Fine Dining and Nightlife in Santa Fe

Santa Fe may be known for its quiet charm, but Santa Fe nightlife comes alive in the evening.  There are fabulous Santa Fe Restaurants, live music, performances, dancing, or enjoy a peaceful evening of people-watching.  These are some of our favorite places to visit and activities to do in the evening in Santa Fe. Here is a variety of experiences to pique your interest.

  • El Flamenco Spanish Cabaret

El Flamenco Cabaret is Southern Spain at its best in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Experience passionate, rhythmic flamenco dance filled with soulful, expressive movement, fiery emotion, and percussive footwork, accompanied by intricate guitar and haunting vocals. Explore the authentic Spanish food of the tapas menu, fine wine and good spirits for an unforgettable evening with a flair for the dramatic and storytellers using cultural traditions. A proud Mayor’s Arts Award winner for the City of Santa Fe, the Cabaret also offers Summer Workshops and classes emphasizing technique and dance choreography.   Enjoy a night of traditional Santa Fe dance.

  • Santa Fe Margarita Trail

Purchase an official Santa Fe Margarita Trail Passport and enjoy forty-five margaritas, especially crafted for the margarita connoisseur at downtown Santa Fe restaurants.  Each margarita restaurant along the Santa Fe Trail offers the best tequila for margaritas, and the passport costs just $3, entitling you to $1 off each signature margarita drink. Explore Santa Fe at night and find your favorite margarita mix and earn prizes for the stamps you collect along the way.

  • La Fiesta Lounge at La Fonda

Looking for live entertainment and sensational cocktails where the dance floor is movin and shakin? La Fiesta Lounge at La Fonda Hotel Santa Fe was voted Santa Fe’s best live entertainment venue, where you can watch those doing the two-step dance, listen to western swing music, and dance to some of the best local musicians! Enjoy the exceptional nightlife atmosphere with one of their signature margaritas and cocktails.

  • Summer Scene on The Santa Fe Plaza

People have been visiting the historic Santa Fe Plaza for nearly four hundred years. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, it’s a great place to eat, especially at the Santa Fe Plaza Cafe and enjoy the best things to do in Santa Fe. If you happen to be on a rooftop, the New Mexican sunset can be spectacular.  In August, this is the site of the famous Santa Fe Indian Market, Spanish Market and many music events at the Santa Fe Bandstand. 

  • Second Street Brewery 

This popular local watering hole has expanded to fill three locations: the Original Second Street Brewery, the Santa Fe Railyard Arts District, and the massive Rufina Taproom. Enjoy delicious food, including the best fish n’ chips in Santa Fe, a rotating selection of the brewery’s beers on tap, and live music.   And gluten-free beer… is that possible?

After Experiencing “The City Different”

After enjoying Santa Fe’s lively nightlife, relax in one of our Aqui Santa Fe luxury vacation rentals. We can help you find the perfect home away from home where you can explore things to do in Santa Fe, Santa Fe shopping, and Santa Fe art galleries – both day and night!

 

9 Best Art Galleries in Santa Fe

Are you planning on visiting Santa Fe? If so, prepare to be stunned by the natural beauty of its high desert setting. New Mexico’s austere beauty has drawn many accomplished artists who have tried to capture the essence of the landscape and its people. From Georgia O’Keeffe’s intimately detailed florals to Alexander Calder’s magnificent El Sol Rojo, New Mexico brings out the best in artists.

There are over 250 galleries in the downtown area of Santa Fe and Canyon Road, so there is no shortage of art in this town.  That is enough to put you in overload.  However, if you try to prioritize your favorites as you go along, the best will stay top of mind.  This list includes a few favorite galleries, but they all have their unique collections… enjoy!

When you choose Aqui Santa Fe vacation rental home, Caroline is glad to suggest some of the best galleries for your preference.  You may want to consider Dos Casitas for your stay as it is only two to three blocks from the critical mass of contemporary art galleries.

BEST Art Galleries

Blue Rain Gallery

For 25 years, Blue Rain Gallery has showcased the works of outstanding Native American artists. Tammy Garcia’s bronzes, Preston Singletary’s glass, and Jim Vogel’s paintings are among the exquisite pieces on display here. Be sure to check out their Friday night openings!

Evoke

Provocative, evocative, and compelling… Three words that aptly describe the contemporary art within this trend-setting gallery! Visit Evoke Contemporary to see what the galleries of the future will look like. From representational to “twisted”, you’ll find it all within this carefully curated contemporary collection.

Gerald Peters Gallery

With an 8,500-square-foot gallery featuring a sculpture garden, an extensive research library, and a bookstore, the Gerald Peters Gallery is well worth an extended visit. You’ll find a wide selection of art genres at the gallery, which is world-renowned for its nineteenth and twentieth-century American art.

LewAllen Galleries 

Paintings and sculptures are accompanied by an equally impressive collection of art glass in the LewAllen Galleries. The Contemporary Division offers a range of media from the many schools of contemporary art. The secondary market benefits from the fine selection of American and European modernist works in the Modern Division. 

Nedra Matteucci Galleries

Combining centuries of European painting techniques with the unique subject matter of the American West and Southwest has produced the treasured art for which the Nedra Matteucci Galleries are known. The setting is almost as historic and inviting as the art within. Whether you enjoy monumental sculptures like those in the one-acre garden or paintings reminiscent of Charles Russell, this gallery is a must for fans of Western or Southwest art!

