Everybody knows: there is no other place on Earth like Santa Fe during the holidays. A magical getaway in the state of New Mexico that adds to the beauty and majesty of the United States, Santa Fe is the very embodiment of a south-western city with its pueblo-style buildings, over 250 art galleries and museums and the many fascinating farolitos, those luminous little bags of candles and sand that are lit by hand each night. Perched high in the desert mountains, Santa Fe also boasts a rich pioneer history and vibrant culture that draw many tourists and artists from around the world. Just take a look at the many wonderful events going on around the city, especially during Christmas, and you won’t want to miss a thing!
Here is a list of the major attractions in Santa Fe that is an ‘absolute’ must for any visitor to this truly unique holiday destination.
Santa Fe Historic Plaza
To begin sightseeing in Santa Fe, start where it all began on the city’s historic central Plaza – a designated National Historic Landmark. Being the commercial, social and political center of Santa Fe, and surrounded by structures in the Pueblo, Spanish and Territorial styles reflecting its diverse history, the Plaza is an important part of the city’s cultural identity, offering year-round events, festivals, fine markets and shops, hotels and museums, as well as many regional restaurants in the surrounding neighborhood. Facing the plaza in the heart of the city stands the Palace of Governors, built in the early 17th century, ten years before the arrival of the Pilgrims in America. Now a museum, the palace was the seat of New Mexico’s various governments for almost 300 years. The plaza is a hub for activity for Santa Fe and a fine gathering place for both locals and visitors.
Santa Fe National Forest
Tourists not only flock to this 400-year-old city for the museums and amazing parade of events, but also because it is surrounded by an almost 1.6 million acres of National Forest that offers great opportunities for active outdoors. One of the fine National Forests in New Mexico, Santa Fe National Forest was established in 1915 and is responsible for managing one of the largest collections of Heritage Resources in the U.S. that include archaeological sites from many cultures remaining from the earliest occupation of the region by Europeans. The wilderness, scenery, flora and fauna of the forest are simply amazing, and the 25 campgrounds and numerous hiking trails are a great chance to get acquainted with all the park has on offer. What more the forest is also an ideal venue for biking, bird watching, mountain climbing, rafting and fishing. Other recreational pursuits for children are also available.
Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe
With more than sixty galleries, restaurants and shops, Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe is a unique, nationally known art and cultural district a few short blocks from downtown Denver, Colorado, that opens its doors freely to lively crowds for such events as the First Friday Art Walk, and Preview Night. Those who truly appreciate art will find everything from traditional to modern and emerging art, including painting, sculpture, mixed media and graphic art to name but a few. Enjoy!
