Last weekend, I explored Santa Fe, New Mexico with my sister who has lived in the capital city since November.
Here are some of the highlights of our Weekend Wanderings in Santa Fe.
Santa Fe is a very special city. Even driving down the streets you will notice it is not your typical state capitol. The cultural aspects make the city a beautiful place to visit. From the adobe buildings that fill the streets to the rich Mexican food around every corner, Santa Fe has a lot to offer.
Long known for its artists, Santa Fe is shopping mecca for art of all types. We admired this folk art at the Shop of the Rainbow Man in Old Santa Fe.
This is one of the little shops “hidden” down one of the streets near the Loretto Chapel.
The weekend started off on the right track with some wonderful Mexican food at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen. Maria’s is famous for their margaritas, of which there are over 100 to choose. We tried some of their sweeter flavors: mango, strawberry, and pomegranate.
We had a wonderful dinner that started with chips and salsa , then proceeded to fajitas, and then ended with delicious sopapillas and honey.
The plaza is always a “must see” in Santa Fe. It is lined with stores and restaurants; there is always something for everyone. There is always something exciting going on, on Saturday it was the Santa Fe Arts and Crafts Festival. There were several rows of booth after booth, selling jewelry and homemade goods.
As always, on the north end of the plaza, the Native American vendors program of the Palace of the Governors was set up. Blankets strewn on the ground covered with beautiful jewelry. Ever since I can remember, this market has always been a part of the historic plaza.
While at the plaza, we decided to check out the famous Loretto Chapel. It is located right off the main square. Hidden within its walls is the Miraculous Staircase, a circular structure built without any nails or glue.
Right down the road is The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, with a large park connected to the side of it.
I discovered Canyon Road for the first time during my visit. It is known for the arts and crafts that occupy the space. I didn’t realize just how amazing this art was. There were detailed sculptures and statues. These pieces made me wonder and dream during our exciting walk down Canyon Road.
We even found a hidden corner filled with what I would describe as giant wind catchers. They moved and shined in the wind, it was absolutely beautiful. All I could do was stand at stare at them.
My weekend ended with a trip into the Santa Fe National Forrest. We traveled through Hyde Memorial State Park. It stopped at an overlook where we were able to see all of Santa Fe. It was a nice change in scenery and the view was fantastic!
Have you ever been to Santa Fe? What was your favorite thing about the city?
Taysha Ham hails from Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.
A student at New Mexico State University, Taysha is majoring in agricultural communications with a minor in journalism.
This summer she is completing a social media internship for Venture Time Travel.
To learn more about Santa Fe, check out these travel guides”;.
Top 10 Santa Fe
28 Great Things To Do In Santa Fe
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