Santa Fe Family Vacations

Full of heritage and culture, arts and outdoor recreation, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the country's oldest capital city, dating back to 1610, and its highest, at 7,000 feet above sea level. For visiting families, the colorful city offers loads of opportunities to learn about the history of New Mexico -- from its first Native American inhabitants to the Spaniards' arrival to American statehood. Visitors enjoy sampling delicious southwest cuisine, admiring world-famous art and architecture, and taking in the glorious natural scenery of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the foothills of the Rockies.

With 300 days of sunshine a year, and typical bright, blue-sky days, Santa Fe's great climate beckons all year long. Remember, though, that when you are out and about exploring the pedestrian-friendly downtown area, or hiking, river rafting, skiing or horseback riding in the nearby mountains or Santa Fe National Forest, that you are in high altitude. Visitors from the flatland should drink plenty of water and take it easy the first few days while you adjust to the thinner air.

Most visitors don't leave Santa Fe without visiting the Santa Fe Plaza, which has been the city's central gathering place since the 17th century. It is a National Historic Landmark, lined with shops, restaurants, churches, museums and centuries-old buildings. With grassy areas, shady trees and benches, the Plaza also a nice place for families to bring a picnic and people watch. From the Plaza, many family-friendly sights are within walking distance.