expert4travel's Reviews

Santa Fe for a Great Getaway!

Santa Fe, New Mexico's capital city is 400 years old this year! The lively town is nestled near the base of New Mexico's Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and new and contemporary in nature. Santa Fe enjoys a flourishing art market, great cultural center and is a UNESCO world creative city! With a population of about 65000 it is a cultural mecca! The city' greatest attribute is its ambiance and aesthetic, a colorful amalgam of Native America. Old Spain and the Wild West are creative in Spirit in Santa Fe. Art is everywhere - 200 plus galleries, world-class museums. The culture of the Pueblo Indians prevails! The Plaza established by Spanish settlers, forms the heart of the city. The Palace of the Governors, from the 17th century, anchors the area. Among the many portals and Spanish-style courtyard you will find Native Americans selling jewelry and crafts. Nearby, you'll find galleries and shops including ur favorite Shiprock Santa Fe, offering vintage and contemporary items for homes and Todos Santos our chocolate purveyor. A short drive from the Plaza allows you to experience Canyon Road. This is a two-mile-long commercial street lined with 18th century adobe homes and former artist's studios that have been converted into galleries and restaurants. On Canyon oad you'll find contemporary galleries, such as Klaudia Marr Gallery and Selby Fleetwood Gallery. Pottery, jewelry and fashions are all within easy reach. We recommend El Farol a lively restaurant-bar where Spanish tapas are popular for lunch. The Design Center south of the historic quarter/downtown core features a variety of specialty shops, like JP Magpie, which sells antiques, quilts and several vintage items. A few blocks southwest of the Plaza, the Ralyard district is undergoing a complete change into a contemporary art mecca. Two not to miss attractions here include SITE Santa Fe and the Railyard Performance Center. There is also the El Museo Cultural Center and Museum. In the foothills region (east) you will find Museum Hill, a complex built around a central plaza shared by the Museum of International Folk Art, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the Labroatory of Anthropology. Continue on southwest of downtown to the campus of College of Santa Fe and its Visual Arts Center

Reviewed on: April 30, 2008