Attractions and Places To See around Santa Fe Foothills - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Santa Fe Foothills include a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this area offers extensive hiking trails and access to the Santa Fe National Forest. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, vibrant cultural sites, and a thriving art scene. The region provides a unique combination of outdoor adventure and artistic exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Santa Fe Foothills
- The most popular attractions is Santa Fe Rail Trail, a trail that offers a scenic route into Santa Fe. This trail provides access to the city's sights, cuisine, and culture.
- Another must-see spot is The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a religious building and historical site. Built between 1869 and 1886, it is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe and features Romanesque Revival architecture.
- Visitors also love New Mexico Museum of Art, a man-made monument and museum. The building, completed in 1917, is an example of Pueblo Revival Style architecture and houses over 20,000 works of art.
- Santa Fe Foothills is known for its diverse range of attractions, including historical sites, art museums, and extensive trail networks. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, from cultural landmarks to natural landscapes.
- The attractions around Santa Fe Foothills are appreciated by the komoot community, with 16 upvotes and 13 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
Highlight • Religious Site
The cathedral was inaugurated by Pope Benedict XVI on October 4, 2005. officially elevated to the status of a basilica and designated the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi.
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New Mexico Museum of Art
Highlight • Monument
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Santa Fe Plaza
Highlight • Historical Site
The Mocna is just opposite the church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. For more information see their website: iaia.edu/mocna
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Palace of the Governors
Highlight • Historical Site
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Atalaya Mountain Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Trail is well-marked, especially at the numbered junctions (at which there are also topography maps of the trails). There are also a number of trail heads and interlacing trails, so hikes or bike rides can be shorter or longer depending on what you want, even while out on the hills.
On maps, this trail is called "St. John's Trail", but physical markers use the name "Atalaya Trail"; either way, you will follow markers for Trail 174.
Lovely hike, with views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and back across Santa Fe. Website: sfct.org/dale-ball-trails
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Tips from the Community
Santa Fe Plaza stands as the historic and cultural heart of Santa Fe. Founded in 1610, it’s one of the oldest continuously occupied public spaces in the United States. The Plaza was originally designed as the central square for the Spanish colonial Presidio, surrounded by residences, a chapel, and the seat of government. Over the centuries it evolved — welcoming trade caravans arriving along the historic Santa Fe Trail, serving as a gathering place for Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and later American communities, hosting centuries of civic, social, and cultural life. Today, the Plaza remains a lively public square ringed by adobe-style buildings, galleries, boutiques, and museums — including the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the U.S. The plaza is also the official starting point for the Santa Fe to Taos thru-hike.
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The Basilica was built in the late 1800s by Archbishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, 26 years before New Mexico even became a U.S. state. However the site is much older than that, as the current structure is built on the foundations of earlier churches dating all the way back to 1626.
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Capital of the US federal state of New Mexico, with many Pueblo style buildings.
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This is the southernmost trail head for the Dale Ball Trail system. The trail starts near St. John's College (there is parking specifically for the trail). Very easy access from downtown Santa Fe. Can't speak to public transportation, as walked to trail head (road has only occasional sidewalks, just fyi), but I did pass a couple of bus stops. Trail is well-marked, especially at the numbered junctions (at which there are also topography maps of the trails). There are also a number of trail heads and interlacing trails, so hikes or bike rides can be shorter or longer depending on what you want, even while out on the hills. On maps, this trail is called "St. John's Trail", but physical markers use the name "Atalaya Trail"; either way, you will follow markers for Trail 174. Lovely hike, with views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and back across Santa Fe. Website: https://sfct.org/dale-ball-trails/
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The old town of Santa Fe is full of charm. It has kept its authenticity with its old center made of adobe houses. It is a city where you will find many art galleries, but also exceptional and unique museums like the Mocna (Museum of Contemporary Native Art) as well as many sculptures in the streets. This part of the original city revolves around the Santa Fe Plaza, where many artists sell their crafts on the ground. The Mocna is just opposite the church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. For more information see their website: https://iaia.edu/mocna/
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Around the square there are shops on all four sides, especially chic jewelry stores, shoe stores and clothing shops. Sometimes even grouped together in small indoor malls, there is an incredible variety of mostly very expensive shopping opportunities. Especially those who like Indian jewelry and cowboy boots will get their money's worth at a very high price level. But there is also a jeweler with Breitling watches etc. Absolutely comparable to the chic malls and shops in Southern California. In addition, many nice little bars and restaurants as well as some very chic hotels, all in pueblo style and definitely worth a visit.