Niman Fine Art

The family-owned and operated Niman Fine Art Gallery offers a vast and ever-changing portfolio of fine art. Highlights include mixed-media photography by Michael Namingha, contemporary sculpture by Arlo Namingha, and works by internationally renowned artist Dan Namingha.

Nuart Gallery

Juan Kelly’s own art is as fascinating as the gallery he owns. Filled with figurative magical realism and organic abstracts, the Nuart Gallery hosts spectacular shows featuring the works of American, Latin American, and European artists. 

Shiprock Gallery 

This gallery is named for the volcanic rock formation that is at the heart of a sacred legend of the Navajo people. Fifth-generation art dealer Jed Foutz has merged his love for Navajo art with his appreciation for mid-century modern furnishings in this uniquely eclectic gallery. If you’re looking for an exquisite piece of historic or contemporary Native American art, you’ll definitely want to stop in at Shiprock Gallery.

Zaplin Lampert Gallery

The renowned Zaplin Lampert Gallery specializes in the art of the American West and that of famed New Mexican printmakers Gustave Baumann and Gene Kloss. It also features nineteenth— and early twentieth-century American paintings and early works by Santa Fe Art Colony and Taos Society artists.

 

Art Is A Our Way of Life

Art surrounds you from the minute you arrive at your Santa Fe Vacation Home

Discover our secret of art—it is everywhere! 

Don’t forget to mention your passion for art while visiting the Santa Fe Art Galleries—

you may be treated to a private tour

Reach out to AQUI SANTA FE  for your next stay, where art is at the heart of every home.

 

8 Unique Places to Eat in Santa Fe

Santa Fe’s dining scene is as vibrant as this multicultural city itself. From the essential green chile to authentic Indian curry, you’ll find delicious food all over town. To help visitors find the best places to eat in Santa Fe, we’ve rounded up eight of our favorite eating places. Buena comida!

Eight of the Best Restaurants in Santa Fe, New Mexico

These eight restaurants are listed in random order , starting with our favorite spots for breakfast and ending with fabulous places for dinner, whether you prefer casual or fine dining. 

  • The Famous Plaza Cafe

Santa Fe is home to the breakfast burrito and no place does them better than the Famous Plaza Cafe. If you’ve ever wondered where locals eat in Santa Fe, this is a favorite, offering handheld burritos if you’re eager to start experiencing everything Santa Fe has to offer. If you prefer a sit-down breakfast, order your breakfast burrito smothered with your choice of red or green chile. By the way, did you know that if you specify “Christmas,” you’ll get both red and green chile?

  • Cafe Pasqual’s

Enjoy the ambiance of a colorful fiesta while feasting on delicious specialties, such as smoked trout hash, at Cafe Pasqual’s. This small restaurant serves up the big, bold flavors of New Mexico and Old Mexico, along with a few Mediterranean and Asian dishes. 

  • Dolina Bakery and Cafe 

What do you get when you combine a bakery, modern American brunch, and Eastern European flavors? You get Dolina Bakery and Cafe, where you can enjoy everything from brunch favorites to chicken paprikash, borscht, and Hungarian goulash. The bakery is equally diverse with a variety of quiches, coconut cream or banana cream pies, cakes, strudel, a Hungarian specialty called Makos Dio, and more!  

  • Kakawa Chocolate House

This may be the most unique chocolate shop in the world. Kakawa Chocolate House’s beverages run the gamut from authentic Mesoamerican to historic European to contemporary American. It isn’t just about drinking chocolate at Kakawa Chocolate House, either. They also offer exquisitely crafted truffles and caramels as well as small-batch ice creams. 

  • The Pantry

This home-style restaurant has been satisfying locals with its hearty comfort food, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly service since 1948. The Pantry prides itself on its fresh-from-scratch food, generous portions, and quick service. 

  • Tesuque Village Market

The menu at Tesuque Village Market is best described as straightforward with a local Santa Fe twist! That is, pizza, hamburgers, enchiladas, and more, all incorporating a Santa Fe favorite: green chile.  If you come in the morning, the menu will feature a variety of breakfast options and fantastic pastries. This could be the perfect place to eat in Santa Fe during the weekend, filled with Southwestern décor and a full bar!

  • Arroyo Vino

This upscale Santa Fe dining spot might be a bit off the beaten path (it’s 8 miles from the town center) but it is definitely worth the drive! The seasonal menu features locally sourced meat, sustainably harvested fish, and local produce, much of it from Arroyo Vino’s own two-acre garden. They also offer a carefully curated selection of excellent wines.  

  • The Compound

If you’d rather stay in town, The Compound is located just over a mile from the historic Plaza. This popular place to eat in Santa Fe features contemporary American cuisine accented by flavors brought to this country by 16th-century Spanish settlers. Owner/chef Mark Kiffin was named Best Chef of the Southwest by the James Beard Awards in 2005.

Santa Fe Is A City of Many Flavors

This vibrant city offers more than just wonderful food. History, art, architecture, and an excellent multicultural atmosphere help give Santa Fe a unique ‘flavor’ of its own. Stay at Aqui Santa Fe’s luxury vacation rental properties while you enjoy everything Santa Fe offers. Our contact form will help you find the perfect place to stay in this unique town. 

