Whoever said that your dream vacation had to break the bank has clearly never visited New Mexico! If you’re a traveler on a budget, you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of free things to do in Santa Fe. That way, you and your sweetheart can plan the romantic getaway you both deserve without spending a fortune. Here are just some of our favorite cost-free activities that we’re sure you’ll want to add to your itinerary immediately.
Interested in even more free things to do in Santa Fe? Request your free copy of our Vacation Guide right now for a full list of great recommendations. The best part? It’s delivered straight to your inbox within minutes!
7 of the Best Free Things to Do in Santa Fe
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Santa Fe Farmer’s Market
Each Saturday and Tuesday, strolling through the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market is a great way to find locally grown products and crafts. The best part? You don’t have to pay a dime to get in! The market’s wide variety of vendors and dedication to New Mexico’s agriculture has made it one of the nation’s best farmer’s markets, according to Sunset Magazine. This fact alone makes the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market well worth a visit, whether or not you decide to make a purchase.
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Canyon Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Exploring the shops and galleries of Canyon Road is one of the most fun things to do in Santa Fe. The half-mile stretch is filled with boutique stores, art galleries, and restaurants that offer unique things to browse through and admire. It also plays host to many of the city’s most memorable events including the Canyon Road Spring Art Festival, the Christmas Eve Farolito Walk, and the Road Paint & Sculpt Out, all of which are free to attend!
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Santa Fe Artists Market
is an outdoor exhibition that takes place year-round. It also encourages artistic awareness for the general public, artists, and art lovers. From painting to jewelry, you’ll meet a wide range of mediums and even learn a thing or two from the artists themselves.
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Santa Fe National Historic Trail
The Santa Fe National Historic Trail was used between 1821 and 1880 as a commercial highway between Santa Fe and Missouri. Today, travelers still walk along the beaten path to discover stunning scenery and historic stops along the way. To make your journey even more interesting, you can use the trail’s passport program to collect commemorative stamps at each location you visit.
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Randall Davey Audubon Trails
If you’re hoping to immerse in the beauty of nature without spending your hard-earned money, the Randall Davey Audubon Center is the place to be! The educational center used to be the home of a successful artist, who drew inspiration from the land’s stunning landscape. During your visit, you can explore the hiking trails, embark on a birdwatching adventure, or take a look at the historic Randall Davey house. While admission is free, donations are highly encouraged.
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Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
More commonly known as the St. Francis Cathedral, this Santa Fe landmark is a true example of New Mexican architecture. While it is not known why the cathedral was built, it is still a must for your Santa Fe itinerary! Simply stepping inside to admire the jaw-dropping interior is a great addition to a full day of fun in New Mexico’s capital city.
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Music on the Hill
Each June and July, St. John’s College sponsors a free concert series! Music on the Hill takes place on Wednesday evenings on the St. John’s athletic field and features live performances by regional up-and-coming artists. Simply grab a lawn chair or blanket, find a sunny spot, and enjoy a full evening of music together.
Return Home to Casa Escondida in Chimayo
After enjoying the free things to do in Santa Fe, we invite you to return to Casa Escondida! Our lovely bed and breakfast in Chimayo, NM is the best of both worlds. The location is convenient to Santa Fe, Taos, and Jemez Springs while providing peaceful seclusion of the New Mexican countryside. Eco-friendly guest rooms encompass the traditional charm that the region is known for while supplying you with modern luxuries for a truly comfortable stay. The delicious daily breakfast is a favorite for many guests and features various American and New Mexican selections.
Book your next getaway with us today or learn how you can enhance your stay with our tempting packages!
Photo Credit: Blewulis/Getty Images
