The Journal
Stories, culture, and insider guides to Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico — written by the people who know it best.
GuidesSanta Fe Weather & What To Pack!
If you're planning a trip to Santa Fe and would like our free Mini Guide Map piece mailed to you (within the U.S.) in advance of your arrival, please send your request to me at [email protected] and...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoRafting New Mexico
UPDATED MAY 2025 : River rafting and water activities in New Mexico are some of the best in the Southwest. A short drive north of Santa Fe and you've got world-class whitewater and gorgeous canyons...
History, Arts, & CultureThe Deep Roots of New Mexico Wine Country
New Mexico was the first wine country in the United States, dating back to the early 1600s. The first vines were planted in Senecu, a Piro Indian Pueblo in the southern part of the state, by Fray...
History, Arts, & Culture100 Years of Zozobra – The First Burning Man
Zozobra turns 100 in 2024, and the older he gets, the more he gains widespread fame and popularity. He’s the “nasty ol’ guy” you can’t help but love, and love to watch burn. He has gone from being a...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoFly Fishing Year-Round in Northern New Mexico
People are often amazed to hear that the fly fishing in Northern New Mexico is excellent throughout the year, or, for that matter, that there is fishing of any sort in the high...
History, Arts, & CultureA Colorful Passion – Barbara Meikle Fine Art
Some of us spend our entire lives in search of our passion, that thing we can enjoy obsessing over that sustains us with its rewards and a unique sense of gratification. Since the age of three, when...
Food, Fashion, & Style“At The Edge of Town” : A Timeless Classic
The Shed and La Choza are two beloved restaurants in the heart of Santa Fe. They have become as much a part of authentic Santa Fe history as the buildings they occupy. It's hard to believe that each...
Spiritual WellnessAncient Wisdom Retreats in Santa Fe
The ancient wisdom of horses, yoga, and meditation come together at the beautiful Thunderbird Ridge to offer a unique variety of transformational sessions and retreats. The only equipment you'll need...
History, Arts, & CultureBy Book or By Crook
Independent, locally-owned bookstores are fast becoming a rarity in the U.S. So much so that there are tour operators organizing trips to some of the nation's favorites. And Santa Fe boasts one of...
History, Arts, & CultureSan Miguel Chapel – History & Community
San Miguel Chapel is known as the oldest sanctified church in the United States. It is a much-loved, iconic landmark dating back to 1610. The chapel sits on the site of an ancient kiva that was...
History, Arts, & CultureAllan Houser-The Making of a Legend
Allan Houser is known world-wide as one of the most important American artists of the 20th Century, but he experienced a winding road to the status of legendary art icon. Given the dramatic impact of...
Food, Fashion, & StyleMontecristi Custom Hatworks – Timeless
Since 1978, Montecristi Custom Hatworks has been established as the world's finest custom hatter. Visiting Milton Johnson's workshop is a must for anyone looking for a beautiful and functional hat!...
History, Arts, & CultureA Visit Through Santa Fe History
With a fossil record that dates back to the Triassic period, and a human record predating 900 A.D, there's nothing bite-sized about Santa Fe history. Though it's tough to abbreviate such a rich and...
Food, Fashion, & StyleThe Legacy of Norah Pierson: The Golden Eye
She was a woman of talent, taste, and humor; an original character who added new color and beauty to Santa Fe's unique retail jewelery landscape. Norah Pierson was one of the first female jewelers in...
History, Arts, & CultureA Glimpse into Santa Fe’s Annual Spanish Market
The Annual Traditional Spanish Market is the oldest juried Spanish Market in the United States. The celebration includes festivals, music and cultural events centered around Santa Fe's historic...
Food, Fashion, & StyleFeed Your Fetish at KESHI-The Zuni Connection
The origins of the noun fetish stem from the17th-century Portuguese word feitiço meaning "charm or sorcery," and the Latin word facticius meaning "made by art." In Native American culture, it...
Events/Visitor InfoSanta Fe: Holiday Season Things To Do in November & December
Santa Fe is an ideal place to enjoy the holidays with plenty of fun things to do in November and December - from Thanksgiving to Christmas and through New Year's. From mid-November it's easy to get...
Events/Visitor InfoChristmas – Santa Fe Style
Santa Fe wears Christmas so well. From Thanksgiving through New Year's, its adobe parapets lined with farolitos, cedar and piñon burning in fireplaces, and the abundance of sweet-smelling spruce...
History, Arts, & CultureCowgirl BBQ Celebrating 25 Years in Santa Fe!!!
For twenty-five years, this bustling hub known as The Cowgirl BBQ has served up dependably delicious food, drink and live entertainment and established itself as one of Santa Fe's fun and much-loved...
History, Arts, & CultureAllan Houser: Farewell to Footprints Ceremony
Footprints: The Inspiration and Influence of Allan Houser. For almost a year, seven Allan Houser bronze sculptures have graced Milner Plaza at Museum Hill in the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture's...
History, Arts, & CultureIndian Detours Then and Now
Indian Detours were the idea of the legendary Fred Harvey Company, renowned in part for their chain of ‘eating houses’ hosted by Harvey Girls along the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad between...