Top Live Music & Concert Venues in Santa Fe

As you find the perfect luxury vacation rental, it is important to have an exciting itinerary as well. Do you love listening to live music? If you do, and you’re planning to visit Santa Fe, this was written for you! It’s a guide to some of the best live music venues in Santa Fe. These are places that the locals love, and people come from all over to enjoy. With everything from world-class opera to “Cowgirl Karaoke,” Santa Fe has something for every musical taste. 

Santa Fe Live Music Venues

Below are six of our favorite places to listen to live music in Santa Fe. Many also offer great food and drinks, spectacular views, or great people-watching opportunities.  

The Lensic Performing Arts Center 

This world-class concert hall and theater offers everything from classical music to flamenco exhibitions, and contemporary jazz to a foot-stomping ‘Buckaroo Ball’. You might also catch a theater presentation, film, or lecture among its diverse year-round offerings. A former movie palace/vaudeville stage, it opened in 1931. It has been fully restored to its former glory and now serves as Santa Fe’s premier performing arts center.

Second Street Brewery

Enjoy a brew and some great food while listening to the house band at Second Street Brewery. If you visit it on a Wednesday, you can enjoy a variety of local musicians during the brewery’s popular open mic night.

Santa Fe Opera House

Watching professional opera in the open air with a spectacular sunset over the Jemez Mountains as a backdrop? It’s just another nightly performance at the Santa Fe Opera House! Actually, you can catch more than opera at this gorgeous venue. It also hosts acclaimed performers from all genres. Enjoy a picnic or even a small tailgating party before the performance.

The Cowgirl Hall of Fame

This Food Network favorite has been featured on four of that network’s shows! That should tell you something about the food, which is mainly cowboy comfort food along with great BBQ. Besides live music and fantastic food, it also features patio seating and a playground for the kids.

Santa Fe Plaza

The Plaza has been at the very heart of Santa Fe both physically and socially for almost four centuries. Visit one of the many food vendors and then just hang out, do some people-watching, and enjoy the free live music at this Santa Fe concert venue.

Welcome to Santa Fe!

Concert venues are just one of the many attractions to explore in this warm and vibrant city. Let AQUI Santa Fe Luxury Vacation Homes help you find the perfect luxury vacation rental property for your Santa Fe stay. Simply fill out our contact form to get started.

11 Exciting Santa Fe Summer Activities

June through August is Santa Fe’s peak season for all the best reasons. The sun-kissed blue sky maintains temperatures in the mid-80s with short-lived afternoon showers to freshen the air. The nights are comfortably cool and welcome after a day of enjoying Santa Fe’s summer weather and outdoor attractions.

The summer months are filled with the largest and most famous world festivals, and Santa Fe, New Mexico, is adding one more this year; Santa Fe Art Week is July 12-21. The question is not “What is there to do today?” but “How can we find time to get to all the things we want to do?”

Be sure to check out our luxury Santa Fe vacation rentals to choose elegant, comfortable, spacious, and convenient vacation homes that provide your home away from home, perfect for your exciting visit to this energetic city.

Celebrate the Arts

  • Attend the Santa Fe Art Week. Santa Fe is the third-largest art market in the United States. The city’s 19th Annual Santa Fe Art Show, July 18th – 21st, presents an amazing array of Things to do in Santa Fe in summerthings to do in Santa Fe in Summer contemporary and modern art at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. On display are extraordinary works of art from local, national, and international galleries. Live entertainment, parties, and other exclusive events keep the energy high. The show includes art talks, design talks, and art labs.
  • Visit the Traditional Spanish Market. On July 27th and 28th, the Spanish Colonial Arts Society presents its 68th Annual Traditional Spanish Market on the historic Santa Fe Plaza. About 250 Spanish Colonial Artists from Colorado and New Mexico will present their traditional crafts, some dating back 400 years. You will see woodcarving, tinwork, colcha, hide painting, straw appliqué, furniture and furnishings, weaving, jewelry, filigree, pottery, and ironwork for sale. These are true and accurate crafts, not items mass-produced for the tourist trade. Music and performances will take place on the Market stage throughout the weekend, and a food court will offer traditional fare and local favorites.
  • Tour the Santa Fe Indian Market. On August 17th and 18th, you can visit the Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest and most prestigious juried Native arts show globally. It attracts approximately 120,000 visitors eager to discover the best works by Native artists. Works are available through live and silent auctions as well as for sale by the artists. Booths of native food will be abundant.
  • Be swept up by classical music. Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival is July 14th – August 19th. It has a lineup of concerts and free events that appeal to classical music lovers. The Santa Fe Opera is renowned globally and opens its summer season on May 29th with The Pearl Fishers and closes on August 31st with a Mariachi Extravaganza.

