Dozen Distinctive Destinations

Santa Fe, NM

Year Listed: 2009

Perched high in the foothills of the southern Rocky Mountains, Santa Fe, New Mexico is unparalleled in its richness of history, arts and culture. Signature adobe architecture and old world charm combine with culinary sophistication and a creative flair to make the city one of the country's most fascinating destinations.

History & Activities

One of the best-preserved cities in the United States, Santa Fe is an ancient city with a distinctive architecture borne out of its remote location and use of local materials. Dozens of historic sites transport visitors back in time, from ancient Native American ruins and Spanish Colonial churches to mining towns and remnants of the nation's Wild West frontier days. Historic walking tours showcase the spirit of Santa Fe, both old and new, most notably the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building in the country. The revitalized Santa Fe Railyard now serves as a lively downtown commercial and residential hub, containing shops, galleries, restaurants, farmer's market as well as an outdoor park and performance space.

Art & Culture

Santa Fe has long been a center for arts and culture. It now ranks as the country's third largest art market with over 250 galleries and dealers. Perhaps most famous as the home of artist Georgia O'Keefe, Santa Fe boasts more than a dozen major museums showcasing an array of art, culture, history and traditions. Art galleries and boutiques line Canyon Road while Native American vendors representing 19 Pueblos and three tribes can be found everyday under the portal at the Palace of Governors, selling jewelry and handmade goods. The annual Indian, Spanish and Folk Art markets provide opportunities not found anywhere else in the county.

Outdoor Adventures Surrounded by more than 1.5 million acres of national forest and the 12,500-foot Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe offers year-round outdoor adventure. The breathtaking scenery is an ideal backdrop for hiking, biking,

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skiing or rafting. With an average of 300 days of sunshine and blue sky, the time is always right to stroll through lush landscapes, explore nature trails at the National Audubon Society center or attend a wine festival in the country’s earliest wine-producing region.

Interested in visiting Santa Fe? Check out their Convention & Visitors Bureau. Stay at an Historic Hotel of America.

Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!

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