There’s something magical about visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico. Clear desert skies meet with mountain vistas, artists mingle with astrologers, outdoorsy types share hot tubs with occultists, and everyone eats and drinks like a king. It’s really not an exaggeration of modern marketing to say there really is something for everyone in and around Santa Fe.
While those from major metropolitan areas might find it easiest to fly into Albuquerque and rent a car or take the scenic Rail Runner Express, there is an airport in Santa Fe that serves regional customers from Denver and Dallas. Santa Fe is imminently walkable if staying in the downtown area, but parking is also plentiful and relatively inexpensive considering it is a resort town.
From luxury inns to family rentals, there are many accommodation options. Steps from The Plaza, La Posada de Santa Fe, once owned by the Santa Fe elite, has traditional hotel rooms and charming suites with wood burning fireplaces. In addition to an extensive art collection on site, La Posada also offers art classes and art talks by local artist in residence Sara Eyestone. Don’t miss the spa offerings and other resort amenities.
On the other end of the Plaza from La Posada, the historic Hotel St. Francis will wow with quiet elegance. As the oldest hotel in Santa Fe, rooms are small but eminently comfortable and offer sunlit views of downtown or the mountains.
Of course, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum is a big draw, but don’t miss out on the Museum of International Folk Art. Home to more than 135,000 artifacts — from quilts to Milagros — this accredited museum is a unique treasure.
The Santa Fe School of Cooking offers up classes and indigenous cuisine. And don’t forget to eat green chilis on everything. From green chili cheeseburgers and pizza to gastronomic feasts at upscale restaurants like Geronimo and Radish & Rye, you’ll never tire of the piquant addition. If you’re looking for a southwestern delicacy, ask for “Christmas” style enchiladas.
Conde Nast Traveler recommends the House of Eternal Return as a “mind-bindingly immersive installation” and “psychedelic playground” from the Meow Wolf art collective and a can’t-miss shop Hecho A Mano for handmade wares.