If you're from the East Coast, as I am, the thought of a Southwest vacation may make you think of iconic Southwestern places such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Diego or the Grand Canyon. However, if you do decide to take a trip out West, I recommend you go as far out of your way as you can to visit one city in New Mexico: Santa Fe. Why, you may ask? The middle of the desert in a bland state with nothing but tumbleweeds couldn't possibly have a city that interesting, could it? Well, as a lifelong East Coaster new to the Southwest, I thought the same thing until I actually made the trip. What changed my mind?
1. Art.
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It's art as you've never seen it before. As the 3rd largest art market in the country, there's something for every art taste. Santa Fe is teeming with painters, sculptors, designers, silversmiths, woodworkers, and Native American artists sharing their culture and history through color and beauty. The city itself is art, every adobe building of unique design, and colorful hand woven blankets and pottery pops out at you from every corner.
2. Cuisine.
Food is always a highlight of a city, and usually the first stop for a weary traveler, but Santa Fe is the hub of New Mexican cuisine. You'll find authentic Mexican food blended with Native American and TexMex, whatever your tastes desire. However, you will not, will not, go into any restaurant (including Italian or Asian) without being asked if you'd like a side of red, green or Christmas. Translation: Would you prefer authentic New Mexican green or red chile, or both? (Always go for the green).
3. Nature.
Nestled up against the mountains, every sunrise and sunset provides a dazzling display of colors over the vast piñon spotted desert. Whether you prefer hiking the gorgeous Sangre de Cristo Mountains or sitting on a deck with a local Cumbre beer simply looking at the pristine wilderness, there's something to satisfy your nature cravings.
4. Meow Wolf.
Created by George R.R Martin himself, Meow Wolf is... well, it's a psychedelic mystery in a house in an old bowling alley that takes you to other dimensions branching out from our world to the next. Just take my word for it and go see it for yourself.
5. History.
Santa Fe is overflowing with culture, museums and historical sights. You can immerse yourself in the rich Native American culture by visiting the nearby pueblos, or tour one of the many art galleries, or perhaps visit the Keshi store to find your spirit animal in a Zuni hand-carved fetish. You can visit religious sites, such as the San Miguel Chapel, which is the oldest church in the United States, or the Loretto Chapel to see the Miraculous Staircase.
6. People.
Santa Fe is home to some of the kindest, most creative, friendliest people I have every met, and I've traveled a lot. I've never felt afraid on the streets after dark, or nervous to ask someone for directions or recommendations about where to eat or what to see. When you make your trip, and I suggest you do, ask a local about their favorite spots and be ready to make some new friends.