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The Palace of the Governors was built in Adobe in 1610, stands directly on Santa Fé Plaza and is the oldest permanently inhabited public building in the USA. The Palace of the Governors should be seen when visiting Santa Fé. It is one of the most famous attractions and is part of the New Mexico History Museum. Indian goods, jewelry, handicrafts, etc. are often offered for sale in front of the Palace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in the Santa Fe Foothills?
The Santa Fe Foothills are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking, running, and mountain biking on trails like the Atalaya Mountain Trail and the vast Dale Ball Trails network. The area also provides access to the Santa Fe National Forest for more wilderness exploration. For specific routes, you can explore guides for hiking, mountain biking, and running around the Santa Fe Foothills.
Are there any significant historical or cultural sites to visit?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history and culture. You can visit the impressive The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a Romanesque Revival masterpiece. Explore the Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously occupied public building in the USA, or immerse yourself in art at the New Mexico Museum of Art. Don't miss Museum Hill, which hosts several museums including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, celebrating the region's diverse heritage.
What are some popular hiking trails in the Santa Fe Foothills?
The Santa Fe Foothills boast numerous popular hiking trails. The **Dale Ball Trails** offer an extensive network of over 24 kilometers of interconnected paths. For a challenging ascent with panoramic views, try the Atalaya Mountain Trail. Other great options include **Sun Mountain** and **Picacho Peak** for rewarding vistas, and the **Dorothy Stewart Trail** for a shorter, high-desert experience. Many of these trails are part of the broader hiking guide for the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Historical sites like The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Palace of the Governors offer educational experiences. The New Mexico Museum of Art is also family-friendly. For outdoor fun, many sections of the Dale Ball Trails are accessible for families, and the Santa Fe Botanical Garden offers a beautiful and engaging natural environment.
Where can I experience the local art scene?
Santa Fe is renowned for its vibrant art scene. While not directly in the foothills, **Canyon Road** is easily accessible and a must-visit, featuring over a hundred galleries, artist studios, and boutiques. Additionally, Museum Hill, located in the foothills, houses institutions like the Museum of International Folk Art and the Nuevo Mexicano Heritage Arts Museum, offering diverse artistic and cultural exhibits.
What is the best time of year to visit the Santa Fe Foothills for outdoor activities?
The Santa Fe Foothills offer outdoor activities year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases stunning foliage, especially along scenic drives in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Summer is great for early morning or late afternoon hikes to avoid the midday heat, and winter offers opportunities for snow sports at Ski Santa Fe.
Are there any ancient Puebloan sites or petroglyphs nearby?
Yes, you can delve into ancient history. The **La Cieneguilla Petroglyph Site** features hundreds of petroglyphs carved by ancestral Puebloan people between the 13th and 17th centuries. A short drive outside the immediate foothills, **Bandelier National Monument** offers significant ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and kivas, providing a deep connection to indigenous cultures.
Can I find wheelchair-accessible attractions in the Santa Fe Foothills area?
Yes, some attractions in the Santa Fe Foothills area offer wheelchair accessibility. The New Mexico Museum of Art is noted as wheelchair accessible. When planning your visit, it's always recommended to check the specific accessibility details with individual venues or sites.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
The trails in the Santa Fe Foothills offer diverse natural beauty. You'll encounter high desert landscapes with piñon-juniper forests, leading to higher elevations with ponderosa and aspen trees. Expect stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the city of Santa Fe, and the surrounding valleys. In spring and summer, wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and purple lupine add vibrant color to the scenery.
Are there any dog-friendly trails in the Santa Fe Foothills?
Many trails in the Santa Fe Foothills are dog-friendly, making it a great place to explore with your canine companion. The extensive Dale Ball Trails network is generally welcoming to dogs, though leash laws are typically enforced to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Always remember to pack out waste and respect trail etiquette.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints for photography?
The Santa Fe Foothills offer numerous scenic viewpoints perfect for photography. Hikes up Atalaya Mountain, Sun Mountain, and Picacho Peak provide panoramic vistas of Santa Fe, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the high desert landscape. Museum Hill also offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, especially at sunset.
What is the Santa Fe Rail Trail?
The Santa Fe Rail Trail is a popular trail that offers a scenic route into Santa Fe. It's a fantastic way to access the city's sights, cuisine, and culture, providing a unique perspective on the area. It's enjoyed by cyclists and walkers alike.
Most popular routes around Santa Fe Foothills
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