Ready to immerse yourself in Santa Fe’s vibrant Native American culture? You’re not alone. But first, you need to know the best time to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico.
I’ll admit it – Santa Fe really won me over on a recent trip to the States. This quirky, relaxed city is New MexicoThe Best Things to do in New Mexico: 17 Incredible Activities at its best, with its blend of Native American culture, a thriving arts scene, and some of the best food you can find in the state. No, I’m not kidding.
And it goes without saying that knowing when to visit Santa Fe is incredibly important to planning a kick-ass trip. After all, you don’t want to miss some of its buzzing festivals, do you?
But don’t worry – as your trusty travel partner, I’m here to help you out.
Keep reading to discover when to plan your very own Santa Fe, New Mexico trip, with plenty to do.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Santa Fe? At A Glance
When to visit Santa Fe depends on your preferences and if you can brave the hectic crowds in peak season.
If I’m going to keep it real with you (and you can bet I am) , the best time to go to Santa Fe is in spring or autumn/fall. The weather’s perfectly mild and comfortably cool — not blisteringly hot.
The Best Time to Visit Santa Fe
What is the Best Month to Travel to Santa Fe?
Fan of the great outdoors with sunny weather? Then May to October is the best time to visit. Temperatures are warm (but can reach highs of 32°C / 90°F) and perfect for biking and hiking in and around the city. Plus, summer’s packed with fun festivals and events like the Santa Fe Opera for enjoying a performance or two.
In contrast, if you want to experience Santa Fe’s famous art scene and avoid the crowds, then the off-season from November to April is the best time to visit Santa Fe.
Yes, the weather’s chilly, but you can warm up with some hot cocoa at Kakawa Chocolate House and explore the art galleries on Canyon Road, museums and historic sites without the crowds.
When’s High Season in Santa Fe?
Santa Fe’s high season runs from May to October, which makes sense. The weather’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, and the city is abuzz with festivals and events.
This doesn’t come cheap, though. Literally. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds during this time.
The Cheapest Time to Visit Santa Fe
If you don’t mind the chilly weather, head to Santa Fe in November to April’s off-season. The weather’s cooler, but you’ll be able to explore Santa Fe’s famous art scene without the peak season’s hustle and bustle.
To Take On the Dale Ball Trails
With a great network of trails just outside Santa Fe, Dale Ball Trails is ideal for the avid hiker looking to enjoy great city views. Its 25-mile network is well-marked, and you can spend anything from 1 hour to all day (yes, really) working your way around the different trails in the system.
If you plan to hike the Dale Ball Trails, early spring would be your best bet. It’s the shoulder season, offering cooler weather than summer’s scorching heat. Plus, with fewer crowds on the trails than in summer, it’s a much better time.
Read More: The Best Santa Fe Hikes
To Go River Rafting in Rio Grande Gorge
For a more thrilling outdoor adventure than hiking, consider river rafting in the Rio Grande Gorge. With gushing waters and an interesting geological formation, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
But when’s the best time to hit the rapids?
Summer (June − August) may be popular due to warmer weather and sunshine, but it also means you’ll have to contend with the crowds. You’ll also have to watch out for occasional thunderstorms during the monsoon season.
So, I’d lean more towards spring (March−May). The sun’s still out, plus fewer tourists and locals will be out on the water.
To Attend the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta
Where do you go if you’d prefer the outdoors and would like to indulge in the best wines and cuisine? The Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, of course!
With over 3,500 people making their way to this top-rated wine festival in September each year, knowing when to visit isn’t much of a hassle. But let’s uncork the finer details.
This festival occurs in the fall/autumn season, so there are no two ways about when to go. But the days to visit, in particular, are essential.
While it’s popular, it’s not typically as crowded as the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, which has close to 20,000 visitors. But if you want to avoid crowds altogether, consider the weekday events instead of the weekend ones.
Santa Fe by Season
Spring in Santa Fe
March – May
Spring in Santa Fe is my favourite – mainly because temperatures rarely exceed the more-than-comfortable 70ºF (21ºC).
With blooming flowers and the sun’s warm embrace, how could you resist this beautiful city’s spring charm? That said, it can get quite windy. So hold your umbrellas tightly.
