More than 65,000 people live and work in this capital city that was settled in 1609 and is the nation’s oldest state capital. Seventeenth century buildings still stand and are part of daily life for its diverse population that includes Native American, Spanish, European, and many other nationalities. Santa Fe is a unique blend of cultures and countries, where the old is cherished and the new is valued.

With a worldwide reputation for art, the galleries and museums of Santa Fe are exceptional. Many famous artists live and work in Santa Fe. An estimated one of six residents works in the arts. Visit the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, Palace of the Governors, Institute of American Indian Arts Museum, San Miguel Mission…and many, many more. Local guides are available to lead art tours by advance arrangement.

Santa Fe is a shopper’s paradise offering everything from unique souvenirs to rare treasures. Search for American Indian art, contemporary Southwestern fashions, and jewelry ranging from easily affordable to heart stopping high. Find designs and products handcrafted by local artisans as well as one-of-a-kind imported objects.

Santa Fe’s history is a living treasure. The central Plaza is the heart of the city and has been the focal meeting point for nearly 400 years. Learn about the Pueblo Indian Revolt at the block-long Palace of the Governors. Take one of the city walking tours, i.e., around the Plaza, the Old Santa Fe Trail, Canyon Road, and the Guadalupe/Railroad district.

Santa Fe web site: www.santafe.org.

Area Excursions

1. North to Taos – Take the high road to Taos through remote villages and see awesome views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Taos is the historic home of the Pueblo Indians, Hispanic colonists, mountain men, artists and writers. Museums, art galleries, exquisite restaurants, and many shops offer endless opportunities to while away more than a few hours.
2. West on the Jemez Mountain Trail – Journey through time in this direction. Tour a volcanic crater, ancient ruins, and the Bandeleir National Monument. Time permitting, visit the Los Alamos Historical Museum to learn about the Manhattan Project and the creation of the world’s first atomic bomb.
3. Northwest to Georgia O’Keeffe Country – See the magnificent geological formations and memorable landscapes so artfully captured on canvas by famed artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Stop at the Ghost Ranch, where she spent her summers, and literally walk in O’Keeffe’s footsteps. A trip to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum back in Santa Fe is a must!
4. South on the Turquoise Trail – Travel back in time through old mining towns where turquoise, gold, and coal were mined. Stop at Golden, the site of the first gold rush west of the Mississippi in 1825. And Madrid has been revived as an arts colony, a tasteful tourist stop. Savor the Old West at the Old Coal Mine Museum, and return to Santa Fe through cattle country.