Best Time to Visit Santa Fe
Fantastic Activities to Enjoy in Every Season
The most common question we hear in the City Different is, “what’s the best time to visit Santa Fe?” In fact, all seasons in New Mexico offer unique outings, climates, and attractions, but there are some common misconceptions about the weather here. While thoughts of the desert often conjure up images of sweltering heat, Santa Fe has four temperate seasons thanks to our high elevation.
Our city sits 7,000 feet above sea level, meaning summertime temperatures traditionally hover around the mid-80s with low humidity. The winters can get a bit chilly, with snow in the coldest months, but the sunshine sticks around on average 325 days out of the year. Fall is a lovely time for beautiful autumnal colors, and spring brings bright blooms and crisp, sunny days.
One could venture to say that there truly isn’t a singular best time to visit Santa Fe, but more so, what do you envision for your getaway to New Mexico. Are you drawn to the historical adobe architecture, open-air markets of the Santa Fe plaza, and the collection of world-class museums? Maybe you’re a visual arts lover and can’t wait to visit Canyon Road for its hundreds of galleries. Or perhaps you’re hoping to indulge in the flavorful cuisine of the greatest culinary minds in the country. Any of these options can be experienced in Santa Fe year-round.
Most importantly, Santa Fe is the perfect destination for stepping out of your regular day-to-day routine, no matter the time or season!
And one of the best ways to ensure a relaxing getaway is to make our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast—El Farolito—your home away from home. Our cozy and elegant Inn is situated in the ideal location for exploring the city center of Santa Fe while still absolutely private and set back from the hustle and bustle. Our eight unique suites and casitas offer the perfect lodging accommodations for a romantic trip for two or even larger family vacations. The long list of modern amenities aid in the most comfortable of stays.
As a guest at our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe, you’ll be treated each morning to a beautiful, house-made, authentic meal—the most incredible way to start your adventure off on the right foot. Choose the best time to visit Santa Fe for you and book your next vacation with us today!
When is the Best Time to Visit Santa Fe for You?
Weather aside, one of the biggest draws to our city is the yearly festivals. Most of these events revolve around celebrating the beautiful cultures of New Mexico, either through arts, music, and cuisine. You’ll find a plethora of enriching and exciting events occurring throughout the year—there’s something for everyone! Now is the time to start planning when the best time to visit Santa Fe is for you.
Here are some of our favorite annual events to add to your itinerary for the Spring and Summer months:
- Canyon Road Spring Arts Festival: This year marks the 9th edition of this art showcase, in which onlookers can watch dozens of artists in every medium display their process and craft.
- Santa Fe Century: For cycling enthusiasts, these curated loops begin in downtown Santa Fe and offer riders of all skill levels a chance to tour this beautiful area by bike.
- Santa Fe Literary Festival: Join an impressive line-up of authors from near and far at this first-ever annual event speaking to our shared appreciation of language and literature.
- The Santa Fe Opera Season: Each July, the opening of the opera season brings excitement to Santa Fe. It’s one of the best times to visit Santa Fe to fully experience the talent of these performers and the importance of keeping this art form alive.
- International Folk Art Market: Head to Museum Hill to the world’s largest outdoor bazaar dedicated to showcasing works of art and hand-crafted goods from artists from around the globe.
- Santa Fe Music Week: At the end of August, Santa Feans celebrate local and international musicians with a week-long live music festival in venues all across town.
More events not to miss in the Autumn and Winter months:
- Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta: For those who want to experience the culinary scene up close, the best time to visit Santa Fe is during this food and wine festival.
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: This magical festival is worth the hours drive from Santa Fe to see the sky awash in a rainbow of hot air balloons.
- Santa Fe Independent Film Festival: This year marks the 14th year of this event, showcasing international and independent films. In October, the five-day festival is the best time to visit Santa Fe for cinephiles.
- Canyon Road Farolito Walk: Follow the trail of little lanterns along Canyon Road every Christmas Eve. You’ll walk beside thousands of locals and visitors alike on this glowing promenade.
Santa Fe, New Mexico by the Seasons
Summer in Santa Fe
Wintertime in Santa Fe
While some cities shut down at first sight of a flurry, in New Mexico, we relish the snow. Winter might be the best time to visit Santa Fe for those who prefer to avoid the crowds of summertime festival-goers. It’s also a lovely time for those who enjoy downhill or cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowy hikes. Winter recreation lovers will want to make Ski Santa Fe a priority.
- Daytime temperatures hover in the upper and lower 40s
- Evenings are cold and best spent by your Kiva fireplace
- Snow is most common from December to mid-February
Spring in Santa Fe
One of the Best Places to Stay in Santa Fe
Once you’ve decided when the best time to visit Santa Fe is for you, it’s time to get your lodging set in stone. Thankfully, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay in New Mexico. Our accommodations will fully immerse you in the culture and style of Santa Fe. Transcend the norm and experience our authentic adobe architecture, stunning garden grounds, and collection of paintings and sculptures featuring local artists—delight yourself in the true spirit of Santa Fe at El Farolito B&B.
Luxury Lodging at our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast
When you arrive in our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast, you’ll find our garden paradise tucked behind our rustic walls. Each of our eight private suites and casitas has its own rich Southwestern décor and locally made furniture, and many offer outdoor seating areas for the perfect place to enjoy the fresh air. In addition to our house prepared complimentary breakfast each morning, we have a long list of other gratis amenities. On-site parking, in-room Wi-Fi, luxury bath products, and light afternoon refreshments are just the beginning.
The best time to visit Santa Fe is up to you; start planning your next getaway and book today!
