With mild weather throughout the year in Santa Fe and far fewer crowds each winter, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Santa Fe at this time of year. One of our favorite things to do in the winter, especially as we get closer to the holidays, is to visit the many beautiful and historic churches in Santa Fe, NM. These churches are beautiful, but they certainly take on an ethereal presence in the quiet of winter.
Like much of the architecture you’ll find in northern New Mexico, these historic churches in Santa Fe, NM have been greatly influenced by the landscapes and cultures of northern New Mexico. From traditional cathedrals to environmentally conscious monasteries, you’ll find many stunning churches in Santa Fe, NM to admire as you walk around town.
Speaking of walking around town – our beautiful Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast puts you within easy walking distance of downtown Santa Fe and many of the area’s top attractions, including some of these fantastic churches in Santa Fe, NM. This location is one of the many great things about your Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast, though that truly is just the beginning. If you’re ready for the best winter getaway experience in Santa Fe, it’s time to book your room at our #1-rated Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast.
The Best Historic Churches in Santa Fe, NM
Below, we’ve listed what are considered to be some of the most magnificent historic churches in Santa Fe, NM that you should certainly have on your radar.
- Old San Miguel Mission is the oldest standing church in America, dating back to at least 1628, though many believe it was built as early as 1610 by the Tlaxcalan Indians. It’s not only the oldest of the churches in Santa Fe, NM, but it’s one of the most stunning. You’ll find it in the Barrio de Analco Historic District of Santa Fe.
- Another of the most impressive churches in Santa Fe, NM is the famous Loretto Chapel. This incredible church is arguably one of the most beautiful churches in Santa Fe, NM, if not the entire state. You’ll find this gothic-style cathedral in the historic heart of downtown Santa Fe. Inside the church is the real draw, the rare and “miraculous” spiral staircase.
- The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most recognized buildings in Santa Fe, with twin towers at the front towering high above downtown Santa Fe. Inside, you’ll find exquisite and intricate New Mexican detail on the ceilings, arches, and pillars.
- Santuario de Guadalupe is another beautiful and historic church in Santa Fe. It was built in the 1770s and is the oldest Shrine in the United States dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, and was built in honor of Mary’s apparitions in 1531 to the Aztec peasant Juan Diego of Tepeyac. It’s located near the Santa Fe Plaza. Today the Shrine serves as a history and art museum. It includes a fantastic collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, Mexican baroque paintings, and Santos, in addition to a large full-body image of Our Lady of Guadalupe depicting the apparition story.
Other Churches to See in Northern New Mexico
- San Juan Catholic Church is found just north of Santa Fe in Ohkay Owingeh. The San Juan Catholic Church is the first and oldest Parish in the United States. Today, the church stands as a stunning traditional red brick church.
- San Geronimo Chapel, though not in Santa Fe directly, is undoubtedly worth a visit while you’re in northern New Mexico. This historic church is located just north of us in the Taos Valley. It is a Native American pueblo that is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark, and thus more than worth the drive to get there. While much of the San Geronimo Chapel has been destroyed over the years, remnants of its historic kivas, bell tower, and outline of the nave are still standing today. The new church is built within the old pueblo and represents an essential piece of New Mexican history and culture.
- If you plan to head to Abiquiu in northern New Mexico, don’t miss The Monastery of Christ in the Desert. This remote monastery was built in 1964 with stunning architecture that complements and reflects the surrounding landscapes. At the center of the Cloister stands a sandstone and red rock tower surrounded by large windows, allowing visitors to marvel at the beauty of the surrounding red cliffs.
The Best Place to Stay in Downtown Santa Fe
While visiting Santa Fe, you’ll be hard-pressed to find lodging comparable to our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast. Not only are we located within walking distance of downtown Santa Fe and many of these gorgeous and historic churches in Santa Fe, NM, but we offer a range of accommodation styles, exceptional amenities, and a warm Santa Fe welcome at the start of your stay.
In a world of decreasing personalization, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast stands apart from its competitors due to our exceptional, detail-oriented hospitality, which starts from the moment you arrive. We’ll greet you upon arrival and provide you with your keys and all the information necessary to enjoy your stay with us, including personalized recommendations and a walkable map of our area.
We’ll then show you to your room and help you get comfortable before letting you enjoy our luxuriously appointed guest room and unwind from your travels. Each room comes with various high-end amenities, including coffee and water in your room, luxury linens and robes, toiletries, and more.
In the morning, our Innkeepers will treat you to a customizable 3-course breakfast that will delight your tastebuds. These breakfasts include fresh-roasted coffees, a selection of teas and juices, freshly baked bread or pastry, fruit, and a delicious entree that changes daily and with the seasons. You’ll leave our table satisfied and well-fueled for whatever adventure lies in store that day.
If you’re ready to explore Santa Fe, including these magnificent churches in Santa Fe, NM, it’s time to plan your winter getaway. Book your room today!
