Santa Fe is a city rich in diversity and culture, with influences from Spanish, Native American, and European histories. Staying at a Santa Fe vacation rental and experiencing ‘The City Different’ is always a unique experience.
There are many places to visit in the fall, but nowhere beats Santa Fe. Enjoy going for a hike along one of the many trails in and near Santa Fe to catch a glimpse of the fall colors, explore the Rio Grande, visit one of our many museums, including the world-famous Georgia O’Keefe Museum, head to Taos for an artist tour, or dine at one of the many world-class restaurants around town. There’s so much to do in our quaint little city, and Fall 2022 has many seasonal events to look forward to. Keep reading to learn about some of the most popular events and attractions in and around Santa Fe that have drawn vacationers from all over the world for years.
Events to Check Out!
Wine and Chile Fiesta. SEPTEMBER: Discover Santa Fe’s world-class culinary offerings with this five-day event featuring over 60 restaurants and 90 wineries. Each year, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta carefully curates a selection of renowned wineries to offer guests an exceptional experience. At the heart of the Fiesta are Santa Fe’s outstanding restaurants and chefs who consistently deliver the finest cuisine together with wine pairings.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. OCTOBER: Watch over 500 hot air balloons soar the sky during this annual festival that’s about a 50-minute drive from Santa Fe. This is a spectacular nine-day celebration of color, innovation, and adventure. Throughout the festival, attendees enjoy thrilling competitions, live entertainment, and interactive exhibits, all set against the stunning backdrop of Albuquerque’s high desert landscape and hundreds of ballons of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Santa Fe Indigenous Peoples Day Weekend Celebration. OCTOBER: Head to Santa Fe Plaza to take part in this cultural event that honors Indigenous people throughout New Mexico. We dedicate the day to remembering, honoring, and celebrating our cherished Native American neighbors. It’s a time to reflect on the rich arts, culture, and educational institutions that give Santa Fe its unique sense of place. These contributions not only deepen the city’s cultural fabric but also help make Santa Fe one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.
Spirits of New Mexico’s Past. OCTOBER: Visit El Rancho de las Golondrinas for a spooky experience that includes learning about historic ghosts from the Land of Enchantment. Step into the mystical world of New Mexico’s past, where the spirits of the land come to life. Gather around campfires and lantern-lit paths as you hear captivating ghost tales. Our historic site transforms into a family-friendly, spooky Halloween atmosphere, offering a night full of eerie encounters. Enjoy live entertainment under the stars and immerse yourself in the ghostly ambiance.
Aqui Santa Fe Luxury Vacation Rentals
With all the fall attractions Santa Fe has to offer, Aqui Santa Fe is your vacation rental of choice. It’s the perfect home base to explore the beauty of the fall season in New Mexico. Call Caroline today, and she’ll help you plan a truly unforgettable experience.
The Valles Caldera National Preserve
The Valles Caldera Nation Preserve was a private ranch until the year 2000 when Congress created it from a well-known ranch in New Mexico’s volcanic Jemez Mountain Range. This 89,000 acre property is situated inside a collapsed crater. The preserve is open to the public but you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. You’ll see wildlife and beautiful vistas and learn about the preserve’s rich history and geology. Hiking, Mountain Biking, Photo Adventure, Run The Caldera, Tours, Moonlight Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing, Sleigh and Wagon Rides. NM Hwy 4, mile marker 39 (Hwy 285 north towards Bandelier ) https://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm & 866.382.5537
Santa Fe Jeep Tours
Santa Fe Jeep Tours takes you off the beaten path. Bringing you to the amazing desert and wilderness views of Santa Fe and the surrounding areas. Experience the rugged beauty of the New Mexico landscape and think about the Diablo Canyon Moonlight Tour! https://santafejeeptours.com/ & 505.428.9126
Ski Santa Fe
Ski Santa Fe has a base area elevation of 10,350 Ft and is the beginning is the perfect view of all the fall colors. There are panoramic views along the 1/2 hour drive up to the ski area.. Washington Ave-Artist’s Road-Hyde Pk Road. skisantafe.com & 505.995.9858
Santa Fe Rafting
Santa Fe Rafting has been providing unforgettable rafting trips since 1987. The Racecourse: A 1/2 day trip on the Rio Grande River offering fun for the entire family. You will boat over “Albert Falls,” through “the Narrows,” past “Big Rock,” and at high water, you will confront the awesome wave at “Souse Hole.” Day trips on the Rio Grande, Taos Box, and Float Trips are great fun for family and friends. santaferafting.com 505.988.4914
Bandelier National Monument
The Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country as well as evidence of a human presence here going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities. Walk amongst the ruins of cliff dwellings with a restful walk down through the Ponderosa. https://www.nps.gov/band/index.htm & 505.572.3861×517
Pecos National Historical Park.
In the midst of piñon, juniper, and ponderosa pine woodlands in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains not far from Santa Fe, the remains of an Indian pueblo stand as a meaningful reminder of a people who once prevailed here. The site demonstrates the cultural exchange and geographic facets central to the rich history of the Pecos Valley. Hwy I-25 north to exit 299, Pecos village, south 2 miles on St Rd 63 https://www.nps.gov/peco/planyourvisit/hours.htm & 505.757.7200