Enjoy Nature

  • Feel alive on the hiking trails. Santa Fe is a hiker’s paradise in Summer, with great weather and trails into the wilderness beginning just a few minutes from your vacation home and downtown. Trails range from kid-Santa Fe Summer Hikingfriendly to the most challenging and all encompass some of Santa Fe’s enchanting wilderness. Hikers are rewarded with shaded forests, fields blooming with wildflowers, silvery mountain streams, and incredible views from mountain summits and ridgetops. Visit Santa Fe’s website to see the variety of mapped trails. Many experienced hikers proceed through the trails themselves and make their own way through the glorious terrain.
  • Get a taste of adrenaline with mountain biking. USA Today lists Santa Fe as one of America’s Top Mountain Bike Towns. In the city, biking is safe because of its bike lanes. In the wilderness, you can take an easy, scenic bike ride or challenge yourself on a mountain bike. Golfers are delighted to find eight world-class golf courses within a two-hour drive from the city set in the high desert atmosphere and in the mountain air. To review the top-rated courses visit GolfAdvisor.
  • Get up early and go fishing. Fishermen head to Santa Fe National Forest and its 1000 miles of streams and 20 lakes lively with fish. The Forest offers a variety of fishing experiences including both cold and warm water fish. You can head for an established fishing area or set off with your tackle and find your own.

Tickle Your Taste buds

Savor world-renowned restaurants. Santa Fe cuisine combines Indigenous American, Spanish, and Anglo influences from the basics of corn, beans, and squash to chili peppers that explode in your mouth. Make your own meals with fresh, local ingredients from farmers’ markets, or try some of Santa Fe’s most renowned restaurants serving traditional dishes. If you want to go where the locals go, try these restaurants that have an authentic vibe and serve the best of the regional cuisine:

  • La Choza was voted the #1 New Mexican restaurant by readers of the Santa Fe Reporter. The restaurant brings generations of tradition to your table along with award-winning red and green chili.
  • Tortilla Flats has nationally acclaimed, award-winning dishes such as authentic tacos and enchilada plates

Calling all Kids

  • Bring the kids to Bandelier National Monument. Bandelier National Monument is one of the favorites. This 33,000-acre park gives an up-close look at the lives of the ancient Pueblo Santa Fe Summer Kidspeople. Wooden ladders lead to cliff dwellings and cave drawings. The park’s Junior Ranger program provides an age-appropriate adventure that is rewarded with an official Junior Ranger badge.
  • Experience the Santa Fe Children’s Museum. The Santa Fe Children’s Museum is packed with engaging, interactive exhibits both inside and out. Families can play together, exploring the arts, sciences, and humanities.
  • Burn off some energy at the playground. The Railyard District is lively with stores, shops, arts, and outdoor performances, but the children gravitate to a creative children’s play area.

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a delightful Summer vacation destination for couples and singles, families, and multigenerational gatherings. Let us help you find the perfect luxury vacation rental property during your stay in Santa Fe.

 

Santa Fe | Wine and Chile Fiesta

Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta

Reservations open June 18, to curate your culinary experience!

Mark your calendar now for the best of culinary arts in Santa Fe.  September 24-28, 2025

Get Ready for a Week of Unforgettable Flavors!    The ultimate of food & wine events is being carefully curated as we speak.  Choose from a calendar of daily Wine Seminars, engaging Cooking Demos, exclusive Guest Chef Luncheons, and thrilling Live & Silent Auctions thanks to the top restaurants in Santa Fe.  As the sun sets, experience nightly Wine Dinners hosted by highly acclaimed Santa Fe restaurants—each one a unique culinary journey you won’t want to miss.

Don’t miss a moment of the magic!

These events fill up fast after years of hot competition for favorite reservations.   Think about these entertaining things to do in Santa Fe:  Phenomenal Femmes Luncheon, Guest Chef & Sommelier Throwdown, Sky Railway Train Tour, Live Auction & Culinary Classic,  Reserve Tasting, Chile Friday, Grand Tasting, Rosé All Day, Champagne & Dirty Boots Brunch.  All this packed into 4 glorious sunny autumn days!

Look for our favorite downtown Santa Fe restaurants to participate in the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta. Chefs recognized by the James Beard Awards of the Southwest are ready to create elegant gourmet dinners paired with incredible wine selections from wineries across the country.

Sazon Restaurant Santa Fe is known for pairing its famous Mexican moles with each entree.  Chef Fernando Olea, a James Beard Award winner, is a pro with his creations. His delicate hand produces a powerful mole paired with entrees and incredibly complementary wines.

Market Steer Steakhouse offers an exceptional, premium dining experience. Its story is rich with New Mexico history, and its specialty meats and Tack Room Happy Hour make it a local hangout in Santa Fe. Yes, they have signature cocktails—the Grand Champion is their finest! Their new restaurant has been a huge success, and we hope they find time to bring some fanch flavor to the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta.

Coyote Café Santa Fe was our first restaurant in Santa Fe in the 1980s to gain national notoriety for its use of regional and native ingredients in creative contemporary dishes. It is always a grand evening of food and wine when they are a major contributor to the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta.

Discover your favorite and best restaurant in Santa Fe through the Wine & Chile Fiesta. 

It is time to meet new friends and let your taste buds roll!

Don’t forget To Make a reservation for your Home away from home!

Now is the time to make your reservations for your vacation rental home with AQUI SANTA FE.  Stay at Casa Perla, Casa Simpatica, Bellas Artes de Santa Fe, and Casita Monte Vista, located just a few blocks from the Santa Fe Plaza, and you’ll be within walking distance of the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta events.

