- Santa Fe is perhaps best known for its Southwestern culinary specialties. The state of New Mexico implements an official state question; "Red or green?" is a reference to the type of chile sauce a diner prefers over his enchiladas, chile rellenos or other Southwestern dishes. If the diner would like both, he simply answers "Christmas." Santa Fe also offers a wide range of other cuisines, including a large selection of American brew pubs, barbecue, hamburgers and steaks. Asian, French, Italian, Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants are also found in the city. Santa Fe hosts several food festivals throughout the year, as well as an abundance of cooking classes.
- Artists from various backgrounds have established themselves in Santa Fe. The city prides itself on its diverse art scene shaped by everyone from writers and dancers to actors and musicians. Santa Fe has more than a dozen museums and over 200 galleries. Its most prized collections are found on Museum Hill, home to four museums including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture. Every August the city hosts the Santa Fe Indian Market, featuring more than 1,200 artists representing 100 tribes. The Spanish Market and the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, both in July, showcase art from 40 different countries.
- Visitors to Santa Fe are sure to find accommodations that suit their needs. The city provides a large selection that includes luxury resorts with amenities such as full-service spas, to more modest motels that are conveniently located in the heart of the city. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts with Southwestern charm in Santa Fe, as well as apartment rentals for long-term visitors. For nature enthusiasts, RV parks and campgrounds are found within the city, near restaurants and historic sites.
- It is easy to keep busy in and around Santa Fe. Besides the many cultural attractions, the city is home to nearly a dozen golf courses, thousands of acres of wilderness just minutes from the city center and a plethora of Native American historical sites. Visitors can explore the various ancient ruins covered with petroglyphs and a living history museum for Spanish Colonial life. Santa Fe is known for good skiing with its high mountain slopes, and the Rio Grande River is ideal for whitewater rafting. The many cocktail bars, dance clubs and live music venues give Santa Fe a trendy and exciting nightlife scene. The city is also home to several casinos.
- Buying some cowboy boots and a hat is easy in Santa Fe. Several Western fashion boutiques located all around the city sell high-quality, handmade Western boots, hats, leather accessories and jewelry. But looking like a cowboy is not a requirement in Santa Fe. Other clothing stores sell elegant ladies apparel and even outfits made completely from recycled waste materials. There is also a large selection of furniture stores in Santa Fe. Many feature traditional Southwestern designs in woodwork and contemporary furniture for the modern home.
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