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What to Know About Santa Fe

We've lived here enough years that we think this is vital stuff. And see our links page where we've collected a small sample of other online resources. Keyword seaches can work well, too, but if you just can't find what answers you need, feel free to call or email us and we'll try to steer you to the right resource.

Santa Fe Geography and Weather

Santa Fe is in north-central New Mexico, nestled up to the Sangre de Cristo Range at the southern end of the Rocky Mountain chain. Our elevation in town is 7000-ft, which makes us considerably higher than Denver, Colorado. We have four very distinct seasons with snow in winter months and pretty warm temperatures in summer. However, our location at the base of the mountains can make for some interesting weather patterns. Monthly average temperatures may be viewed here, but please remember that these are mathematical averages.

Daily temperature swings of 30 degrees are very typical throughout the year. July brings the arrival of our summer rainy season which lasts through August. During this time, expect clear, sunny mornings with clouds building up until mid-afternoon, then an afternoon shower which may be brief but intense. The shower usually passes quickly to return to a clear sky by evening. While choosing clothing for your trip, think about layering so you may adjust to changing temperatures. And do bring a wind and waterproof jacket, even for having around town.

Santa Fe History

The Santa Fe area has been inhabitated for over 10,000 years, with archeological artifacts being found (and documented by city ordinance) every time a downtown building is renovated. We have first-rate museums and exhibits (including our brand-new New Mexico History Museum) which detail our history as Native American, Spanish Colony, Mexican province, American territory and finally into statehood. Santa Fe is preparing to celebrate it's 400th anniversay as a capital city! We're the oldest continuous "capital" city in the nation with the youngest state capitol building, which is worth a visit for the wonderful and eclectic art collection and architecture. Lots of special events and exhibitions over the next year are planned to help us celebrate our special heritage and Outspire is proud to be a Community Partner for our 400th.

Ever a destination, Santa Fe was the endpoint for trails including the Camino Real from Mexico City, the Santa Fe Trail from Missouri, and the Old Spanish Trail from California. Four different railroads came to Santa Fe, including the newest--the New Mexico Rail Runner which in three years has surpassed all records for a start-up commuter rail in the U.S. A part of Old Route 66 passed through town as well.

Art and Architecture

Beautiful art and architecture are synonymous with Santa Fe. Puebloan culture created beautiful pottery, and use of the readily available building materials led to a style of southwestern dwellings which is echoed even today in Pueblo Revival style. Soft, rounded walls and cornices in earth-tone hues are a hallmark of the style and make for dramatic photographs. But we also have our Romanesque style Cathedral of St. Francis and Victorian homes in the south Capitol neighborhood. The Moorish-influenced Masonic Temple and the carved limestone facade of the Lensic Performance Center are also stand-out features to note while strolling around downtown. And be sure to tour the brand-new Santa Fe Community Convention Center--the city's information bureau is there and the building is a knock-out, used to spotlight artwork and artifacts.

Santa Fe is the third largest art market in the United States after New York and Los Angeles. We've got galleries and artists out the wazoo, ranging from very traditional arts and crafts, to modern, very UNtraditional. We have many museums, like the small gem of the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, as well as the private galleries. Many galleries have opening receptions, and there are studio tours regularly--listings for just these events takes up columns in the local papers each Friday. And if you want something really interesting, visit during one of the city's three big arts festivals: the annual Indian Market, Spanish Market or the International Folk Art Market.

Food

The state's official question is 'red or green?' which refers to which type of chile sauce you prefer on your meal. Notice "chile" NOT "chili". We take this stuff very seriously, you see. Both red chile (which is made from ripe, dried, crushed peppers) and green chile (which is made from green, roasted, then stewed peppers) have some kick, but we can scarely live without the addictive stuff smothering our burritos, enchiladas or stuffed sopapillas. There are non-spicy options on most menus, but at least order some chile on the side for a try.

If northern New Mexican food is not for you, we have somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 restaurants in Santa Fe, many of which earn James Beard awards, many-star ratings, and other high-flying accolades. Name a cuisine, and you can find it here.

Final notes: What not to do

1) Because of our altitude, please drink lots of water and don't hit the margaritas too hard on arrival. You'll be face-down in your salad before the entree arrives (no joke, I've watched it happen at a local restaurant).

2) Do take a deep breath and relax. We are accused of being "the land of manaña", but we like it that way. So if you're waiting in a line, you will be treated with courtesy although possibly not the speed you might expect at home, wherever that is. And for goodness sake, don't honk your car horn in the street unless there's about to be a wreck.

3) We have too much to see and do, even if you live here for a year. Don't try to pack in too much. Pick and choose (don't forget a memorable hiking tour) and see #2 above.

4) Our old town center has been called the Plaza for 400 years. Don't show yourself to be unenlightened and call it a Square.

Please come for a visit, and let us share more of this marvelous place with you!