Local’s Guide to The Santa Fe Opera

Whether you’re an Opera aficionado or a first-time visitor, there's something truly special about fully immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the iconic open-air theater, the Santa Fe Opera House! Today, we share some local tips on making the most of your Santa Fe visit during Opera season, which just so happens to be our favorite time of year - full of captivating entertainment, colorful festivals, artisan markets, and cultural events galore, you don’t want to miss this exciting time in our magical city!

Summer nights in Santa Fe at the Opera

The Many Faces of The Santa Fe Opera House

The Santa Fe Opera is far from your average theater. This stunning open-air venue has a history as colorful as the performances it boasts! It's hard to believe it was once home to a bean plantation, a mink farm, and even a pig farm at one point in time. It has been through multiple transformations, but thanks to the visionary investment of John O. Crosby in 1956, this humble location became the cultural gem it is today, and it has been hitting high notes for Santa Fe ever since.


Since its grand debut on July 3rd, 1957, The Santa Fe Opera has been wowing audiences with its dramatic performances and jaw-dropping acoustics against the backdrop of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Every summer season, from classics to cutting-edge contemporary works, is a whirlwind of excitement, culminating in July's crescendo of dramatic brilliance. You won't want to miss out on this sensational experience - from the performers to the natural surroundings to the exciting adventure of tailgating with locals! Plan your season in advance and check out their event calendar on the Santa Fe Opera Website


EXPLORE OUR SANTA FE OPERA VACATION RENTALS HERE

Gorgeous Santa Fe sunsets

The Essentials

The Santa Fe Opera’s 2024 Season will run from June 28 through August 24, 2024. The 67th Festival Season features 38 performances of four new productions plus a beloved revival - and it's best to start planning your visit early, as the demand is high during the season! Tickets can be purchased here, and Our collection of luxury Santa Fe vacation rentals awaits you here.


Enjoy the show - the open-air Santa Fe Opera House awaits!


Elevate your Santa Fe Stay with A Vacation Different

Start your Santa Fe Opera adventure by experiencing the unique charm of our Santa Fe vacation rentals. Whether you're a group reuniting for a family reunion, a solo business traveler looking to explore the Southwest, or a couple celebrating your anniversary, these handpicked properties blend luxury, comfort, convenience, and quintessential Southwestern flair, providing the perfect home base for your Santa Fe getaway. 

OUR SANTA FE OPERA VACATION RENTALS


From cozy adobe casitas to spacious villas, each rental is thoughtfully curated to ensure an unforgettable stay. Our local team on the ground is here to provide you with any recommendations you may need for services like massages, tours, or even a chef for the evening! With amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, private courtyards, sparkling swimming pools, and luxurious furnishings, our Santa Fe vacation rentals offer a level of comfort and convenience that's truly unmatched.

After a day of exploring Santa Fe's vibrant culture and natural beauty, return to your Santa Fe home away from home to unwind and recharge as you take in the New Mexico stars. Sip a glass of vino on the patio as the sun sets over the mountains, or cozy up on the balcony with a good book and the Kiva fireplace lit. We are here to ensure all your Santa Fe vacation needs are met from when you check in to when you depart.



Tailgate like a local!

Before the curtains open, mingle with the locals and experience one of our favorite parts of the Opera experience - tailgating! Whether you choose an elaborate feast complete with fine china and tablecloths or you’d like to keep it simple with pizza and a tailgate picnic, there's no wrong way to celebrate.

Just be sure to bring along a warm layer and an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. And if you're traveling with a group, plan to meet up at a designated location like the DeVargas Center before caravaning up the hill to ensure you can park together.

Arrive early to secure a spot in the upper lot for the best views and easy access to the Opera House. Don't forget to pack up your tailgate at least 30 minutes before showtime to ensure you have plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere before the performance begins.

Mingle with the locals and tailgate for the Santa Fe Opera!


Discover Santa Fe Fine Dining

No visit to Santa Fe would be complete without indulging in the city's fine dining scene. From traditional New Mexican fare to innovative Italian, there's something to satisfy every palate, so much so that we wrote a whole blog about TripAdvisor's top fine dining options in Santa Fe!

Beyond the Opera

In addition to the world-class performances at Santa Fe Opera, the city offers endless entertainment options to explore. You will never be bored in Santa Fe (unless that’s what you’re after!)

Our city has an abundance of museums,breathtaking hikes, nature escapes, and cultural festivals; there's no shortage of things to see and do. Take a stroll through the historic Plaza, wander through galleries, and shop for artisanal turquoise jewelry to your heart's content, hike in the nearby mountains, dabble in our local coffee scene, or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene that graces every corner of Santa Fe.

With so much to discover, your Santa Fe Opera adventure is just the beginning of an unforgettable experience - a Vacation Different in the City Different!  Prepare to be captivated, enchanted, and inspired when you visit - we are so proud to call this city home and excited to welcome you here! 

Views of the Santa Fe Opera House from Camino Caruso


PLANNING A TRIP TO SANTA FE? CONTACT US TODAY!