This article is a part of the 2023 Fall Travel Guide, a sponsored collection brought to you by our travel advertising partners. You can find more fall travel destinations and events here.

Santa Fe gracefully bridges the gap between the past and present, inviting its visitors to step into a world of mesmerizing art, rich cultural heritage, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Here, the night air is crisp fall, vibrant markets hum with life, and a canopy of stars light up the night skies like a celestial tapestry. In this sanctuary of culture and vibrancy, time stretches out and everyday reality seems to drift away. The best way to uncover all The City Different has to offer is by letting curiosity be your compass.

Among the beautiful places to visit in Santa Fe is The Railyard, a vibrant district that pulses with the lifeblood of the city. Wandering through the bustling Farmers Market, a collection of colors and fragrances envelops you, evoking a sense of excitement and anticipation. The smell of chile roasting permeates the air, leaving a tingling warmth that is sure to stir up your senses.

Nearby you’ll find the New Mexico Museum of Art (NMMOA) Vladem Contemporary, with an enchanting new exhibition, “Shadow and Light.” This new exhibition unveils its wonder on September 23. The exhibition captures the essence of the Southwest, drawing inspiration from the vast stretches of sky and horizon. With more than 20,000 pieces in its illustrious collection, this museum is a gateway that brings the art of the world to New Mexico and, in turn, shares the rich artistic heritage of New Mexico with the world.

Also located in The Railyard is a new brewery, Nuckolls Brewing. Here, the scent of hops and malt mingles in the air and each craft brew is a work of art, leading you to savor every nuance of its complexity. There’s an air of togetherness here, as fellow patrons share smiles and laughter, and the clinking of glasses becomes a harmonious chorus.

Experience the enchantment of Santa Fe like never before on the Santa Fe Sky Railway. Whether you’re looking for a pre-dinner delight or a post-dinner thrill, this extraordinary railway journey offers the perfect backdrop for an awe-inspiring evening. Sip on your favorite cocktail as you traverse through the captivating terrain, basking in the beauty of a Santa Fe sunset like never before.

Aside from exploring The Railyard, embark on a culinary quest along the Margarita Trail, where mixology becomes an art form, and dining is elevated to a euphoric experience. The trail weaves through a myriad of restaurants and bars, each offering their unique interpretation of the iconic Margarita. You can visit any of the downtown TOURISM Santa Fe Visitors Centers to purchase your paper passport or download the app to start earning prizes. You also get one dollar off each margarita on the Margarita Trail. On this trail, you’re not just savoring drinks and dishes; you’re experiencing the heartbeat of the city surrounded by fellow travelers and locals alike.

While staying in the charming city of Santa Fe, you also have the opportunity to take advantage of the shuttle service that can take you to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta happening October 7–15, 2023. Witness as hundreds of hot-air balloons ascend into the clear blue sky, their vibrant hues transforming the horizon over the enchanting New Mexico landscape. As the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta fills the sky with an array of colors, you can hop aboard a chairlift at Ski Santa Fe to ascend to the heights of the mountain for a greater vantage point and witness a sea of vibrant aspens.

Another must-see event is the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta. Running from September 27 through October 1, this celebration is a perfect blend of elegance and culinary prowess, offering an unforgettable opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of exquisite wines and exceptional flavors.

Lastly, you won’t want to miss the 15th annual Santa Fe Studio Tour this October, boasting a stunning ensemble of 106 local artists. Navigating the Santa Fe Studio Tour, one is touched by a profound sense of admiration. Witnessing the intimate spaces where artists conceive their masterpieces, you’ll feel a stirring of inspiration. Each studio is a testament to the city’s thriving artistic soul, evoking a sense of awe and deep respect.

Santa Fe, the oldest capital in the United States, is a kaleidoscope of whimsy and wonder, a place where turquoise skies kiss adobe landscapes. This captivating city’s allure remains etched in the tapestry of your soul long after you’ve left, beckoning you to return to the southwest sanctuary.



Visit SantaFe.org for more information.