spring in santa fe
Basilica door - photo by Steve Collins
Spring has finally arrived in Santa Fe after an unusually cold winter. The sun’s out, the temperature’s balmy, shorts and sandals are coming out of storage. Places that close for the winter are opening for the season. Here are 5 great things to do in The City Different in spring.
One – Hiking: There is a lot of great hiking in the area, much of it on National Park lands. If you want to stay close to town check out the extensive Dale Ball Trails on the east side of town. There are some great hikes in and around the Santa Fe the area. There are great biking trails, too.
Two – In-town tours: Take a walking tour or trolley tour around town. Guided walking tours are great; you’ll learn a lot about historic and present-day Santa Fe. Or take your own.
Three – See some art: Art and culture are a big part of what defines Santa Fe. Santa Fe is packed with galleries and museums. Two out-door art treasures are more enjoyable when the weather warms up:
Allan Houser Compound: Allan Hauser is one of the most renowned Native American artists and sculptors of the 20th Century. The compound, about a half-hour south of Santa Fe, offers visitors about ten acres of sculpture gardens to walk through. Bring a picnic. By appointment only. If your in-city, stop by the Allan Houser Gallery.
Shidoni Foundry and Galleries: Located about five miles north of Santa Fe, outside the charming hamlet of Tesuque, Shidoni offers indoor galleries and over eight acres of sculpture gardens. They are also a working bronze foundry and the public is invited to bronze-pourings on Saturdays.
Four – Take a day-trip: The area is loaded with historic and archeological sites to discover. Take a few hours or a day to explore the area. Here are a few places to check out.
Five – Outdoor dining: People love dining al fresco. There’s something about the fresh-air and people-watching that can’t be beat. And if sidewalk patios are too bustling for you, Santa Fe also has some beautiful off-street patios and courtyards that offer serenity often coupled with great food. Check out some great options here.
There’s lot more to do in Santa Fe. Check things to do in Santa Fe at goby.com. For easy access to places to visit and things to do on the go, download the free goby phone apps.