If you’ve been looking for a travel destination to visit, I highly, highly recommend Santa Fe, New Mexico. Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture and Southwestern artwork. This was a place that both Denis and I have always wanted to explore so this summer we set out for the Southwest.
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What makes Santa Fe worth visiting is that not only is it stunning architecturally, it also has some of the most beautiful artwork and delicious food the Southwest has to offer.
Because the city of Santa Fe was founded as a Spanish colony 1610, it has a traditional Plaza in the downtown area that offers an assortment of shops, boutique hotels, places to eat, and handcrafted goods. I highly recommend spending time in this area because there’s so much to look at. The streets are lined with adobe landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assissi.
I also recommend bringing a good pair of walking shoes because you’ll be walking a lot. But the weather was gorgeous in early June – nice and breezy. While you’re downtown you have to stop by Loretto Chapel. This historic chapel is not only one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever been, it’s also the place where a miracle occurred in 1873. History tells us that the Sisters of Loretto Chapel were in need of someone to build a way to reach their choir loft, so the Sisters prayed a 9 day novena to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, and the Lord heard their prayer. A mysterious carpenter showed up and built a spiral staircase with two 360 degree turns with no center pole for structural support. The carpenter disappeared and the story became legend.
After you’ve finished your shopping and sightseeing downtown, head over to the Santa Fe Railyard. There you will find more shops and places to eat as well as the Violet Crown movie theater and the Santa Fe Farmers Market. The farmers market was really cool to check out because not only could you choose from locally-sourced, fresh fruits and veggies, you also could check out a variety of handmade gifts and souvenirs.
Also, before you leave the Railyard definitely check out the Jean Cocteau Cinema & Coffeehouse and the Beastly Books bookstore next door. Both of these locations are owned by George R. R. Martin – the author of the Game of Thrones series – so they are definitely worth taking some time to browse.
If you want a more relaxing activity idea you’ve got to check out the Oyo Spa at Santa Fe. Not only is this place the epitome of relaxation and tranquility, it’s perfect for a girls’ trip, couples, or anyone looking to spend a few hours in healing thermal pools. You can book private soaking rooms or do the communal pools as well as other spa services such as massages, facials, and spending time in the sauna. There’s also a restaurant and a hotel on site. Denis and I did the private soak which lasts 50 minutes and were completely relaxed when we left.
Santa Fe is quickly becoming a foodie destination. With its variety of restaurants and cafes, there is practically something for every appetite. There were three places that we ate that really stood out to me because they had delicious food, affordable prices, and just a cool overall vibe.
If you’re craving Mexican food, definitely check out Adelita’s Mexican Restaurant and order the chicken chalupas. Here’s a little backstory on the name – “adelitas” were women soldiers (or soldadera) who cooked and cared for the wounded and fought in battles against Mexican government forces. These extraordinary women played a major part in the revolutionary war efforts.
For breakfast I suggest going to the Pantry Restaurant. This Santa Fe staple has been serving yummy meals to the area since 1948 and let me tell you – it is worth the hype. While there are a variety of options to choose from, I recommend ordering the Avocado Toast with a side of pantry fries. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you.
And if you’re looking for a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth you’ve gotta check out the French Pastry Shop & Creperie in downtown Sante Fe. Founded by French natives George and Nancy Zadeyan, this little bakery is ideal for getting breakfast, lunch, or even a midday snack because they were the first to serve croissants, pastries, and crepes in the Santa Fe area. While you’re there I definitely recommend getting the Nutella and banana crepe with whipped cream – it was so good, I’m still thinking about it.
Definitely stop by the Kakawa Chocolate House if you love hot chocolate and just chocolate in general. This chocolate shop offers a variety of hot chocolate mixtures (or as they call them “elixirs”) as well as individual chocolates, milkshakes, and ice cream. I picked out a peanut butter bar, a caramel top hat, a horchata truffle, and a lavender chocolate bar as well as a bag of their bestselling hot chocolate mix, Kawawa’s American Elixir. You can shop their elixirs and more on their site.
Santa Fe has a place to stay for every budget but I’m going to give you my three recommendations. Be sure to click on each hotel so you can visit their websites directly.
Luxury
This hotel is in a great location because it’s right next door to the Loretto Chapel and within walking distance from many of the sights and restaurants downtown.
Mid-Budget
This boutique hotel offers stunningly decorated rooms as well as a casita that can house up to 6 people. There’s also a bar on site as well as a casual food truck called the Turquoise Trailer that serves delicious breakfast goodies.
Affordable
This hotel is located off of Cerrillos Road, which is kind of the main-drag of Santa Fe. While it’s not downtown, it is affordable and offers large-size rooms with clean bathrooms and free breakfast.
For even more travel guides and posts check out my Travel page.
Verse of the Day: Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:18-19
