Spend just a few days in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and you’ll soon know what the hype is all about. With an average of 300 sunny days per year and the third-largest art market in all of the United States, it’s easy to see why people love Santa Fe. No wonder more than 1 million people visit the city each year. Want to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the area? The Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide some of the best outdoor recreations in the country. This is how to plan the perfect Santa Fe getaway.
Planning Your Trip
Some people like to be spontaneous when they travel, and others prefer to plan out every detail of every day. Try finding a balance between the two. Some careful planning ahead of time will keep you from feeling bad after the trip because you missed out on some once-in-a-lifetime sights and events. Begin by looking at all of your options, and then narrow it down to some of the favorites that you just can’t miss. Next, start researching airfare and accommodations. Making reservations well ahead of time will be much easier on your budget.
Where to Stay
When it comes to places to stay in and around Santa Fe, you can check out a plethora of hotel options. From lavish hotels to charming historical inns, Santa Fe has it all. What you choose depends on your personal preferences. Do you like it quiet or do you want to be in the center of the activity? Do you want to be out in nature or in the city center? Do you like being waited on hand and foot, or are you willing to make your own bed and cook your own food? These are all things to consider when searching for accommodations for your vacation.
Things to Do
Try to give yourself as much time as possible in Santa Fe because just a weekend won’t be enough. The history and culture of Santa Fe are the main draws, and many of the fun activities available revolve around them. Must-see sights include the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Bandelier National Monument. Take time to explore the ancient Native American ruins of the area or tour centuries-old adobe homes and beautiful European-style churches. Don’t forget to browse the hundreds of amazing art galleries in the city as well.
Where to Dine
Whatever your culinary favorites are, Santa Fe has them. However, while you’re here, you simply must try some of the fine restaurants that have made the city famous. Try some local New Mexican cuisine, such as the to-die-for chile at Eloisa, located inside the Drury Plaza Hotel. New Mexican chile is extra spicy and different from any other chile you’ve ever tasted. Your server will probably ask you if you want “red or green?” which refers to the color of the chiles you want to serve over your food.
Santa Fe is an amazing city rich in culture, history, arts, and outdoor recreation. In fact, the perfect weather, delicious food, and fun activities may make you never want to leave.