For a quick weekend getaway it can be hard to choose where to go. Readers of Travel + Leisure put Santa Fe at the top of their list in 2025, praising its mix of architecture, sun-drenched seasons, food, art, and a “multi-layer” experience. That makes it not just a charming getaway, but rather a destination with real substance, and a weekend there gives you a taste of why it’s so beloved.
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Top things to do in Santa Fe
A great weekend in Santa Fe begins with the essentials: exploring the historic Plaza, where adobe architecture surrounds open-air walkways lined with galleries, shops, and Native American artisans selling handcrafted jewelry and traditional art. Just steps away, the Palace of the Governors and nearby historical sites give you a sense of the city’s centuries-old story. Museum lovers should head to Museum Hill, home to celebrated institutions like the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, typically with affordable admission prices in the $10–$15 range, each offering rich cultural context and world-class collections.
Art is woven into every corner of Santa Fe, but nowhere more than Canyon Road, an iconic mile of more than 80 galleries where you can browse everything from traditional Pueblo pottery to contemporary sculpture. Beyond Canyon Road, the Railyard District offers a more modern and eclectic vibe, with a bustling farmers’ market, small galleries, and food stalls. Santa Fe’s performing arts scene adds even more depth, highlighted by long-running venues like the Santa Fe Playhouse. Whether you’re catching live theater, browsing small artist studios, or simply wandering through open-air markets, the creative energy is impossible to miss.
Santa Fe also shines outdoors. With the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising at the city’s edge, popular hiking routes such as Atalaya Peak or Picacho Peak provide panoramic views and a refreshing way to experience the region’s high-desert beauty. These trails are free, and accessible to most active visitors, though altitude awareness is important. After time outside, many visitors unwind at Ten Thousand Waves, the city’s famed Japanese-style spa offering soaking tubs and treatments in a serene forest setting. For culinary exploration, Santa Fe’s restaurants serve some of the best New Mexican dishes in the state. Expect red and green chile on everything, with entrée prices usually ranging from $15–$30. Those looking for a spirited experience can follow the Margarita Trail, a fun way to sample specialty margaritas at participating bars and restaurants.
Related: Here are 5 places in the U.S. that feel like a trip abroad
Things to avoid
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Tourist traps around the Plaza: The Plaza is beautiful, but some shops can be pricey or tourist-focused. Take time to look for galleries off the beaten path.
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Traffic: While Santa Fe isn’t huge, locals note “rush hour Cerillos” can be a headache. Parking near popular spots may require patience.
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Packing: The high-desert altitude (around 7,000 ft) means the sun is strong and nights can cool quickly so dress in layers.
Events coming in 2026
If you can time your visit for a special event, Santa Fe truly shines:
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Zozobra (Burning of Old Man Gloom): Friday, September 4, 2026, at Fort Marcy Park. Tickets go on sale in July, with general admission around $35–$45 depending on timing.
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ZozoFest: A free art show event (running August 28-30, 2026), leading up to Zozobra, with craft tables, art booths, and themed fun.
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314th Fiesta de Santa Fe: September 5–13, 2026, celebrating 300+ years of culture with parades, music, dancing, street markets, and more.
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Indian Market: August 15–16, 2026, one of the largest Indigenous art markets in the world.
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Wine & Chile Fiesta:September 23–27, 2026: a delicious celebration of New Mexican cuisine and wines.
Related: This is the number 1 best value destination city for 2026
It’s no surprise the city topped Travel + Leisure’s list, with history and creativity in every corner. Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel inspiration!
This story was originally reported by TravelHost on Nov 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.