The Bandelier National Monument is an attraction that stands as a dramatic reminder of the astounding culture that has inhabited Santa Fe and its surrounding areas for hundreds of years. The Monument itself is a beautiful canyon that is 45 miles west of Santa Fe and was home to ancient Pueblos in AD 1100 to 1550. The rustic area features 65 miles of trails that also include some visually arresting abandoned Pueblo villages.
The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet not only preserves the tradition of dance but the world-renowned organization also prides itself in giving back to the community. With over ten years behind them, the ballet company now begins its second decade of awe-inspiring performances that it is known for. But in addition to offering entertainment and excellent stage productions like Kiss Me Goodnight and Stamping Ground, the organization places education at the top of its list of priorities. To that end, the Ballet provides a Mexican folklore youth program, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Folklorico, to not only celebrate but preserve some of the area's most vital and time-honored cultural traditions.
Santa Fe is unquestionably a celebration of various cultures, and these different influences can be seen in the various works of pottery at Jackalope Pottery. Choose from kachinas and pinon in one building and weathered cedar, terra cotta and kiva fireplaces in another. Jackalope Pottery's staff and management works hard to consistently provide an interesting and ever-changing inventory, and that is one of the many reasons why this is a favorite stop for both locals and visitors who want to take home a little piece of Santa Fe's uniqueness.