History, Arts, & CultureA Salute to El Día de Los Muertos and Halloween
According to the calendar, October 31st through November 2nd sees a convergence of cultures in the Halloween and Día de Los Muertos celebrations. Over time, as more and more cultures have adopted...
History, Arts, & CultureFrom The Heart – Native American Pueblo Pottery
From earth to art, a world of tradition, culture and reverence lies at the heart of Native American pueblo pottery. Its history dates back 7500...
History, Arts, & CultureThe Cutting Edge in Santa Fe
For more than forty-eight years (as of June 2025), Alan Van Pelt's specialty cutlery shop has literally been the source for the best cutting edge in Santa Fe. Tucked alongside the famous La Fonda...
History, Arts, & CultureAgainst The Odds: The Birth of A National Treasure
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending some quality time with the knowledgeable staff at The Case Trading Post Museum Store, located within the oldest independent, non-profit museum in New Mexico,...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoSanta Fe School of Cooking-The Making of a Foodie
Santa Fe is world-renowned for its culinary arts, and Santa Fe School of Cooking is a one-stop destination where you can experience and learn about unique Northern New Mexican and Southwestern...
History, Arts, & CultureThe Faces of Folk Art – Santa Fe Folk Art Market
Each year, the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market brings to town an amazing display of folk art from around the world. As many as 150 display booths cover Milner Plaza at Museum Hill or The...
History, Arts, & CultureNative Peoples’ Traditional Dress at Indian Market
One of my favorite highlights of the SWAIA Annual Indian Market is the Native Peoples' Traditional Clothing Competition. The intricate work involved in these pieces represents the history, traditions...
Events/Visitor InfoWinter Markets in Santa Fe
If you missed the big summer markets it's good to know you can plan your visit for the holiday season and still catch a few big winter markets in Santa Fe. There are plenty of opportunities to buy...
History, Arts, & CultureTaos Pueblo: A Place to Remember
A visit to Taos Pueblo is one of those quintessential New Mexico experiences that every traveler and local must...
Events/Visitor InfoReflections on Santa Fe
Santa Fe has lots to offer the visitor whether you are interested in culture, history, natural wonders, or just a little peace and quiet. Here's what you need to know: Elevation and weather Living at 7000 feet elevation, we enjoy 300 days of sunshine per year but expect a 25-degree swing between day and night-time temperatures. Layered clothing allows adjustments for changing conditions, so pack several thinner layers instead of bringing the single, giant coat. Summertime features abrupt, localized but brief afternoon rainstorms, with clear mornings and evenings. Fall brings more settled weather with freezing temperatures (at night) by the end of October. Winter gives us snow in town (and more in the adjacent mountains) with blue skies and sunshine between snowy days. And although Spring may bring us windy days, we seldom have much rain. Our elevation also affects lowland visitors. Plan on taking it easier for a day to allow your body to adjust. Saunter around town or take a little driving tour but avoid scheduling an arduous activity the morning after you arrive. Drink plenty of water, too. It will make you feel better. Our high elevation affects the very physically fit as well as everyone else. History and culture Although our "historic" period goes back over 400 years to Spanish colonial days, Native American influences abound in our foods, architecture and art. We can boast some mighty nice museums, top-notch galleries and great restaurants. Over 200 restaurants in town vary from mom-and-pop places featuring traditional northern New Mexico foods to fine dining establishments offering award-winning nouvelle cuisine. Our official state question is "Red or green?" which asks which type of chile sauce you'd prefer with your meal: the one made from roasted, green chile peppers or from ripe, dried red chile peppers. Lifestyle Author and adventure guide Karen Denison offers a local's perspective on life in the City Different
History, Arts, & CultureLeibovitz: Sharp Shootin’ Annie – Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
On February 15, 2013, the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum launched the Annie Leibovitz exhibit, Pilgrimage (organized by the Smithsonian Art Museum). I was lucky enough to be able to attend a preview of the...
History, Arts, & CultureLoretto Chapel – Many Miracles on the Old Santa Fe Trail
The Loretto Chapel, also known as Our Lady of Light, is well known for its “miraculous staircase,” but as I looked into its history in more detail, I noticed quite a few miracles that we can thank...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoGhost Ranch Revisited
Although Ghost Ranch has been open to the public as a source of recreation for local communities and travelers since the early1900s, there are still many people, both locals and visitors, who don't...
History, Arts, & CultureTour the World at The International Folk Art Market – Santa Fe
Intended as a one-time event in 2004, the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe is now the largest of its kind in the world. Now, this highly anticipated extravaganza is held every year, usually...
History, Arts, & CultureNative American Pottery in the Making with Chris Youngblood
Chris Youngblood is an amazing, Native American potter from Santa Clara pueblo. At 27 years of age, his talent and exquisite creations are well on the road to establishing him among the top Native...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoTaos Pueblo Ceremony Dates
For a comprehensive calendar of all 19 Northern New Mexico Pueblo Feast Days and Ceremony dates go to:...
