If you’re planning a trip to Santa Fe New Mexico, you’ll need to pick a good time of year. Winter is ideal for snow-related activities, while spring and fall are ideal for exploring the city. Be aware, however, that summer is a busy time, and you’ll likely have to make reservations months in advance – especially for the Indian Market in August. Also, don’t forget to factor in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
If you love history, the Palace of the Governors is a must-see. This 1610 structure served as the seat of government for the state for centuries. It now serves as a museum and has period pieces and fabulous furnishings. Its adobe architecture is also worth admiring. During your visit, don’t miss the chance to see the statue of Saint Francis, which is located in the La Conquistadora Chapel.
The Historic Plaza is another must-see. Here, you can find some of Santa Fe’s most beautiful and historic buildings. The San Miguel Chapel, built by the Tlaxcalan Indians in the early 1600s, exhibits some attractive adobe architecture. The interior is decorated with colorful paintings and intricate artwork, including a statue of Saint Michael. The Nazarene Christ is another notable work of art. The area is filled with interesting and free things to see and do.
There are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore in Santa Fe. You can check out the New Mexico History Museum, the oldest building in the US, and the Loretto Chapel, the oldest church in the city, which has a spiral staircase resembling a helix. There is also a museum of Spanish Colonial Art. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you’re visiting Santa Fe for the first time, be sure to check out the New Mexico Museum of Art. It’s open November to April and is free for residents of New Mexico. The museum’s admission is $7 for adults and $12 for non-residents. Senior citizens from New Mexico also get in for free on Wednesdays. You can even hire a private guide to show you around the museum. There are also some excellent museums for hiking in the area.
As for nightlife, Santa Fe has very few pubs and casinos. The liveliest people in town often sway to modern tunes. The city offers a diverse selection of neighborhoods and cuisines to sample. You won’t want to leave without checking out some of the local attractions. And if you don’t like the idea of walking around all day long, a hike through the Sangre de Cristo mountain range is a wonderful way to end your vacation in Santa Fe.