 

PHOTO CREDITS ABOVE: DANIEL QUAT & GABRIELLA MARKS

BROWSE OUR LUXURY VACATION RENTALS

Upcoming Events In Santa Fe, New Mexico

Things To Do In Santa Fe New Mexico

Need somewhere to stay while you’re visitng this historic town? Check out our luxury vacation rentals in Santa Fe! Each of our rental homes offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and southwestern charm in a completely cultural style. Call Caroline today for more information at (505) 577-6774


SKI SANTA FE
Ski Santa Fe Now Open
10,350′ Elevation, 1,725′ Vertical Drop, 225″ Average Snowfall, 83 Trails, 36 Runs Groomed Daily, 20% Easy, 40% Intermediate, 40% Expert Trails.



SANTA FE ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
Santa Fe Artists in Residence, Thur, Fri & Sat 4–7pm, through February 28
An art experience connecting visitors with New Mexico artists. Meet, interact and watch the artists as they create their masterpieces and experience first-hand their creative process.



WINTER BREW
Santa Fe Farmers Market Pavillion, January 12
The 7th annual Santa Fe Winter Brew Festival is featuring traditional brews and cold-weather favorites by eighteen New Mexico breweries.



SOUPER BOWL
Santa Fe Convention Center, January 27, 12–2:30pm
Get ready to sample unlimited mouth-watering soups from your favorite local chefs as they compete for best soup in four categories—Cream, Savory, Seafood, and Vegetarian.



SANTA FE FILM FESTIVAL
Various Venues, February 7–11
This five day event offers the best in cinematic arts with a program of over 100 films, panels, workshops and parties.


 



KIDS FREE SPRING BREAK
Various Venues, March 1–April 15
Take advantage of great deals in Santa Fe, from lodging, food, arts, culture, and other kid-friendly attractions.



BAROQUE HOLY WEEK
Loretto Chapel, March 29–31
The Santa Fe Pro Musica Baroque Ensemble presents this seasonal favorite in the historic Loretto Chapel, featuring music by Corelli, Bach and Vivaldi.



SANTA FE FARMERS MARKET 
Farmers Market Pavilion, Saturdays: 8am-1pm
Saturday’s market is where locals gather. Vendors only sell agricultural products that they grew themselves, or crafts and processed items that they made with agricultural products from the area.



MEOW WOLF
1352 Rufina Circle
Meow Wolf is Santa Fe’s newest attraction for the whole family. The House of Eternal Return is a unique art experience featuring a wild new form of non-linear storytelling which unfolds through exploration.


Ready To Stay With Us?

Aqui Santa Fe Luxury Vacation Rentals – View Our Luxury Rentals in Santa Fe New Mexico

The AQUI Guest Book

The Unique Experiences of Our Guests!

Never a day goes by that we don’t get a Thank You from guests all over the world who appreciate

the  premier homes of AQUI Santa Fe and the constant attention to detail.


“Aqui Santa Fe is an oasis of refined luxury in a city where every real estate agency promises (but rarely delivers) vacation rental bliss. The firm’s petite, friendly, and energetic proprietor, Caroline Morgan, is blessed with the kind of background that makes her uniquely suited to caring for discerning guests.  As the executive assistant to one of America’s most beloved First Ladies, Caroline learned the true meaning of “exclusive” when she traveled the world in actual Presidential style. Later Caroline managed art galleries in Santa Fe, and brokered multi-million dollar homes in Colorado and New Mexico. Her understanding and personal experience of the art and luxury markets now translate into what I can best describe as ‘vacation home curation.’ ” —Joy Davidson (A Luxury Travel Blog)


“Our stay was absolutely fabulous. We have stayed in many homes and hotels in our travels to Europe and in the US – we don’t know that we EVER stayed anywhere where we were as comfortable! The kitchen was “over the top” equipped and I’m just sorry we didn’t have the time to cook! We look forward to our next trip to Santa Fe.”


“A perfect month, a perfect home. Comfort, convenience, cleanliness and Caroline—all made for a perfect Santa Fe vacation home stay. We have traveled to Santa Fe numerous times in the past, but this trip we were fortunate to have found Casa Simpatica for a month-long visit in April. The home is beautifully furnished, the linens are delightful, the setting is truly picturesque New Mexican, and the location is ideal. Caroline delivered on everything promised, provided a gift basket upon arrival, kept us informed of activities in the city, and made us feel at home immediately. It was a memorable month and one that we hope to repeat soon. Thank you again, Caroline, for making Casa Simpatica a glorious retreat.”  —L.K.T (Pennsylvania)


“Tired of living in a hotel while working in Santa Fe, I rented this charming and quite cozy casita for two weeks in February. Coming home was so much more relaxing than any hotel experience. This is a first class luxurious place so well appointed I made myself promise to update some things in my own house back in La. It is so rare to find a ‘vacation rental’ that has been decorated so lavishly. I would revisit in a heartbeat.” —Oscar Winner, C.S. Dutton (Los Angeles, CA)


“It’s difficult to find the words to describe our AQUI Holiday experience. Possibly perfect, relaxing, joyful and memorable is a start. It definitely was a gift to our family and Caroline was the defining piece in all that happened. She was so gracious and never missed a step. Everything we discussed was delivered and every promise she made kept. In addition, the gift basket, high chair and luxurious goodies were all deeply appreciated. I can’t thank you enough for making this the most enjoyable moment of my year.”  —K.S. (Houston, TX)


