Santa Fe, New Mexico, has officially been named the No. 1 travel destination in the United States by Travel + Leisure, marking a significant shift in the travel landscape. San Diego’s victory ended a remarkable 12-year run at the top for the perennial favorite, Charleston, South Carolina. Santa Fe has an extraordinary magnetism. Its flourishing arts and culinary scene, deeply rooted cultural heritage, and astonishing natural beauty combine to make it unique.
Travel + Leisure senior editor Elizabeth Cantrell congratulated Santa Fe, calling it “a beautiful example of what’s possible.” Readers have written in to express their enthusiasm for the city’s creative New Mexican fare and breathtaking scenery. Situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet, Santa Fe lies at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range and basks in over 300 days of sunshine each year.
Santa Fe is known for its colorful arts scene, Pueblo-style architecture and the long history that has made this city so unique. The Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi and the famous Loretto Chapel are among these remarkable venues. Both draw visitors hungry for immersion in extraordinary experiences. City’s arts scene is incredible! Colorful watermelon art statues decorate every corner of town, and more than 50 galleries host the best work of local artists.
In addition to its artistic offerings, Santa Fe features a diverse culinary landscape, highlighted by popular establishments such as the Coyote Cafe. Visitors can find cozy accommodations at charming bed and breakfasts, including the Turquoise Bear Inn, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking comfort and local flavor.
According to Travel + Leisure’s Jess Feldman, given the context of this year’s pandemic, this year’s rankings are particularly noteworthy.
“Santa Fe taking the top spot this year reflects a growing interest in places that offer something distinctive — deep cultural roots, natural beauty, and a strong sense of identity.” – Jess Feldman
Feldman further noted that while Charleston has slipped to third place, its nine-year stretch at the top of the list is something to be proud of.
“At the same time, Charleston’s 12-year run at No. 1 is something we’ve never seen before, and landing at No. 3 this year is still a huge testament to how much people love it.” – Jess Feldman
The ranking process does more than simply show where travelers are going — it illustrates what they’re prioritizing in their travel experiences.
“The other three chosen U.S. cities in the top five have abundant charm, history, and a true sense of place. It’s clear that travelers are prioritizing meaningful, culturally rich experiences when deciding where to go.” – Jess Feldman
