What is your idea of a winter getaway? Does it involve outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding? What about indoor draws like museums, restaurants, and shopping? If you answered yes to at least one of those questions, then you’ll love visiting Santa Fe in the winter. Our beautiful offers visitors a cold-weather paradise, where outdoor enthusiasts, art connoisseurs, and history buffs can embrace their true passions.
For more things to do, sights to see, and places to eat in the City Different, don’t forget to request our complimentary Vacation Guide!
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Santa Fe Winter Weather
When people think of New Mexico, images of dusty and hot deserts probably come to mind. Well, our city sits over 7,000 feet above sea level, meaning temperatures drop, and there’s typically a decent amount of snow during a Santa Fe winter. While average temperatures range from the low 50s to high teens during November, December, January, and February, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy yourself in the City Different. Plan accordingly, and pack coats, gloves, pants, and maybe even a pair of boots just in case. Whether you love skiing or still want a taste of our unique culture at a renowned museum, this beautiful season shows the versatility of Sante Fe.
Santa Fe Winter Activities
Hit the Slopes
Culture and history are easily the most popular draws, but during the winter in Santa Fe, but Ski Santa Fe offers an incredible experience for those wanting to hit the slopes. This ski area is about a 35-minute drive from El Farolito Inn and opens at the end of November (depending on the first snow of the season). Ski season typically runs until the middle of April when the snow begins to taper off. Ski Santa Fe offers ski and snowboard rentals at reasonable prices along with a variety of lift ticket options starting at $40 (for adult beginners). Make sure you check out their snow report and live webcams before hitting the slopes during your visit!
Revel in Santa Fe Tradition on Canyon Road
Canyon Road is home to one of the top annual Santa Fe winter traditions during the holiday season. The Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve is the perfect way to enjoy a favorite local pastime. Our storied art district features rows of small paper bags filled with sand and candles, creating a beautiful scene at night. Visitors and residents walk the streets singing carols and spread Christmas cheer. This Santa Fe winter tradition is free for everyone. While only a handful of the many incredible art galleries are open for last-minute holiday shopping, you can take a stroll down Canyon Road throughout the winter season. It doesn’t cost anything to tour the area on foot, but it’s difficult to leave without purchasing an exceptional piece of artwork!
Take a Break From the Cold in a Local Museum
You can’t visit the City Different without touring at least one of our world-class museums. They also offer a retreat from the cold on a winter day in Santa Fe. Santa Fe Plaza and Museum Hill are the two main areas with clusters of buildings filled with local art, history, jewelry, and more. Meow Wolf is one of the newest and most popular “museums” in the area. This exhibit offers an interactive experience filled with mystery, science-fiction, problem-solving, unique art, and innovative technology. You can take a closer look at eight of the top museums in Santa Fe on our blog for more details on admission, hours, and new exhibits.
Santa Fe Plaza
Museum Hill
- Wheelwright Museum
- Spanish Colonial Art Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- Museum of Indian Arts and Culture
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
The City Different is home to a collection of spas that are perfect for those wanting to get out of the cold Santa Fe winter weather. Ten Thousand Waves and the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Spa both offer unique experiences in beautiful settings with a variety of massages, facial treatments, aromatherapies, and soaking tub baths. If you don’t want to venture too far from town, head to Absolute Nirvana Spa & Gardens, where Balinese-inspired spa techniques and treatments are the most popular offerings.
Plan Your Getaway to the City Different
Make the most of your Santa Fe winter getaway by booking a stay at El Farolito! Our beautiful Inn offers a unique experience that’s steps away from the heart of town. Each of our rooms features authentic Southwestern decor along with locally-made furnishings and art. A delicious complimentary breakfast every morning will have you ready to get out and see our city!
Start planning your trip today by booking one of our rooms! We look forward to welcoming you to Santa Fe.