“We enjoyed Casa Simpatica and Perla very much. Both houses had beautiful art collections and the location couldn’t have been better. We liked the towels so well, we bought a few sets. How often does that happen?”  —R.Y. (Fayetteville, NC)


“You couldn’t ask for more….Our experience was simply awesome! The house was lovely, tastefully decorated and highlighted the contemporary art of Santa Fe while preserving the atmosphere of an older adobe. The extra touches of straw baskets, handcrafted furniture, pottery and interesting accessories made you realize you “weren’t in Kansas any more!”, yet there was no feeling of clutter. The kitchen was more than fully equipped – every detail had been attended to. Even the laundry room contained everything a family would need for cleaning and freshening up, right down to the toolbox that provided my husband with pliers for assembling a newly purchased toy. The beds were comfortable and linens fresh and crisp, with plenty of towels for all. A TV in each bedroom in addition to the reading lamps on each side of the bed made falling asleep extremely comfortable. Caroline was more than helpful with directions and suggestions, and she is simply a delight to know! She has seen to every detail.  We stayed for a week and felt that we had found a true home away from home, where we wanted for nothing. We can’t wait to return!”  —Judy, Somers (Connecticut)


“What a wonderful house, ideal location and first-class amenities. It made our stay in Santa Fe perfect! With most rentals, you ask, ‘Is this it?’ With this residence, you say, ‘Wow! This exceeds my expectations!’ Book your reservation now! You won’t be disappointed! Aqui is one of the BEST places to stay in Santa Few New Mexico!!!!! Thank you!!!”   —L.L. (Los Angeles, CA)


“My compliments to Aqui.   Your attention to detail, accommodations and hospitality are just the finest. It is like being at the finest hotels of Europe or the best of North America, like being welcomed home. ‘Just what the Doctor ordered,’ so to speak. Your individual attention is appreciated and I truly recommend you and “Aqui” to one and all if they are looking for excellence. See you soon, and again and again.”  —Spuron (Tucson, AZ)


“Over the years we have rented many places via the internet. This is the first time that the rental has exceeded the internet representations. The place is fabulous and has many subtle details. What a joy to be here for a week. Thank you.”  —BB (Dallas, TX)


“Sorry we did not get to say goodbye in person because I wanted to thank you. The home is lovely and we enjoyed our stay there. We really appreciated having a real, concerned and personable person who we consistently were dealing with and whom we knew we could call. You made it even nicer for us. Thanks.”  —T.T. (Del Mar, CA)


“The best house rental in Santa Fe!  Caroline is fabulous…from ease of reservation to personal greeting at the door when we arrived! The home was spotless with exquisite linens on the beds to a kitchen primed for making a gourmet meal to a bathroom stocked with everything you could need. The courtyards were perfect for our two little guys to run and play safely (ages 3 and 2) and for the adults to relax and unwind after a day of shopping and hiking. The house is a very comfortable 2-3 blocks from the square and a very easy walk. Our stay was perfect and I highly recommend this property! We WILL be back!”  —Dana (Dallas, TX)


“Perfect experience!  My husband, 1-yr old and I had the true pleasure of spending a weekend in Casa Perla, and the following two nights in adjacent Casa Simpatica (we switched to the two-bedroom to gain an extra room for our baby). We wouldn’t have changed a thing about our experience, from the charm of both houses to the details inside (Frette bathrobes, luxury bedding, bottled water waiting, even a gift basket!). Both cottages were immaculately kept, sparkling new appliances and impeccably chosen decor. We cozied up to the Kiva fireplace, played in the patios, read books, and took the short walks to restaurants near the Plaza and the art galleries of Canyon Road. The neighborhood is a perfect location, and the manager of both houses, Caroline Morgan, is a wonderful person and a class act. She provides five-star service from greeting to goodbye, going out of her way in a number of ways to make our trip flawless. Thanks to her, it was just that!”  —Heather C. (Los Angeles, CA)


“I spent ages trying to decide on a place for us to stay and landed on this place – and wow did I ever make the right choice!   We absolutely fell in love with the location but also with this house. Whenever I thought, “I wonder if they have “X” here…” there it was!” The house was in absolutely perfect condition – clean, organized, you name it. And Caroline did everything to make our stay comfortable and help us out with questions on the area. Two yoga mats, great books to read, wireless, iPod player, fabulous stereo, comfy furniture, skylights that bathe the place in pretty brightness during the day, it was a heavenly experience from start to finish. If I could give MORE than five stars to this place, I most definitely would.”  —Ann (Arlington, VA)


“Look no further, this is it. 5 stars *****! My wife and I have rented several vacation places over the internet. This is the first one that exceeded the photos and descriptions online. It’s a spectacular location that is close to the Plaza and also Canyon Road. A car is not necessary once you get the casita. The casita itself reflects a great sense of style and an cost-no-object approach. If we’re in Santa Fe, we will be staying here.  —J.R. (Atlanta, GA)

39 Unique Things To Do In Santa Fe

Visit Santa Fe, the “City Different,” home of an extraordinary blend of Anglo, Hispanic, and Native American cultures. Santa Fe’s diverse and distinctive history gives this southwestern town a unique and almost foreign flavor, an inviting charm. Adobe Pueblo, Territorial, and Northern New Mexican architectural styles echo the history of this city. Homes are close in proximity, and the blocks are short and have a country-style feel. Santa Fe’s vivacious blue sky and 320 days of sunshine a year make the city ideal for searching for clarity. Here, in the nation’s oldest capital city, the landscape becomes a vibrant canvas of warm, soft hues that change with the seasons.

