June is the perfect time to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico, often listed as one of the top travel destinations in the United States. What makes June the perfect time to visit? The reasons are many, from fewer crowds, beautiful, warm, sunny and dry weather, and lower costs before the high season in Santa Fe. Not to mention the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range and rich history to savory flavors and art galore. If you want to know what to do in Santa Fe in June, look no further. Here’s our top 10.
1. A Stay at The Bear
Experience Iconic Santa Fe lodging at Inn of the Turquoise Bear, ranked the #1 lodging in Santa Fe and recently ranked the #4 bed and breakfast in the USA by TripAdvisor. June is ideal timing as our acre of lush-gardens are in full color and room rates are lower. From the moment you arrive, you will find yourself immersed in history and culture, including southwestern art, a storied past, and warm, friendly service.
Besides the rich history, you will also be treated to delicious food each morning, house-made afternoon snacks and twilight wine reception. Guests also love the tiered gardens and lush foliage surrounding the estate – perfect for lounging in the hammock on a sunny day, which happens over 300 days a year. What’s more, we are located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, which puts you close to the wonderful attractions and activities that make Santa Fe so special. We’ll set you up with your perfect plans for the day.
2. Perfect Weather and Mild Crowds Before Peak Tourist Season
June in Santa Fe means sunshine, clear skies, and warm—but not scorching—days, with average highs in the mid-80s°F and cooler evenings. It’s ideal for hiking, shopping, patio dining, and strolling around town without the midsummer heat. While Santa Fe is a popular summer destination, early June still offers a quieter experience. You’ll enjoy better restaurant availability, lower lodging rates, and a more relaxed pace before the July rush.
3. Prime Shopping Before High Season
Santa Fe is a shopper’s paradise. In fact, some say that the shopping rivals New York or Chicago. What’s special about Santa Fe is its international and cultural flavor, from the colorful world marketplace to Native American finds. You’ll find distinctive crafts, jewelry and gifts, with a great selection as shops have stocked up on inventory before the summer shoppers arrive. Authentic Native American, Spanish Colonial, and Hispanic arts and crafts that are abundant and rarely found elsewhere.
4. Tour “The City Different” Without the Crowds
Experience the essence of Santa Fe with a guided tour. No matter your area of interest, from art, history and architecture to hiking, biking and food, there’s a tour for everyone. Check out our guide to Santa Fe tours.
5. Experience the Art
Santa Fe is synonymous with art. In fact, famous Canyon Road alone boasts over 100 art galleries and museums – more than anyone can visit during a brief stay. Take a stroll and immerse yourself in City Different’s rich artistic heritage. Here are just 9 galleries to get you started. June kicks off Santa Fe’s summer art season with outdoor art markets, gallery strolls, and sculpture garden tours. If you’re an art lover, this is paradise.
Want to get more hands on? Whether you’re a beginner or an artist, sign up for an art class during your June visit. From glass blowing and pottery to painting and photography, here are 4 art classes to try. Be sure to save some time for Meow Wolf for a truly interactive art experience.
6. Santa Fe Farmers’ Market in Full Swing
The Santa Fe Farmers Market is more than a typical market selling fresh produce during the summer – much more. Voted one of the “Top Ten Farmers’ Markets” by Sunset Magazine, this happens to be one of the largest, oldest, and most successful farmers markets in the entire United States. Fresh fruits and vegetables are just one of many reasons to check it out. Held at the Railyard, just a 15 minute walk from the Inn, this June favorite is brimming with local produce, artisan foods, flowers, and handcrafted goods. Enjoy live music, green chile everything, and a strong sense of community.
7. World-Class Cuisine and Dining Options
Santa Fe’s culinary scene blends Native American, Spanish, and contemporary influences. June’s seasonal menus feature ingredients like squash blossoms, fresh herbs, and stone fruit. Whether it’s fine dining or green chile cheeseburgers at a roadside stand, you’ll eat well. Santa Fe’s food truck scene is booming and the weather is perfect for dining al fresco. In June it’s easier to get a table and time of your choice. Santa Fe is a haven for foodies, offering a variety of flavors from Mexican to Japanese. Here are 4 top restaurants to try. With so many tempting options, rely on our team for unique and personalized recommendations.
8. Abundant Hiking and Nature
June is prime time for outdoor exploration before the summer monsoons roll in. You’ll find dry trails, less people, wildflowers in bloom, clear mountain air, and unforgettable views. Hiking is truly one of the best ways to see Santa Fe’s beauty up close. Thirteen microclimates in Santa Fe means there is something for everyone whether you’re looking for alpine lakes, sandy arroyos, mountain ridges, and desert canyons. We’ll set you up with the perfect trail to meet your needs because we’ve hiked them all! You can choose from short hikes, full day hikes and everything in between.
9. The Santa Fe Opera Season Begins
If you’ve never been to opera before, then Santa Fe is the perfect place to experience it for the first time. The award-winning Santa Fe Opera offers world-class performances in a breathtaking open-air theater of 2,000 seats, including standing room locations with individual computer screens and several language translations. The stunning setting at the opera, with beautiful grounds and breathtaking vistas is worth a visit even if you’re not an opera buff. Tailgating at the Santa Fe Opera is not to be missed if you’re into people watching.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Without the Traffic
Get out on the winding roads around Santa Fe and see for yourself why we call this place “The Land of Enchantment.” One nice aspect of a scenic drive is being able to travel many miles in a short amount of time, which means you can see so much more of the stunning landscape. When you come across something really special, and you will, you can stop and take it all in. Whether you travel by car or motorcycle, here are some scenic drives to get you started.
Now that you know exactly what to do in Santa Fe in June, start today by booking your favorite guest room. Be sure to contact us if you have any questions about how we can help personalize your stay.
