USA

Santa Fe

By Jim Campbell

Santa Fe possesses a magical aura that’s drawn generations of artists and creative types. Founded in 1610 and perched proudly at an elevation of 7,199 feet, Santa Fe is the oldest and highest state capital in the U.S. This UNESCO Creative City has been a cultural hub for years, shaped by three distinct cultures throughout history: Native American, Hispanic, and most recently, American artists and writers. Over time, each group has left its own cultural mark on the town and today Santa Fe is a striking showcase of years of cultural richness drawn from past and present inhabitants.

Upon arrival you’ll find yourselves immersed in a southwestern wonderland, surrounded by zany art galleries and top-notch creative culture. Get lost exploring the maze of narrow, flower-lined streets, each one speckled with earthy Adobe buildings and Instagram-worthy photo ops. Go downtown and find the perfect handmade necklace in Santa Fe Plaza, or wine and dine your hearts out at any of its chic bars and restaurants. Include a visit to one of the town’s esteemed museums and concert halls to soak up a bit of culture while you’re there.

Whatever you do, don’t leave town without catching a spectacular sunrise over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which take on a reddish hue for the event. You’ll find yourselves completely transfixed by its magical lighting! Simply viewing one of Santa Fe’s legendary sunrises and sunsets just may have you planning to return for your first anniversary.. All it takes is one visit and you’ll fall in love with Santa Fe, making this enchanting city a wonderful choice for a honeymoon in the USA.

About Santa Fe

At a Glance

  • FIND SOMETHING SPECIAL: Pick up some unique handmade keepsakes to start your new life together. Santa Fe Plaza and Canyon Road are wonderful places to start shopping. You won’t find this stuff anywhere else!
  • VISIT A PUEBLO: Between Santa Fe and Colorado there are eight Native American Pueblos, many of them built right into the cliffs of the area’s mountainous terrain. Discover the fascinating culture and traditions of the pueblo residents past and present.
  • EXPERIENCE GEORGIA IN NEW MEXICO: The largest permanent collection of Georgia O’Keeffe’s artwork is on display at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, where she lived for a period of time.
  • GET FOLKSY: Admire interesting folk art from around the world at Santa Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art. It’s free to visit on Sundays and very interesting to see.
  • ENJOY OPERA WITH A VIEW: The Santa Fe Opera House is a covered, open-air venue boasting wonderful shows and a stunning view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from its terrace.
  • GET OUT THERE: There are many ways to adventure in nature just outside the city. Try a day of horseback riding, biking, hiking, skiing, fishing or even admiring the view from a hot air balloon.

Travel Tips

  • GETTING THERE: You can fly directly into Santa Fe Municipal airport, or into the larger Albuquerque Airport (just 45 minutes away). By train, the Amtrak Southwest Chief train makes a stop at Lamy, 15 miles south of the city. There is a shuttle van service that will take you directly from Lamy to Santa Fe.
  • GETTING AROUND: Santa Fe’s walkable downtown is full of quaint details that are best seen on foot. Driving in Santa Fe can be very confusing due to its narrow maze of streets, but the city is small enough for pedestrians to wander around without any problems. There is a local bus service available called Santa Fe Trails.
  • WHEN TO GO: Santa Fe has a high altitude and a dry climate, making it pleasant to visit throughout the year. Though it’s a popular destination in the summertime, it may be better to visit in autumn or spring when there will be fewer crowds and temperatures around 60 or 70 degrees Fahrenheit.