Although Santa Fe may be known as a desert, our beautiful pocket of the Southwest actually experiences all four seasons! With winter comes snow and winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. There are countless fun activities during the season, so we’re naming our favorite things to do in Santa Fe in the winter.
When you visit Santa Fe, you’ll find delicious restaurants, beautiful landscapes, great shopping, and tons of amazing events. Access our complimentary Vacation Guide for insider tips on everything this unique city has to offer!
Our Favorite Things to Do in Santa Fe in the Winter
Ski Santa Fe
Ski Santa Fe‘s slopes are just 30 minutes from Downtown. The ski area offers a variety of slopes of every difficulty and length with four lifts that go to distinct areas of the mountain. This is truly the perfect destination for a group with different skill levels. Beginners can rent their gear and take skiing or snowboarding lessons. More experienced skiers or snowboarders will love the challenge of the steep inclines higher up the mountain. Plus, Santa Fe’s backdrop makes for a beautiful scene while you fly down the slopes.
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Stay Warm with Wine
There are more than 14 wineries, vineyards, and wine bars within one hour and Santa Fe. “The City Different” is the perfect home base for someone looking to explore the New Mexico Wine Trail. Some of the closest wineries and wine bars include Hervé Wine Bar, 315 Restaurant & Wine Bar, and Casa Abril Vineyards & Winery. Many of our countryside casitas provide a breathtaking and comfortable place to have a glass of our new favorite wine.
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Winter Events in Santa Fe
Canyon Road Farolito Walk
The Canyon Road Christmas Eve Walk, also known as the Farolito Walk, is a holiday tradition that lights up the streets and hearts of Santa Fe. Thousands of paper lanterns called farolitos line Canyon Road turning the art gallery district into a work of art itself.
New Year’s Eve on the Santa Fe Plaza
Bring in the New Year in “the City Different” at the beloved Santa Fe Plaza! New Year’s Eve on the Santa Fe Plaza has everything from heaters and bonfires to live music. Just to be truly different, the event raises (instead of drops) a Zia sun symbol as fireworks light up the night sky at midnight.
Turtle Dance at Taos Pueblo
The Turtle Dance is a ceremonial celebration of the start of the year performed by Native Americans. Taos Pueblo opens to the public on the morning of January 1 for the dances and can last all day.
Santa Fe Film Festival
The Santa Fe Film Festival happens annually for five days around the middle of February. It’s a celebration of New Mexican cinema that rewards films and the people who make them, both on and off the screen.
Santa Fe Restaurant Week
If you’re visiting Santa Fe for the food, you have to visit during Santa Fe Restaurant Week! It typically happens around the end of February and is a foodie’s dream. Check the event’s website for the official dates and a full list of the restaurants participating.
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Cozy Up in Your Casita
Most of our Santa Fe vacation rentals feature a fireplace and many a fire pit to keep you warm on those cold winter nights. Whether you’re looking for a casita near the slopes, on a private countryside, or in the middle of all the action, we’re sure to have something for you. We pride ourselves on providing our guests with an authentic Santa Fe experience. We believe that all starts with the perfect vacation rental.
Browse our properties and start planning your Santa Fe in the winter!