Santa Fe New Mexico Was Named One Of The Best Places To Go For Thanksgiving In The World

We all appreciate New Mexico, but sometimes we need a reminder of exactly how special our state is. A top travel site listed Santa Fe among the best places in the world to go for Thanksgiving.

The travel experts at DK Travel (they publish popular travel guides) chose Santa Fe as one of the best destinations in the world for Thanksgiving. The City Different ranked among international destinations like Munich, Germany and Costa Rica, and a handful of U.S. destinations like Seattle and Hawaii.

Kent Kanouse/Flickr

Among the things cited that make Santa Fe a top holiday travel pick is their multicultural blend of Spanish, Mexican, Native American and Anglo influences.

Doris Meier/Flickr

Some of New Mexico’s finest Native American jewelry and crafts are sold under the portal at Santa Fe’s Place of the Governors. The Native American Vendors program, more than 60 years old, helps ensure that the artists here are registered and that their work is authentic to their tribe.

Donfbc/TripAdvisor

Santa Fe’s vibrant art scene and galleries are a draw too. The city boast almost 200 galleries, including the dozens along the famed half-mile arts haven of Canyon Road.

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If art isn’t your thing, Santa Fe has amazing shopping opportunities too. From boots and bracelets and cowboy duds to fine home goods, botanical potions, and custom furniture, treasures are waiting to be found amid the city’s bevy of quaint shops.

Milomingo/Flickr

Lodging in Santa Fe is unique too. Splurge on one of the city’s grand hotels, steeped in history, or try a boutique property with all the little details that make a hotel feel like home. There are plenty of charming bed-and-breakfasts, or if you really want to relax, indulge in a spa-resort property.

Heritage Hotels & Resorts/Flickr

No trip anywhere in New Mexico is complete without some of our chile - red, green or Christmas. You will find chile everywhere in Santa Fe, from your mom-n-pop taco stands to elegant, high-dining. It’s even great for breakfast.

HMac_2013/TripAdvisor

Turkey traditionalists, fear not! Many Santa Fe restaurants serve up a Thanksgiving turkey. It might have a red chile glaze and come with tamales or chorizo stuffing. And don’t be surprised if green chile shows up somewhere too (check the gravy or cornbread).

Coyote Cafe & Cantina/Facebook

The day after Thanksgiving marks the start of Santa Fe’s Christmas season. The historic Plaza lights up with an official kick-off party. Drink hot chocolate as you watch the lights and listen to live music. Mr. and Mrs. Claus (who also love Santa Fe for the holidays) usually make an appearance too.

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If the weather cooperates, Ski Santa Fe is slated to open the day after Thanksgiving too. With a base elevation of 10,350 ft, Ski Santa Fe has trails for skiers of all experience levels. Snowboarders are welcome too.

Angelina Koh/Flickr

This just goes to prove that New Mexicans don’t need to travel far to experience some of the best of the best as far as food, culture, shopping and distinctive history. Where in New Mexico is your favorite place for the holidays?