make that dream a reality. Robyn's greatest passion is helping clients find their perfect place in Santa Fe, and her attentive, communicative approach ensures she understands and meets each client's unique needs. As a certified negotiation expert, she navigates every step of the process with skill, securing the best opportunities for her clients. With Robyn's expertise and local insight, finding a home for sale in Santa Fe, NM, is the perfect beginning to the start of an inspiring new chapter.