Santa Fe: America’s Coolest Small City Getaway

Travel

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By Kevin McCullough, Editor In Chief, That Passport Life

If you’d told me the top U.S. travel destination in 2025 would be a high-desert city tucked into the Sangre de Cristo foothills, I wouldn’t have guessed it. But step into Santa Fe, and it makes sense. Adobe walls glowing honey-gold, piñon smoke drifting through the air, and a hum of Native American, Hispanic, and frontier cultures in every bite and gallery.

According to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, Santa Fe officially dethroned Charleston after 12 years as America’s favorite small city. If you’re ready to see why, here’s exactly where to stay, eat, and explore:

Where to Stay: La Fonda on the Plaza

La Fonda on the Plaza isn’t just a hotel—it’s a landmark. This 1922 property offers wood-beamed ceilings, hand-painted furniture, and a cozy central courtyard. Best part? Step outside and you’re already in the middle of Santa Fe Plaza, where everything from arts festivals to Christmas markets happens.

Where to Brunch: Café Pasqual’s

Brunch in Santa Fe is a ritual, and Café Pasqual’s is the spot. This beloved corner cafe serves blue corn pancakes, chorizo scrambles, and rich coffee. The line’s worth it. Inside, bright Mexican tile murals and warm service set the tone for a perfect Southwestern morning.

Romantic Dinner: Sazón

When it’s time to slow down and get elegant, Sazón sets the standard. Chef Fernando Olea’s upscale Mexican plates—mole flights, poblano soups, and artful entrees—paired with intimate adobe interiors make it Santa Fe’s go-to romantic table.

8 Things You Can’t Miss in Santa Fe

Santa Fe Plaza & Palace of the Governors
Shop, sip, or just people-watch under century-old trees.
Loretto Chapel Spiral Staircase
Built without nails or visible supports—legend says by an angel.
Canyon Road
A half-mile of over 80 art galleries. Window-shop or collect.
Dale Ball Trails
Mountain views and quiet desert hikes just outside town.
Paloma for Mezcal
For cocktails that hit differently, mezcal-forward and garden-vibed.
Meow Wolf
Santa Fe’s must-see immersive art playground.
High Road to Taos
Adobe churches, artist studios, and mountain views along the way.
Santa Fe Opera
Sunset skies meet world-class performances at this open-air venue.

The Passport Life Take

Santa Fe isn’t just pretty—it’s peaceful. It invites you to slow down, breathe mountain air, browse local art, and linger over chile-infused meals. It’s romance, art, and soul all wrapped in one place.

Looking for your next weekend escape? Book the flight. Grab a room at La Fonda. And let Santa Fe do its thing.