Food, Fashion, & StyleThe Famous Plaza Café – From Greece to Santa Fe
Anyone who has ever been to Santa Fe in the past 110 years knows that a must-visit spot is The Plaza Café. Before then, it was the Star...
History, Arts, & CultureSanta Fe’s Own Distillery Row: Santa Fe Spirits
Colin Keegan, owner of Santa Fe Spirits, wended his way to Santa Fe from Newcastle in northeast England. I think he'd get a kick out of the idea that as I listened to him tell his story, I was...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoIt’s Time To Hit The High Road To Taos Again
It's late May and the weather is getting steadily warmer, trees are leafing their spring green, and it's time to hit the High Road to Taos, stay overnight, take the Low road (Route 68) on the way...
Adventures/Fun Things To DoEl Farol – The Welcome Light in the Canyon
Since the mid-1800s there's been a welcoming light along Santa Fe’s Canyon Road. It was known then as La Cantina del Cañon, a popular saloon owned and operated by the Vigil family. It was a time when...
The Archives4 New Reasons to Visit O’Keeffe’s Ghost Ranch
If you've visited Northern New Mexico, you're likely well aware of Georgia O'Keeffe's favorite spot on the planet, Ghost Ranch. Whether you've already been, or have never had the pleasure, put it on...
History, Arts, & CultureSanta Fe Art Classes- Immersive Experiences
If you really want to get away from it all, unplug, relax and immerse yourself in something beautiful, I highly recommend...
Food, Fashion, & StyleThe Fresh Face of El Farol
At more than 180 years old, El Farol is without doubt the oldest, most iconic restaurant and bar in Santa Fe. Thanks to her new owners, Rich Freedman and Freda Scott, this world-renowned, much-loved...
The ArchivesArtists of The High Road Arts Tour
Every year since 1997, during the last two weekends of September, local folks know it's time to head along the High Road for the annual High Road Arts...
The ArchivesThe High Road to Taos Part 1: Chimayó
Taking the High Road to Taos is a beautiful journey that can spin by in just under two hours. Or you can give yourself the luxury of taking 4-5 hours, all day, or even multiple days and really gain...
The ArchivesHigh Road to Taos Part 2: Truchas
Daylight is fading fast and you want to make it to Truchas along the High Road to Taos before sunset so you set off from Chimayó, along Route 76 toward Taos. En route is Centinela Traditional Arts...
History, Arts, & CultureThe Maria Martinez Living Heritage at San Ildefonso Pueblo
San Ildefonso Pueblo is a short and easy 25-30 minute drive north of Santa Fe. The Native Tewa name of Po Woh Geh Oweenge means "Where the Water Cuts Through." It is home to many Native American...
The ArchivesSanta Fe Selection Made News in Germany
Earlier this year, I hosted a freelance journalist, Bernadette Conrad, visiting from Germany. She stayed for a few short days, and I showed her around. She was interested in the people who have come...
The ArchivesCustom Cowboy Boots: There’s A Trend On The Rise
There's a trend on the rise, and it started right here in Santa Fe! Everyone knows that since the mid-1800s cowboy boots have been a favorite of presidents and kings, and of course,...
History, Arts, & CultureSouthwest Buckles, Bolos and Beyond
The Chinese have record of belt buckles beyond utilitarian value from as far back as 2 B.C. Elsewhere, tombs of kings and pharaohs have been unearthed to reveal a cherished buckle or two. It isn't...
History, Arts, & CultureFun for Kids at Harrell House Bug Museum
Kids will tell you that it's tons of fun and worth a trip to the Harrell House Bug Museum & Science Shop in Santa Fe. Granted, bugs aren't something many of us want to get cozy with, but owners Wade...
The ArchivesDavid Richard Gallery – Immersive Art in Santa Fe
David Richard Gallery has been a must-see art experience since it began in 2010. David Eichholtz and Richard Barger have created extraordinary, immersive exhibits at their expansive 4500 square foot...
History, Arts, & CultureWhere’s Your Inner Cowgirl?
I wasn't aware I had an inner cowgirl until I had the opportunity to meet Joy Silha and her delightfully smart, sensitive horses ( and one adorable mule named Jimmy). Joy offers fun equine experience...
The ArchivesSanta Fe Happy Holiday Wishes
It's that time again. Another year has passed and I want to say a great big "Thank You!" to you, our readers. I've put together a photo gallery of Santa Fe winter wonderland pics I hope you'll...
The ArchivesCowgirl BBQ: Celebrating Twenty Years!
On June 1, 1993, The Cowgirl Hall of Fame in Santa Fe opened its doors to a town hungry for barbecue. And for twenty years, the bustling restaurant has served up dependably delicious food, drink and...
History, Arts, & Culture2025 Events at Las Golondrinas – Where History Is Alive in Santa Fe
Every year, there are a variety of fun family events at El Rancho de las Golondrinas . Visiting Las Golondrinas is one of the top things to do in Santa Fe for the June to October season. This...
History, Arts, & Culture2018 Events at Las Golondrinas, A Living History Experience
El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a fun, family destination offering unique events each year. Visiting Las Golondrinas is one of the top things to do in Santa Fe for the June to October season. This...