Winter might be on its way for Colorado, but that doesn’t mean you can’t escape to someplace a little sunnier, even if it’s only for the weekend. As your Denver auto body shop, our favorite destinations within easy driving distance is Santa Fe, New Mexico. A buzzing hub of art and culture, the state’s capital city is a great place to go and experience a true taste of the Southwest. If it’s your first time in the city, here are a few must-sees to add to your agenda for your Santa Fer road trip.
Loretto Chapel
Religious or not, the helix staircase to heaven inside this stunning chapel is definitely worth seeing on your Santa Fe road trip. This may very well be the staircase that inspired all those dramatic staircase scenes in movies and television. Plus, who doesn’t love the princess-feel of a good spiral staircase? Even if you don’t get to walk down it in a stunning ball gown to your prince charming waiting at the bottom, it’s still worth taking in the awe-inspiring structure.
Meow Wolf
Santa Fe is nothing if not artsy, and if you need proof of that look no further than the art collective come to life in Meow Wolf. It’s an unbelievable experience that fully immerses visitors in fantastic realms and truly exemplifies the best parts of the artistic spirit Santa Fe oozes.
Museum of International Folk Art
Museum Hill in Santa Fe is home to so many places you need to check out, but the International Folk Art Museum is a world-class facility that you have to see at least once if you haven’t. Featuring, as you might guess, folk art from all over the world in beautifully curated exhibits, it’s a uniquely Santa Fe experience that resonates with visitors and locals alike.
Santa Fe Farmer’s Market
Just because farmer’s market season has wrapped up here in Colorado doesn’t mean you should go the rest of the year without the delicious freshness of farmer’s market food. Santa Fe has one that goes year-round and features all the fantastic New Mexico staples you’d expect like chiles. The largest farmer’s market in the state, it features more than 150 growers and has an astounding array of fresh produce you won’t find anywhere else.
Acoma Sky City
What would a trip to the wild Southwest be without a good nature hike? And what kind of Coloradan would you be if you didn’t find an outdoor space to explore while you’re there? Luckily, the Puye Cliff Dwellings offer stunning views and a surreal outdoor experience that will leave a lasting impression on you and your family.
Checking all these off your list would certainly offer a well-rounded trip to the city, but there are countless other places to explore, and going off-book is often the best way to get a real taste of a destination, so if you’re heading off to Santa Fe and find some hidden gems, don’t forget to let us know so we can add ’em to our list next time, too!