Few places in the United States so accurately portray the fascinating remnants of Spanish colonial life than the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Not far from the Mexican border, the sunlit city is a melting pot of heritages, with everything on offer from classic American art to Indian cultural centers and even authentic ranchos. The gorgeous city feels as though it’s stuck in time, and though history buffs will no doubt be hugely entertained, nature lovers can also find their niche here. The vast expanses of deserts, mountainscapes, and prairies in the surrounding regions offer epic day trip opportunities; within a matter of hours, you can find countless places to explore.