Key Events and Things to Do in Santa Fe in Spring
Hike the Dale Ball Trails’ great network of trails just outside the city. I loved hiking them as they’re well-marked and offer great city views.
Explore Santa Fe Railyard Arts District, which showcases the local artists’ work.
Scoff on crazy doughnuts made from local ingredients at Whoo’s Donuts. Their blueberry and blue corn flavour? *Chef’s kiss*
Pros to Travelling to Santa Fe in Spring
- Enjoy mild, temperate weather
- Fewer crowds than in summer
Cons to Travelling to Santa Fe in Spring
- Unpredictable winds in spring
- Allergy sufferers may struggle with pollen from spring allergens
Summer in Santa Fe
June – August
With temperatures reaching highs of 90ºF (32ºC), summer in Santa Fe is hot, lively and full of cultural events. Bring sunscreen, a hat and your dancing shoes to fully embrace the fun outdoors.
Tip: For some, the heat can cause heat strokes (I’m not being dramatic, I promise). Drink plenty of water and exercise caution.
Key Events and Things to Do in Santa Fe in Summer
Go gallery hopping on Canyon Road. Spend at least a couple of hours here, as there are so many options to choose from.
Feast on Mexican counter-serve dishes like elite chicken tostadas at Bumble Bee’s Baja Grill, washing it down with a refreshing Jamaica Agua Fresca.
Visit the Palace of the Governors, one of the oldest continuously occupied public buildings in the United States.
Plenty of beautiful hikes in the nearby area.
Pros to Travelling to Santa Fe in Summer
- Enjoy mouthwatering cuisine with outdoor dining amidst beautiful scenery
- Bask in warm, sunny weather
Cons to Travelling to Santa Fe in Summer
- Crowds galore – it can be pretty overwhelming
- Temperatures can be exceedingly high during the daytime
Autumn / Fall in Santa Fe
September – November
Saddle up for a delightful time in Santa Fe’s autumn/fall. Embrace crisp air with average temperatures around 64ºF (18ºC), stunning foliage and unforgettable cultural events like the Wine & Chile Fiesta with minimal rain.
Key Events and Things to Do in Santa Fe in Autumn/Fall
Indulge in various beverages while feasting on chargrilled meats at the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta.
It’s the perfect season to cosy up and catch a show at Jean Cocteau Cinema.
Soak up the rich artwork and architecture at the New Mexico State Capitol.
Pros to Travelling to Santa Fe in Autumn/Fall
- Typically fewer crowds than in spring
- Enjoy lower prices than in the summer
Cons to Travelling to Santa Fe in Autumn/Fall
- Shorter autumn/fall days mean less time to enjoy outdoor activities
- Some businesses close earlier, which can be a pain if you’re trying to make the most out of your time there.
Winter in Santa Fe
December – February
Cosy up with a cup of hot cocoa and embrace Santa Fe’s winter wonderland as temperatures reach as low as 18ºF (-8ºC), with frequent snow. Get out your gloves, beanies and scarves to brave the cold.
Key Events and Things to Do in Santa Fe in Winter
Head to Kakawa Chocolate House and battle the cold with a mug of hot cocoa.
Alternatively, keep warm with apple brandy or negroni at Santa Fe Spirits Downtown Tasting Room.
Pamper yourself with a warming spa treatment at the Japanese-style Ten Thousand Waves (I had an 80-minute CBD massage and it was incredible). You also get to use the beautiful Grand Spa prior to your treatment, which is pretty much worth the trip alone.
Pros to Travelling to Santa Fe in Winter
- Delight in the festive atmosphere
- Give your wallet a break with lower prices
Cons to Travelling to Santa Fe in Winter
- Winters are a bit too cold
- Snowy and icy roads require caution while driving
When to Travel to Santa Fe: Practical Tips + Tricks
Santa Fe is one of New Mexico’s most popular places to visit. Plan ahead to get the most out of your trip by booking accommodations and activities way in advance.
Keep a water bottle filled at all times to prepare for Santa Fe’s high altitude and heat, and take it easy on your first day. It wouldn’t hurt to read my guides either, to make sure you pack the right travel gear.