While you’re getting ready for your trip, book one of our Luxury Vacation Rentals in Santa Fe today!

Your visit could entail walking through Santa Fe’s narrow streets, open plazas, historic landmarks, or hidden gems that make one feel as though they are discovering the city anew. Santa Fe’s sense of romance and history comes in large part from generations of its citizens, people who have maintained their identities and the identity of their beautiful city by protecting tradition and accepting change carefully.

Santa Fe extends a warm welcome to its guests year-round. From spring through Fall, the town hosts numerous world-famous annual markets, fiestas, restaurant competitions, and film festivals. In the winter, Santa Fe entices you with the smoky scent of piñon trees and shares its fresh snow at the Ski Basin. Exceptional shopping is a guarantee all year long. Below is a mere sampling of the best attractions in Santa Fe; we have many more recommendations for you as part of our concierge services. So, what are you waiting for? Come visit Santa Fe today!

Santa Fe Vacation Rentals PerformanceSanta Fe is the best of both worlds, a small town with many metropolitan features. Our fine art and theater culture is among the best in the country, making Santa Fe an ideal place to visit.
Santa Fe OperaThe Santa Fe Opera is one of the world’s leading cultural festivals. The stunning, state-of-the-art opera house sits like a massive white cloud on top of the mountain. The ceiling is open to expose vibrant Santa Fe sunsets and also lays bare the midnight sky as a backdrop to its premier and classic productions. Entertaining pre-opera soliloquies give previews of each evening’s performance, and digital computer screens give instantaneous translations in English to enhance understanding of the performances. The No.1 Santa Fe attraction, opera buff or not! July–August.
Santa Fe LensicThe historic Lensic Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored theater in the heart of downtown, hosts touring and local companies year-round.
aspen santa fe balletAspen Santa Fe Ballet brings top choreographers, a distinctive, groundbreaking repertoire, and virtuoso dancers to foster a dance company that is a jewel of the American West. Spring season.
Santa Fe ChoralSanta Fe Desert Chorale is one of the nation’s premier professional ensembles for the Summer season.
Santa Fe SymphonyCelebrating 32 years of music, The Santa Fe Symphony conducts the classics and Christmas Treasures. September–May.
Santa Fe Visual ArtsSanta Fe is like an art festival that never stops. Santa Fe is the place to visit for an art scene constantly refreshed by new works, and the variety of its offerings ensures there is a style for everyone. With over 200 Galleries, filled with historic, contemporary, and cultural art, Santa Fe has been a major art destination for years, satisfying both first-time art buyers and the most sophisticated collectors from around the world. Check out this listing of galleries in the area.
Canyon Road is an enchanting half-mile-long street in downtown Santa Fe. Full of world-class shopping, incredible restaurants, and boasting some of Santa Fe’s best galleries, Canyon Road is a must-stroll for every visitor to Santa Fe. You’ll find over a hundred galleries lining this picturesque street, and you’ll be sure to discover some unforgettable items.
The Railyard Arts District of Santa Fe is housed in modern warehouse-style buildings only blocks from Santa Fe’s Plaza. The Railyard Arts District boasts a wealth of contemporary artists housed within walking distance of one another. It’s a must-see for art lovers and those interested in expanding their knowledge of contemporary art.
Downtown Santa Fe is peppered with numerous Santa Fe galleries, shops, restaurants, and museums.  SantaFeGalleryAssociati0n.org
Meow Wolf is an immersive, multimedia installation that presents an entirely new form of artistic storytelling, which makes it one of the most unique things to do in Santa Fe. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the experience of a jungle gym, haunted house, children’s museum, and immersive art exhibit.
Spanish colonists founded Santa Fe in 1610, over 400 years ago. Santa Fe holds a wealth of museums showcasing its earliest history and artifacts up to some of the most famous artists and authors who have called Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico home.
The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum offers insight into the work of the most prominent female artist of her day, a woman inspired by the light and landscape of New Mexico. Her artistic legacy is advanced through innovative public engagement, education, and research.
The Palace of the Governors, located on the Plaza, was initially built by the Spanish in 1610. Today, it is the country’s oldest continuously occupied public building, chronicling Santa Fe’s history. You will see American Indian artists, selected through a lottery system, sitting under the portal, selling their authentic jewelry and art.
The New Mexico History Museum tells the story of Santa Fe through music, texture, and colorful text. It serves as an excellent introduction to Santa Fe and its present-day mix of cultures. It is located on grounds where wars were fought, and lines were drawn by the Spanish, Native Americans, and the U.S. Infantry.
The New Mexico Museum of Art shares a rich history through modern and contemporary art from New Mexico and the Southwest.

