Santa Fe was originally occupied by indigenous people known as the Tanoan people. Historians have learned that the Tanoan people began occupying what is now downtown Santa Fe around 900 A.D.
Since then, the area has been a Spanish colony, a city in Mexico, and then part of Texas. It wasn't until 1912 that New Mexico became a state and Santa Fe was named its capital.
When to Visit Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe has very hot summers and mildly cold winters. The best time to visit the city depends largely on what you want to do and what sort of weather you prefer.
Between June and August, temperatures reach highs of almost 90 degrees. These months can be quite humid because the city receives the most rain during this season. It's not the most popular time to visit, though, which means you will likely be able to get a few great hotel deals. If the heat doesn't bother you, summer could be a great time to visit Santa Fe. Just don't forget to pack your hat and sunscreen.
The most popular time to visit Santa Fe is between September and November. This season brings festivals, like Santa Fe Fiesta and the Santa Fe Wine and Cheese Festival, which draw a lot of tourists to the city. During this time, you can enjoy sunny days with temperatures around 65 degrees. The temperature drops in the evening and can get as cold as 40 degrees. If you plan to visit the city during these months, prepare for higher hotel prices and be sure to book well in advance.
If you enjoy skiing, winter is a great time to visit Santa Fe. It's only a short drive to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, an excellent place to ski between December and February. While this isn't as popular a time of year as the fall, it is still quite busy with tourists. Prices will remain relatively high, and you'll have to allow yourself plenty of time to book if you'd like to get a good deal.
If you want to visit the city when there are fewer tourists and score yourself some off-season prices, visit Santa Fe between March and May. The weather is beginning to improve, but you'll still experience cool evenings, so pack accordingly.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Santa Fe, NM:
Santa Fe, NM: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Santa Fe, NM. Browse these illustrations to evaluate the best time period to make a reservation in Santa Fe for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Santa Fe, NM
4 Star Average Prices: $229.13
If it's luxury you're after, you'll find plenty of fantastic options in Santa Fe. La Fonda on the Plaza is one of the city's most luxurious options. It's located right in the city's historic plaza and is surrounded by over 100 restaurants. This Spanish-style building has over 300 years of history as a resort and prides itself on being the ultimate luxury resort for visitors to Santa Fe. Here, you'll find an outdoor pool, an on-site spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant where you can enjoy some local Southwestern cuisine.
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is a gorgeous modern hotel that has been designed with indigenous artwork in mind. The Rosewood Inn is a five-star hotel located right in the center of the city and is within walking distance of the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. Enjoy an in-room massage or head to the 24-hour fitness center to work up a sweat. Then enjoy an indulgent meal in the hotel's restaurant.
If you want a touch of luxury within walking distance of all of the best sights in the city, Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe is another great option. Get yourself a room with a terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast and look out over the city as everyone wakes up and begins their day. There is a restaurant and bar on-site where you can dine al fresco on those warm Sante Fe summer nights.
Affordable Hotels in Santa Fe, NM
3 Star Average Prices: $124.93
Santa Fe is a big city with tons of affordable hotel options to choose from. Motel 6 Santa Fe Central is a good choice if you want to be right downtown. Although it's in the city center, it's on a secluded road, which means you can still enjoy a quiet night's sleep. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerators, so you can bring a few meals back to your room. There's also an indoor pool and spa tub where you can relax no matter what the temperature drops to outside.
Santa Fe Suites is a lovely suburban option. It's located just south of the downtown area and offers visitors plenty of free parking. It's an especially good option if you are going to be skiing, as it's only half a mile from the Santa Fe Ski Area. Rooms include a complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
Americas Best Value Lamplighter Inn is a motel right in downtown Santa Fe. It's surrounded by tons of restaurants, cafes, and bars and is within walking distance of the New Mexico State Capitol Building. The motel has an indoor pool and spa tub, and your stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast.
