While you might be specifically searching to fly directly to Santa Fe with Southwest Airlines, the answer is a bit nuanced. Southwest Airlines doesn’t currently offer direct flights to Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF). However, this doesn’t mean your travel plans are grounded! Southwest® does fly frequently to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which serves as a convenient and popular gateway to Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico.
Think of Albuquerque as your welcoming entry point to the wonders of New Mexico, including the enchanting city of Santa Fe. Albuquerque itself is a destination brimming with unique Southwestern culture, historical depth, and breathtaking landscapes. Instead of focusing solely on Santa Fe flights, consider embracing the opportunity to explore Albuquerque – a city that truly deserves its own spotlight.
Albuquerque International Sunport: Your Gateway to Santa Fe and Beyond
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is a well-serviced airport by Southwest Airlines, making it incredibly accessible and often more budget-friendly to fly into compared to smaller regional airports. From Albuquerque, Santa Fe is readily reachable by car, train, or shuttle services. This makes flying into Albuquerque with Southwest a smart and practical choice for travelers heading to Santa Fe and the surrounding region.
Upon arriving at ABQ, you’ll find ground transportation options plentiful and convenient for your onward journey to Santa Fe. The drive from Albuquerque to Santa Fe is scenic and takes roughly an hour, allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in the artistic and historical heart of New Mexico.
Discovering Albuquerque: A Destination Worth Exploring
Before venturing to Santa Fe, or perhaps even as a dedicated trip itself, Albuquerque offers a rich tapestry of experiences. This New Mexico metropolis beautifully blends its past with the present, showcasing a distinctive Southwestern charm that captivates visitors.
Historic Old Town: Where Albuquerque’s Story Begins
Your Albuquerque adventure should undoubtedly begin in historic Old Town. Established in 1706, Old Town is the city’s original heart, where adobe architecture reigns supreme. These traditional buildings, characterized by flat roofs, stucco walls with soft edges, and robust wooden beam ceilings, create an atmosphere that transports you back in time.
Wandering through Old Town’s plazas and streets, you’ll discover artisan shops and storefronts brimming with unique Southwestern treasures. From exquisite fine art to handcrafted rugs and pottery, Old Town is a haven for authentic New Mexican crafts and souvenirs.
Immerse Yourself in Culture: Museums and Centers
Old Town is also a cultural hub, hosting several centers dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s diverse heritage. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center provides an insightful introduction to Native American culture, history, and art, offering a deeper understanding of the area’s indigenous roots.
For a journey into the city’s Spanish heritage, the National Hispanic Cultural Center is a must-visit. This vibrant venue showcases captivating exhibits, exhilarating flamenco performances, and a wealth of resources that illuminate Hispanic culture and its profound influence on Albuquerque.
Venturing slightly outside Old Town, but still deeply connected to Albuquerque’s history, lies the Petroglyph National Monument. Located on the west side of the Rio Grande River, this expansive 7,236-acre park protects over 24,000 carved images, or petroglyphs. These ancient rock carvings, left by New Mexico’s earliest settlers, provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultures of the Rio Grande Valley’s first inhabitants.
Outdoor Adventures: Embrace the High Desert Landscape
Albuquerque’s high-desert climate and dramatic landscape make it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Sandia and Manzano Mountains offer some of New Mexico’s best hiking and mountain biking trails, catering to all skill levels.
For a truly unforgettable perspective, ascend the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the longest tramway in North America. As you glide to the 10,600-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains, prepare to be mesmerized by panoramic views stretching across 11,000 square miles of New Mexican landscape. From this vantage point, you can witness the majestic Rio Grande winding through the valley and, as evening approaches, the stunning spectacle of the sunset painting the peaks in hues of pink, followed by the city lights twinkling below.
For an outdoor escape within the city itself, explore the Paseo del Bosque Trail. This 16-mile-long paved path meanders along the Rio Grande, traversing through central Albuquerque and passing notable landmarks like Old Town and the ABQ BioPark, a unique environmental museum encompassing four distinct facilities.
Your New Mexico Journey Starts in Albuquerque
While Southwest Airlines might not fly directly to Santa Fe, flying to Albuquerque International Sunport with Southwest® opens up a world of possibilities. You gain convenient access not only to Santa Fe but also to the captivating city of Albuquerque itself, a destination brimming with history, culture, and outdoor adventures.
With Southwest’s frequent flights to Albuquerque, planning your New Mexico getaway is easy and accessible. Explore the unique Southwest® Experience and book your flight to Albuquerque today – your gateway to Santa Fe and the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico awaits!