 

The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture encompasses a broad spectrum of Indian art, ranging from ancient pottery and artifacts to the vibrant and distinctly contemporary art of today.
The Museum of International Folk Art houses the world’s most extensive collection of folk art. It interprets the creative works of traditional artists from cultures around the world and hosts the International Folk Art Market.
The Wheelright Museum of the American Indian. This independent museum focuses on little-known mediums and art shows by living Native American artists, making it a hidden gem in Santa Fe. The jewelry collection is the most outstanding of its kind; the rug collection is an education in design; and the beaded artifacts from Indigenous people are breathtaking. The museum shop, Case Trading Post, features the best collection of vintage and contemporary works of art.
Santa Fe’s world-famous annual art markets bring art from people in far reaches of the world, the pueblos of the Southwest, and right here in Santa Fe. They are some of the largest and most prominent markets worldwide, and each one has its own focus and mission.
Indian Market is the largest and most prestigious intertribal fine art market in the world and has a history dating back to 1922. Participation is often a family tradition that involves collecting native historical and contemporary arts. The weeks leading up to the market are filled with ceremonies, awards, auctions, fashion shows, and a glamorous gala. August,
The International Folk Art Market focuses on preserving living folk art traditions while at the same time creating economic opportunities for artists from around the world. Baskets, textiles, ceramics, rugs, and jewelry are one-of-a-kind and irresistible. July,
Spanish Market pays tribute to the Spanish Colonial arts and culture that is at the very core of our lives in Santa Fe, blending native art, live music, regional foods, and dance on the Plaza. The history of this culture is rich with the religious art of Santos and Bultos, tin work, jewelry, weavings, and furniture. This traditional festival is combined with a new juried contemporary art venue.
Santa Fe is a foodie town. Even the number of restaurants per capita in Santa Fe is unusually large. Here are a few festivals you might want to add to your calendar.
The Wine & Chile Fiesta is the premier food and wine event in the Southwest. Local red and green chiles are the staff of life in New Mexico, but kick them up a notch by combining them with escargot. Other past culinary delights have included: a blue corn tempura and a flash-fry salted shrimp infused with lavender, each of which is a must-try! Chef luncheons, cooking demos, wine seminars, auctions, and nightly wine dinners culminate with the Grand Tasting under the tent at the Santa Fe Opera. September,
Edible presents the Green Chile Cheeseburger Smackdown. Give the chef a burger and some green chile, and experience the unprecedented possibilities. The top eight contenders from the online voting will move on to the Smackdown to battle it out at the Santa Fe Railyard in front of a panel of local celebrity judges. September,
New Mexico boasts a thriving film industry, with numerous movies and television shows being filmed here each year. The influx of talent and industry professionals has only increased the presence and impact of film festivals in Santa Fe.
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Celebrate cutting-edge film and the great talents of independent filmmaking at The Santa Fe International Film Festival. Named “one of Moviemaker Magazine’s 25 Coolest Film Festivals on the planet, this relatively new festival is making history every step of the way. Mingle with filmmakers, expand your knowledge of the film industry, and join moderated panels hosted by industry experts. October,
The Santa Fe Jewish Film Festival introduces films that inform and foster an understanding of Jewish culture, religion, history, and/or identity. Selections are an eclectic mix of award-winning documentaries, narrative first-run features, Israeli cinema, and more. October-April,
The Santa Fe Film Festival celebrates all facets of cinematic arts, locally, regionally, and globally. It honors those working both behind the scenes and on screen to bring the best of film creation, production, & showings to the public. February.
Santa Fe has some of the best mountain snow in the West, with great snowfall nearly every year. Pack those skis and get some fresh air! If you’re up for a bit of a drive and want to beat the crowds, Northern New Mexico has an abundance of great skiing, all within a few hours of Santa Fe.
Ski Santa Fe is just thirty minutes from town, an 88” base, sunny and 20-40 degrees; now that’s some skiing! The kids can join Chipmunk Corner for lessons, rent equipment in town or at the basin, and catch a shuttle up to the mountain. Or, drive up and stop at 10,000 Waves Japanese Spa on the way down to soak your bones after an exhilarating day on the slopes.
Come golf in Santa Fe, where we have beautiful, green golf courses set against our incredible high desert landscape. And with 300 days of sunshine, the weather for golfing is nearly always right!
Links de Santa Fe is our city course that the locals adore. Approach the first tee and you will marvel at the panorama of four mountain ranges. Open year-round, l
Santa Fe Country Club, a semi-private golf facility, offers a unique experience as unique as the City Different itself. The championship course invites players of all skill levels.
Buffalo Thunder Towa Golf Resort, located on the Pojoaque Pueblo, offers quality golf at an affordable price. PGA Tour Champion Hale Irwin and architect Bill Phillips of Tempe, AZ, co-designed Towa utilizing the natural topography, unique natural rock formations, and indigenous piñon trees to create a magnificent high desert golf course surrounded by the majestic Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountains. Cool breeze, warm sun, and 27 holes of high-altitude scenic beauty. Open year-round, weather permitting.
Black Mesa Golf Club : Rejuvenate your senses amidst the artistry of nature at Black Mesa. Every hole shaped by the surrounding landscape is like an artist forming a delicate piece of pottery. Artistic but challenging, the fairways are framed by arroyos that hug the natural ridgelines and valleys. From the first tee shot, you realize that mental strategy is essential, while the course’s expansive fairways and greens allow it to be played more easily than it appears. 18 Championship holes.