Santa Fe In Winter: Things To Do, Weather, & More (2024)
Abby and Sam Price
Are you wandering if you should visit Santa Fe in winter?
There’s a special charm to visiting Santa Fe in winter. This stunning city in northern New Mexico, serving as the state capital, is often overlooked.
It boasts delicious cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and visiting during the winter season offers one of the finest opportunities to appreciate all that Santa Fe has to offer.
Having lived in Colorado, we frequently visited countless states nearby and one of our favorites was New Mexico.
We can vouch for how awesome Santa Fe is year-round and there’s something so captivating about the city during the winter season.
Continue reading below as we dive into the ultimate guide to Santa Fe in winter so that you can uncover the best things to do, where to stay, the weather and more.
Things To Do In Santa Fe In Winter
1. Go Skiing
As enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders, we’ve ventured to various winter destinations across the United States and can attest to the excellent skiing available near Santa Fe.
Given our passion for skiing, we knew we had to include it at the top of our itinerary. New Mexico provides a range of resorts to select from, whether you prefer the intimate setting of Ski Santa Fe or are up for a short journey to Taos.
The state offers outstanding opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, highlighting one of the many reasons that Santa Fe is worth visiting in winter.
2. Visit The Art Galleries On Canyon Road
Did you know that Santa Fe is famous for its thriving art scene? For art enthusiasts, Canyon Road emerges as one of the premier destinations to explore.
Boasting over 100 art galleries, this road provides an exceptional setting for a leisurely walk, allowing you to fully experience the vibrant local art scene.
3. Try Ice Skating At Genoveva Chavez Community Center
Regardless of your age, ice skating is a fantastic activity to experience. Whether you’re exploring Santa Fe alone, with family, or friends, head to Genoveva Chavez Community Center for a delightful and memorable time on the ice.
4. Go Sledding At Hyde Memorial State Park
Some of our favorite memories as children come from the snowstorms we experienced in Virginia. There was nothing quite like sledding on freshly fallen, powdery snow as kids.
If you were like us as kids and want to experience this playful spirit again, or if you want to experience this feeling for the first time, head to Hyde Memorial State Park for an unforgettable sledding experience.
5. Go On A Walking Tour
Known for its cultural heritage, delightful New Mexican cuisine, and lively art scene, Santa Fe beckons to history buffs, foodies, and art enthusiasts alike.
Explore the city through a customized walking tour that aligns with your interests, offering valuable insights from a local guide who will unveil both popular attractions and hidden gems.
We suggest indulging in a walking brewery tour of Santa Fe. Having participated in various walking tours previously, we find brewery tours particularly fun due to our appreciation for craft beer. It’s the perfect way to learn more about a new city and enjoy the tasty flavors of fresh beer too.
6. Learn Something New At The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
While in Santa Fe, make sure to visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, one of the finest museums to explore. It provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the life and artwork of this iconic artist.
7. Drink Craft Beer At The WinterBrew Fest
If you’re a fan of craft beer, don’t pass up the chance to experience the diverse local flavors at the annual WinterBrew Fest.
There’s a special joy in enjoying a delicious craft beer in the brisk temperatures, especially with the magical backdrop of falling snow.
As enthusiasts of craft beer who have explored many breweries in Santa Fe, we can personally attest to how awesome this festival is.
Circle January 26th, 2024, on your calendar, as the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market in the Railyard District transforms into the lively venue for this exciting event.
Sixteen breweries from different corners of New Mexico will be participating, ensuring a lively atmosphere with an abundance of different brews to enjoy.
This event offers a delightful opportunity to sample a variety of craft beers and provides an excellent chance to mingle with both visitors and locals. It’s also a perfect moment to show your support for local businesses.
8. Explore The Santa Fe Plaza
The Santa Fe Plaza holds a special place in our hearts. Bursting with boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and bars, it offers an ideal setting for strolling around and exploring different establishments.
The unique architecture creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a phenomenal way to spend a winter day in Santa Fe.
The ability to seamlessly move between the warmth indoors and the crisp outdoor air enhances the experience of venturing throughout the Plaza.
9. Relax At Ten Thousand Waves
Indulging in a spa experience during the winter months is truly unmatched. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, revitalize, and cozy up.
Ten Thousand Waves stands out as one of the premier spas in the Santa Fe region, renowned for its exceptional massages and incredible hot tub suites.
10. Immerse Yourself In Art At Meow Wolf
Exploring Meow Wolf is always a highlight of our visits to Santa Fe. This immersive art experience takes you through a myriad of rooms, each filled with diverse artwork, unique spaces, and a vibrant array of colors.
Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or just in search of a one-of-a-kind experience, we highly recommend exploring Meow Wolf for yourself.
11. Eat Something Delicious
Sam and I can’t help but gush about the exceptional food scene in Santa Fe. It’s truly one of a kind.
Our top recommendations are La Choza and The Shed, both offering delectable dishes and incredible drinks.
La Choza boasts some of the most delicious sangria and taquitos we’ve ever tasted, while The Shed is known for its outstanding margaritas, salsas, and Christmas burritos that are an absolute must-try.
12. Experience The Souper Bowl In Santa Fe
The Souper Bowl in Santa Fe is a showdown among 30 chefs vying to claim the title of the best soup in the city.
With over 1,500 attendees last year, this event is set to take place on January 27th, 2024.
There’s nothing quite like embracing the winter vibes by savoring a comforting bowl of delicious soup.
Don’t pass up the opportunity to indulge in a variety of flavors when you visit Santa Fe in the winter.
13. Try Snowshoeing At Santa Fe National Forest
Immerse yourself in the winter landscape by strapping on snowshoes for an adventurous hike. Head to the Santa Fe National Forest for a memorable journey through the wilderness, surrounded by breathtaking winter scenery.
As passionate hikers, we understand the special appeal of snowshoeing during this season.
Snowshoeing is a delightful combination of outdoor exploration and physical activity and you gain incredible views the entire time.
To enhance your winter adventure, consider bringing your favorite pair of heated gloves for added warmth and comfort.
Where To Stay In Santa Fe
Santa Fe offers countless accommodation options for you to choose from. Check out our top picks below for an unforgettable stay in the city.
La Fonda On The Plaza stands out as one of the absolute best places to lodge in Santa Fe. Its unbeatable location right in the Plaza provides easy access to many different restaurants, bars, and shops. The hotel itself is celebrated for its beautiful New Mexican architecture and boasts a phenomenal rooftop bar.
For Hilton enthusiasts, the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza is another excellent choice, conveniently situated near the plaza.
The Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is yet another outstanding hotel in the area, renowned for its upscale amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and top-notch restaurants. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking a luxurious experience in the heart of the city.
Santa Fe Weather In Winter
When visiting Santa Fe during winter, anticipate temperatures ranging from the mid-teens to the mid-40s. It’s not unusual for winter days to be windy, and occasional snowfall is also a possibility.
FAQs About Santa Fe In Winter
Is Santa Fe nice to visit in the winter?
Santa Fe is a charming destination to experience during the winter. The temperatures may be brisk, so we recommend dressing accordingly, but it’s a wonderful city to discover in the colder months.
With numerous museums, shops, and restaurants, there are plenty of indoor options to escape the low temperatures.
Additionally, the winter season opens up opportunities for various sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, providing a range of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Does Santa Fe get a lot of snow?
During the winter months, Santa Fe typically gets about 32 inches of snow each year.
What is Santa Fe like in winter?
During the winter in Santa Fe, you’ll encounter festive holiday decorations, enjoyable celebrations, cool temperatures, and occasionally, snowfall.
Is Santa Fe nice to visit in January?
January is a fantastic time to explore Santa Fe. We suggest planning your visit for the weekend of January 26th-27th to partake in events like the WinterBrew Fest and the Souper Bowl.
Anticipate temperatures ranging from the mid-teens to the low-40s, so be sure to pack your winter coat and get ready for an enjoyable experience in the city.
What is the best month to visit Santa Fe NM?
The best month to visit Santa Fe NM is October. This month offers an ideal blend of autumn ambiance and perfect weather.
The month of October coincides with the Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, adding to the attractions. It’s the perfect time to explore both the city and the surrounding natural beauty.
On the other hand, if you’re comfortable with colder temperatures and prefer fewer crowds, winter also provides a great chance to experience the unique charm of Santa Fe.
Is winter a good time to visit Santa Fe?
Winter offers an excellent opportunity to visit Santa Fe. Anticipate cool temperatures, festive celebrations, charming decorations, and exciting possibilities for winter sports.
How cold does it get in Santa Fe?
Santa Fe can experience temperatures as low as single digits, but the average low usually hovers around 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Final Thoughts On Santa Fe In Winter
Winter transforms Santa Fe into a magical destination with its festive celebrations, captivating decorations, and the occasional dusting of snow.
Having lived in Colorado, we frequented many states nearby. We love spending time in New Mexico and are drawn to Santa Fe for its delectable food, delightful beverages, scenic landscapes, and a wealth of activities.
If you crave a tranquil escape from crowds, consider exploring Santa Fe during the winter for an unforgettable getaway.
